How to Read Crochet Abbreviations

In this article you will learn how to read crochet abbreviations that you find in crochet patterns.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• crochet pattern

1. For US crochet patterns the abbreviations are quite simple, and most are easily remembered.

2. Standard crochet stitch abbreviations are as follows:
   
   ch = one chain
   ch sp = chain space
   sc = single crochet
   hdc = half double crochet
   dc = double crochet
   tr = treble crochet, or triple crochet
   dtr = double treble crochet
   sl st = slip stitch
   sp(s) = space(s)
   tog = together
   sk = skip
   rnd(s) = round(s)
   lp(s) = loop(s)
   yo = yarn over
   MC = main color
   CC = contrasting color
   RS = right side of work

3. Special crochet stitch abbreviations are as follows:
   
   bpdc = back-post double crochet
   bpsc = back-post single crochet
   bptr = back-post treble crochet
   fpdc = front-post double crochet
   fpsc = front-post single crochet
   frtc = front-post treble crochet
   dec = decrease
   inc = increase/increases/increasing

4. UK crochet abbreviations are different than US abbreviations. If you are working with a UK pattern here are the abbreviations and what they mean in US terms:
   
   UK sc = US sl st
   UK dc = US sc
   UK htr = US hdc
   UK tr = US dc
   UK dtr = US tr
   UK ttr = US dtr
   UK miss = US skip

Tips & Warnings

• Before beginning make sure you have all the materials you need for your pattern.
• Before beginning, read through your crochet pattern to make sure you understand the abbreviations.