How to Read Crochet Abbreviations

Don't be bewildered by your crochet pattern's abbreviations.

If you're just learning to crochet, reading a pattern can be daunting. With its array of symbols and abbreviations, your pattern might seem like it's written in a foreign language. Fortunately, there are standard abbreviations that are used in most patterns you'll encounter.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Crochet pattern

1. Refer to this list for the standard crochet stitch abbreviations used in the United States.

   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

2. If you encounter a crochet stitch abbreviation that you don't recognize, look for its definition at the beginning of the pattern or book. Here is a list of special abbreviations you might encounter.

   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

3. Learn the crochet abbreviations used in the U.K., which are are different than the U.S. abbreviations. In the following list, the U.K. abbreviation is listed first, followed by its U.S. counterpart.

   sc = sl st (slip stitch)

   dc = sc (single crochet)

   htr = hdc (half double crochet)

   tr = dc (double crochet)

   dtr = tr (triple crochet)

   ttr = dtr (double treble crochet)

   miss = skip

Tips & Warnings

• If your pattern contains any non-standard abbreviations, the pattern maker usually defines them at the beginning of the pattern or book.

• Before beginning, read through your crochet pattern to make sure you understand the abbreviations.

References

• Yarn Craft Council: Crochet Abbreviations Master List

Resources

• Annie's Attic: Learning to Read Crochet Patterns