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Patterns look like code at first, but they follow a small set of conventions. Once you know them, every pattern reads the same way.
Check US or UK terms first
The same abbreviation can mean different stitches. A US "dc" (double crochet) is a UK "tr" (treble), and a UK "dc" is a US single crochet. Our patterns are written in US terms, and every pattern page has a US/UK toggle. The full list is in the abbreviations glossary.
Reading one line
Take this round: "Rnd 3: *sc in next st, inc* 6 times (18)". It means: in round 3, repeat the part between the asterisks 6 times. Work one single crochet in the next stitch, then an increase (two stitches in the next stitch). At the end you should have 18 stitches.
- *…* or […]: repeat the instructions inside
- (18): the stitch count at the end of the row or round
- Rnds 7–13: repeat the same instructions on each of those rounds
- sk: skip a stitch; sp: space; st(s): stitch(es)
Gauge
Gauge tells you how many stitches and rows fit in 10 cm (4 in). For toys it does not matter much, but for garments it decides the size. Make a 15 cm swatch, measure the middle, and change hook size until you match.
Turning chains
A pattern tells you whether the chain at the start of a row counts as a stitch. If it counts, you skip the first stitch and work the last stitch into the top of the turning chain. If it does not, you work into the first stitch and ignore the chain.
Symbol charts
Many lace patterns include a chart where each symbol is a stitch: an oval is a chain, a T is a half double crochet, a T with one cross bar is a double crochet. Read rounds from the centre outwards, counter-clockwise for right-handed crocheters.
Questions
How do I know if a pattern uses US or UK terms?
Look for a note at the start. If there is none, check whether "sc" appears (US only) or whether "tr" is used for the common tall stitch (UK).
What does "work even" mean?
Keep working the same stitch without increasing or decreasing.