Once you understand the most common crochet abbreviations and terms, reading patterns becomes much less intimidating. In fact, many crocheters keep a printable cheat sheet nearby until the abbreviations become second nature.
When you first start reading crochet patterns, all those little letters can feel like a secret code.
Instructions such as “ch 20, sc in 2nd ch from hook, dc across” may look confusing at first, but crochet abbreviations are simply a shorthand way to make patterns easier to write and follow.
In this beginner-friendly guide, we’ll explain the most common crochet abbreviations, define essential terms, compare US and UK terminology, and provide a handy chart you can reference whenever you need it.
What Are Crochet Abbreviations?
Crochet abbreviations are shortened forms of stitches and instructions used in written patterns.
Instead of writing out “double crochet” every time, designers use “dc.” This keeps patterns concise and easier to read.
For example:
- ch = chain
- sc = single crochet
- dc = double crochet
- sl st = slip stitch
- rep = repeat
Most patterns include a list of abbreviations used, but understanding the common ones will make any pattern much easier to follow.
Table of contents
Why Crochet Patterns Use Abbreviations
Abbreviations help designers:
- Save space
- Make patterns easier to scan
- Keep instructions concise
- Standardize terminology across patterns
Once you learn the basics, reading abbreviations becomes as natural as reading words.
While most crochet designers use standard abbreviations, you may occasionally notice slight variations from one pattern to another. Some designers create custom abbreviations for special stitches or unique techniques used in a specific pattern. That is why it is always a good idea to read through the pattern notes and abbreviation list before you begin. Taking a few minutes to review the instructions can help you understand any special terms and avoid confusion later.
Essential Crochet Stitch Abbreviations
| Abbreviation | Meaning |
| ch | Chain Stitch |
| sc | Single Crochet |
| hdc | Half Double Crochet |
| dc | Double Crochet |
| tr | Treble Crochet |
| sl st | Slip Stitch |
| st | stitch |
| sp | space |
| sk | skip |
| yo | yarn over |
| rep | repeat |
| beg | beginning |
| rnd | round |
| RS | right side |
| WS | wrong side |
| FO | fasten off |
Common Crochet Terms Explained
Yarn Over (yo)
Wrap the yarn over your hook before pulling it through loops.
Stitch (st)
A single completed crochet stitch.
Space (sp)
The opening between stitches or groups of stitches.
Skip (sk)
Move past a stitch without working into it.
Repeat (rep)
Work the same sequence of stitches again.
Fasten Off (FO)
Cut the yarn and secure the final loop to finish your project.
Right Side (RS) and Wrong Side (WS)
The front and back of your crochet fabric.
US vs UK Crochet Terms
One of the most important things beginners should know is that US and UK crochet terms are different.
| US Term | UK Term |
| Single Crochet | Double Crochet |
| Half Double Crochet | Half Treble Crochet |
| Double Crochet | Treble Crochet |
| Treble Crochet | Double Treble Crochet |
At Pattern Princess, patterns are written using US crochet terminology unless otherwise noted.
Special Stitch Abbreviations You May Encounter
As you advance, you may see:
- inc = increase
- dec = decrease
- tog = together
- BLO = back loop only
- FLO = front loop only
- MC = magic circle
- pm = place marker
These terms appear frequently in garments, amigurumi, and textured stitch patterns.
How to Read Crochet Pattern Instructions
Here is a simple example:
ch 16, sc in 2nd ch from hook and in each ch across.
Translation:
- Make 16 chain stitches.
- Insert your hook into the second chain from the hook.
- Work one single crochet.
- Continue placing one single crochet in each remaining chain.
Tips for Learning Crochet Abbreviations
- Keep a printed cheat sheet nearby.
- Highlight unfamiliar abbreviations before starting a pattern.
- Practice one new stitch at a time.
- Refer to pattern notes for special stitch definitions.
- Use beginner-friendly patterns to build confidence.
These expanded crochet abbreviations include both beginner and intermediate terms, making it a handy reference you can continue using as your crochet skills grow.
Basic Crochet Stitches
- ch — Chain Stitch
- sc — Single Crochet
- hdc — Half Double Crochet
- dc — Double Crochet
- tr — Treble Crochet
- sl st — Slip Stitch
Pattern Instructions and General Terms
- st(s) — stitch(es)
- rep — repeat
- sk — skip
- yo — yarn over
- sp — space
- ch-sp — chain space
Shaping Terms
- inc — increase
- dec — decrease
- tog — together
- sc2tog — single crochet 2 together
- dc2tog — double crochet 2 together
Loop Placement Terms
- BLO — back loop only
- FLO — front loop only
Special Stitch Terms
- shell — shell stitch
- V-st — V-Stitch
- picot — picot
- CL — cluster
Tools and Markers
- MC/MR — magic circle or magic ring
- pm — place marker
- sm — stitch marker
Rows and Rounds
- row(s) — row(s)
- rnd(s) — round(s)
- RS — right side
- WS — wrong side
Finishing Terms
- FO — fasten off
- join — join
- turn — turn your work
Do all crochet patterns use the same abbreviations?
Most patterns follow standard abbreviations, but some designers include unique terms. Always check the pattern notes.
Are abbreviations different in US and UK patterns?
Yes. Always confirm which terminology a pattern uses.
How long does it take to learn crochet abbreviations?
Most beginners become comfortable with common abbreviations after working through a few patterns.
Should I memorize them all?
No. Keep a reference chart handy and the abbreviations will become familiar over time.
Related Beginner Crochet Tutorials
You may also enjoy:
- How to Read a Crochet Pattern
- Crochet Stitch Multiples Explained Simply
- Crochet Gauge Explained for Beginners
- How to Read a Yarn Label
- How to Join Yarn
Mastering Common Crochet Abbreviations
Crochet abbreviations may look confusing at first, but they are simply a shorthand system that makes patterns easier to read and write.
Once you learn the most common terms, you’ll be able to follow patterns with greater confidence and enjoy trying new projects and stitches.
Keep this guide handy as a reference whenever you encounter unfamiliar abbreviations, and before long, reading crochet patterns will feel completely natural.
Printable Crochet Abbreviations
Click on the photo to download a printable crochet abbreviations reference for beginner crocheters. If you’re not already a newsletter subscriber, you’ll need to enter your email to subscribe to download.
Once you are subscribed, you also have access to the free PDFs page where we are always updating with different pattern PDF downloads.
You can find Victoria crocheting, quilting, and creating recipes. She has cooked in restaurants for over 20 years, including many larger parties. She learned to crochet when she was just 11 years old and has been crocheting ever since; over 50 years now. Over 40 years ago, she loved her first class in sewing and continues to hone her skills in quilting. Many have enjoyed the handmade gifts over the years. In her professional career, she has worked in management in a wide variety of businesses including higher education as a dean of a division. All the while attending college part-time to achieve her doctorate in higher education with an emphasis in e-learning.