Are you new to the wonderful world of crochet? First of all, welcome! Crochet is a fun and versatile craft that allows you to create beautiful and functional items using just a hook and a bit of yarn. But as with any new hobby, there is a bit of a learning curve, especially when it comes to understanding the crochet terminology. Don’t worry, though! We’ve got you covered with this handy guide to basic crochet terms.
1. Chain Stitch (Ch)
The chain stitch is the foundation of most crochet projects. It is a series of interlocking loops that create a base for your work. To make a chain stitch, simply yarn over (wrap the yarn around the hook) and pull it through the loop on your hook. Repeat this process until you have the desired number of chain stitches.
2. Single Crochet (Sc)
The single crochet stitch is one of the most basic and commonly used stitches in crochet. It creates a tight and sturdy fabric, which is great for projects such as amigurumi. To make a single crochet stitch, insert your hook into the next stitch, yarn over, and pull up a loop. Yarn over again and pull through both loops on your hook.
3. Double Crochet (Dc)
The double crochet stitch is a taller stitch that creates a looser and more open fabric. To make a double crochet stitch, yarn over, insert your hook into the next stitch, yarn over again, and pull up a loop. Yarn over once more and pull through the first two loops on your hook. Yarn over again and pull through the remaining two loops.
4. Half Double Crochet (Hdc)
The half double crochet stitch is a versatile stitch that falls between the height of a single crochet and a double crochet. It creates a fabric that is slightly tighter than double crochet but works up faster than single crochet. To make a half double crochet stitch, yarn over, insert your hook into the next stitch, yarn over again, and pull up a loop. Yarn over once more and pull through all three loops on your hook.
5. Slip Stitch (Sl St)
The slip stitch is a simple stitch used to join rounds, create decorative edges, or move your hook to a different location in your work. To make a slip stitch, insert your hook into the designated stitch, yarn over, and pull the yarn through both the stitch and the loop on your hook.
6. Row & Round
Rows and rounds are lines of crochet stitches worked from one end of the crochet project to the other. While rows are horizontal lines in projects worked from side to side, rounds are circular rows of stitches where the start and end of the row are connected. This allows you to keep working the project in a round without having to turn it!
7. Repeat (Rep)
A repeat is a set of stitches or sequence of actions that is repeated in a pattern. This set of stitches or actions can either be repeated across the row or just for a set number of times. Well written patterns will clarify how many times you’ll need to repeat a set in order to complete the row.
8. Gauge/Tension
Tension refers to how tightly or loosely you hold the yarn and work your stitches while gauge is the number of stitches and rows per test square (usually 4 inches by 4 inches, your pattern will specify if the gauge square is a different size) achieved with a particular yarn, hook size, and tension. Because every crocheter has a different tension, it’s always important to do a gauge test when following a pattern to ensure correct sizing of the finished project.
9. Increase/Decrease
Increases are a technique used to add stitches in a row or round while decreases do the opposite, reducing the number of stitches in a row or round. The easiest way to increase is to work 2 stitches into a singular stitch of the previous row. To decrease, you’ll want to work 2 stitches of the previous row into one singular stitch in your current row. To do so, you’ll want to push your hook through the first stitch, YO and pull up a loop, then push your hook through the second stitch, YO and pull up a loop, and then finish off the stitch as you usually would.
When reading patterns, increases and decreases can be marked down in a few different ways. The easiest way to recognise is the abbreviation pair Inc and Dec. However, some pattern designers opt to write down the stitches used to increase or decrease instead. For example, an increase could be written as “(2DC) into the next ST” and a decrease could be written as “DC2tog”, which stands for DC 2 stitches together.
Beginner-friendly Simple & Chic Crochet Scrunchie – FREE PATTERN to help you learn the basics of crochet.
UK Crochet Terms vs. US Crochet Terms
It’s important to note that crochet terminology can vary depending on your location. In the United Kingdom, crochet terms are often referred to differently than in the United States. For example, what is called a single crochet (SC) in the US is called a double crochet (DC) in the UK. If you’re following a pattern from a different country, make sure to familiarize yourself with the local crochet terms to avoid any confusion.
Reading Crochet Patterns
Now that you’re familiar with some basic crochet terms, let’s talk about reading crochet patterns. Crochet patterns are a set of instructions that guide you through the creation of a specific project. They typically include a list of materials, gauge information, stitch abbreviations, and step-by-step instructions.
When reading a crochet pattern, it’s important to pay attention to the stitch abbreviations used. Each pattern may use slightly different abbreviations, so make sure to refer to the pattern’s key for clarification. Additionally, patterns often include special stitches or techniques that may be unfamiliar to beginners. Don’t be afraid to look up tutorials or ask for help if you come across something you don’t understand.
For more help with reading crochet patterns, check out our helpful guide: How to Read Crochet Patterns 101: Ultimate Beginner Guide
Conclusion
Crochet is a wonderful and rewarding hobby that allows you to unleash your creativity and make beautiful handmade items. By familiarizing yourself with these basic crochet terms, you’ll be well on your way to mastering the craft. Remember, practice makes perfect, so don’t be discouraged if your first few projects don’t turn out exactly as planned. Keep hooking and enjoy the process!
