Learning to Read Patterns: You Can Do It!
Crocheting is a fun and creative craft, but if you are wanting to learn to crochet more things or if there is something specific you want to make, you need to learn to read patterns. It can feel like a daunting task to learn to read them, but with a little practice and understanding, you’ll be able to tackle any crochet project with confidence.
In this post, I’ll break down the basics of reading crochet patterns, help you understand common abbreviations, and provide you with useful tips and tricks to make your crochet journey easier and more enjoyable. If you find this post helpful, please share:
Pattern Title, Description and Materials List
At the top of a crochet pattern, you’ll typically find the title and a brief description of what the the finished project will be. It will often include details about the intended size, color options and skill level required (beginner, intermediate or advanced). Even if you have more experience crocheting, but have never followed a pattern, I recommend starting with a beginner pattern. This will help you to get acquainted with reading patterns but not get overwhelmed.
TIP: When doing your first project or first few projects with a pattern, it can be helpful if they also have a video tutorial to follow along with as well.
Most patterns will include the materials needed to complete the project. It generally includes the yarn, hook size and notions needed such as stitch markers, tapestry needles, buttons etc.
For the materials list, I use this more as a guide than a hard rule. For example, if you love the pattern, but not the color of yarn, you can just make your project in a different color. You can even change the yarn type, however I don’t recommend doing this as a beginner. Do a few projects first, because some projects are much harder to change yarn type than others. For example, I personally have followed amigurumi patterns (stuffed toys like stuffed animals) that called for worsted weight, size 4 yarn. I wanted the animal to be fluffy and soft though so I used Bernat Blanket Yarn instead. Keep in mind, if you do this, because the yarn itself is much bigger, the final project is also going to be much bigger.
The materials list will normally also include a crochet hook size to use. Again, I use this as a guide. If you know that your tension is very tight, you can try going up a hook size or two if needed. Conversely if you crochet very loose, you could go down a hook size or two. Don’t be afraid to experiment a little to find what works best for you.
Gauge
Gauge is an essential part of many patterns. It is most often used for things like wearable items such as a sweater. Gauge tells you how many stitches and rows fit within a specific measurement (e.g. 4 inches). If your gauge doesn’t match the pattern’s, your project may turn out too big or too small. If your gauge doesn’t match, you could try changing your hook size to see if that helps. If your gauge is too small, go up a hook size. If it’s too big, go down a hook size.
Abbreviations
Crochet patterns use a standard set of abbreviations to save space and make the instructions more concise. Common abbreviations include:
- ch – chain
- sc – single crochet
- dc – double crochet
- hdc – half double crochet
- sl st – slip stitch
- st(s) – stitch(es)
- yo – yarn over
- inc – increase
- dec – decrease
A tip that can help you when you are first learning is to write the pattern out by hand (or type it out, whatever your preference is). In your version, don’t write the abbreviation, write the whole thing out such as “chain”. Now when you follow your first pattern or first few, you can follow along without having to try to figure out all the abbreviations. Also, because you had to write it all out, it will help you get more familiar with the pattern you plan to follow and the abbreviations used.
Most patterns do write out a key too. At the top of the pattern, most patterns will indicate what stitches the pattern uses and what abbreviations are used to indicate those stitches.
Note: Crochet patterns can be written is U.S. terms or U.K. terms. For the purposes of this article, we are using U.S. terms.
TIP: If you would like more information on crochet in UK terms vs. US, I really liked this article by “By Goldenberry”, you can access her article here, called UK Crochet Terms to US. It also has a lovely conversion chart in the article that will help you if you have a pattern in UK terms and want to convert to US terms or vice versa.
Step by Step Instructions
Most crochet patterns will have step by step instructions for each row. Here’s an example:
Row 1: Ch 21, sc in the 2nd ch from the hook, sc across (20 sts)
Row 2: Ch 1, sc in each st across (20 sts)
This example is telling you to chain 21 stitches (Ch 21), then work a single crochet stitch (sc) into the second chain from the hook. Then work one single crochet (sc) in each remaining chain across the row. The (20 sts) at the end means that you should have a total of 20 stitches in your row when you reach the end of your row. Now, if you have a total of 20 single crochet stitches, your first row is done. Turn your work.
After turning your work, row 2 is telling you to chain 1 (Ch 1), then single crochet (sc) in each remaining stitch until the end of the row. At the end of the row, you should have 20 stitches.
TIP: Pay attention to the number of rows the pattern says to do that same set of instructions. Sometimes patterns will do something like this:
Row 3-6: Ch 1, sc in each st across (20 sts)
In the example above, you would do that same set of instructions for row 3, 4, 5 and 6. It can be really helpful to use stitch markers when you need to keep track of what row you are on.
TIP: Many patterns will have you work in the round. If you are working in the round, you would not turn your work. You crochet continuously instead.
Repeats in Same Row
Patterns often include instructions to repeat in certain parts of the row or round. This means you should work the same set of stitches multiple times within that row or round. Example below:
Row 3: Ch 1, *sc in next 3 sts, sc inc; repeat from * across.
This example is telling you to chain one, then single crochet in the next 3 stitches (sc in next 3 sts) then single crochet increase (sc inc) in the next stitch. An increase simply means to do two stitches in one stitch. Then you will repeat from the star, so single crochet 3 stitches like normal, then increase (2 stitches in one stitch), then repeat again until the end of your row.
Tips and Tricks for Reading Crochet Patterns
Now that you understand how to read a pattern, here are some tips to help you along the way:
Read the pattern through before starting: This will help you to understand what you are going to be doing. A word of caution though, don’t get overwhelmed by reading it, take it a step at a time and you’ll be fine. Reading it through also gives you the opportunity to ensure you have all the materials you will need.
Use stitch markers: These are invaluable especially if you are working in the round. When you are working in the round, you can’t see where one row ends and a new one begins. When working in the round, stitch markers are a must. They can also be helpful to keep track of where you are in your pattern. For example you may need to do 5 rows with a specific set of instructions. It’s easy to forget which row you’re on, so you can simply put a stitch markers at the start of each row to know where you’re at in your pattern.
Take it one step at a time: Crochet patterns can look overwhelming at first, but try not to look at it as a whole. Break it up into smaller parts so that it doesn’t seem as overwhelming. Read it by just one row at a time or even part of a row at a time. Don’t rush yourself, take your time. Also, if you do make a mistake, it’s okay to frog it (undo it) and start over. Mistakes happen to everyone. It’s part of the learning process. I can’t tell you how many things I’ve had to frog and start over.
If you get stuck on a pattern, not knowing how to do something, for example, a specific stitch, don’t hesitate to look up tutorials. They can be incredibly helpful.
Final Thoughts
Reading a crochet pattern doesn’t have to be intimidating. With the right mindset, patience, and practice, you can master the art of following crochet patterns and creating beautiful items. Remember to start with simple items and work your way up to harder things. Take your time and don’t hesitate to seek resources like videos and stitch guides when you need help. I am also always willing to help if you get stuck. You can email me at [email protected].
If you would like any additional resources, check out the following links:
If you would like to refresh your memory on crochet basics, check out my article Learn to Crochet, for Right or Left Handed Individuals
Beginner friendly washcloth, with step by step instructions
Common crochet mistakes and solutions
Happy crocheting! If you found this post helpful, please share:
