Beginner Crochet Glossary: Essential Stitches and Terms

First check: US or UK terminology

Before reading an English-language pattern, identify its terminology system. US and UK patterns can use the same abbreviation for different stitches. US single crochet is called double crochet in UK terminology; US double crochet is called treble crochet in the UK.

Look for a terminology note, stitch key or gauge description. Do not infer the system from one abbreviation when a designer may also use custom terms.

Chain and slip stitch

A chain stitch, abbreviated ch, is made by drawing yarn through the active loop. Chains can form a foundation, create height or make spaces within a pattern.

A slip stitch, sl st in standard US abbreviations, draws a loop directly through the stitch and active loop. It joins rounds, moves the working position or creates a low-profile edge without adding much height.

Single, half double and double crochet

US single crochet, sc, is a short compact stitch widely used for amigurumi and firm fabric. In UK terminology the same stitch is called double crochet, dc.

US half double crochet, hdc, sits between single and double crochet in height. Its UK name is half treble, htr.

US double crochet, dc, is a taller stitch made with a yarn over before insertion. The equivalent UK term is treble crochet, tr. Always translate the stitch structure, not only the abbreviation.

Front loop, back loop and spaces

The top of a basic stitch usually shows two loops. FLO means work through the front loop only; BLO means work through the back loop only. Choosing one loop can create ridges, flexibility or a change in direction.

A space, sp, is an opening rather than the top of a stitch. Ch-sp means a chain space created in an earlier row or round. Patterns may ask you to work several stitches into the same space.

Increase, decrease and stitches together

An increase, inc, adds stitches, often by working more than one stitch into the same location. A decrease, dec, reduces the count by partially working stitches and completing them together.

Terms such as sc2tog or dc2tog mean work two corresponding stitches together. Count at the end of a row or round to catch shaping errors early.

Magic ring, round and turning chain

A magic ring, magic circle or adjustable ring starts circular work around a loop that can be tightened. It is common in amigurumi because it reduces the opening at the centre.

A round, rnd, is one circuit of circular work. A turning chain raises the yarn to begin a new row. Whether it counts as a stitch varies by pattern and must be checked in the instructions.

Gauge and swatch

Gauge is the number of stitches and rows or rounds in a stated measurement. UK patterns may call it tension. It controls finished size even when the correct yarn and hook are used.

Make, wash and dry the swatch as the finished object will be treated. If you have fewer stitches than required, your work is usually looser; if you have more, it is tighter. Change hook size and swatch again rather than forcing your hands to maintain unnatural tension.