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Crochet Abbreviations & Terms

* or ( ) or []

 

Instructions after the asterisk or between parentheses/brackets are repeated the number of times stated

Gauge:

 

Checking the "gauge" before you start crocheting will insure that it turns out the size stated in the directions.  To check the gauge, crochet a 3" square using the pattern specified.  The pattern will tell you how many stitches and how many rows there should be per inch.  If your sample doesn't match the gauge, you need to change the size of your crochet hook and do another 3" test piece and re-measure.  Continue doing this until your gauge matches the pattern.  The smaller the hook, the more rows and stitches you will get per inch.

Here you will find a list of crochet abbreviations and definitions of crocheting terms to help you when reading patterns. May we suggest you book mark this page as it is a valuable resource for crocheters of all skill levels.

 
approx approximately m meters
beg beginning mc main color
blo back loop only mm millimeters
cc contract color oz(s) ounce(s)
ch chain pat pattern
cl cluster rem remaining
cm centimeters rep repeat
cont continue rnd(s) round(s)
dc double crochet RS right side
dec decrease sc single crochet
ea each sl slip
gm grams slst slip stitch
gr group sk skip
hdc half double crochet sp space
hk hook st(s) stitch(es)
inc increase tog together
incl including tr triple (treble) crochet
" or in(s) inches WS wrong side
lp loop yo yarn over