A comprehensive guide to crochet terminology and techniques
A synthetic fibre that is affordable, widely available, and machine-washable. Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit. Check the abbreviation key, read special notes, and inspect examples to understand the technique clearly.
A luxury animal fibre known for softness and drape, with less memory than wool. Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit.
The Japanese art of crocheting small stuffed figures, usually worked in tight, continuous rounds. Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit.
A medium yarn weight ideal for blankets, jumpers, and accessories. Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit. Check the abbreviation key, read special notes, and inspect examples to understand the technique clearly.
The rear ridge of a chain stitch. Working into it creates a clean edge. Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit.
Working a stitch through the back loop only of the top ‘V’, commonly used for ribbing effect. Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit.
Common yarn put-ups. Balls and skeins are ready to use; hanks must be wound first. Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit.
A silky plant-based fibre with excellent drape and sheen, but less elasticity. Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit.
A woven appearance created by alternating front and back post stitches in blocks. Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit.
Families of textured stitches formed by partially completing multiple tall stitches in one place. Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit.
The gauge measured after washing and blocking the swatch, reflecting the final fabric. Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit.
Shaping and setting the finished fabric by wetting, steaming, or spritzing and pinning to measurements. Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit.
Foam mats used with pins to shape and set projects after washing or steaming. Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit.
A lace technique where loops are drawn over a large knitting needle or dowel, then crocheted together. Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit.
A construction method building diagonal blocks from one corner to the opposite corner. Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit.
Worked into the third loop of a htr/hdc, producing a knit-like horizontal ‘V’ on the fabric. Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit.
Icons on yarn labels indicating washing, drying, bleaching, ironing, and dry-cleaning instructions. Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit.
The foundational series of loops used to begin rows or create space within patterns. Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit.
A visual representation of stitches using standard symbols to show placement and repeats. Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit.
Thick yarn for quick, warm projects with bold stitch definition. Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit. Check the abbreviation key, read special notes, and inspect examples to understand the technique clearly.
A technique to close a small opening by weaving yarn through the remaining stitches and pulling tight. Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit.
A group of stitches worked into one place and finished together to form a single top. Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit.
Frequent shorthand used in patterns, such as st(s), rep, sk, pm/sm, cont, tog, approx, RS/WS. Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit.
Rounds worked continuously without joining, creating a spiral—common in amigurumi. Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit. Check the abbreviation key, read special notes, and inspect examples to understand the technique clearly.
Plant-based fibre with cool hand and crisp stitch definition; less elastic than wool. Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit.
An edging worked backwards (left to right for right-handers) to create a firm corded border. Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit.
The tendency of Tunisian fabric to curl towards the front; reduced by larger hooks and blocking. Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit.
A decrease that turns two stitches into one using the double crochet family (UK/US depends on pattern). Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit.
Reducing the number of stitches, often by working two stitches together. Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit. Check the abbreviation key, read special notes, and inspect examples to understand the technique clearly.
A versatile mid-light yarn weight widely used for garments and accessories. Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit. Check the abbreviation key, read special notes, and inspect examples to understand the technique clearly.
A garment style with straight panels and a shoulder seam falling off the shoulder line. Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit.
A batch number indicating yarn dyed together; slight colour differences can occur between lots. Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit.
The method of securing the last stitch so the work does not unravel; usually involves cutting yarn and pulling through. Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit.
The process where fibres mat together under heat, moisture, and agitation; can be accidental or intentional. Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit.
A lacy technique using open and filled mesh blocks to create pictorial designs. Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit.
The dimensions of the completed item at the stated gauge and after finishing. Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit.
In Tunisian crochet, the pass where loops are picked up across the row. Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit.
Working a stitch through the front loop only of the top ‘V’, creating a ridge and added flexibility. Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit.
Stitches worked around the post of a stitch from the row below to create raised textures and ribbing. Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit.
The number of stitches and rows per measured area. Critical for sizing. Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit.
A classic motif worked in rounds from the centre, often using clusters of tall stitches. Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit.
A lace technique using a special fork to create loops linked together with crochet. Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit.
A handheld tool with a hooked end used to draw yarn through loops to form crochet stitches. Sized in millimetres. Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit.
Crocheting circular or tubular fabric by working around a centre or along a circumference. Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit.
Adding stitches to widen or shape fabric, often by working two stitches in the same stitch. Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit.
Colourwork technique using separate sections of colour with individual bobbins; yarns are not carried across the back. Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit.
Two layers of mesh interwoven to create intricate colour patterns. Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit. Check the abbreviation key, read special notes, and inspect examples to understand the technique clearly.
A neat decrease worked through front loops only to minimise gaps—popular in amigurumi. Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit.
A technique to minimise the visible step when changing colours in circular rounds. Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit.
Rounds closed with a slip stitch and often begun with a turning chain for even rounds. Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit.
Very fine yarn used for airy, delicate fabrics, shawls, and lace work. Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit.
A strong plant fibre from flax; crisp at first, softens beautifully with wear and washing. Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit.
A looped start for working in the round that can be tightened to close the centre hole. Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit.
A woven-looking fabric created by alternating single-height stitches with chains, offset each row. Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit.
A small unit (square, hexagon, flower) worked separately and later joined into larger pieces. Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit.
A legend that explains the meanings of stitch abbreviations and symbols in a pattern. Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit.
A tiny decorative loop, usually formed by chaining and slip stitching into the base. Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit.
Using variegated yarn and consistent tension to intentionally align colours into patterns. Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit.
A garment construction with diagonal increases/decreases from neckline to underarm. Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit. Check the abbreviation key, read special notes, and inspect examples to understand the technique clearly.
Symbols like ( ), [ ], and * * used in patterns to indicate repeated sections. Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit. Check the abbreviation key, read special notes, and inspect examples to understand the technique clearly.
In Tunisian crochet, the pass where loops are worked off the hook back to one. Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit.
The intended outward-facing side and the reverse of crocheted fabric; some stitches look different on each side. Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit.
Plastic eyes with washers used in toys; secured from the inside to prevent removal. Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit.
Joining separate pieces together using stitches like mattress stitch, whip stitch, or slip-stitch seams. Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit.
Multiple tall stitches worked into the same stitch or space to create a scalloped fan. Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit.
A luxurious natural fibre with high sheen and drape; weak when wet, often blended. Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit.
The adjustable starting loop placed on the hook to begin chaining. Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit. Check the abbreviation key, read special notes, and inspect examples to understand the technique clearly.
A joining stitch with no height, used to close rounds or create neat edges. Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit.
A stitch worked into a row below the current one, elongating the vertical appearance. Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit.
A small clip or ring used to mark stitches, round starts, or pattern repeats. Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit.
Soft filling material used to shape amigurumi and cushions. Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit. Check the abbreviation key, read special notes, and inspect examples to understand the technique clearly.
Very thick yarn for ultra-fast, highly textured projects. Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit. Check the abbreviation key, read special notes, and inspect examples to understand the technique clearly.
Wool treated to resist felting and shrinkage in machine washing. Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit. Check the abbreviation key, read special notes, and inspect examples to understand the technique clearly.
Sturdy pins shaped like a T used to secure fabric during blocking. Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit.
A colourwork technique where unused colours are carried within the stitches, creating dense, patterned fabric. Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit.
A blunt-ended needle used to weave in yarn tails and seam pieces. Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit.
A small sample you crochet to test gauge and fabric feel; often blocked before measuring. Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit.
A Tunisian stitch resembling knitted stockinette when worked evenly. Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit. Check the abbreviation key, read special notes, and inspect examples to understand the technique clearly.
Directions of garment construction: top-down starts at the neckline; bottom-up begins at the hem. Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit.
A Tunisian stitch creating a purl-like ridge by bringing yarn to the front before drawing up the loop. Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit.
The foundational Tunisian stitch; loops are drawn up through the front vertical bars. Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit.
A crochet method that holds multiple loops on the hook (forward pass) and works them off (return pass). Fabric is dense and can curl. Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit.
An extra-long hook (sometimes with a cable) used for Tunisian crochet, which holds many loops on the hook at once. Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit.
A set of chains at the beginning of a row to reach the height of the next stitch. Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit.
A short, dense stitch. In the US this stitch is called single crochet (sc). Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit.
A very tall stitch used for lacy fabrics and dramatic textures. Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit. Check the abbreviation key, read special notes, and inspect examples to understand the technique clearly.
A medium-height stitch that’s taller than UK dc/US sc but shorter than UK tr/US dc. Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit.
A tall, common stitch used for many fabrics, from granny squares to garments. Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit.
A mapping between British (UK) and American (US) crochet stitch names. UK stitches are generally named one step taller than their US equivalents. Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit.
US term for a tall stitch. Equivalent to UK treble (tr). Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit. Check the abbreviation key, read special notes, and inspect examples to understand the technique clearly.
US term for the shortest basic stitch. Equivalent to UK double crochet (dc). Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit.
A deep, grid-like texture created using post stitches and tall stitches in a pattern. Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit.
Hiding yarn tails within the fabric using a tapestry needle to secure them. Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit.
A natural animal fibre (usually sheep) known for warmth, elasticity, and memory. Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit.
Crocheting in rows, turning at each end to create flat fabric. Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit. Check the abbreviation key, read special notes, and inspect examples to understand the technique clearly.
A way to estimate yarn weight by counting how many times it wraps around a ruler per inch. Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit.
The fibre strand used to form stitches. Comes in various weights, fibres, and textures. Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit.
The wrap that lists fibre content, weight, length, gauge, care instructions, and dye lot. Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit.
Wrapping the yarn over the hook to create a new loop; fundamental to forming stitches. Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit.
Classifies yarn thickness. UK often uses ply names; US uses numbers from 0 (lace) to 7 (jumbo). Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit.
The upper part of a garment worked around the shoulders, often with patterned increases. Always confirm whether a pattern uses UK or US terminology before starting. Swatch to verify gauge, then adjust hook size or tension to achieve the desired fabric and fit.