Crochet Abbreviations

What Is Crochet?

Crochet is a simple way of creating a long piece of knit fabric using one special needle, called a crochet hook. The system of crochet is based around patterns of looping yarn within itself. Many people use crochet patterns to make hats, gloves, scarves, blankets, sweaters, and other things.

However diverse the objects that can be made by crocheting, there has to be one standard system that makes sure that any experienced knitter or crocheter can execute a crochet pattern properly. In reality, there are only a limited number of techniques and technicalities involved in crochet, so it makes sense to have a uniform vocabulary of crochet terms so that following patterns can be easy.

What Are Crochet Abbreviations?

So that patterns, directions, and written instructions take less space – and less time to write – those who crochet have invented a list of abbreviations for the common crochet vocabulary words which are critical for following a crochet pattern.

Some of these abbreviations make sense, since they are simple abbreviations that we see in common everyday English. Other ones are specific to just crochet patterns or other crafts.

How Do I Use These Abbreviations?

When following a crochet pattern, you are bound to come across crochet abbreviations. Considering the fact that most patterns are built almost exclusively of numbers and abbreviations, you will have to have a pretty good handle on abbreviations if you want to successfully execute a pattern.

Don’t worry, however, if you don’t know many abbreviations: There are books that teach you abbreviations and what they mean and a lot of information about abbreviation is available on the Internet. In fact, a list of common abbreviations used in crochet patterns is given below. Of course there are more that are used, and sometimes, different pattern companies use their own style of crochet abbreviations. Also know that, in different countries, there are different abbreviations which stand for each technique, so you should understand what abbreviations mean before you begin a pattern that is made in another country.

Consult with your friends who crochet to find out which common abbreviations they come across in their patterns. Usually these abbreviations are easy to learn quickly because they are designed to make sense and be simple. Don’t be afraid to ask someone if their pattern is unclear because their abbreviations do not make sense to you.