If you’ve ever opened a crochet pattern and felt confused by terms like sc, dc, ch, or sl st, you’re not alone. Crochet patterns use abbreviations to make instructions shorter and easier to read. Learning these abbreviations is one of the first steps toward becoming a confident crocheter.
In this guide, you’ll learn the most common crochet abbreviation meanings, what they stand for, and how they’re used in crochet patterns.
What Are Crochet Abbreviations?
Crochet abbreviations are shortened forms of crochet stitches, techniques, and instructions. Designers use them to keep patterns concise and standardized.
For example:
- sc = Single Crochet
- dc = Double Crochet
- ch = Chain
- sl st = Slip Stitch
Once you understand these abbreviations, reading crochet patterns becomes much easier.
Common Crochet Abbreviation Meanings
| Abbreviation | Meaning |
|---|---|
| ch | Chain |
| sc | Single Crochet |
| hdc | Half Double Crochet |
| dc | Double Crochet |
| tr | Treble Crochet |
| sl st | Slip Stitch |
| st | Stitch |
| sp | Space |
| sk | Skip |
| rep | Repeat |
| yo | Yarn Over |
| beg | Beginning |
| rnd | Round |
| rs | Right Side |
| ws | Wrong Side |
| inc | Increase |
| dec | Decrease |
| join | Join |
| lp | Loop |
| rem | Remaining |
Basic Stitch Abbreviations Explained
ch (Chain)
The chain stitch is usually the foundation of most crochet projects. Patterns often begin with instructions such as:
Ch 20
This means you should create 20 chain stitches.
sc (Single Crochet)
Single crochet is one of the simplest and most commonly used stitches. It creates a tight and sturdy fabric.
Example:
Sc in each st across
This means work one single crochet into every stitch.
hdc (Half Double Crochet)
Half double crochet is slightly taller than a single crochet and creates a softer texture.
Example:
Hdc in next 10 sts
Work one half double crochet into the next 10 stitches.
dc (Double Crochet)
Double crochet is taller than hdc and works up quickly, making it popular for blankets and scarves.
Example:
Dc across
Work double crochet stitches across the row.
tr (Treble Crochet)
Treble crochet is one of the tallest standard crochet stitches.
Example:
Tr in next st
Create a treble crochet stitch in the next stitch.
Crochet Pattern Instruction Abbreviations
st (Stitch)
Refers to a single stitch in a crochet pattern.
Example:
Work into next st
sp (Space)
Indicates an open area between stitches.
Example:
2 dc in ch-2 sp
rep (Repeat)
Tells you to repeat a sequence of instructions.
Example:
Rep from * to * across row
sk (Skip)
Means you should skip a stitch or space.
Example:
Sk next st
beg (Beginning)
Refers to the start of a row, round, or pattern section.
Crochet Increase and Decrease Abbreviations
inc (Increase)
An increase adds stitches and makes your project wider.
Example:
Sc inc in next st
Usually means placing two single crochets into the same stitch.
dec (Decrease)
A decrease reduces stitches and narrows your work.
Example:
Sc dec
This combines two stitches into one.
Crochet Round and Row Abbreviations
| Abbreviation | Meaning |
|---|---|
| rnd | Round |
| row | Row |
| rs | Right Side |
| ws | Wrong Side |
| join | Join |
| turn | Turn Your Work |
These abbreviations are especially common in hats, amigurumi, and circular crochet projects.
Yarn and Loop Abbreviations
yo (Yarn Over)
Wrap the yarn over your hook before completing a stitch.
lp (Loop)
Refers to a loop of yarn on the hook or within the project.
Example:
Pull through lp
Why Crochet Patterns Use Abbreviations
Crochet abbreviations offer several advantages:
- Make patterns shorter and easier to read
- Create standardized instructions
- Reduce confusion among crocheters worldwide
- Help designers save space in written patterns
- Allow faster pattern reading once learned
Tips for Reading Crochet Abbreviations
- Keep a crochet abbreviation chart nearby.
- Learn the basic stitch abbreviations first.
- Read the entire pattern before starting.
- Pay attention to whether the pattern uses US or UK crochet terms.
- Practice with beginner-friendly projects.
US vs UK Crochet Abbreviations
One important thing to remember is that some crochet terms differ between the United States and the United Kingdom.
| US Term | UK Term |
|---|---|
| Single Crochet (sc) | Double Crochet (dc) |
| Half Double Crochet (hdc) | Half Treble Crochet (htr) |
| Double Crochet (dc) | Treble Crochet (tr) |
| Treble Crochet (tr) | Double Treble Crochet (dtr) |
Always check which terminology your pattern uses before starting a project.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does sc mean in crochet?
sc stands for Single Crochet, one of the most basic crochet stitches.
What does dc mean in crochet?
dc means Double Crochet, a taller stitch commonly used in blankets, garments, and accessories.
What does ch mean in crochet?
ch stands for Chain, the foundation stitch used in most crochet projects.
What does sl st mean in crochet?
sl st means Slip Stitch, which is often used to join rounds or move across stitches without adding height.
What does yo mean in crochet?
yo stands for Yarn Over, a technique used in many crochet stitches.
Conclusion
Understanding crochet abbreviation meanings is essential for reading patterns successfully. Whether you’re making a simple scarf or an intricate blanket, knowing terms like sc, dc, ch, and sl st will make the process much smoother. Keep this guide handy as a quick reference, and you’ll be able to decode crochet patterns with confidence.
