Crochet Abbreviations Guide

Crochet patterns use abbreviations to keep instructions clear, consistent, and easy to follow. This guide breaks down the most common crochet abbreviations you’ll see in patterns, helping you read with confidence—whether you’re just starting out or brushing up your skills.

How to Use This Page

US terms are listed first (most common in American patterns)
UK terms are noted where they differ
Abbreviations are written exactly as they appear in patterns

Basic Stitch Abbreviations (US Terms)

ch – chain
sl st – slip stitch
sc – single crochet
hdc – half double crochet
dc – double crochet
tr – treble crochet
dtr – double treble crochet

UK Stitch Equivalents (Important Differences)

US Term UK Term Meaning

sc dc single crochet

hdc htr half double crochet

dc tr double crochet

tr dt treble crochet

Always check whether a pattern uses US or UK terms before starting.

This chart is difficult to format on the mobile version. Please view on a desktop for better accuracy.

Common Technique Abbreviations

yo – yarn over
rep – repeat
st / sts – stitch / stitches
sp – space
sk – skip
tog – together
beg – beginning
prev – previous
rnd / Rnd – round
RS / WS – right side / wrong side

Increase & Decrease Abbreviations

inc – increase
dec – decrease
sc2tog – single crochet two together
dc2tog – double crochet two together
3sc in next st – work three single crochets in the same stitch

Advanced & Textured Stitches

BLO – back loop only
FLO – front loop only
FPdc – front post double crochet
BPdc – back post double crochet
puff – puff stitch
bobble – bobble stitch
cluster – cluster stitch

Pattern Instruction Abbreviations

MC – main color
CC – contrast color
alt – alternate
pm / sm – place marker / slip marker
FO – fasten off
join – join with slip stitch

Reading a Crochet Pattern Example

Pattern line:

Rnd 2: ch 1, 2 sc in next st, sc in next st; rep from * around, join.

What it means: Round 2

Chain 1 to start
Put 2 single crochets in the next stitch (increase)
1 single crochet in the next stitch
Repeat that pattern all the way around
Join the round with a slip stitch

Helpful Tips

Keep this page open while working through patterns
Save or bookmark this guide for quick reference
Most modern patterns include a stitch glossary—always check it

At YASL, we believe crochet should feel intuitive, comfortable, and empowering. Understanding the language of crochet is one more way to make every project smoother and more enjoyable.

Have a term you’d like us to add? Let us know and help grow the community guide.