How to Read Crochet Patterns

Many crocheters find reading a crochet pattern scary. These are written using various terms and abbreviations that require a thorough understanding. But it's not as hard as it seems; it just requires patience and skills. It's totally a different language, though. You will find various patterns while scrolling through the internet, which might excite you to create them. Don't worry; let's explore and get familiar with all those terms and symbols in our blog.

Reading a Crochet Pattern- Is it really required?

Do you often get confused when making a recipe? Maybe you get puzzled with the ingredients and steps, Similarly, when making a pattern, you want to know the materials, tools, and basic stitches that you need to make a design. Hence, learning and understanding crochet reading patterns is essential for multiple projects. Once you gain that knowledge, you will be able to:

• Recreate the design of your favorite creator.
• Make wearable projects that fit according to the requirements.
• Save time and yarn.
• Customize the design with your crochet hook.

How to Read a Crochet Pattern?

Let's begin with some abbreviations and stitches. In this blog, we will be using US crochet terminology. Refer to our guide for US vs UK terminology for more details on UK terms.

Basic Crochet Stitch Abbreviation

How to Read a Crochet Chart?

If you are a visual learner, reading a crochet chart is a game-changer. Instead of using the words, the crochet chart uses symbols, each of which stands for a distinct stitch. Check out how to read it:

• Charts are read from bottom up.
• Rows with odd numbers should be read from right to left.
• Read even-numbered rows from left to right.
• For a circular round, from right to left.

Let's consider an example for better understanding:

• A small circle means a magic ring or loop.
• An X represents a single crochet (SC).
• A T with a line through it could mean a double crochet (DC).

How to Read a Crochet Graph?

For beginners, the graph is like a puzzle. But you will be surprised to know that it is quite easy and fascinating to work with. Let's understand some basic terms related to it:

• In the graph, each square represents a stitch, and when you see a square in the corner to corner, it means a block stitch.
• These are worked from the bottom up and right to left.
•  In the graph, for color or stitch changes, you will notice a legend with either a symbol or color to indicate the necessary changes.

When working on Garments- reading crochet pattern

It is crucial to know the terms when you start making garments. You must understand terms like right front, right sleeve, right shoulder; these all refer to the body part that the fabric will cover. Check out a few of the terms below:

• Right side (RS)/Wrong side (WS) - When working on the garment with your wooden crochet hook, it indicates that you need to work on the right side (wrong side) of the piece facing you. 
• At the same time, it asked you to work on two different steps simultaneously.
• Right and Left Hand Corner: It will tell you to join the yarn in a specific corner.

Things or Tips to Keep in Mind

Let's check out some pointers or suggestions that will guide you in understanding the pattern quickly and easily:

• Familiarity with the symbols and abbreviations is essential; for that, you can work with simple coasters or dishcloths.
• Crochet accessories assist the crafters, like stitch markers, in tracking the row you are currently working on.
• We recommend using the right crochet hook size, especially the ebony crochet hook, handcrafted by a skilled artisan to provide a luxurious experience. Refer to our blog to know 6 reasons why knitting needles and crochet hooks are the best.
• If possible, take the printout of the pattern and trace it with a pencil.
• Don't ignore the note section in the pattern instructions.

You won't regret learning to read crochet patterns, even though they initially seem daunting or tricky. It simply requires patience, practice, and time, just like learning any new skill.

Take out your preferred Bequest Tunisian crochet hook set or Radiance single-ended hook from Lantern Moon and enjoy stitching smoothly. You can quickly transform patterns into handcrafted treasures.