US vs UK Crochet Terminology

The crochet world is united in making loops of yarn with crochet hooks that transform into all kinds of projects from garments to home decor. However, the craft is divided over the language (standard terms) of the stitch pattern - US and UK. The US and UK crochet terms are different though they have similar names, thus, very confusing. They refer to the same stitch differently which brings a lot of challenges; the Single Crochet (US) becomes Double Crochet (UK) and the Double Crochet (US) becomes Treble Crochet (TR), etc. The different crochet terms throw a challenge when it comes to following crochet patterns. If you are a beginner or even have been crocheting for years, you must be aware of the terms of the stitches, and understand the terminology and the difference between them. In this blog, we’ll explore how to understand the differences and identify crochet terminology.

US and UK crochet terms- What is the difference?

Crochet terms mean the name of the stitches. There are five basic stitches that work by making loops of yarn. The densest stitch has the least number of loops and for taller stitches, the number of loops increases. In US and UK, there are different standard names. You can find stitches such as double crochet (DC) and treble crochet (TC/ TR), but they indicate different stitches. The same names yet different instructions make it challenging to follow a pattern. The differences are only in regular crocheting.

The most important thing to understand is; that the US crochet stitch name refers to the number of yarnovers and the UK terminology refers to the number of loops on your hook. For example, a US single crochet (UK double) has a single yarn over, hence is known as single crochet stitch in US terms but two loops on the hook after pulling up a loop from the stitch therefore known as double crochet stitch in UK. Similarly, every stitch is named after the yarn overs or the number of loops.

Confusing? It can be. So, understanding the differences is essential. So, if you land up with a pattern in crochet terms that you are not aware you can simply translate it for yourself.

Crochet Terms conversion chart

The handy chart for crochet stitches comes handy for all your projects. Find the basic stitches in US and UK crochet terminology right beside them. This way, you can convert the stitch terms according to the pattern on hand.

Similar to the stitch names, the differences are also available in stitch instructions like crochet increases and decreases.

How to understand if the pattern is written in US or UK crochet terms?

Most crochet pattern designers specify whether it's written in US or UK terms. This information is a general pattern description, stitch abbreviations, or pattern notes. If it is not mentioned, here’s what you can do:

1. Check the written crochet pattern especially the notes section thoroughly. Patterns from only magazine editions to easily available everywhere on the internet is a good move but makes it difficult to trace the origins. Some crochet patterns may clearly indicate whether they use British or US crochet terminology, while some free patterns may not. Plus, crocheters themselves skip out on checking the origin in the excitement of finding an exciting design which takes us to the next option.
2. Read the stitch names. If there's a single crochet (SC) in the pattern list you're looking at a US pattern as the stitch only exists in US crochet terminology. But double crochet and treble crochet stitch names may bring confusion. Check other terminology such as 'gauge' or 'tension', 'miss a stitch' or 'skip a stitch'.
3. Read the crochet chart for the stitch name and compare this with the stitch description.
4. You can explore more about the pattern authors. A designer from Australia will normally use UK terminology, whereas American authors normally use US crochet terms for their patterns while South Africa uses both sets of terms.

Regardless of what crochet pattern you follow and the crochet abbreviations written in US or UK terms, enjoy your crafting sessions with high-quality crochet tools and accessories. With Lantern Moon get premium ebony wood crochet hooks with a liquid-silk finish that works smoothly with all yarns. The Radiance Set is a good choice for crochet artists of all skill levels.