How to Read a Crochet Pattern (Without Panicking)
Abbreviations, stitch counts in brackets, repeats with asterisks: here is what it all means.
Oct 26, 2026 · 1 min read
Start with the abbreviations
Most patterns use the same short forms: ch (chain), sl st (slip stitch), sc (single crochet), hdc (half double), dc (double crochet), inc (two stitches in one) and dec (two stitches worked together).
The number at the end matters most
A line like Rnd 4: (sc, inc) x6 (18) means: one single crochet, then an increase, repeated six times. The (18) is how many stitches you should have. Count it every round. It's the fastest way to catch a mistake.
Asterisks and brackets
Anything between * and ; or inside brackets is a repeat. Do the whole group, then repeat as told.
Use a stitch marker
When you work in spirals (amigurumi!), clip a marker into the first stitch of every round. Move it up as you go.
Ready to practise? Our Christmas Gnome Trio is written for exactly this.
