Abbreviations

Most crochet instructions are written using a standard set of abbreviations listed below.

Symbols

In addition to the abbreviations crochet patterns often include symbols such as parentheses, brackets and asterisks.

• Asterisk * - Repeat the instructions following the single asterisk as directed
• Double Asterisk ** - Repeat instructions between asterisks as many times as directed or repeat from a given set of instructions
• Brackets [ ] - Work instructions within brackets as many times as directed
• — Number at end of row - The number after a long dash atthe end of a row or round indicates the number of stitches you shouldhave when the row or round is completed.
• Parentheses ( ) - Work by the number right after the instruction within parentheses as many times as directed. For example (ch 5, sc in next ch-sp) 3 times means that the instructions in the parentheses have to be repeated three times.

Crochet Terms

There are several terms used in crochet instructions which are listed below:

Back loop

Refers to the loop farthest from you on the previous row.

Continue in Pattern as Established

Usually refers to a pattern stitch and means to continue workingthe patterns as established and working any increases or decreases insuch a manner that the established pattern remains the same. Generally increases and/or decreases are worked at the beginning or end of a row.

Front Loop

Refers to the loop nearest you on the previous row.

Gauge

Refers to the number of stitches per inch vertically and number of rows per inch horizontally using a specific yarn and stitch. It is very important to crochet a swatch and to measure it to be sure that your gauge is correct. If the number of rows and/or stitches is fewer than indicated for the project's gauge, your hook is too large. Crochet another swatch with a smaller size hook. If the number of rows and stitches is more than indicated in the swatch, switch to a larger hook. Always use a hook that produces the correct gauge.

Join

Refers to the slip stitch used to join two stitches as indicated in the pattern.

Left Front

Refers to the part of the garments that will be worn on the left side.

Left-Hand Side

Refers to the side nearest your left hand as you are working.

Multiple

Refers to working a sequence of stitches or rows more than once.

Post

Refers to the vertical part of a completed stitch.

Right Front

Refers to the part of a garment that will be worn on the right side.

Right Side

Refers to the side of the crochet piece that will be displayed.

Right-Hand Side

Refers to the side nearest your right hand as you are working.

Turn

Refers to turning the crochet piece over to the reverse side to begin a new row.

Work Even

Refers to working in the same fashion without increasing or decreasing.

Wrong Side

Refers to the side of the crochet piece which will be hidden.