The way crochet stitches are described varies between Britain and America, so it’s important to check what terms are being used by the designer before you pick up your yarn and crochet hook and launch into the first stitches.
US and UK Stitch Names
Some stitches are the same, for example, chain stitch and slip stitch. But there are many common crochet stitches that are different.
UK |
US |
|---|---|
Double crochet /dc |
Single crochet /sc |
Half treble crochet /htr |
Half double crochet /hdc |
Treble crochet /tr |
Double crochet /dc |
Double treble crochet /dtr |
Treble crochet /tr |
Triple treble crochet /ttr |
Double treble crochet /dtr |
How To Tell If Your Pattern Is Using UK or US Crochet Terms
Most books and patterns will state whether they are using US or UK terms, however, if you aren't sure which crochet terms are being used in your pattern, use this tip. Look to see if the pattern refers to Single Crochet. If it does, it is using American terms as there is no Single Crochet in UK terms. You can also look at the photography of the project together with the crochet symbols chart and the written instructions. Look especially at stitches that are described as Double Crochet. In UK terms, a Double Crochet is a short stitch, whereas in US crochet terms it is a longer, slimmer stitch. If you decide to try a crochet pattern that uses crochet terms you are unfamiliar with, it’s helpful to print out the pattern and mark up any changes with a pen.
