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Crochet patterns often use abbreviations to keep instructions short and easy to scan. Learning the most common crochet abbreviations and terms makes it much easier to read patterns with confidence.
Use this chart as a quick reference when you come across an abbreviation you do not recognize.
📝 Common Crochet Abbreviations
| Abbreviation | Term |
|---|---|
| beg | beginning |
| BLO | back loop only |
| ch | chain |
| ch sp | chain space |
| dc | double crochet |
| dc2tog | double crochet two stitches together (decrease) |
| dec | decrease |
| edc | extended double crochet |
| FLO | front loop only |
| FO | fasten off |
| hdc | half double crochet |
| hdc2tog | half double crochet two stitches together (decrease) |
| inc | increase |
| rem | remaining |
| rep | repeat |
| RS | right side |
| sc | single crochet |
| sc2tog | single crochet two stitches together (decrease) |
| sk | skip |
| sl st | slip stitch |
| st | stitch |
| sts | stitches |
| tog | together |
| tr | treble crochet |
| tr2tog | treble crochet two stitches together (decrease) |
| turn | turn your work |
| yo | yarn over |
| yu | yarn under |
🔣 Common Pattern Symbols
These symbols are often used to group instructions or show repeats in a pattern.
- ( ) – may be used to group stitches or show a repeat
- [ ] – may be used to group instructions
- * * – repeat the instructions between the asterisks
Patterns may use symbols in slightly different ways, so it is always helpful to check the pattern notes before you begin.
💡 Tip: Many crochet patterns include an abbreviation list in the pattern notes. If you come across an abbreviation you do not recognize, check the notes first, then look for a designer glossary if needed.