Lesson 2

Terminology and Abbreviations

Crochet Terminology


Each textile art has its own terminology. The list below includes common crochet terms, but does not include all crochet terminology. It is important to refer to your pattern to see if any other crochet terminologies are referred to.



Applied Slip Stitch
An applied slip stitch is a finishing technique used to add a simple, stretchy border to finish the edges of a project.
Crochet
Crochet consists of interlocking loops. The hook is held in one hand and the yarn is held in the other to give a degree of tension.
Crochet Stitches
Crochet stitches include the simple chain stitch, the single crochet, half double crochet, double crochet, trip crochet, double triple crochet and triple crochet.
Ending Block
An ending block is a type of increase or decrease stitch that closed a mesh pattern with a solid block.
Pattern Sample
A pattern sample is a crocheted 10 cm square using the same stitches as used in project. It is essential to check tension or gauge. The number of stitches and rows must correspond to those given in the directions if the project is to turn out the same size as suggested in the pattern.
Shaping
Shaping is accomplished through increasing (making 2 stitches in the same stitch) and decreasing (making one stitch from 2 stitches.
Slip Stitch
A slip stitch is a basic crochet stitch that can be used for a variety of purpose including seaming two pieces together.
Yarn Over Hook
A yarn over is simply the step in which you wrap the yarn over your crochet hook. Some stitches call for more than one yarn over.

Crochet Abbreviations


A crochet pattern can look like an early form of computer programming, however once you have learned the common abbreviations a person will find that patterns are generally quite simple to follow. The list below includes common crochet abbreviations, but does not include all crochet abbreviations. It is important to refer to your pattern to see if any other crochet abbreviations are referred to.



Term

Abbreviation

Term

Abbreviation
chain ch round rnd
block bl inclusive incl
double crochet dc triple treble tr tr
stitch(es) st(s) single crochet sc
treble tr space sp
increase inc beginning beg
popcorn stitch pc st half double crochet h dc
double treble d tr decrease dec
slip stitch sl st ending block eb
front loops fl yarn over hook yo or yoh


* (asterisk)
Means to repeat the instruction immediately following the asterisk as many times as indicated. Occasionally there will be a phrase such as (ch2, skip 2 sh, dc in next ch) 4 times. This means that you should repeat whatever is in the parenthesis 4 times.