Abbreviations
The classic trap: a UK "double crochet" is a US "single crochet". Check which terms your pattern uses before you start!
US ↔ UK stitch terms
The same stitch, two names. Tip: if a pattern mentions "sc", it's written in US terms — UK patterns don't use it.
| US term | US abbr. | UK term | UK abbr. |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chain | ch | Chain | ch |
| Slip stitch | sl st | Slip stitch | ss |
| Single crochet | sc | Double crochet | dc |
| Half double crochet | hdc | Half treble | htr |
| Double crochet | dc | Treble | tr |
| Treble crochet | tr | Double treble | dtr |
| Double treble | dtr | Triple treble | ttr |
| Yarn over | yo | Yarn over hook | yoh |
| Gauge | — | Tension | — |
| Skip | sk | Miss | — |
Common abbreviations
Used in both US and UK patterns.
| Abbreviation | Meaning |
|---|---|
| approx | approximately |
| beg | beginning |
| BLO | back loop only |
| CC | contrast colour |
| ch-sp | chain space |
| cl | cluster |
| cont | continue |
| dec | decrease |
| FLO | front loop only |
| FO | fasten off |
| inc | increase |
| MC | main colour |
| MR | magic ring (magic circle) |
| pm | place marker |
| prev | previous |
| rem | remaining |
| rep | repeat |
| rnd(s) | round(s) |
| RS | right side |
| sp | space |
| st(s) | stitch(es) |
| tbl | through back loop |
| tog | together |
| WS | wrong side |
Designers sometimes define their own — a good pattern (mine included ✿) lists its abbreviations up top.