Reference / Pattern language
Crochet abbreviations, translated clearly.
Compare the common US and UK crochet abbreviations in one place. Use the pattern's own key first, especially when a stitch name changes between systems.
US / UK reference
Common crochet abbreviations chart.
| US | UK | Meaning | How to read it |
|---|---|---|---|
| ch | ch | chain | A foundation or turning loop. |
| sl st | ss | slip stitch | Joins stitches with almost no height. |
| sc | dc | single crochet / double crochet | The US and UK names shift by one level. |
| hdc | htr | half double crochet / half treble | A medium-height stitch. |
| dc | tr | double crochet / treble | A common tall stitch. |
| tr | dtr | treble crochet / double treble | A taller stitch with two yarn overs. |
| inc | inc | increase | Work more than one stitch into one stitch. |
| dec | dec | decrease | Work stitches together. |
| sk | miss | skip | Leave the next stitch unworked. |
| st / sts | st / sts | stitch / stitches | A count of loops or completed stitches. |
| rep | rep | repeat | Work the instructions again. |
| yo | yo | yarn over | Wrap yarn over the hook before drawing through. |
Words and symbols
A symbol chart is a second language.
Charts can travel across US and UK terminology when their legend is clear. Learn the drawing and the abbreviation together before starting.
Need the visual version?
Open the crochet chart symbols library for a visual stitch reference, then use the chart maker to place them in a project diagram.
Quick questions
Why are US and UK crochet abbreviations different?
The two systems name stitch heights differently. For example, US single crochet is UK double crochet, and US double crochet is UK treble crochet.
Should I follow the chart or the abbreviation list?
Use both. A chart legend identifies the symbols, while the pattern abbreviation key tells you which terminology system its written instructions use.
What does sk mean in crochet?
Sk means skip: leave the next stitch unworked, then follow the next instruction in the pattern.