I primarily use US crochet terminology, so patterns will be written in US terms. However, if you prefer UK terms, there will be a link you can click to switch to the UK version.
I primarily use US crochet terminology, so patterns will be written in US terms. However, if you prefer UK terms, there will be a link you can click to switch to the UK version.
It's super important you know that there are two sets of terminology with crochet. I prefer US terminology and teach this way. It means you need to consider what the pattern or video you are following is. It's not like if you learn in US terms you can't do a UK pattern - you can! You simply need to convert the terminology - it's not as complicated as it sounds!
A yarn over (often written as yo) is one of the most basic movements in crochet. It simply means wrapping the working yarn around your hook so you can pull it through loops and create stitches.
To do a yarn over, bring the yarn over the hook from back to front, so it rests in the groove of the hook. The hook then “catches” the yarn and pulls it through loops to form part of a stitch.
The working yarn is the strand of yarn that is still connected to your yarn ball. This is the yarn you use to make your stitches.
Every time you yarn over or pull up a loop, you are using the working yarn.
👉 Think: the yarn you are actively crocheting with.
The tail is the short, loose end of yarn that is left over when you start your project (for example, after making a slip knot).
It is not used to make stitches. You weave this part in at the end.
👉 Think: the leftover end that gets tidied away later
In US terms, stitch height increases with the number of yarn overs used. Single crochet (sc) is the shortest and tightest stitch, followed by half double crochet (hdc), then double crochet (dc), with treble crochet (tr) being the tallest and most open.
A simple, adjustable loop made with your yarn. You place it on your crochet hook to begin chaining and working stitches.
The way you hold your yarn is important to prevent any strain or damage to your hands.
A crochet chain (abbreviated as ch) is the foundation of most crochet projects. It's a series of loops linked together, created with yarn and your crochet hook. Think of it like the starting line—it forms the base row that you build your stitches on..
A slip stitch (abbreviated as sl st) is the shortest and simplest crochet stitch. It’s often used to:
• Join rounds
• Move your yarn to a new spot
• Create a flat, neat edge
• Add a decorative detail
A single crochet (abbreviated as sc) is one of the most basic and commonly used stitches in crochet. It creates a tight, dense fabric, which is perfect for things like plushies (amigurumi), bags, and blankets.
A US double crochet (abbreviated as dc) or UK treble crochet (abbreviated as tr) is another common crochet stitch especially used to make granny squares. It’s taller than a single or half double crochet and creates a soft, open fabric—great for blankets, garments, and accessories.
The US half double crochet (abbreviated as hdc) or UK half treble crochet (abbreviated as hdc) is a stitch that sits right betwen single crochet (sc) and double crochet (dc). It gives you a fabric that’s slightly taller than sc but tighter than dc, making it a really versatile, balanced stitch.
The US treble crochet (abbreviated as tr) or UK double treble crochet is a tall stitch ( taller than sc, hdc & dc ) that creates a light, open, and airy fabric. It is commonly used in lacy patterns, shawls, and blankets because it works up quickly and gives a soft drape.