Crochet Terms & Techniques

Gauge: Gauge is important! Gauge means the number of stitches in a square inch. Your gauge depends on the yarn, the size of your crochet hook, and how tightly you make your stitches. The gauge determines the finished size of a crocheted item.

Following the pattern instructions, crochet a 4 inch square in the stitch you will be using. Measure the number of stitches across as well as the length of your work. If your work is too small, use a hook one size larger. If it is too big, use a hook one size smaller. Experiment until you have the correct gauge.

approx	approximate(ly)
beg	begin(ning)(s)
ch(s)	chain(s)
cm	centimeter(s) 1 cm = 2.54 inches
cont	continu(e)(ed)(es)(ing)
dc	double crochet
dec	decrease(s)(ing)
g	gram
hdc	half double crochet
inc	increas(e)(es)(ed)(ing)
lp(s)	loop(s)
m	meter(s)
oz	ounce(s)
patt(s)	pattern(s)
rem	remain(s)(ing)
rep	repeat(s)(ing)
rnd	round(s)
sc	single crochet
sk	skip
sl	slip
sl st(s)	slip stich(es)

sp(s)	space(s)
st(s)	stitch(es)
tog	together
tr	triple crochet
wt	weight
yo	yarn over
yd	yard(s)
*	*Repeat directions following as many times as indicated in addition to the first time (i.e., repeat from * )**
( )	Work the instructions inside the parentheses the number of times specified.
multiple	A pattern stitch is composed of a specific number (multiple) of stitches that are required to complete one pattern unit.
work even	Continue working without increasing or decreasing.
work straight	Continue working without increasing or decreasing.