Christie C. The language of crochet is filled with unique terms and abbreviations that, once mastered, will open up a world of possibilities for your projects. This guide will show you you the key terms and phrases every crocheter should know.
Back Loop Only (blo): Refers to working into the back loop of a stitch, creating a ribbed or textured effect.
Bobble Stitch: A cluster of stitches worked together to create a raised, textured bump in the fabric.
Chain (ch): The foundation of most crochet projects, formed by making loops with the yarn and pulling them through each other.
Cluster Stitch: A group of stitches worked into the same stitch or space, often joined at the top.
Decrease (dec): A method used to reduce the number of stitches in a row or round.
Double Crochet (dc): A basic crochet stitch where the hook is inserted into the stitch, yarn over, pull up a loop, yarn over again, and pull through two loops on the hook, twice.
Front Loop Only (flo): Refers to working into the front loop of a stitch, creating a ribbed or textured effect.
Half Double Crochet (hdc): Similar to a double crochet but with an extra step; yarn over, insert the hook, yarn over and pull up a loop, yarn over, and pull through all three loops on the hook.
Invisible Join: A technique used to create a seamless and nearly invisible finish when joining rounds.
Magic Ring (Magic Circle or Adjustable Ring): A technique to start projects in the round, often used for amigurumi or circular motifs.
Popcorn Stitch: Similar to a bobble stitch, but typically larger, creating a more pronounced raised texture.
Reverse Single Crochet (crab stitch): A decorative stitch worked in the opposite direction, creating a twisted or ropelike edge.
Shell Stitch: A group of stitches (commonly double crochets) worked into the same stitch or space, creating a shell-like motif.
Single Crochet (sc): A basic crochet stitch where the hook is inserted into the stitch, yarn over, pull up a loop, and then yarn over and pull through both loops on the hook.
Slip Stitch (sl st): A simple stitch used to join rounds, create decorative edges, or move the yarn without adding height.
Standing Stitch: A technique to start a new color or stitch without using a slipknot, often used for a cleaner join.
Surface Crochet: A method of crocheting on the surface of the fabric, creating decorative designs or adding details.
Triple Crochet (tr or triple): A tall crochet stitch where the yarn is wrapped twice before working through the stitch.
Treble Crochet (tr or triple): In some regions, a triple crochet is referred to as a treble crochet. This tall stitch is created by wrapping the yarn twice before working through the stitch.
Tunisian Crochet: A crochet technique that uses an elongated hook and combines elements of both crochet and knitting.
Turn: To flip the work over to start a new row.
Work Even: To continue crocheting without increasing or decreasing, maintaining the same number of stitches in each row.
Yarn Over (yo): The motion of wrapping the yarn around the crochet hook, used to create new stitches.
