How to Read Written Crochet Instructions Line by Line

Crocheting Instructions   Updated by Janice Jones   November 3, 2026

Written crochet instructions may look like a string of abbreviations, numbers, and punctuation at first. A single line can tell you which row to work, where to place each stitch, which steps to repeat, when to turn, and how many stitches you should have when you finish.

The easiest way to understand that line is to separate it into smaller parts. In this guide, we will decode a sample row, translate it into ordinary language, and identify the details you should check before moving to the next row.

This page focuses only on following written row and round instructions. If you need help understanding all the sections of a complete pattern, begin with my guide to reading crochet patterns.

Crocheting Instructions

Example of Written Crochet Instructions

Note: The beginning ch 3 counts as the first double crochet throughout.

Foundation chain: Ch 24.
Row 1 (RS): Dc in the 4th ch from the hook and in each ch across; turn. (22 dc)
Row 2: Ch 3, *ch 2, sk next 2 dc, dc in next dc; rep from * across, working the final dc in the top of the beginning ch-3; turn. (8 dc, 7 ch-2 sps)

How to Decode a Line of Crochet Instructions

A written crochet instruction contains several pieces of information. Breaking the line into smaller parts makes it easier to understand. The sample below creates a row of seven open mesh spaces.

Note: The beginning ch 3 counts as the first double crochet throughout.

Foundation chain: Ch 24.

Row 1 (RS): Dc in 4th ch from hook and in each ch across, turn. (22 dc)

Row 2: Ch 3, *ch 2, sk next 2 dc, dc in next dc; rep from * across, working the final dc in the top of the beginning ch-3 from the previous row; turn. (8 dc, 7 ch-2 sps)

Part of the instruction What it tells you
Row 2 You are working the second row of the pattern.
Ch 3 Make three chains. The pattern note tells you that this beginning chain counts as the first double crochet.
* The asterisk marks the beginning of the instructions that will be repeated.
Ch 2 Make two chains. These chains form the top of an open mesh space.
Sk next 2 dc Leave the next two double crochet stitches unworked. The chain-two space extends across these skipped stitches.
Dc in next dc Work one double crochet in the following double crochet. This stitch forms the next vertical post of the mesh. On the final repeat, work the double crochet in the top of the beginning ch-3 from the previous row.
Rep from * across Return to the asterisk and repeat the instructions that follow it across the row.
Turn Turn the work before beginning the next row.
(8 dc, 7 ch-2 sps) The completed row should contain eight double crochet posts and seven chain-two spaces. The beginning ch-3 counts as one of the eight double crochet posts.

For Row 2, make three chains. The beginning chain counts as the first double crochet. Make two chains, leave the next two double crochet stitches unworked, and work one double crochet in the following double crochet. Repeat these instructions, beginning after the asterisk, across the row. On the final repeat, work the last double crochet in the top of the beginning ch-3 from the previous row. Turn the work. You should have eight double crochet posts and seven chain-two spaces.

Seven Steps for Reading Written Crochet Instructions

1. Find the Row or Round Number

Most written instructions begin with a row or round number. Mark each row or round when you complete it so you do not accidentally repeat or skip one.

Row 2 identifies the second row of a project worked back and forth. Rnd 2 identifies the second round of a project worked in rounds.

2. Review the Pattern Notes

Pattern notes explain rules that affect the written instructions. For example, this sample tells you that the beginning ch 3 counts as the first double crochet. That rule affects both stitch placement and the final stitch count.

3. Follow the Instructions in Order

Read the instruction from left to right and complete each action in the order written. Commas usually separate one action from the next.

In ch 2, sk next 2 dc, dc in next dc, you first make two chains, leave the next two double crochet stitches unworked, and then work one double crochet in the following double crochet.

4. Identify Where Each Stitch Belongs

Placement words tell you where to insert the hook. Look for phrases such as:

  • In the next stitch
  • In each stitch across
  • In the same stitch
  • In the indicated stitch
  • In a chain space
  • In the front or back loop
  • Around the post
  • In a specified chain from the hook

In the sample, the final double crochet is worked in the top of the beginning ch-3 from the previous row because that chain counts as a double crochet.

5. Find the Repeated Section

An asterisk, bracket, or another marker may show which instructions should be repeated. The words rep from * tell you to return to the asterisk and repeat the instructions that follow it.

Other phrases you may encounter include:

  • Rep from * across
  • Rep between brackets
  • Rep a specified number of times
  • Rep to the last two stitches
  • Continue in pattern

6. Check What Happens at the End

The final words may tell you to turn, join with a slip stitch, fasten off, change color, or continue without joining. Do not begin the next row or round until you have checked these directions.

Designers may place the instruction to turn at the end of the current row or at the beginning of the next row. Follow the convention used in that particular pattern.

7. Compare Your Stitch Count

A number in parentheses at the end of a row or round often gives the expected stitch count. Count your stitches before continuing because finding an extra or missing stitch immediately is easier than correcting several completed rows later.

The sample row ends with (8 dc, 7 ch-2 sps). This means you should have eight double crochet posts and seven chain-two spaces. The beginning ch-3 counts as one of the eight double crochet posts.

Why Written Crochet Instructions May Look Different

Crochet designers and publishers don't always format their instructions the same way. However, well-written patterns usually follow established crochet terminology and explain any special abbreviations or techniques.

Before you begin, check the pattern notes for the terminology, turning-chain rules, construction method, and any conventions the designer uses. Once you identify those details, you can read the instructions one step at a time.

Before You Begin Reading the Instructions

First review the pattern's materials, gauge, abbreviations, special stitches, and notes. If you need help understanding all the sections of the pattern, begin with my guide to reading crochet patterns .

Crocheting Instructions:  Symbols and Abbreviations

You do not need to memorize every abbreviation before beginning. Keep the pattern's abbreviation key or a trusted reference nearby and look up unfamiliar terms as you encounter them.

See my complete guide to crochet terms and abbreviations for a US-to-UK comparison.

Check Whether the Pattern Uses US or UK Terms

US and UK crochet patterns use some of the same stitch names for different stitches. Before beginning, check the title, pattern notes, abbreviation list, or terminology statement.

For example, a US single crochet is called a double crochet in UK terminology. If the pattern includes a US single crochet abbreviation (sc), it is using US terms. If it uses half treble (htr), it is likely using UK terms.

Common Problems When Reading Crochet Instructions

If your work does not match the pattern, use this table to identify which part of the instructions to check first.

Problem What to check
Too many or too few stitches Check for missed or extra stitches, the turning-chain rule, and the placement of the first and last stitch.
The repeat does not fit the row Confirm where the repeated section begins and ends. Also check whether any stitches are worked before or after the repeat.
The edge is getting narrower Make sure you are not missing the first or final stitch of each row.
The edge is getting wider Check whether you have added a stitch at the beginning or end of the row or worked into a turning chain that does not count as a stitch.
You do not know where to insert the hook Look for placement words such as stitch, chain, space, loop, post, or indicated stitch.
The round does not line up Check whether the pattern says to join, turn, or continue working in an unjoined spiral.
The stitch count is unclear Check whether chains, chain spaces, slip stitches, or turning chains are included in the stated count.
An instruction appears incomplete Review the pattern notes, abbreviation key, special-stitch section, published corrections, or designer updates.

Reading Crochet Instructions Gets Easier with Practice

You will not need to translate every abbreviation into full words forever. As you work more patterns, familiar instruction lines will become easier to recognize. For now, slow down, complete one comma-separated step at a time, and compare your stitch count before moving on.

For help with the complete pattern, return to How to Read Crochet Patterns . You can also review Crochet Terms and Abbreviations or Understanding Crochet Symbols when a pattern uses unfamiliar shorthand or a chart.

Crocheting Instructions
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