How to Read Crochet Charts and Symbols (With a Symbol Key)
Crochet charts draw each stitch as a symbol, so you can follow a pattern in any language. The standard symbols, how to read rows (right to left, then left to right) and rounds (from the centre, counter-clockwise), with practice tips.
Pattern at a glance
US terms- Skill level
- Beginner
- Time
- 20 minutes
You'll need
- A chart pattern
- Highlighter or sticky notes
In this post
A crochet chart is a picture of the pattern: every stitch is a symbol drawn in the place it sits in the fabric. An oval is a chain, an X or + is single crochet, a T is half double crochet, and a T with one cross line is double crochet. Read rows from the bottom up β right-side rows right to left, wrong-side rows left to right β and rounds from the centre outwards, counter-clockwise. The number beside each row or round marks where it starts.
The rest of this post is just below β free, as always.
Standard symbol key
| Symbol | Stitch | US abbreviation |
|---|---|---|
| Small oval | Chain | ch |
| Filled dot | Slip stitch | sl st |
| X or + | Single crochet | sc |
| T | Half double crochet | hdc |
| T with one cross line | Double crochet | dc |
| T with two cross lines | Treble crochet | tr |
| Two symbols joined at the bottom (V) | Increase | inc |
| Two symbols joined at the top (Ξ) | Decrease | sc2tog / dc2tog |
| Arc under a symbol | Back loop only (arc above = front loop) | blo / flo |
Written-pattern abbreviations: crochet abbreviations chart. Charts use the same symbols in US and UK patterns β only the stitch names differ (US vs UK terms).
How to read a chart
- Find the start: Rows start at the bottom; rounds start at the centre. Look for row/round number 1.
- Rows: Read row 1 right to left (right-handed). Turn, and read row 2 left to right. Keep alternating.
- Rounds: Start at the centre ring and read counter-clockwise, following the number to the start of each round.
- Count chains: Each oval is one chain. Turning chains appear as stacked ovals at the row ends.
- Placement: A symbol's bottom shows which stitch it's worked into; symbols fanning from one point are all in the same stitch.
- Colours: Many charts colour alternate rows to help you track your place. Highlight each row as you finish it.
Practice
A granny square chart is the classic first chart: four groups of three Ts with crossbars and ovals at the corners. Compare it with the written granny square pattern, then try filet crochet, which is worked entirely from a grid chart. Prefer words? See how to read a written pattern.
Common questions
Which direction do you read a crochet chart?
Rows: bottom to top, right side rows right to left and wrong side rows left to right. Rounds: from the centre, counter-clockwise (for right-handers).
Are crochet charts the same in US and UK patterns?
Yes. The symbols are international; only the written stitch names change.
How do left-handed crocheters read charts?
Mirror the direction: right-side rows left to right, and rounds clockwise. The symbols mean the same thing.
Charts or written patterns β which do you prefer? πΊοΈ
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YarnBloom
Crochet patterns & tutorials
YarnBloom shares cozy, beginner-friendly crochet patterns written in clear US terms, with a stitch count on every round and tips for the tricky bits. Grab your hook β letβs make something lovely.
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