Reading Written Pattern Instructions

Reading written pattern instructions is relatively easy once you get used to the abbreviations, symbols and terms. Listed below are a sample instructions and their explanation given in italics.

• Edging instructions written with abbreviations
  Ch a multiple of 6 + 2 for each inch of edging needed.
  Row 1: Sc in 2nd ch from hook and in ea ch across, ch1, turn.
• Edging written without abbreviations
  You will be making 6 heart motifs. Make 6 chain stitches per heart motif for a total of 36 chains plus 2 additional chains for a grand total of 38 chains.
  Row 1: Insert your hook into the 2nd chain and make a single crochet stitch. (Tip: Do NOT count the loop on the hook as it is a part f the 2nd chain stitch). When the single crochet is complete, put your hook in the next stitch and make another single crochet stitch. Continue to single crochet in each stitch across the row. At the end the hook will be at the right end of row.

Reading Pattern Instructions with Charts and Symbols

Pattern instructions in the form of charts and symbols are universal and simple and easy to read. Below is a sample chart with symbols and a basic explanation on how to read it.

Reading a Crochet Chart

With a little practice, a crochet chart is easy to read and follow. Once the symbols are familiar to you, you can see the entire patterns at a glance. No more losing your place in lengthy row-by-row written instructions.

• This chart is very clear, because it's easy to see that the pattern is a heart with a ruffled border around it.
• For this Heart Border, read the chart from the solid black triangle at the bottom point of the heart up to the top.
• To the right of the black triangle, which is the starting point, there are 3 blank circles. Each one represents a chain stitch. These 3 chains are the foundation row.
• The first row includes 3 capital Ts. Each capital T represents a half double crochet stitch that is to be made in each one of the 3 chains in the foundation row.
• The second row shows 2 capital Ts coming out of each half double crochet stitch (or capital T) in the first row. Therefore, make two half double crochet stitches in each one of the half double crochet stitches in the first row. There are now 6 double half crochet stitches in the second row.
• Continue to read the chart to the top of the heart. Then add the border by following the chain and double treble crochet symbols that surround the heart.