When seeking out that next crochet project for your hook, you will find that there are two ways of writing the instructions for the pattern – one uses UK crochet terms and the other uses US crochet terms. This can be a little confusing at first – and irritating if you didn’t realise!!
You will find that if you use a pattern that you have found on the internet that you need to make sure what terms have been used. It all depends on where the designer is based and what is their preference. Most patterns clearly state that they are US or UK versions, and some designers even cater for crafters on both sides of the Atlantic.
Not only does the crochet terminology differ, but many stitches have the same name so it is important to understand which version you are following, or you could end up with a very odd-looking finished project!
The biggest hint is that when you begin the pattern you will see sc listed rather than dc – this is your first clue to there being something a little different. There may be other things that suggest the pattern is US based rather than UK for example they may use the term gauge rather than tension and they may quote hook sizes as letters rather than sizes in millimetres. (e.g. UK 3.5mm versus US E/4)
So why are they different?
Where crochet began is a bit of a mystery. It is believed that it dates back to ancient civilisations such as the Egyptians, Ancient China and the Middle East. Historians have identified crochet type decorations and additions to garments, which indicate that early forms of hooking had already begun. In both the UK and US during the 1800’s the art of crochet increased in popularity.
As travel across continents continued to increase, ideas and techniques were shared and crafters began to write down their designs using the terms that they were used to.
Also, the materials available locally had an impact on what projects were created. In the US crafters tended to use thicker yarns, whilst in the UK crafters tended to use finer, thinner threads making more delicate items such as tablecloths and doilies to decorate their homes.
Queen Victoria has been credited with increasing the popularity of crochet. She purchased crocheted lacework from Irish women who made it to supplement their income during the potato famine. It is also believed that she found the pastime engaging and she even made eight scarves for soldiers fighting in conflicts around the world. They were presented to distinguished officers from Australia, Canada, New Zealand and South Africa.
Nowadays, the internet has meant it’s super easy for designers from all around the world to share their work and crafters are used to working with both sets of terms. Once you know which version you are working with, both types are as easy as each other! Honest!
We have put together a table below which should help you to get started whichever pattern you pick, whether it has been written in UK or US terms. We have also created an easy to print version here.
UK Crochet Terms
US Crochet Terms
How to
Double Crochet (dc)
Single Crochet (sc)
Insert hook into the stitch, yarn over hook, pull up a loop, yarn over hook, pull through both loops on hook.
Half Treble Crochet (htr)
Half Double Crochet (hdc)
Yarn over hook, insert hook into stitch, yarn over hook, draw up a loop, (there will be 3 loops on the hook), yarn over hook, pull through all 3 loops.
Treble Crochet (tr)
Double Crochet (dc)
Yarn over hook, insert hook into stitch, yarn overhook, draw up a loop, (there will be 3 loops on hook), yarn over hook, pull through 2 loops, yarn over hook, pull through remaining 2 loops.
Double Treble Crochet (dtr)
Triple Crochet (tr)
Yarn over hook twice, insert hook into stitch, yarn over hook, draw up a loop, (there will be 4 loops on hook), yarn over hook, pull through 2 loops, yarn over hook, pull through 2 loops, yarn over hook, pull through remaining 2 loops.
Triple Treble Crochet (ttr)
Double Treble Crochet (dtr)
Yarn over hook 3 times, insert hook into stitch, yarn over hook, draw through stitch (there will be 5 loops on hook), yarn over hook, pull through 2 loops (now there will be 4 loops on hook), yarn over hook, pull through 2 loops; yarn over and pull through 2 loops twice more.
Tension
Gauge
Number of stitches and rows per inch using your specified hook and yarn.
Yarn Over Hook (yoh)
Yarn Over (yo)
Wrap yarn over the top of the hook and round, so you are ready to start the next stitch.
If you have any further questions about UK/US crochet (or any other crafty questions) please get in touch with our friendly customer service team who will happy to help you;
Email sales@woolwarehouse.co.uk or call 01926 882818.