Stitch dictionary
Crochet Stitch Dictionary: 20 Stitches Step by Step
Start with the beginner crochet stitches: Chain, Double Crochet, Extended Single Crochet, Half Double Crochet. This dictionary covers 20 crochet stitches with step-by-step instructions, US and UK abbreviations where they exist, common mistakes and related stitches, sorted from easiest to most challenging.
The table below lists all 20 crochet stitches in this dictionary, sorted from easiest to hardest, of which 8 are rated beginner level. Each name links to numbered steps for that stitch.
| Stitch | US | UK | Difficulty | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chain | ch | ch | Beginner | Foundation chains, Turning chains, Mesh and lace |
| Double Crochet | dc | tr | Beginner | Granny squares, Blankets, Shawls |
| Extended Single Crochet | esc | edc | Beginner | Blankets, Garments, Softer amigurumi alternatives |
| Half Double Crochet | hdc | htr | Beginner | Hats, Blankets, Sweaters |
| Moss Stitch | sc, ch 1 (moss st) | dc, ch 1 (moss st) | Beginner | Blankets, Scarves, Striped projects |
| Single Crochet | sc | dc | Beginner | Amigurumi, Bags, Dishcloths |
| Slip Stitch (Crochet) | sl st | ss | Beginner | Joining rounds, Moving across stitches, Surface detail |
| V-Stitch | V-st | V-st | Beginner | Shawls, Summer tops, Light blankets |
| Back Post Double Crochet | BPdc | BPtr | Intermediate | Ribbed cuffs and brims, Cables, Basketweave |
| Bobble Stitch | bobble | bobble | Intermediate | Textured blankets, Picture designs, Pillows |
| Corner to Corner (C2C) | C2C | C2C | Intermediate | Graph blankets, Pixel art, Square and rectangle blankets |
| Front Post Double Crochet | FPdc | FPtr | Intermediate | Crochet ribbing, Cables, Basketweave |
| Granny Square Cluster | 3-dc cluster (grouped in one space) | 3-tr group | Intermediate | Granny squares, Blankets, Bags |
| Herringbone Half Double Crochet | hhdc | hhtr | Intermediate | Hats, Scarves, Blankets |
| Magic Ring | MR | MR (magic loop) | Intermediate | Amigurumi, Hats worked top down, Granny squares and circles |
| Popcorn Stitch | pc | pc | Intermediate | Textured blankets, Borders, Motifs |
| Puff Stitch | puff st | puff st | Intermediate | Blankets, Baby items, Pillows |
| Shell Stitch | shell | shell | Intermediate | Blanket borders, Shawls, Baby blankets |
| Treble Crochet | tr | dtr | Intermediate | Lace, Shawls, Filling height quickly |
| Waffle Stitch | n/a | n/a | Intermediate | Blankets, Dishcloths, Pot holders |
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between US and UK crochet stitch names?
The names are offset by one step. A US single crochet is a UK double crochet, and a US double crochet is a UK treble. A pattern that says dc therefore means different stitches depending on where it was written, so check the key before starting. The US and UK crochet terms chart lists every pair.
Which crochet stitch should you learn first?
Start with the chain, because almost every project begins with one, then single crochet, which is the short, dense stitch used for amigurumi and bags. From there double crochet works up much faster and is the stitch most blankets and granny squares use.
Which crochet stitches make the most texture?
The raised stitches. Puff stitch and bobble stitch push soft lumps out of the fabric, while waffle stitch uses front post stitches to raise a deep grid. All of them use noticeably more yarn than plain fabric, so estimate with the blanket yarn calculator before buying.
How do you start crocheting in the round?
Use a magic ring, which closes the center completely so a stuffed toy has no hole. The older alternative is to chain four and join it into a ring, which is easier to work into but leaves a small gap. Crochet for beginners walks through a first project from the slip knot on.
Researched from manufacturer specifications, owner manuals and verified owner reviews, not hands-on testing, and not professional advice. As an Amazon Associate, Cozy Stitchery earns from qualifying purchases.
