Crochet Charts vs Written Patterns: When to Use Which

Crochet Charts: A Beginner’s Guide to Reading Symbols and Patterns

What is a crochet chart?

A crochet chart (also called a symbol chart or diagram) is a visual representation of a crochet pattern using standardized symbols for stitches and layout. Charts show stitch placement and how rounds or rows relate spatially, which helps you see shaping, repeats, and texture at a glance.

Why use charts?

• Visual clarity: Easier to understand pattern structure, especially for complex repeats or motifs.
• Language-independent: Symbols are universal, useful for patterns in other languages.
• Faster to follow: Once you know symbols, you can read patterns more quickly than long written instructions.
• Better for shaping: Charts make increases, decreases, and joins obvious.

Common chart basics

• Orientation: Charts may be worked in rows (back-and-forth) or rounds (continuous or joined). Rows usually have right-side and wrong-side rows; rounds are circular.
• Starting point: Look for an arrow, a dot, or a small chain loop indicating where to begin.
• Row/round numbers: Numbers along edges show row/round order and direction.
• Repeat brackets: Boxes or asterisks indicate repeated sections.

Standard symbols and their meanings

• Chain (ch): small oval or dot.
• Slip stitch (sl st): small filled dot or a tiny plus sign.
• Single crochet (sc): “x” or “+”.
• Half double crochet (hdc): “T” with one horizontal bar.
• Double crochet (dc): “T” with two horizontal bars (or a tall vertical with one slash).
• Treble (tr) and double treble (dtr): taller vertical symbols with extra bars/slashes.
• Increase: multiple stitch symbols worked into one base space.
• Decrease (e.g., sc2tog, dc2tog): stitches joined at the top—often shown with connected symbols or a slanted line joining two symbols.
• Cluster, bobble, popcorn: grouped symbols or labeled abbreviations—check pattern key.
  Note: Symbols vary slightly by designer/publisher—always check the pattern’s legend.

Reading charts step-by-step

1. Check the legend/key. Match every symbol before starting.
2. Find the starting point. Note whether the pattern is worked in rows or rounds.
3. Determine stitch counts for foundation. Chains or ring instructions are usually shown.
4. Follow direction markers. For rows, read right-to-left on RS rows and left-to-right on WS rows (if chart uses that convention). For continuous rounds, read the same direction each round.
5. Work repeats precisely. Use stitch markers or notes to track repeat sections.
6. Count often. Tally stitches at the end of each row/round to ensure accuracy.
7. Refer to written notes. Many charts include brief written instructions or special stitch explanations.

Tips for beginners

• Start with simple charts (granny squares, basic motifs) before tackling lace or garments.
• Print charts and highlight completed rows/rounds as you go.
• Use a magnetic board or sticky notes to mark your place.
• Translate one row to written instructions for practice.
• Compare chart and written pattern when both are provided to learn symbol usage.

Troubleshooting common issues

• If stitch counts don’t match, re-check whether turning chains count as stitches.
• If shaping looks wrong, ensure decreases/increases are placed in the correct stitch—use the chart’s spatial cues.
• Confusion over symbol variants: consult the pattern legend or a symbol reference sheet.

Quick symbol reference (cheat sheet)

• Chain (ch): oval
• Slip stitch (sl st): dot/filled circle
• Single crochet (sc): x or +
• Double crochet (dc): T with one or two bars
• Treble (tr): taller T with extra bar or slash

Final advice

Practice by following a small charted pattern and check your work frequently. With a few projects you’ll find charts speed up reading and improve your ability to visualize finished pieces.

Happy crocheting!