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CROCHET
The word crochet comes from the old French word T pins: Used for blocking and securing pieces of a
“croches” or “croc” meaning hook. Originating in project together when joining or measuring.
France during the 16th century, crochet was a
simple method for making lace. It was especially Yarn needle: Made of plastic or metal with a blunt
popular during the early part of the 20th century as point and large eye. It is used to hide loose ends
edgings for linen tablecloths, petticoats, collars, and when joining yarn or when finishing a project.
doilies.
Tape measure: Generally used for body
Today, crochet remains an important needle art measurements or to measure the length and width
as it swings in and out of fashion. One of the of a project as you establish the gauge needed by
reasons it continues to be popular is because it the pattern.
requires little equipment and time. With different
types and textures of yarn available, you can create Gauge ruler: A 2-inch L-shaped window item that
many beautiful and useful crocheted items for your allows you to measure the number of stitches and
wardrobe and your home. rows in an inch.

Split markers: Round plastic spiral markers that

GETTING READY slip into crochet work. They are used to indicate
a certain point in crocheting such as joining
Crochet is easy … and it’s fun! Regardless of continuous rounds, increase points or decrease
the project or the skill level, the right yarn and points.
equipment is essential.
Small note pad and pencil: Useful to help you
keep track of what row or round you are crocheting
EQUIPMENT and the number of times you have repeated stitches
when part of the instructions in a row are to be
repeated.
Equipment and materials for crochet are few and
simple. Along with a hook, yarn, and scissors,
Container to hold the above: A pencil box,
other optional items will come in handy.
eyeglass case, or travel toothbrush holder make
good containers for hooks, scissors, and yarn
Hooks: These tools commonly made from plastic,
needles. A film container will hold split markers.
aluminum, steel, tortoise shell, bone, or wood
are available in many sizes. Some are as fine as a
Folder and/or notebook: This will help you keep
pinhead. Others are as fat as a broomstick.
up with and house handouts. You will always know
where to find useful information when it has a
Scissors: A small pair of blunt-end scissors in good
proper “home.”
condition is preferred.
Tote bag with handles or backpack: Designated speaking, the brighter the intensity, the smaller the
just for crochet to hold all of the items listed above amount of the color needed. Example: bright pink
plus yarn and the project. (bright intensity), dusty rose (dull intensity), and
leaf green (semi-dull intensity).

SELECTING YARN • Choose no more than five colors for a single

project. One to three colors are usually best,
When buying yarn for a project, follow the depending on the article and its use. An odd
guidelines listed below: number of colors are better than an even
number of colors in your project. Example:
• Look for quality yarn and thread for the red, white, and blue.
project because it will affect the appearance of
the finished work. Remember, good quality • Vary the amount of colors in your project but
yarns and threads have firm twist, resiliency, have one color family or hue as the chief color.
and even thickness or consistency of texture. Varying the amount of color will make your
(“Resiliency” means the yarn will spring back project more interesting.
in place when stretched.)
• Black, gray, and white are considered neutral
• Always buy enough yarn or thread to make a colors. They can be included in a color scheme
complete garment or article. Purchase yarn or without upsetting the color formula. Black
thread with matching color numbers and dye and white are often used as accents.
lots. Sometimes the yarn will say “no dye lot”
in which case, do not worry about this aspect Remember good quality yarn should have:
of selecting yarn. ▪ Even color throughout the skein.
▪ A firm twist so it will not separate easily when
• Purchase extra yarn or thread if there is any crocheting.
doubt about the amount needed. ▪ Even thickness throughout the yarn to insure
even stitches in your project.
• Use the type of yarn the pattern instructions ▪ Resiliency so it will spring back when stretched
specify. Pattern instructions are written for the or squeezed.
particular type of yarn listed. Sometimes you
can use a yarn conversion chart to substitute Yarn labels
a different yarn. It is important that the ▪ Read the label to make sure you are purchasing
substitute yarn or thread meets the gauge. the correct yarn for your project.
▪ Check dye lot numbers. A slight difference in
• Follow the correct blocking procedures for the color might not be noticeable until after
each type of yarn chosen for a project. The you’ve completed the project.
fiber content of the yarn determines the ▪ Keep the label. It has directions for the care of
blocking method you should use. Read the your project after it is finished.
yarn label for blocking instructions. ▪ Follow these directions carefully to ensure your
project looks its best.
Yarn color
For additional information on the selection of yarn,
Choose and coordinate colors or hues with see the Craft Yarn Council’s Standards & Guidelines
intensities that look nice together. Generally for Knitting and Crocheting included in

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the Introduction section of this 4-H Needlework 3. Hook another loop through the loop you have
Notebook or visit www.yarnstandards.com. already formed.

Patience is extremely important, and you need it

▪ to master crochet skills.
▪ because it takes time to complete a project.
▪ when mistakes are made and corrections are
necessary. 4. Pull the knot close to the hook, but not so
tight it will not slide on the hook.
Imagination is a great asset for
▪ selecting a pattern and the best yarn.
▪ being willing to try new methods and
techniques.
▪ creating and/or designing projects of your
own.

To make a chain stitch

LET’S BEGIN
Abbreviations: ch............chain
st..............stitch
yo.............yarn over
SLIPKNOT AND CHAIN STITCH
1. Holding the hook with the slipknot in the
All crochet begins with a slipknot and then on to right hand, thread yarn around the fingers of
make a chain stitch. The knot and stitch is used you left hand.
as a foundation or base for other stitches, to start a
new row, and/or to form pattern stitches.

To make a slipknot

1. Form a loop about 6 inches from the end of

the yarn. 2. Yarn over (yo) and draw yarn through the loop
on the hook. This makes one chain.

2. Pick up hook and hold it as you would a

pencil or hold it comfortably. 3. Repeat Step 2 until you have the number of
stitches needed. Practice until your chain
stitches are about the same size and not tight.

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 4. After making several chain stitches, look at 5. Yo and draw yarn through two loops on hook.
your chain. The front of the chain has a series One loop remains. You have completed one
of V’s coming out of each other. single crochet (sc) stitch (st). Repeat steps 2
through 5 in each chain stitch. You will have
10 sc stitches.

To crochet another row, ch 1 and turn the work

around so the reverse side faces you. The chain at
The back has raised loops in the center. Unless the end of the row is called the turning chain. You
the pattern gives other instructions, always always make a turning chain at the end of a row
crochet in the front of the chain. unless directions instruct otherwise. To crochet
another row, insert the hook in the first st, under
the top two yarns and continue following Steps 2
BASIC CROCHET STITCHES
through 4. Count your stitches. You should have
10 sc stitches.
There are several basic stitches.
Slip Stitch (sl st)
Single Crochet (sc)
The slip stitch has many uses. It can be used to
The single crochet stitch is the shortest and most
make a thicker chain or edging, to join rounds, to
compact of the basic stitches.
move one or more stitches over in your work, and
to end your work smoothly.
1. Chain 11 (ch 11).
2. Insert the hook in the second ch from hook,
1. Insert hook through 2 loops of the chain stitch
under the top two threads as shown.
or the row you are working.

3. Wrap the yarn over (yo) hook.

2. Pull yo through all loops on the hook.

Double Crochet (dc)

The double crochet stitch is taller and creates work

4. Draw through stitch. There are now two loops
that is more open and lacy-like than an sc stitch.
on hook.
1. Chain 12 (ch 12).
2. Yo and insert the hook under 2 loops in the
fourth chain from the hook.

Yarn over

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 3. Yo over and pull through. You have 3 loops on 4. Yo and pull through all 3
hook. loops. Half double crochet
stitch is completed. Repeat
Steps 2 through 4 across
chain to the end. There are
4. Yo and pull through 2 loops. 10 hdc sts.

5. Ch 2 turn, yo and insert hook in the second

stitch under the top two loops, yo, draw through
all three loops. Repeat across row to end. There
5. Yo and draw through the remaining 2 loops. are 10 hdc sts. (ch 2 counts as a hdc)
One loop remains on hook. 1 dc stitch
completed.

6. Repeat Steps 3 through 5 to the end of the Treble Crochet (tr):

row, ch 3, and turn.
Sometimes called triple stitch, the treble stitch is
taller and more open than a double stitch. It is a
continuation of the double crochet stitch.

1. Ch 14.
2. Yo hook twice; insert hook under two loops of
the fifth chain from hook.
The turning chain counts as a dc stitch. Insert hook
in the next stitch (under the top two loops) to make
the next dc.

3. Yo hook and draw up a loop. There are four

Half Double Crochet (hdc) loops on the hook.

The half double crochet stitch is taller than a single

crochet stitch but not as tall as a double. It makes
a firm-textured fabric.

1. Chain 12 (ch 12). 4. Yo hook and pull through two loops. Yo hook
2. Yo and insert the hook in again and pull through two loops.
the third ch from hook.
3. Yo and pull through. There
are 3 loops on the hook.

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 5. Yo hook and pull through remaining two Back Loop Only (blo)
loops.
Crocheting in the back loop only forms a ridge
on the front of your work. This is done simply by
inserting your hook in the back loop only (the loop
farthest from you) to create your stitches.

Back Loop
6. There should be only one loop on the
hook. Your treble stitch is complete.

Front Post Double Crochet (fpdc)

This stitch is worked in the row below. Yarn over

Repeat Steps 2 through 6 until row is complete. and insert hook from front to back around post
When turning for the next row, chain four, yo 2 in the stitch below. Complete the double crochet
times and insert hook in 2nd st, complete as before stitch as usual. This can also be worked as a treble
to finish treble stitch. Turning chain counts as a tr stitch.
stitch.
Post

Other stitches
Back Post Double Crochet (bpdc)
Sometimes pattern directions tell you to use a
different technique while crocheting the basic This stitch is worked in the row below. Yarn over and
stitches. Usually you insert your hook under two insert hook from back to front around post in the
loops of a stitch or in a stitch or space. Sometimes stitch below. Complete the double crochet stitch as
you are told to use one loop only or to work in the usual. This can be worked as a treble stitch, also.
post. Below are explanations of other terms you
may encounter.
Post
Front Loop Only (flo)

Crocheting in the front loop only forms a ridge

on the back of your work. This is done simply by Fastening and Hiding Yarn Ends
inserting your hook in the front loop only (loop
closest to you) to create your stitches. After the last stitch, it is very important to fasten
the yarn ends and hide them. Fastening off will
keep your work from raveling out. Hiding the ends
will give it a neat and completed appearance.

1. After the last stitch, cut the yarn 6 to 8

Front Loop
inches long from the finished work, or as
specified by the pattern directions.

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 2. Next, pull the end of the yarn through the 3. Continue crocheting with new yarn. If
loop, pulling snugly but not too tightly. possible, keep both short ends of yarn on
This will knot the yarn securely. the wrong side of the work (if that is not
possible, you can pull them through to the
wrong side later). After crocheting 6 or 7
stitches, check the tension where the yarn
was joined.

3. Bring all loose yarn ends to the wrong side. To join new yarn in the middle of the row
Using the yarn needle, thread it with the
yarn end and weave the yarn in the top Use the same technique as joining at the end of
of the row for about 2 inches. Turn back a row. Crochet until there are 6 to 8 inches of
and weave over the same area for about 1 remaining yarn and 2 loops on the hook. Leave
inch. Cut the end close to the work, but be a 6-inch tail of the new yarn. Finish the stitch by
careful not to cut the project. drawing a loop of the new yarn through the 2 loops
on the hook. Keep both short ends of the yarn on
Never cut the yarn off close to the end right after the wrong side. Continue crocheting using the new
the last stitch. The yarn will come untwisted and yarn. After crocheting 6 or 7 stitches, check the
look fuzzy. Your work might also come apart! tension where the yarn was joined.

ATTACHING A NEW YARN To hide ends when you join yarn

Bring all loose yarns to the wrong side of your

Sometimes yarn will have knots, color work. Thread yarn needle with one of the yarn
imperfections, or an extra thick blob of threads in ends. Weave the yarn in the top of the row below
one spot. Maybe the project calls for more than for about 2 inches. Turn back and weave over the
one skein of yarn. Join yarn in the middle of the same area for about 1 inch. Thread the other yarn
work or at the end of a row. end in the needle and go in the opposite direction,
weaving into the work. Cut the end close to your
To join new yarn - at the end of a row work, but be careful not to cut the project.

1. Crochet up to the last stitch. Work last

WORKING IN ROUNDS
stitch until two loops remain on hook.
Loop new yarn to be attached around hook, A round is the name given to crochet that you work
leaving a 6-inch tail beyond the hook. in a continuous circle not turned from front to back
as in rows. All motifs start as rounds or circles but
may end up either round, oval, square, or tubular
depending on the number of increased crochet
stitches and where you place them. Notice the variety
of patterns and shapes in the motifs that follow.
2. Draw a loop of the new yarn through the 2
loops on the hook.

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There are many patterns for working rounds. Increase (inc)
The instructions below are for one method. Increasing is very simple to do. It is done exactly
the same way with all the crochet stitches you have
Abbreviation: Rnd round learned. You simply work 2 stitches in a single
stitch of the previous row. Usually your pattern will
1. Ch 5 sts. tell you where to work the increase. There may be
several in the same row.

Below is an illustration of a sc increase.

2. Insert hook in 5th chain from hook and

slip stitch (sl st) to form a ring.

DECREASING STITCHES

You can decrease at any point on a row. Contrary

3. Ch 3 (counts as a dc st). to shaping by increasing, each basic stitch has
a different method of decreasing. It is always
important to follow the directions given in your
pattern.

To decrease in sc (dec)
4. Dc in ring 17 times. (18 dc sts counting
the ch 3.) 1. Insert hook on next sc and draw yarn through
(2 loops on hook). Insert hook in next sc and
draw yarn through (3 loops on hook).

Join with sl st to top of ch 3.

2. Hook yarn and draw through all 3 loops.
You have worked 2 sc together, a dec of 1 sc.

INCREASING STITCHES
To decrease in dc (dec):
Increasing and/or decreasing the number of stitches
in the rows creates shaping in a project. Increasing 1. Yo hook. Insert hook in next st and draw yarn
adds width to the article while decreasing makes it through (3 loops on hook).
narrower.

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 2. Draw through 2 loops (2 loops remain on hook size and yarn, the amount of tension applied
hook). to the yarn or thread and your own rhythmic
crochet technique also influence gauge. Tension
and rhythm, which you gain through practice,
varies from person to person.

3. Yo and insert hook in next st, yo, and draw up Tension is the tightness or looseness of crocheting.
a loop (4 loops on hook). You control it through the resistance of the yarn as it
passes through your fingers. Some people naturally
“work loose” while others “work tight.” Learn
to control your tension so your stitches are loose
enough for the hook to pass through them easily.

4. Yo, draw through 2 loops. There are now 3 Rhythm — like tension — is achieved through
loops on hook. practice. It is the flow of the hand movement from
stitch to stitch. With practice, the rhythm will
become steady and smooth, helping to achieve even
tension.

Checking the pattern gauge

5. Yo and draw through all 3 loops. One dc
decrease made. The crochet pattern will indicate the type of yarn
and hook size. The crochet instructions will specify
the gauge of the pattern. Unless your pattern
specifies otherwise, check your gauge with the
pattern by making a sample swatch 4 inches by 4
inches using the same type of yarn, hook, and stitch
pattern required by the instructions.
You will seldom find instructions for decreasing
with the longer stitches (treble, double treble, etc.). After finishing the practice swatch, place it on a
If shaping is called for in such stitches, the pattern flat surface. A gauge ruler with a 2-inch L-shaped
will give specific directions. window makes it easy to count stitches and rows.
However, simple counting of stitches and rows will
also work. Do not measure from edge to edge, but
GAUGE - MAKING IT FIT start counting a few stitches in from the edge and
count the number of stitches and rows along the
Gauge refers to the number of stitches and the 2-inch ruler.
number of rows to a specified number of inches.
This formula makes an article the size you want it Do not be upset if your gauge is different from the
to be. Gauge determines the finished size and fit of pattern gauge in the crochet instructions. Gauge
the project. is simple to adjust. Simply use a larger or smaller
hook to achieve the proper gauge. Changing to
Many factors influence the gauge of your crochet. a smaller hook size will increase the number of
The pattern will usually suggest the hook size and stitches per inch. A larger hook will decrease the
the type and size of yarn. Using these suggestions, number of stitches per inch. Use the hook size that
helps achieve the desired gauge. In addition to gives the correct gauge for the pattern.

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CHANGING YARN COLORS can also be used. Follow instructions given by the
pattern.
Whether you use rows of colors or different colors
in a row, changing yarn colors will create an
interesting design and add variety to the project. Joining Seams and Pieces

Motifs provide an excellent opportunity to use There are several ways of joining seams and crochet
different colored yarns. To change the color, use pieces. The finished article will influence the
the same technique as for attaching a new yarn method used. Select a seam based on the type of
(page 7). Crochet instructions will indicate where article and your personal preference. Sometimes
to change colors. the pattern instructions will suggest the most
appropriate seam to use.
Sometimes during color changes, the instructions
will specify to work over the color not in use or to General points to remember
work over cut yarn ends. To do this, lay the main
color yarn end along the top of the previous row. Match corners of motifs before sewing seams. If a
Resume crocheting with the contrasting color yarn, project needs to be blocked, follow the instructions
working over the main color yarn while making on the yarn label.
stitches. The main color yarn will be “enclosed” as
the new stitches are completed. Match row patterns, colors, and/or stitches.

Use the same yarn that you used to crochet the

project.

Use about 24 inches of cut yarn to join seams.

TYPES OF SEAMS
Attaching new yarn color

Work the last stitch until 2 loops remain on hook. Whipstitched seam
Leave a 6-inch tail of the new yarn and finish the
stitch by drawing a loop of the new yarn through This method produces a flat seam that you cannot
the 2 loops on the hook. Keep both of the short easily see from the right side. It is used mostly to
yarn ends on the wrong side. Continue crocheting join motifs such as granny squares.
using the new yarn. After crocheting 6 or 7 stitches,
check the tension where the yarn was joined.
Follow instructions for hiding ends of the yarn
(page 8).

Carrying color

Advanced crochet students may choose a pattern

that uses several colors in a row. These colors will
need to be carried along the wrong side of the row
or crocheted over when not being used. Bobbins

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To sew a whipstitch seam end and working length of yarn), and draw
them through the loop.
1. Place two motifs on top of each other, right
sides together. Thread a large, blunt-pointed 3. With the single strand of working yarn,
tapestry needle with yarn that matches the continue in single crochet along the edge.
yarn in the motif. Let the yarn end lie along the edge and
work over it.
2. Starting at a corner, attach the yarn securely
by taking two overhand stitches through a Backstitch seam
crochet stitch on the outermost edge of the
top motif. Continue to whip or overcast the The backstitch seam sometimes is used when
edges of both motifs together by picking up joining crocheted sections. This seam is slightly less
one stitch from the edge of each motif. bulky than the single crochet seam but somewhat
bulkier than the woven seam.
3. Continue sewing until you reach the next
corner. Secure yarn again by stitching into To sew a backstitch seam
the corner stitch with two stitches. Cut yarn,
leaving a 6-inch tail to fasten and hide. 1. Pin pieces to be joined with right sides
together. Adjust crochet patterns of the two
Once you’ve joined several individual motifs, a pieces as well as the length of the seams.
long edge may be stitched together without having
to cut your yarn and fasten ends. When stitching
seams longer than 4 inches, stretch seam slightly to
give it some elasticity.

Practice joining motifs using the whip-stitch seam

technique until your stitches are even and the seam
2. Using a blunt-pointed tapestry needle
looks smooth.
threaded with matching yarn, secure thread at
one end with a few whip or overhand stitches.
Single-crochet seam
3. Take stitches through both layers of work,
A single-crochet seam produces a raised decorative
making stitches approximately 1/8 inch to
seam. You can use it for joining motifs and as an
1/4 inch in length close to the edge. Seam
edge finish around a vest. Using a contrasting color
together with somewhat loose, elastic stitches.
yarn will highlight it.
Woven seam
To form a single-crochet seam
You can weave together seams of crocheted items
1. Place sections wrong sides together. Working using a tapestry needle and matching yarn. This
through both thicknesses, insert the hook seam is especially recommended when joining edges
through the first stitch or space after a corner. of patterned crochet.
Catch the yarn; then draw it through both
layers forming a loop on the hook.

2. Catch the two strands of yarn in back (yarn

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To sew a woven seam Washing

1. Match side by side the edges you want to join. Check the yarn label for washing and drying
instructions. If it is safe to wash, follow
2. Secure thread at one end. Bring the threaded recommended guidelines.
needle up through the first stitch of the left
side. Thread the needle through the center of ▪ Hand washing – Wash gently in warm water
the first stitch on the right side. with a mild detergent by squeezing water
through the article. Rinse well in cool water.
3. Alternate weaving technique from edge to
Do not wring. Roll article in a bath towel to
edge in the same manner, matching rows and
pattern. Stitches should be slightly loose and remove excess water. Lay flat on a towel to dry
elastic. (put a plastic garbage bag under the towel to
protect the drying surface). Gently pull into
To use this technique, the pieces to be joined must shape. Do not twist, stretch, or hang. Never
have the same number of rows and pattern. The iron articles made of synthetic yarn.
result is an almost invisible seam.
▪ Machine washing – Machine wash using
warm water and mild detergent. Use a regular
CLEANING AND BLOCKING setting on the dryer to dry. Articles washed in
a washing machine should always be dried in
a dryer. Never iron articles made of synthetic
Sometimes your project will get soiled and needs
yarn.
to be cleaned. Read the yarn label for the correct
method of care (washing, drying, and/or blocking)
your project.
BLOCKING
NOTE: See Craft Yarn Council Standards &
Guidelines for Crochet and Knitting for changes For best results, always read the yarn or thread
that are being made to bring uniformity to yarn, label, and follow the manufacturer’s blocking
needle, and hook labeling, and to patterns whether and care recommendations. The method used to
they appear in books, magazines, leaflets, or on yarn block the project is determined by the fiber content
labels. Visit www.YarnStandards.com of the yarns or threads.

Here are some general procedures to follow when

METHODS OF CLEANING blocking crocheted items:

1. Prepare a blocking surface by covering a flat

Dry cleaning surface such as a table, cutting board used for
sewing, or ironing board with a waterproof
If the yarn label says dry clean, that is what you cover followed by several layers of towels.
must do. Take a copy of the yarn label with the
project to the dry cleaner to ensure proper cleaning. 2. Place the project piece wrong side up on the
Disaster can result if you wash a dry-clean-only blocking surface. Pin the edges of each piece
article. to the proper shape and measurements given
in the crochet instructions. Place T pins as
necessary to obtain desired shape of article.
If blocking surface would be harmed by

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 pinholes, insert the pins into the towels at an Finishing Touches
angle.
When you have finished the garment, or seamed
For identical pieces, such as sleeves, pin the together all motifs, you may need to add an edging.
two together and block at the same time. It is often done around all outside or exposed
Place the two pieces right sides together, edges. You may consider a variety of finishing
matching the edges exactly. Never let part of edges such as fringe, single crochet edging, reverse
the article hang over the side.
single crochet, or a decorative edging such as a
shell or chain loops. Sometimes you use yarn of a
For any blocking procedure that uses a damp
cloth or steam, always allow the pieces to dry compatible or contrasting color to the project.
completely before lifting or moving. Do not
block the ribbing portion, as this will destroy Single Crochet Edging
the elasticity (ability to stretch).
Single Crochet edging is often used as the finish
3. After pinning pieces in place, follow the next around many crochet garments as well as afghans.
step according to the fiber content of the yarn Start at any place along the outer edge of the item,
or thread used for the project. preferably not in a corner. Insert the hook through
the two loops of the outer edge; catch yarn in the
For Synthetics and Blended Yarns – follow the hook and bring through loops.
instructions on the yarn label. NEVER press
synthetics or blends because pressing destroys the Single crochet in every stitch along the straight edge
loft of the yarn. or every other stitch with a chain stitch between
each single crochet stitch. Make sure stitches are
For Cotton Crochet Threads – preheat the iron even and do not pucker. In the corner stitch or
at the wool setting. Cover the pieces with a damp space, work three single crochet stitches. Continue
cloth and steam. The weight of the iron may rest around the article. At the end, slip stitch with the
on the crochet work unless the design has a raised first single crochet of the edge stitching.
design or pattern. A cutting board that has grids
makes a good surface when a piece needs to be
pinned and shaped. Cover the area to be used with
plastic to protect the surface and use T pins or
rustproof straight pins to shape the article. When
blocking two pieces that are exactly the same shape,
place damp cloth between pieces. Fringe Edging
This finishing technique is a popular one for
Commercial stiffeners are available to stiffen articles afghans, shawls, and scarves. The weight of the
that need to stand alone. Follow manufacturer’s added yarn can cause items to hang better. Often
directions for the best results. crochet instructions will give specifics on how to
cut and apply fringe.
For Wool Yarns – Preheat the iron at the wool
setting. Cover the pieces with a damp cloth and Measure yarn without stretching it. Decide how
steam. Never rest the full weight of the iron on many strands you want in a group and how close
crochet work done in wool yarn. together each group of yarns will be. Count the
number of spaces in which you will place fringe,

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multiply by the number of groups, and start with
that number.

After cutting, take 3 strands of yarn and fold in

half. Draw folded yarn through a stitch in the
edge of your project (3 strands folded will make 6
strands in the group). Draw ends through the loop
and tighten.

ADVANCED CROCHET TECHNIQUES

Afghan stitch – Sometimes called Tunisian, is Filet crochet – A form of drawing using thread.
worked with a long crochet hook with one end It uses filled and open squares to form an image
similar to a knitting needle. Each row is worked or motif. Sweaters, shawls, wall hangings, doilies,
in two parts, first drawing up the loops and then edgings and borders, curtains, bedspreads, and
working them off. Fabric is dense and even. It tablecloths are some of the items you can make.
makes a good surface to cross stitch on.
Irish crochet – Was originally worked as flowers,
Beadwork – Beads can be worked into an article as leaves, and tendrils, all crocheted separately over
a design or to embellish it. Collars, purses, sachets, a cord and then sewn together on a fabric base.
and ring bearer pillows are just a few of the items Today, patterns for motifs, sweaters, collars,
you can decorate with beads. bedspreads, trims, doilies, and tablecloths have been
developed that make it easy to make Irish crochet
Camel crochet – A method of crocheting that work with thread.
looks and feels like knitting. It uses less yarn than
regular crochet. Novelty yarn – Chenille, fun fur, and eyelash
are just a few of the new novelty yarns available.
Cro-Knit/Hook – Using a long double-ended Check yarn shops or the Web for newer ones. Used
hook, it is worked with two skeins of yarn, one for purses, scarves, vests, sweaters, etc.
at each end and is softer than crochet. The item
is reversible. You can make afghans, dishcloths, Plaids, geometric, checks, etc. – These are worked
sweaters, etc. with different colored yarns in the same row to
form a pattern of colors.
Cro-tat – Using a crochet tatting hook and

crochet thread creates a method of crocheting that
resembles tatting edgings, ornaments, etc.

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 CROCHET ABBREVIATIONS

[] work instructions within brackets as dc double crochet

many times as directed
dc2tog double crochet 2 stitches together
( ) work instructions within parentheses as
many times as directed dec decrease/decreases/decreasing

dtr double treble

* repeat the instructions following the single
asterisk as directed FL front loop(s)
** repeat instructions between asterisks as Foll follow/follows/following
many times as directed or repeat from a
given set of instructions FP front post
“ inch(es) FPdc front post double crochet
alt alternate FPsc front post single crochet
approx approximately FPtr front post treble crochet
beg begin/beginning g gram
bet between hdc half double crochet
BL back loop(s) inc increase/increases/increasing
bo bobble lp(s) loops
BP back post m meter(s)
BPdc back post double crochet MC main color
BPsc back post single crochet mm millimeter(s)
BPtr back post treble crochet oz ounce(s)
CA color A p picot
CB color B pat(s) or patt pattern(s)
CC contrasting color pc popcorn
ch chain stitch pm place marker
ch- chain or space previously made (i.e., ch-l) prev previous
ch-sp chain space rem remain/remaining
CL cluster rep repeat(s)
cm centimeter(s) rnd(s) round(s)
cont continue RS right side

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sc single crochet
tog together
sc2tog single crochet 2 stitches together
tr treble crochet
sk skip
trtr triple treble crochet
s1 st slip stitch
WS wrong side
sp(s) space(s)
yd(s) yard(s)
st(s) stitch(es)
yo yarn over
tch or t-ch turning chain
yoh yarn over hook
tbl through back loop

• Compiled by Doris B. Reed, CYCA Certified Master Crochet Instructor, November 2004.
• Adapted from the Creative Crochet 4-H project series by Betty S. King, former graduate student in Clothing
& Textiles, and Linda M. Heaton, Ph.D., retired Extension Specialist in Textiles & Clothing; 1981, 1982.
Illustrations in this publication are courtesy of the Educational Bureau, Coats and Clark, Inc.

• Revised by Marjorie M. Baker, M.S. - FCS Extension Associate for Textiles and Clothing December 2005

• Updated April 2020

Educational programs of Kentucky Cooperative Extension serve all people regardless of economic or social status and will not discriminate on the basis of race, color, ethnic origin, national origin,
creed, religion, political belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, marital status, genetic information, age, veteran status, or physical or mental disability.

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