Part of the wonder of crochet lies in its repeatability – once you’ve learnt the stitches and techniques involved, you can use these skills to recreate a design over and over again. In order to do that, crocheters have developed patterns – a kind of blueprint with all the information you need to make a specific item. Most patterns use abbreviations, symbols and codes that can seem baffling – that’s what I’ll help you to understand in this workshop.
In general, a pattern is made up of two parts: an information section (usually at the start) and a section of specific instructions detailing the stitches to work on each row or round. A pattern might also include various other elements that are important to creating the item, such as charts, stockist information, notes and technique guides. It’s a good idea to read through a pattern before you take on a project, and familiarise yourself with anything that’s new to you.
Where do I start?
Here’s how to decode the information section…
The information section of a pattern should provide the following:
This story is from the Issue 104 edition of Simply Crochet.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the Issue 104 edition of Simply Crochet.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
"I MADE GRANNY SQUARES! NOW WHAT?"
Brush up on your technique with our simple guide...
new dimensions
With a unique shape that gives it a bias drape, this stylish wavy scarf by Amy Overbury is truly one of a kind
Woolmouse/Lovehandyed
Meet an indie dyer and indulge in a design with their skeins
TONI'S JOURNAL ...from the studio
Keep track of your stash with crochet expert Toni Lipsey's top tips for creating a system to organise your skeins, balls and notions once and for all...
FAMILY AFFAIR
After deciding to turn her crochet hobby into a business, Jo Bunclark of Marlow and Chestnut began collaborating with an unlikely partner - her own five-year-old daughter!
YARNBOMBS away!
Crochet designer Eleonora Tully of Coastal Crochet journeyed to Italy for the Yarn Bombing Festival - and brought the magic back for Simply Crochet readers!
Petite pasture
This wavy grass plant has attracted a ladybird visitor
UK YARN SHOP LOVE
Wherever you are in the UK, your local yarn shop is a place to indulge in your craft. Step inside and discover the community on your doorstep
Fire starter
Set your soul - and style - ablaze with this floaty filet-stitch wrap designed
Talavera BLANKET
Bring Spanish sunshine into your home with the bright colours and textured stitches of Ana Morais Soares' seven-part Talavera blanket crochet-along