Reading a Pattern

Knitting and crochet patterns use a compact shorthand. Once you know the conventions, the abbreviations and brackets become easy to follow.

Abbreviations and repeats

Patterns use short codes like k (knit), p (purl), and sc (single crochet). Asterisks or brackets mark a section to repeat, such as repeat from * to end.

Gauge and sizing

The gauge line tells you the tension to match. Sizes are often written with the smallest first and the rest in parentheses, so follow the same position throughout.

Read it through first. Read the whole pattern before casting on. Check the gauge, abbreviations, and which size column you are following so there are no surprises.

See the Understanding Gauge and the Sewing and Fiber Arts Glossary.

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