PATTERN READING

Crochet Stitch Diagrams

PATTERN READING: CROCHET STITCH DIAGRAMS

Crochet Stitch Diagrams are a universal

language. Understanding the format, and
having a key, will give you a visual
representation of the instructions needed to
complete a project; step-by-step, and as a
whole!

Here, we’ll cover:

1. Stitch Diagram Overview

2. Key

3. Reading Diagrams

4. Diagrams Vs Written
ASSESSMENT: STITCH DIAGRAM OVERVIEW
Why the diagram?

Crochet is written in a variety of

languages, and some have
different terms for the same
stitches and techniques (UK vs
US).

Diagrams are a universal

language, offering a visual of every
stitch and step to complete a
design!

Note: When a diagram is offered,

the language barrier is gone!
ASSESSMENT: STITCH DIAGRAM OVERVIEW

Also known as…

Stitch Diagrams, Symbol Charts (and

a few variations in between), crochet
diagrams are interchangeable no
matter your language.

The key may show a difference in

terminology (UK vs US), pay
attention to each symbol to follow
diagrams successfully.

Note: Complex instructions are

sometimes easier to read in diagram
form.

Red Heart Yarn

 ASSESSMENT: KEY
Follow the key!
Diagrams use universal symbols
for each stitch and technique,
those symbols are located on a
“key”.
Every stitch and special
technique will be outlined in the
key, then represented on the
diagram to follow.
Note: Most symbols look just
like the stitch or technique as
they are executed!
Craft Yarn Council
 ASSESSMENT: READING DIAGRAMS
In rounds

Center-out designs are are read like you

would work them.

Round 1: Adjustable loop, Ch 3, work 11

Dc into loop, Sl St to join - 12 Dc

In rows

From the base chain up, read these

diagrams just like you would work them.

Row 1: Ch 31, skip 1 Ch, Sc across - 30

Sc

Note: Look for the beginning, understand

the key, follow each symbol for your steps!
Interweave
ASSESSMENT: DIAGRAMS VS WRITTEN

When to use which?

Depends on the reader; do you prefer

written instructions or visual steps?

Sometimes having both, or sketching

written instructions, can help to make
sense of a design and follow it.

Note: When learning to crochet, charts

can be helpful to “see” the instructions
you’re reading.
 CHEAT SHEET
DIAGRAM TIPS: TRY THEM TODAY!

Tips for Success

1. Is it worked in the round, or

rows? Find your starting point!

2. Color-code alternating rounds/

rows so that they are easy to
follow!

3. Number each round/row to

keep track of progress!

4. Highlight repeats, especially in

complex designs.
 HOMEWORK
HAPPILY HOOKED: DIAGRAM & WRITTEN INSTRUCTIONS

Flower Motif
Round 1: Form adjustable loop, Ch 3 (first Dc, here
and throughout), work 11 Dc into loop, Sl St to
top of first St to join - 12 Dc

Round 2: Ch 3, work 2 Dc into same St, [Ch 1, skip 1

St, work 3 Dc into following St] 5 times, Ch 1,
skip 1 st, Sl St to top of first St to join - 18 Dc, 6
Ch-1 spaces

Round 3: Ch 3, Dc into next St, [Ch 2, Dc into next 2

Sts] 11 times, Ch 2, Sl St to top of first St to join -
24 Dc, 12 Ch-2 spaces

Round 4: Ch 1 (not a St), Sc into next Ch-2 space,

[work 9 Dc into next Ch-2 space, Sc into next
Ch-2 space] 5 times, work 9 Dc into last Ch-2
space, Sl St to top of first Sc to join, fasten off -
Happily Hooked Magazine 54 Dc, 6 Sc
 HOMEWORK
ALL FREE CROCHET: DIAGRAM & KEY

All Free Crochet: Written instructions on site

 HOMEWORK
RED HEART YARN: WRITTEN INSTRUCTIONS, KEY, DIAGRAM

Red Heart Yarn

 Thank you for joining this class!

Join us on Facebook to spark a conversation on this subject,

or to offer some feedback!