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Basics
Reading a pattern line
There are many different ways to write a
crochet pattern, but all the patterns inside
Crochet Now use the same style, which
we’ll clarify here for easy reference.
Using numbered Rows or Rounds (Rnds)
is the best way to keep your place in
a pattern. Take notice of whether the
pattern says Rows or Rnds, as it’ll also
signify whether you should be working
the piece fl at or in the round if not
stated already.
In Crochet Now, the instructions for
working a basic stitch will be given with
the instruction of how many stitches are
worked in succession. For example, the
instruction ‘4 dc’ will tell you to work a
double crochet stitch into the next four
available stitches on the row below.
Increases are signifi ed by the instruction
‘in the same st’ or ‘in the next st’. As an
example, ‘4 dc in the next st’ will mean
working four double crochet stitches into
the next available st.
Square brackets are used in patterns to
show a complete instruction, which is then
followed by a further instruction outside
the bracket. For example, ‘[3 dc, 2 dc in the
next st] 4 times’ means that ‘3 dc, 2 dc
in the next st’ will be worked four times
in succession.
Another way of indicating a repeat is to
use , followed by an instruction to repeat
from a certain number of times.
Round brackets within pattern instructions
will signify sizing – so make sure you
pay attention to the Sizing section of the
project materials column. If a pattern
states S (M, L) then in the instructions
20 (24, 28) dc, you work the number of
stitches required that corresponds to the
size you are working only.
(^1) About the yarn
If you can’t get hold of the pattern yarn,
or want to substitute it for another yarn,
this is important. Not only does it tell you
the weight of yarn, it also gives an insight
into the fi bre make up (in case you want
to create something that looks similar) as
well as the yardage, so you can ensure you
buy enough yarn length in the substituted
yarn. If not, you might fi nd yourself with
a different dyelot, which could cause a
subtle, but noticeable shift in the colour of
your project.
(^2) Tension
For most crochet projects, a tension
square is important – especially with
wearable items such as garments,
accessories and baby clothes. How tightly
or loosely you crochet is important for
sizing, so crocheting a small square in
the suggested pattern is an indicator of
whether the fi nal project will turn out the
right size. If your tension does not match
the suggested tension, adjust your hook
size as required. Many people do not look
at tension for amigurumi toys, however,
yours may end up a different size if you
have a looser or tighter tension.
(^3) Special stitches
If you come across a term outside of the
common abbreviations included in this
issue, it may be a special stitch. Look out
for separate instructions outside of the
pattern, which will explain how to make
the stitch.
Finishing
Apart from toys, most projects should
be blocked to relax the yarn into its new
shape. This is done by wetting the object,
either in warm water, with a spray bottle
or by steaming it. Then shape it and leave
to dry. This can be just laid out fl at, pinned
out on a blocking or foam board or, with
the likes of hats, some people even pop
them over infl ated balloons. You can fi nd
this at the end of a pattern.
How to read a chart
First, fi nd the key. While you may recognise
symbols from previous chart-reading
experiences, remember that different people
If you’re new to the world of crochet, here’s a beginner’s
HOW guide to getting started with a crochet pattern
TO READ A PATTERN
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