What are US vs UK Crochet Terms? Have you ever gotten excited about a crochet pattern, only to realize it’s written in a different language… of crochet?
Without a universal standard, US and UK crochet terms can be confusing. Stitches with the same name can actually be different, leading to frustration if you crochet them wrong.
This quick guide will help you navigate the differences and unlock a world of amazing patterns.
The Big Difference: Stitch Names
The key difference lies in the basic stitch, the single crochet (sc) in US terms. A UK single crochet doesn’t exist! Instead, what the US calls a single crochet is called a double crochet (dc) in UK terms. This “offset” applies to all the other stitches as well:
This table provides a quick reference, but there are other ways to tell which terminology a pattern uses.
Spotting the Clues: Before You Start Crocheting
- Pattern Blurb: Many designers and publishers state which terms they use. Check the pattern description, book introduction, or a blogger’s “About Me” section.
- Key Stitches: Look for “sc” or “hdc.” These only appear in US patterns. Conversely, “htr” is a giveaway for UK terms.
- Hook Sizes: Modern UK patterns tend to use millimeters (mm) while US patterns use letters (e.g., G = 4mm). Smaller hook sizes (2mm-3mm) also suggest a UK pattern.
- Measurements: UK patterns often use centimeters (cm) for item measurements and grams (g) for yarn, while US patterns use inches and yards.
Tip: Pay attention to spelling! “Colour” suggests a UK pattern, while “skein” leans towards US terminology.
Yarn Talk: Thickness and Weight
Yarn descriptions can also offer clues:
- US: Uses terms like fingering, sport, worsted, or bulky.
- UK: Often uses ply count, such as 3ply, 4ply, 8ply, or terms like Double Knit, Aran, and Chunky.
Here’s a table to help you compare yarn weights between US and UK terms:
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Beyond the Basics: Turning Chains
Even turning chains can differ slightly between US and UK patterns. Here’s a quick reference:
Embrace Bi-Crochet Lingualism!
Understanding UK terms opens doors to a vast collection of amazing crochet patterns. It makes you a more versatile crocheter!
While you might be comfortable with US terms, familiarizing yourself with UK terms is a rewarding adventure. So grab your hook, embrace the differences, and get ready to be hooked on a whole new world of crochet possibilities!
Even if you encounter a pattern in unfamiliar terms, there’s no need to be discouraged.
There are many resources available online and in crochet books that offer conversion charts and tutorials.
With a little practice, you’ll be translating terms and whipping up beautiful projects from both US and UK patterns in no time!
Stay Calm and Crochet!
Sandra
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DISCLOSURE
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