Oct
Have you ever followed a crochet tutorial and realized the stitches looked different from what you expected? That’s because crochet terminology varies between the U.S. and U.K.! Don’t worry — once you understand how the terms translate, you’ll be able to follow any pattern confidently. If you’ve ever read one of my patterns and wondered whether it’s written in US or UK crochet terminology, you’re not alone! Crochet terms vary slightly between regions, and the difference can be confusing when stitches share the same names but mean different things.
Section 1: Why Crochet Terminology Differs
- Same stitches, different names: Both US and UK crochet systems use the same stitches, but the names shift by one level. For example, what US crocheters call a “double crochet” is a “treble crochet” in UK terms.
- Historical roots: Crochet developed separately across regions during the 1800s, and each community created its own naming style before global standards existed.
- Both systems are correct: Neither US nor UK terminology is “right” or “wrong.” They’re simply two ways to describe the same techniques.
- The confusion point: Because the names overlap (“double crochet” exists in both but means two different stitches), readers can feel unsure about what to do when following a pattern from another country.
- Why it matters: Understanding which system a designer uses ensures your stitches —and finished project—look exactly as intended.
- Quick tip: Most patterns mention the terminology in the materials list or first notes section. If you see “sc,” that’s a US pattern; if you see “dc” as the shortest stitch, it’s UK.
Section 2: Which Terminology Kristin Omdahl Patterns Use
All of my crochet patterns — including free patterns, PDFs, and books — are written in standard US crochet terminology.
This includes all pattern abbreviations, stitch instructions, and video tutorials.
Quick Crochet Stitch Conversion Table: US vs UK Terms
| US Term | UK Term | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Slip Stitch (sl st) | Slip Stitch (sl st) | Same in both |
| Single Crochet (sc) | Double Crochet (dc) | 1 loop shorter in US |
| Half Double Crochet (hdc) | Half Treble Crochet (htr) | Halfway between single and double |
| Double Crochet (dc) | Treble Crochet (tr) | 2 yarn-overs difference |
| Treble Crochet (tr) | Double Treble Crochet (dtr) | Taller stitch in both |
| Double Treble Crochet (dtr) | Triple Treble Crochet (trtr) | Used for lace or tall stitches |
Tip: UK stitches are always “one level taller” than their US counterparts.
Section 4: Helpful Tips for UK Crocheters
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You can still follow my patterns easily — just refer to the chart above.
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My stitch symbol charts are universal (same across languages and regions).
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All video tutorials visually demonstrate stitches, so no confusion.
Section 5: Final Note + Call to Action
Whether you’re used to UK or US terms, you can always follow along with my written patterns, charts, and videos. My goal is to make crochet accessible and enjoyable for everyone, no matter where you live!
You can find the US vs UK conversion chart here. Bookmark it for easy reference anytime you need it.
Kristin Omdahl patterns, books, handouts and videos are for your personal use only; additional, up to 10 items can be made to sell from one design. Commercially produced products made from my instructions are prohibited. All Kristin Omdahl patterns, books, handouts and videos are licensed for single use and remain the intellectual property of Kristin Omdahl. This pattern may not be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise.
©Copyright 2025 All Rights Reserved
About Kristin Omdahl
Kristin Omdahl is a bestselling author, designer, and creative entrepreneur known for her “sensory storytelling” — weaving food, craft, and nature into unforgettable fiction and non-fiction. Her debut novel, The Sea Glass Journal, is a love letter to Florida’s Gulf Coast, exploring themes of healing, connection, and creative legacy.
When she’s not writing, Kristin shares crochet and knitting designs, recipes, and behind-the-scenes glimpses of her creative process with her global community on Patreon.
