How to read a crochet pattern without getting lost?

In 2023, some of my crochet patterns were published in a Hungarian craft magazine, Praktika. Honestly, it was a huge deal for me, because this magazine is available all over the country, even my grandmother could buy it in Romania, where she lived. I was so proud! I told all my friends:
"Hey, if you go to Lidl, grab a copy of the magazine!" One of my friends, who doesn’t crochet at all, said:
“Wooow! You can write it down from pixel to pixel?”
And I was like: heck yes! That’s exactly what a crochet pattern is, right? A clear set of instructions that helps someone recreate the exact same amigurumi you did.

Of course, we all know the magic of handmade things, even when we follow the same pattern, each finished piece turns out just a little bit different. That’s the beauty of it.

Now, if you're new to the world of crochet, you may have seen a pattern and thought:
“Wait... what language is this? Sc in next 5 sts, inc, (sc, dec) x3… huh??”

Don’t worry, you’re definitely not alone. Every crocheter I know has had that pattern panic moment. I’ve been there too, back in my early crafting days. But I promise you — once you get the hang of the basic structure, reading a crochet pattern becomes second nature. Like reading a recipe for your favorite cake.
And yes, you'll even be able to read patterns in other languages!

So let me walk you through it step by step, just like I do in my own patterns.
Grab a cozy drink, and let’s dive in!

What is a crochet pattern?

As I mentioned above, a crochet pattern is simply a set of instructions that tells you how to make something using your hook and yarn.

In amigurumi, most patterns are written in rounds, using short abbreviations to keep things neat and consistent.

Common Crochet Abbreviations You’ll See

Here are some of the most common ones:

If you see something like:
(sc, inc)*6
It means: do a single crochet, then an increase, and repeat that whole thing 6 times total.

Most amigurumi patterns are written in rounds

Since amigurumi are worked in spirals (no turning rows), each “round” is like a circle that builds on the last.

Here’s an example of how a round might look:

Round 1: 6 sc in a magic ring (6I

Round 2: inc*6 (12)

Round 3: (sc, inc)*6 (18)

Let’s decode that:

• Round 1: Start with a magic ring, and crochet 6 single crochets into it = 6 total stitches (Not sure how to do a magic ring? You can learn it HERE or HERE)

• Round 2: Put 2 sc in every stitch = 12 total

• Round 3: Do 1 sc, then an increase, and repeat that 6 times = 18 total stitches

The number in parentheses at the end tells you how many stitches you should have at the end of that round, super helpful for checking your work!

A few tips for reading patterns confidently

1. Always read the abbreviations key first
Each designer has a slightly different writing style, so check their abbreviation list. (I always include one at the beginning of my patterns!)
Also, English-language patterns can use either US terms or UK terms, which are not the same — so always double-check which one it uses.

2. Use a stitch marker
While you're still learning, definitely use stitch markers to help count stitches and track where each round starts. You can use a safety pin or even a scrap of yarn.

3. Practice with tiny patterns
Start with something quick and simple, like a ball, a jellyfish, or a mini monster. (Yes, I have some free ones, check out my free patterns HERE ). You'll soon get a feel for the rhythm of a pattern.

It’s okay to ask

No question is too silly. Even experienced crocheters mix up rounds or get confused with pattern wording now and then. If something’s unclear, reach out to the designer or the crochet community, we’ve all been there.

Ready to Try?

Now that you’ve learned how to read a pattern, how about giving it a go?

Try my Free Sausage Dog Pattern!
He’s cute, friendly, and a perfect first project for practicing your pattern-reading skills.

Happy crocheting!
Zsuzsa