UK vs US Crochet Terms
UK vs US Crochet Terms Explained
Learn the difference between UK and US crochet terms with an easy conversion chart, examples and practical tips.
Whether you’re following a vintage British pattern or a modern American designer, understanding the difference between UK and US crochet terminology will help you avoid using the wrong stitches and ending up with the wrong finished size.
I’ve published patterns in both UK and US terminology for years. The most common mistake I see is crocheters assuming “dc” always means the same stitch. It doesn’t. A UK double crochet is a US single crochet, and using the wrong terminology can completely change the size and drape of your finished project.
What Are UK and US Crochet Terms?
Have you ever started a crochet pattern only to realise the stitches don’t match the tutorial?
The pattern may be written in UK crochet terms while you’re using US terminology (or vice versa).
Fortunately, the stitches themselves are identical—the names are different. This guide explains the differences, shows an easy conversion chart, and helps you recognise which terminology a pattern uses before you start.
UK vs US Crochet Terms at a Glance
✓ Remember this:
Chain = Chain
Slip Stitch = Slip Stitch
Everything else is generally one level higher in UK terminology.
UK dc = US sc
UK htr = US hdc
UK tr = US dc
UK dtr = US tr
UK vs US Crochet Terms Conversion Chart
UK vs US Crochet Conversion Table
| UK Term | US Term | Abbreviation (UK / US) |
|---|---|---|
| Double Crochet | Single Crochet | dc / sc |
| Half Treble Crochet | Half Double Crochet | htr / hdc |
| Treble Crochet | Double Crochet | tr / dc |
| Double Treble Crochet | Treble Crochet | dtr / tr |
| Triple Treble Crochet | Double Treble Crochet | trtr / dtr |
| Slip Stitch | Slip Stitch | ss / sl st |
| Chain | Chain | ch / ch |
| Magic Ring | Magic Ring | MR / MR |
All crochet patterns on The Crochet Swirl are written in UK terminology and include a handy US conversion table, making them suitable for crocheters worldwide.
Why Do UK and US Terms Differ?
Crochet terms developed separately in the UK and the US.
Because crochet terminology developed independently in Britain and North America during the 19th and early 20th centuries, different naming systems became established even though the stitches remained the same.
UK stitch names describe how many loops or yarn overs are involved compared with the previous stitch, whereas US terminology starts counting from single crochet. That’s why every stitch (except chain and slip stitch) appears one level different.
The stitches themselves are the same — only the names differ.
Once you know that UK stitch names are generally one level higher than US names (except chain and slip stitch), converting patterns becomes much easier.
Knowing which system a pattern uses is essential before you begin.
How to Tell Which Terminology a Pattern Uses
Most patterns will state this clearly, but not always. If it’s not specified, here are a few quick ways to tell:
- If you see sc (single crochet) → the pattern is written in US terms
- If the smallest stitch is dc (double crochet) → the pattern is written in UK terms
- If you see htr (half treble crochet) → it’s UK terms
- If you see hdc (half double crochet) → it’s US terms
When in doubt, check the stitch abbreviations before you begin a project.
Why Using the Right Terms Matters
Using the wrong terminology won’t just slightly change your project — it can completely alter the outcome.
- Using UK terms instead of US will make your stitches taller and looser
- Using US terms instead of UK will make your stitches shorter and tighter
This can affect:
- Yarn usage
- Sizing (especially garments and blankets)
- Drape and texture
Pattern Example
Here’s a simple example showing how the difference works in a pattern:
UK Pattern
Row 1: Ch 21, dc in second ch from hook and each ch across.
US Equivalent
Row 1: Ch 21, sc in second ch from hook and each ch across.
If you tried following a UK pattern using US stitch names without converting, your project would end up much taller than expected!
Top Tips
- When following a pattern, always identify the terminology first: UK or US.
- Keep a conversion chart handy when trying new patterns.
- This small step can save time, frustration, and unnecessary unraveling.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find out the answers to some frequently asked questions relating to UK vs US crochet terminology.
More Helpful Resources
How to Crochet a Single Colour Granny Square
Put your new knowledge into practice with this easy project.