Crochet symbol charts look like a secret code at first, but they're simply a picture of the finished stitches. Once you learn a handful of symbols and which way to read them, charts become the clearest way to follow a pattern — no language required.
Why use a crochet chart?
Charts show the shape and structure of a design at a glance, so you can see exactly where each stitch sits. They're universal — a chart works whether you read English, German or Japanese — and they're brilliant for lace, motifs and granny squares. Many patterns include both written instructions and a chart, so you can use whichever you prefer.
Common crochet chart symbols
| Symbol | Stitch (US) | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| • | Slip stitch (sl st) | A dot |
| ○ | Chain (ch) | An open oval |
| ✕ | Single crochet (sc) | A cross or X |
| 𝖳 | Half double crochet (hdc) | A T shape |
| 𝖳 with one bar | Double crochet (dc) | A T with one slash on the stem |
| 𝖳 with two bars | Treble crochet (tr) | A T with two slashes |
| Symbols joined at base | Increase | Two+ stitches sharing one stitch |
| Symbols joined at top | Decrease / cluster | Stitches worked together |
The height of each symbol mirrors the height of the real stitch — taller symbols mean taller stitches. Every chart comes with its own key, so always check the legend first.
How to read a crochet chart
Charts worked in rounds
Start at the centre (often a magic ring) and read outward, following each round around. Most rounds are read anticlockwise for right-handers, in the same direction you crochet.
Charts worked in rows
Start at the bottom right and read the first row right to left. The next row is read left to right, alternating direction each row — exactly as your work turns. A small number at the start of each row tells you where it begins.
Repeats
A bracketed or boxed section of the chart shows a repeat — work it as many times as the pattern says, just like a bracketed repeat in written instructions. Our abbreviations chart explains the written equivalents.
US vs UK symbols
The symbols are largely the same worldwide, but because stitch names differ between US and UK terms, always check whether a chart's key is US or UK. A symbol that's a "double crochet" in one is a "treble" in the other. See our US vs UK crochet terms chart.
Practise reading charts
Granny squares and simple motifs are perfect for learning charts. Browse our beginner patterns or start with a free pattern.
Shop beginner patterns →Frequently asked questions
How do you read a crochet symbol chart?
Each symbol is one stitch placed where it goes in the finished piece. Read rounds from the centre outward and rows from the bottom up, alternating direction each row, in the direction you crochet.
What does the X symbol mean in crochet?
An X (or cross) represents a single crochet (sc) in US terms.
Are crochet chart symbols the same in US and UK?
The symbols are largely the same, but stitch names differ, so a chart's key may label the same symbol as a US double crochet or a UK treble. Always check the legend.
Where do you start reading a crochet chart?
For rounds, start at the centre and work outward. For rows, start at the bottom right and read the first row right to left.
Charts and written patterns are two ways to read the same design. Brush up with our guides on reading a crochet pattern and the abbreviations chart.
