The Complete Crochet Techniques Cheat Sheet: Master Every Stitch and Pattern

Introduction

Crochet is a versatile fiber art that uses a hooked needle to create fabric from yarn. With just one tool and endless yarn possibilities, crochet allows you to create everything from delicate lace to sturdy home goods. This cheat sheet compiles essential techniques, stitches, and troubleshooting tips to serve as your go-to reference for all things crochet.

Essential Crochet Supplies

Basic Tools

• Crochet hooks (sizes B-1/2.25mm through Q/15.0mm)
• Yarn in appropriate weight for project
• Scissors
• Yarn needle for weaving in ends
• Stitch markers
• Measuring tape
• Row counter (optional)

Hook Size and Yarn Weight Guide

Foundation Techniques

How to Hold the Hook

• Pencil Grip: Hold hook like a pencil for precise control
• Knife Grip: Hold hook like a knife for comfort during longer sessions

Yarn Tension Methods

• Over fingers: Wrap yarn over index finger, under middle, over ring, under pinky
• Over hand: Drape yarn over hand and control with fingers
• Through fingers: Weave yarn through fingers for consistent tension

Starting Techniques

• Chain Stitch (ch): Foundation of most crochet projects
• Magic Ring/Magic Circle: Creates tight center for working in rounds
• Foundation Single Crochet (FSC): Creates base row and first row in one step
• Foundation Double Crochet (FDC): Creates base and first dc row simultaneously

Basic Stitch Guide

Essential Stitches

• Slip Stitch (sl st): Joins rounds, creates flat seams
  • Insert hook, yarn over, pull through both loops
• Single Crochet (sc): Creates dense, firm fabric
  • Insert hook, yarn over, pull up loop, yarn over, pull through both loops
• Half Double Crochet (hdc): Medium height stitch
  • Yarn over, insert hook, yarn over, pull up loop, yarn over, pull through all 3 loops
• Double Crochet (dc): Taller stitch for faster projects
  • Yarn over, insert hook, yarn over, pull up loop, yarn over, pull through 2 loops, yarn over, pull through remaining 2 loops
• Treble Crochet (tr): Extra tall stitch
  • Yarn over twice, insert hook, yarn over, pull up loop, (yarn over, pull through 2 loops) repeat 3 times

Stitch Variations

• Front Loop Only (FLO): Creates ridges
• Back Loop Only (BLO): Creates stretchy fabric
• Front Post (FPdc): Creates raised texture in front
• Back Post (BPdc): Creates raised texture in back
• Bobble Stitch: Creates textured bumps
• Popcorn Stitch: Creates dimensional popped clusters
• Puff Stitch: Creates puffy texture

Working in Patterns

Pattern Reading Basics

• Read through entire pattern before beginning
• Check gauge requirements (stitches per inch)
• Identify required techniques
• Note pattern repeat sections

Common Pattern Abbreviations

• ch: chain
• sc: single crochet
• hdc: half double crochet
• dc: double crochet
• tr: treble crochet
• st(s): stitch(es)
• sk: skip
• sl st: slip stitch
• yo: yarn over
• rep: repeat
• RS: right side
• WS: wrong side
• tog: together
• inc: increase
• dec: decrease
• rnd(s): round(s)

Working in Rows vs. Rounds

• Rows: Work back and forth, turn at end of each row
  • Pay attention to turning chains (usually 1 for sc, 2 for hdc, 3 for dc)
• Rounds: Work in spiral or joined rounds
  • Spiral: Place marker at beginning of round, move up as you work
  • Joined: End each round with slip stitch to first stitch, chain to start new round

Advanced Techniques

Color Changes

• Complete all but last yarn over of previous stitch
• Use new color for final yarn over
• Carry unused yarn along top of work or weave in as you go

Increasing and Decreasing

• Increase: Work multiple stitches in same stitch (typically 2)
• Decrease:
  • Invisible decrease: Insert hook in front loops only of next 2 stitches, yarn over, pull through both loops, yarn over, pull through 2 loops
  • Standard decrease: Work first part of stitch in each of next 2 stitches, then complete together

Joining Methods

• Slip stitch join: Quick and simple but creates visible seam
• Mattress stitch: Nearly invisible seam for side-to-side joining
• Whip stitch: Simple visible join for edges
• Flat join: Good for motifs and granny squares

Specialty Techniques

Tunisian Crochet

• Uses long hook with stopper
• Combines elements of knitting and crochet
• Forward pass: Pick up loops across row
• Return pass: Work loops off hook

Broomstick Lace

• Uses large knitting needle or dowel with hook
• Create loops around large diameter tool
• Group and secure loops with crochet stitches

Hairpin Lace

• Uses hairpin lace loom with adjustable width
• Loops created around sides of loom
• Loops joined with crochet stitches in center

Corner-to-Corner (C2C)

• Works diagonally across fabric
• Increases on one side, then decreases on other
• Great for graphghan patterns

Common Crochet Challenges and Solutions

Finishing Techniques

Weaving in Ends

• Leave 6-inch tail minimum
• Thread through yarn needle
• Weave through same-color stitches in back of work
• Change direction 2-3 times for security
• Trim close to work after weaving

Blocking Methods

• Wet Blocking: Soak item, gently squeeze out water, pin to shape, let dry
• Steam Blocking: Hold steam iron above work without touching, pin to shape
• Spray Blocking: Lightly spray with water, pin to shape, let dry

Seaming Techniques

• Slip Stitch Seam: Work slip stitches through both pieces
• Single Crochet Seam: Work sc through both layers
• Whip Stitch: Sew over edges with yarn needle
• Mattress Stitch: Create invisible seam with yarn needle

Best Practices for Crochet Success

Project Planning

• Choose appropriate yarn weight and hook for project
• Always make a gauge swatch for fitted items
• Calculate yardage needs before starting
• Consider yarn care requirements for final item

Ergonomic Tips

• Take regular breaks to prevent repetitive stress injuries
• Use ergonomic hooks for comfort
• Maintain good posture while crocheting
• Stretch hands and wrists frequently

Pattern Modification Tips

• Understand pattern structure before modifying
• Note all changes as you make them
• Make one change at a time and test
• Save modified patterns for future reference

Care for Crochet Items

• Follow yarn label care instructions
• Hand wash delicate items
• Block after washing to maintain shape
• Store flat or folded to prevent stretching

Resources for Further Learning

Books and Publications

• Crochet Stitch Dictionary by Sarah Hazell
• The Complete Book of Crochet Stitch Designs by Linda Schapper
• Crochet One-Skein Wonders series
• Amigurumi World by Ana Paula Rimoli

Online Learning

• Craftsy.com video classes
• YouTube channels (Bella Coco, The Crochet Crowd)
• Ravelry.com pattern database and forums
• CreativeBug subscription tutorials

Communities

• Local yarn shops and crochet circles
• Ravelry groups
• Facebook crochet communities
• Instagram hashtags: #crochetersofinstagram, #crochetpattern

Pattern Sources

• Etsy.com designers
• LoveCrochet.com
• Ravelry.com
• AllFreeCrochet.com
• Individual designer websites