Stitch Abbreviation Lookup
Explain knitting or crochet abbreviations.
How Stitch Abbreviation Lookup Works?
The Stitch Abbreviation Lookup works by pairing a Search Terms count with a Glossary Terms reference so you can track the abbreviations you look up while reading a pattern. The table below lists the standard meanings.
Find the abbreviation
Find the term in the pattern, such as ssk or FPdc.
Look it up
Find the term in the abbreviation table on this page.
Count the lookup
Tap the count pad or press Space to log each term you looked up.
Note new terms
Press → to count the terms you learned for the first time.
Stitch Abbreviation Lookup Formula
The Stitch Abbreviation Lookup formula for any stitch move is net change = stitches made − stitches used. Knowing the net change tells you how each abbreviation changes your stitch count.
- Net change
N = made − usedA positive N is an increase, a negative N is a decrease.
- Row change
Row change = Σ NAdd the net change of every move in the row.
- Lookup count
Lookups = Search TermsFewer lookups over time shows the terms you know by heart.
Worked example: The abbreviation ssk uses 2 stitches and makes 1, a net change of −1, and leans left.
Stitch Abbreviation Lookup Conversion Table
The Stitch Abbreviation Lookup conversion table lists 14 common knitting and crochet abbreviations.
| Abbreviation | Meaning | Craft | Net change |
|---|---|---|---|
| k / p | knit / purl | Knit | 0 |
| k2tog | knit 2 together, leans right | Knit | −1 |
| ssk | slip, slip, knit, leans left | Knit | −1 |
| kfb | knit front and back | Knit | +1 |
| M1L / M1R | make 1 left / right | Knit | +1 |
| yo | yarn over | Knit | +1 |
| sk2p | slip 1, k2tog, pass slipped stitch over | Knit | −2 |
| pm / sm | place marker / slip marker | Both | 0 |
| sc / dc | single crochet / double crochet (US) | Crochet | 0 |
| sc2tog | single crochet 2 together | Crochet | −1 |
| BLO / FLO | back loop only / front loop only | Crochet | 0 |
| FPdc / BPdc | front post / back post double crochet | Crochet | 0 |
| ch / sl st | chain / slip stitch | Crochet | ch +1, sl st 0 |
| inc / dec | increase / decrease | Both | +1 / −1 |
Crochet abbreviations use US terms. UK patterns name stitches 1 step taller.
What is Stitch Abbreviation Lookup?
A Stitch Abbreviation Lookup is a reference that explains knitting and crochet abbreviations. Patterns use short codes such as ssk, kfb and FPdc to save space.
Each abbreviation has a set meaning and a set effect on the stitch count. The table shows both.
The Stitches Counter tool saves your lookup counts in your browser.
What are the uses of Stitch Abbreviation Lookup?
There are 4 main uses of the Stitch Abbreviation Lookup, including new patterns, crochet terms and teaching.
New patterns
Look up unfamiliar codes.
Crochet terms
Check US crochet stitch names.
Stitch counts
Check each move's net change.
Teaching
Share standard meanings with new crafters.
About the Stitch Abbreviation Lookup
Instant searchable glossary explaining standard craft terms from SSK, KFB, and M1L to BLO, FPDC, and popcorn stitches with step guides.
How to Use This Tool Efficiently
- ✓Search any unfamiliar term to get clear step-by-step needle manipulation steps.
- ✓Covers both standard Craft Yarn Council abbreviations and vintage variants.
Browse All Stitches Counter Tools
Explore all 132 specialized counters, calculators, and trackers in our collection.