Crochet Terms for Beginners: Amigurumi Abbreviations Explained

When I first started learning amigurumi, crochet patterns felt like a secret code to me. Terms like MR, sc, or inc were confusing at first, and I remember stopping in the middle of my first project to look up what they meant. So, I wanted to create this crochet terms guide for beginners to make your amigurumi journey easier from the start. Hopefully, everyone can learn easily and join this fun world. Understanding crochet abbreviations is one of the most important steps, especially for anyone wanting to learn amigurumi. If you’re new to crochet patterns, all these short terms like sc, MR, inc, or dec might seem confusing at first. This guide will include step-by-step video tutorials so beginners can easily read and follow crochet patterns.

Crochet designers use abbreviations to keep patterns short, clear, and universal. Once you understand what these terms mean, you will be able to follow almost any crochet pattern, including free amigurumi patterns and crochet animals projects. This page is designed as a beginner-friendly reference you can bookmark and return to anytime.

Why Crochet Abbreviations Are Important

So why are these written entirely as abbreviations? Crochet abbreviations save space and make patterns easier to read. Instead of writing full sentences, designers use standardized terms that are recognized worldwide. Learning these abbreviations helps you:

• You can read patterns faster.
• You can easily follow international crochet patterns.
• This will make you feel more confident when starting new projects.
• Especially in amigurumi patterns, abbreviations are used in almost every line, so understanding them is very important.

Common Crochet Abbreviations Explained

Below, I’ve tried to explain the most commonly used crochet abbreviations in a simple and understandable way. These terms appear frequently in both beginner and advanced crochet patterns, so learning them as a starting point will be very helpful.

Ch – chain

The chain stitch is the foundation of most crochet projects. It is usually the first step when starting a pattern and creates the base length or loop. In amigurumi, chain stitches are often used to begin flat shapes such as ears, arms, or legs before working in rounds. Beginners should focus on keeping chains even and not too tight.

🎥 Watch video tutorial (YouTube)

MR – magic ring

The magic ring is a technique used to start crochet with a tightly closed center. It’s extremely popular in amigurumi making because it prevents a hole from forming at the very beginning of the project. This method is usually used for each piece. Learning the magic ring is crucial for clean, professional-looking crochet amigurumi patterns.

🎥 Watch video tutorial (YouTube)

Sc – single crochet

Single crochet is the most common stitch used in amigurumi patterns. It creates a tight and dense texture, helping the stuffing stay inside the toy. It’s frequently used in amigurumi patterns; for example, you’ll often see it as “1 sc, 1 inc” or “1 dec”. Consistent tension is crucial for neat results.

🎥 Watch video tutorial (YouTube)

Inc – increase

Increase means working two stitches into the same stitch. This technique is used to make your crochet piece wider or rounder. In amigurumi, increases help shape the head, body, and limbs smoothly. Properly spacing increases keeps the shape balanced.

🎥 Watch increase short tutorial (YouTube)

Dec – decrease

Decrease combines two stitches into one, making the project smaller. It is commonly used to close shapes or taper parts like the neck or legs. Invisible decreases are often preferred in amigurumi for a cleaner finish.

🎥 Watch decrease short tutorial (YouTube)

Dc – double crochet

Double crochet is taller than single crochet and works up quickly. While not very common in classic amigurumi, it is sometimes used for decorative elements like clothing, hats, or accessories. This stitch adds texture and height.

🎥 Watch double crochet short tutorial (YouTube)

Hdc – half double crochet

Half double crochet is between single and double crochet in height. It creates a slightly looser texture and is sometimes used for soft details or clothing in crochet animals. It is beginner-friendly and easy to learn.

🎥 Watch half double crochet short tutorial (YouTube)

FLO – front loop only

Front loop only means crocheting into the front loop of the stitch. This technique creates texture and visible ridges. In amigurumi, FLO is often used to shape feet, mouths, or clothing edges.

🎥 Watch full video tutorial (YouTube)

BLO – back loop only

Back loop only involves crocheting into the back loop of the stitch. It adds flexibility and a ribbed effect. Many amigurumi patterns use BLO to help parts bend naturally or to separate design sections.

🎥 Watch full video tutorial (YouTube)

TR – treble / triple crochet

Treble crochet is a tall stitch that adds length and openness. In amigurumi, it is mostly used for special design elements such as hair, tails, or decorative parts. It is less common but useful for creative details.

🎥 Watch treble / triple crochet tutorial (YouTube)

DTR – double treble / triple crochet

Double treble crochet is an extra-tall stitch. It is rarely used in standard amigurumi but can appear in decorative or artistic designs. This stitch is mainly for advanced patterns or visual effects.

🎥 Watch DTR crochet short tutorial (YouTube)

BO – bobble stitch

Bobble stitch creates a raised, textured bump. In crochet animals, it is commonly used for noses, tails, or decorative details. Bobble stitches add character and make amigurumi designs more playful.

🎥 Watch BO stitch short tutorial (YouTube)

How to Read Crochet Patterns Easily

When reading a crochet pattern, abbreviations are often combined with numbers. For example, “sc 6” means make six single crochet stitches. Parentheses and brackets are used to show repeats. Take your time, read each row carefully, and always count your stitches to avoid mistakes.

Final Tips for Beginners

If you are new to crochet, keep this page saved as a reference. Learning crochet abbreviations takes time, but once you understand them, patterns become much easier and more enjoyable. Start with beginner-friendly crochet animals and simple amigurumi projects to practice your skills.

👉 Explore our free crochet patterns for beginners and start your next project with confidence.