UK and US crochet terminology developed using different systems for naming stitches.

The confusing part isn't simply that different words are used. In some cases, exactly the same term means a different stitch.

For example, a double crochet in UK terminology is not the same stitch as a double crochet in US terminology.

Fortunately, once you understand the relationship between the two systems, translating between them becomes much easier.

Here are some of the common equivalents:

Some terms, including chain (ch) and slip stitch (sl st), are generally the same in both systems.

This means you don't necessarily have to rewrite an entire pattern when working from unfamiliar terminology. Once you know which system is being used, you can translate the stitches as you work.

Well-written patterns will usually tell you whether they use UK or US crochet terminology, often near the beginning of the pattern.

But that isn't always the case, particularly with older patterns, patterns found online or those shared between crocheters.

There are a few clues you can look for.

If the pattern contains single crochet (sc), it is using US terminology because there is no single crochet stitch in standard UK terminology.

You can also look at the country in which the pattern was published, although don't rely on this alone. Crochet designers and publishers increasingly have an international audience and may choose either system.

The stitch descriptions, photographs and finished appearance can provide further clues if you're still unsure.

Using the wrong terminology can dramatically alter your finished crochet.

Imagine a pattern that asks you to work a UK double crochet. If you interpret that as a US double crochet, you'll make a considerably taller stitch than the designer intended.

Repeat that across an entire project and your tension, dimensions, yarn usage and overall appearance can all change.

If something seems strangely wrong with a project, checking the terminology is therefore a useful troubleshooting step before assuming that you've misunderstood the pattern.

Terminology isn't the only difference you might encounter in patterns from different countries.

UK crochet patterns generally give hook sizes in millimetres, such as 3.5 mm, 4 mm or 5 mm.

US patterns often use letters and numbers to describe hook sizes instead.

For example, you might see a US H/8 hook where you're more accustomed to seeing 5 mm.

Modern hooks often have both systems printed on them, but a conversion chart can be useful when working with older hooks or patterns.

This is where working with international crochet patterns becomes slightly more interesting!

Descriptions of yarn weights aren't identical between countries either.

Terms such as DK, aran, worsted, 4-ply and fingering may appear depending on where a yarn or pattern originates.

Rather than relying only on the name of the yarn weight, look at the information supplied in the pattern, including recommended hook size, tension or gauge and the yarn's length and weight.

If you're substituting yarn, making a tension square becomes particularly useful.

You can, but you don't necessarily need to.

For a pattern containing only a few different stitches, it can be easier to write yourself a small conversion note and keep it beside you.

For example:

Pattern says UK tr → I work US dc

This is particularly helpful if you're used to one terminology system and instinctively associate a stitch abbreviation with a particular movement.

For a more complicated pattern, you might prefer to annotate your copy before beginning so that you aren't continually stopping to translate.

Crochet charts have a considerable advantage here because the symbols represent the structure of the stitches rather than relying solely on written terminology.

Once you're comfortable reading crochet charts, they can make working with patterns from different countries much simpler.

They are also particularly useful for visualising stitch placement, repeats and more complicated constructions.

Learning to read both written instructions and charts gives you access to a much wider range of crochet patterns.

Discovering that there are two crochet terminology systems can initially seem unnecessarily complicated, but it soon becomes another part of understanding the craft.

You don't need to memorise every conversion.

What matters is developing the habit of checking which terminology a pattern uses before you begin.

Once you can recognise and translate the differences, patterns written on either side of the Atlantic become much more accessible — which means a lot more crochet possibilities to explore.

If you've decided you'd like to learn a yarn craft, the first question is often:

Should I learn knitting or crochet?

The good news is that there isn't a right or wrong answer.

Both crafts are relaxing, creative and incredibly rewarding. They each have their own techniques, strengths and unique look, but both can become lifelong hobbies that grow with you.

At RE Treats, we teach complete beginners in a calm, supportive environment, and one of the questions we're asked most is:

"Which one is easier?"

Let's explore both crafts to help you decide.

Knitting creates fabric using two knitting needles and a series of loops called stitches.

Each row builds on the previous one, creating smooth, stretchy fabric that's perfect for clothing and cosy accessories.

Popular knitting projects include:

• Scarves
• Hats
• Jumpers
• Socks
• Blankets
• Baby clothes

Knitting often has a soft, elegant appearance that many people associate with traditional handmade garments.

Crochet uses just one hook instead of two needles.

Each stitch is completed individually before moving on to the next, making it easier to stop and start without worrying about stitches slipping off the needles.

Crochet is particularly popular for making:

• Granny squares
• Toys (amigurumi)
• Blankets
• Bags
• Home décor
• Flowers
• Decorative accessories

It creates a slightly firmer fabric with wonderful texture and endless design possibilities.

This is probably the most common question!

The honest answer is…

Whichever one feels right to you.

Some people naturally understand knitting very quickly.

Others find crochet much easier because they're only controlling one hook.

Neither craft is "better"—they simply suit different ways of thinking and learning.

The best way to discover your favourite is to try one without putting pressure on yourself to be perfect.

• Like repeating rhythmic movements
• Enjoy creating clothing
• Want stretchy, soft fabrics
• Prefer a calm, steady pace
• Like following rows step by step

Many people describe knitting as wonderfully relaxing once they've mastered the basics.

• Like seeing quick progress
• Enjoy textured designs
• Want to make decorative items
• Prefer working with one hook
• Like projects that are easy to put down and pick up later

Crochet often feels very forgiving for beginners because you're usually only working with one active stitch.

Absolutely not!

Many makers enjoy both crafts.

In fact, learning one often makes learning the other much easier because you'll already understand:

• Yarn weights
• Tension
• Reading patterns
• Choosing tools
• Finishing techniques

Many experienced makers switch between knitting and crochet depending on the project they're making.

It's easy to spend weeks trying to decide which craft is "best."

But the truth is…

The best craft is the one that inspires you to pick up the yarn and begin.

You don't need expensive equipment.

You don't need previous experience.

You don't need to get everything right first time.

Every stitch you make is helping you learn something new.

Whether you begin with knitting or crochet, you're taking the first step towards a wonderfully creative hobby that can bring years of enjoyment.

There isn't a wrong choice between knitting and crochet—only the choice that's right for you today.

Many people eventually learn both, but you only need to start with one.

Choose the craft that excites you most, enjoy learning at your own pace and remember that every finished stitch is a step towards greater confidence.

Your creative journey doesn't have to begin perfectly—it simply has to begin.

There was probably a time when making felt completely natural.

Perhaps you knitted while watching television, spent evenings sewing, or always had a project waiting to be picked up whenever you had a spare hour.

Then life became busy.

Work, family, caring responsibilities, health or simply losing confidence can quietly push creativity into the background. Before you know it, your sewing machine hasn't been switched on for months, your knitting needles are tucked away in a cupboard and you start wondering if you'll ever get back to it.

The wonderful thing is this:

It's never too late to start making again.

One of the biggest barriers to returning to a hobby is believing you should still be as skilled as you once were.

The truth is, every maker has breaks.

Your first few stitches might feel unfamiliar. You may need to look up techniques you once knew by heart.

That's completely normal.

Instead of expecting perfection, give yourself permission to be a beginner again. You'll be surprised how quickly those familiar skills return.

You don't need to make a quilt, knit a jumper or complete a complicated embroidery project on your first day back.

Choose something simple that you can enjoy.

That might be:

• A small knitted coaster
• A simple cushion cover
• A few rows of crochet
• A hand-embroidered bookmark
• Mending something you already own

Small projects help rebuild confidence without feeling overwhelming.

Each completed project reminds you that you can make beautiful things.

You don't need a dedicated craft room.

A favourite chair, a small basket of supplies or a cleared corner of the dining table is enough.

Making becomes much easier when your materials are easy to reach and your workspace feels welcoming.

A cup of tea, some gentle music and twenty peaceful minutes can make all the difference.

Social media can sometimes make it feel as though every project has to be flawless.

Real making isn't like that.

Real projects include uneven stitches, wonky seams and the occasional mistake.

Those aren't failures.

They're signs that you're learning.

Every experienced maker has unpicked stitches, restarted projects and made things that didn't quite go to plan.

That's how confidence grows.

Not every project needs a purpose.

Sometimes it's enough to simply enjoy the process.

The rhythm of knitting.

The quiet focus of embroidery.

The satisfaction of matching fabric.

The gentle hum of a sewing machine.

Making gives us space to slow down, think differently and enjoy creating something with our own hands.

Finished projects are wonderful, but progress deserves celebrating too.

Celebrate:

• Learning a new stitch
• Finishing one section
• Picking up your project after a long break
• Trying something you've never attempted before
• Simply making time for yourself
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These moments are just as important as the finished piece.

Finding your way back to making isn't about creating perfect projects.

It's about rediscovering something that brings you calm, satisfaction and confidence.

Every project teaches you something new, and every stitch helps build your confidence.

Enjoy the journey, celebrate your progress and remember that the best project is the one that inspires you to keep making.

Choosing yarn can feel overwhelming when you're standing in front of shelves full of colourful balls labelled with names like 4 Ply, DK, Aran and Chunky. If you're new to knitting or crochet, it can seem as though everyone else knows exactly what those terms mean.

The good news is that yarn weights are much simpler than they first appear.

Once you understand the basics, choosing yarn becomes much easier and you'll feel far more confident starting new projects.

Why Does Yarn Weight Matter?

Yarn weight doesn't refer to how heavy a ball of yarn feels.

Instead, it describes how thick the yarn is.

The thickness of the yarn affects:

• 🧶 Which needles or hook you should use
• 📏 The size of your finished project
• ⏱️ How quickly your project grows
• ✨ The texture and drape of the finished item

Using the wrong yarn weight can make a project too small, too large or change how it feels completely.

The Most Common Yarn Weights

Here are the yarn weights you'll come across most often in the UK.

Very fine yarn used for delicate shawls, lace knitting and decorative projects.

Ideal if you enjoy intricate patterns, although it's generally not the easiest place to start as a beginner.