Have you ever found a beautiful crochet pattern on Pinterest or Ravelry? Then, you realize that it’s using different terms than you are used to. Or it uses yarns you’ve never heard of?
You’re not alone. Many inspiring patterns come from around the world, and navigating them can be confusing. But with just a few tools and tips, you can enjoy international patterns with confidence and creativity.
🌍 Crochet language – US vs UK terms
Did you know that double crochet means something different depending on whether you’re reading a US or a UK pattern?
These two systems use the same abbreviations – but they refer to different stitches.
Crochet terms comparison:
| Norwegian | US Term | UK Term |
|---|---|---|
| Luftmaske | Chain (ch) | Chain (ch) |
| Fastmaske | Single Crochet (sc) | Double Crochet (dc) |
| Halvstav | Half Double Crochet (hdc) | Half Treble Crochet (htr) |
| Stav | Double Crochet (dc) | Treble Crochet (tr) |
👉 Always check the beginning of the pattern – it usually states whether it uses US or UK terms.
📥 You’ll find a full crochet stitch dictionary with chart symbols in the download section.
🧶 But what about the yarn?
Many patterns say things like “Use worsted weight yarn” – and that can feel like a mystery. Don’t worry – here’s what it usually means:
Yarn weight comparison:
| US Term | European Equivalent | Approx. length | Hook/needle size |
|---|---|---|---|
| DK | Light/Medium | 200–300 m / 100 g | 3.5–4.5 mm |
| Worsted | Medium weight | 160–220 m / 100 g | 4.5–5.5 mm |
| Aran | Heavier medium weight | 140–180 m / 100 g | 5–6 mm |
| Bulky | Thick yarn | 100–130 m / 100 g | 6–8 mm |
💡 Look at yarn thickness and yardage rather than the name.
📥 I’ve created a helpful yarn comparison chart – available for free under Downloads.
🔁 Can I use the yarn I already have?
Yes – in most cases! Here’s how:
- Check the yardage per 100 g on your yarn label.
- Make a swatch and measure your stitch count.
- Adjust the pattern if needed – more or fewer rows, or stitch repeats.
💡 Most of my free “how-to” guides are designed to be flexible with yarn types. This flexibility allows you to use what you have and love.
🧵 Summary: Trust your creativity
International patterns offer so much beauty – and you don’t need to speak the language perfectly to use them. With the right guides and curiosity, you can crochet across borders.
✨ Use comparison charts and stitch guides
✨ Try with your favorite yarn
✨ Enjoy the process more than perfection
📥 Download helpful resources
🎁 These two are free for you to download and print:
They’re created to support calm, flexible crafting – in your own rhythm.
Do you have a pattern you want to try but aren’t sure how to start?
Feel free to send me a message or comment – maybe it’ll become my next blog post 💛
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