What Does an Asterisk Mean in a Crochet Pattern?

If you’re a new crocheter, you might come across a pattern that uses an asterisk and wonder what it means. An asterisk is of course simply a small star symbol: *. This simple symbol is an essential and really useful part of many crochet patterns so you need to know what to do when you see one.

An asterisk in a crochet pattern typically signifies repetition in the set of instructions that follow it. When you see an asterisk, you’ll need to repeat the indicated part of the instructions a specified number of times. This handy notation keeps the instructions concise and prevents the need to write out lengthy descriptions of repetitive steps.

geo georgie crochet blanket being made — *Use of an asterisk in a crochet pattern indicates a section that is to be repeated.*

By learning how to properly interpret asterisks, you’ll be able to follow crochet patterns accurately and achieve successful outcomes for your projects.

Understanding Crochet Patterns

Crochet patterns may seem complex at first glance, but with a little practice you can quickly learn to understand them. To fully comprehend a pattern, it’s crucial to be aware of the symbols, abbreviations, and formatting that are often used. This section will provide an overview of reading crochet patterns and common abbreviations frequently encountered.

Reading Patterns

When you first look at a crochet pattern, it might seem like a foreign language. However, once you’ve worked through a few and understand their basic structure and language, you’ll find them easy to follow.

Patterns often include a list of materials, such as yarn weight and crochet hook size, to ensure consistent results. Additionally, patterns provide instruction on stitch types and sequences, often using abbreviations and symbols.

It’s essential to read all the pattern notes and follow the instructions step-by-step so that you don’t miss any parts.

As well as written instructions, some patterns may also include a stitch diagram, which is a visual representation of the stitches and rows. These diagrams can be particularly helpful for visual learners and can assist in understanding the more complex aspects of the pattern.

If the pattern involves colorwork, such as tapestry or mosaic crochet, then the pattern may also include a colorwork chart to work from. Check out this article to find out how to read a tapestry crochet colorwork chart.

Common Abbreviations

One of the most significant aspects of understanding crochet patterns is interpreting the common abbreviations used throughout the instructions. These abbreviations represent specific stitches and techniques, and once familiarized, can make patterns more accessible and concise.

Here are some standard US crochet abbreviations and their meanings:

ch: chain
sc: single crochet
dc: double crochet
hdc: half double crochet
tr: treble crochet
sl st: slip stitch
sk: skip
st(s): stitch(es)

By learning these abbreviations and reading patterns with care, anyone can improve their ability to understand crochet patterns and successfully complete projects. As with any new skill, practice makes perfect, and with time, reading crochet patterns will become second nature.

US and UK Crochet Terms

Be aware that there are some slight differences between US and UK crochet terms. Once you’re aware of them, it’s not difficult to understand them and swap between the two. However, it’s important to know whether a pattern is written in US or UK terms so that you can create the project correctly. Have a read of this article to understand the differences between US and UK crochet terms.

The Role of the Asterisk in Crochet

As already mentioned above, the asterisk is an important symbol in crochet patterns. In this section, we’ll explore how the asterisk functions in crochet patterns, particularly focusing on two main aspects: identifying repeats and creating pattern variations.

Identifying Repeats

An asterisk (*) in a crochet pattern represents a point in the pattern where you should repeat the sequence of stitches following the symbol, from the beginning (*) or for a specified number of times. This repetition can occur multiple times within a single row or round, or throughout the entire pattern.

A typical pattern instruction might look like this: *sc, dc, hdc*

In this case, the asterisks surround the group of stitches that need to be repeated. For example, if a pattern tells you to repeat the sequence five times, you would work the stitches within the asterisks (single crochet, double crochet, and half-double crochet) five times consecutively.

Sometimes, the instructions might look like this, for example: *sc, dc, hdc*; repeat from * to * 5 times

In this case, the “repeat from * to * 5 times” means to work the stitches between the asterisks five more times, for a total of six instances.

In some cases, only a single asterisk is used to indicate the start of the pattern repeat but the general principle is still the same.

For example, the instructions might look like this: *sc, dc, hdc; repeat from * 5 times

Again, the “repeat from * 5 times” means to work the stitches after the asterisk five more times, for a total of six instances.

In some instances, the final repeat may be shorter or end earlier than the previous repeats. In such cases, this can be indicated by the use of a double asterisk (**) to show at what point the final repeat should end.

For example, a pattern instruction might read: *sc, dc, hdc, tr, dc, **sc; repeat from * 5 times ending last repeat at **.

In this case, you should crochet “sc, dc, hdc, tr, dc, sc” five times and then, in the sixth repeat, you only crochet “sc, dc, hdc, tr, dc”. The final sc is omitted.

Vita Crochet blanket — *Crochets patterns like the one for this Vita Blanket often use asterisks to indicate which parts should be repeated.*

Creating Pattern Variations

Asterisks also play a role in creating variations such as different size options within a crochet pattern. Crocheters can identify which sections of a pattern need to be altered or adjusted based on the placement of the asterisks.

For example, some patterns include alternative instructions alongside the main pattern that incorporate these variations, such as: Size S: *sc, dc, hdc*; Size L: *hdc, dc, sc*

The asterisks indicate the variations in stitches between the two sizes, allowing the crocheter to easily follow the instructions for their chosen size.

Use of Asterisks With Other Symbols

Asterisks are often used in combination with other symbols, such as parentheses or brackets. This usage can further clarify any repetitions, variations, or modifications in the pattern. The purpose remains the same: to simplify the instructions and make the pattern more accessible to a range of crocheters. Just read the pattern carefully, step by step and it will set out exactly what you need to do.

Working with Multiple Asterisks

In crochet patterns, multiple asterisks are used to designate pattern repeats and often appear within more complex designs. This section explores the nuances of working with multiple asterisks, focussing especially on nested pattern repeats and managing complex patterns.

Nested Pattern Repeats

A nested pattern repeat is when one set of pattern instructions is repeated within another, creating a layered effect.

When working with multiple asterisks, this can be visualized as follows:

*sc, dc, ch 3, **hdc, tr**, repeat from ** to ** 3 times, dc*, repeat from * to * 2 times

In this example, the instructions include two sets of nested asterisks with different instructions. Within each repeat of the part between the single asterisks (from * to *), the part between the double asterisks (from ** to **) must be repeated three times.

Managing Complex Patterns

As the complexity of crochet patterns increases, keeping track of pattern repeats, nested or otherwise, can become challenging. Here are a few tips for managing complex patterns involving multiple asterisks:

Use stitch markers: Place stitch markers at the beginning and end of pattern repeats or at specific points to keep track of your progress and maintain consistency.
Take notes: As you work through the pattern, mark where you are up to or keep a tally when working multiple repeats.
Work step by step: Break down complex patterns into individual sections or steps to avoid confusion and ensure accuracy.
Seek help: If you encounter any challenges, consult fellow crocheters, online forums, or instructional videos for guidance and clarification.