In crochet patterns, the abbreviation “sp” stands for space. A space is a gap between two stitches, often formed by one or more chain stitches.
Spaces can be located within rows or rounds, to create a lacy pattern, such as in filet crochet. Spaces are also formed at the corners of motifs like granny squares. In the following row or round, the crochet hook can be inserted into a space to work one or more new stitches there.
Understanding crochet language and standard abbreviations like “sp” is essential for anyone aiming to follow a pattern correctly.
These abbreviations make patterns more concise and easier to read, but they can require some learning. However, any good pattern will include a list of abbreviations used and their definitions at the start.
Key Takeaways
- In crochet patterns, the abbreviation “sp” stands for “space” and signifies a space between two stitches.
- Abbreviations like “sp” are standard in crochet patterns and understanding what they mean is essential for following a pattern correctly.
- A pattern may contain instructions to work one or more stitches into a space from a previous round.
Understanding Crochet Abbreviations
Crochet patterns often use abbreviated terms to make instructions more concise and easier to follow. One example of this is “sp”.
Understanding “sp” in Crochet Patterns
In crochet terminology, “sp” stands for “space'” This refers specifically to a gap between previous stitches within the crochet fabric. Such gaps are often created by one or more chain stitches, which may be combined with the instruction to skip one or more stitches from the previous row or round.
In the next row or round, you may be instructed to work a specific stitch or group of stitches into a particular space. For example, a pattern may instruct you to crochet in the “ch-sp'” which means you should insert your hook into the space created by a chain stitch in the previous row or round. In such a case, you should insert your hook into the gap beneath the chain stitch and not through the chain stitch itself.
Chain spaces also form the corners of motifs such as granny squares. In the next round, stitches and one or more further chains are worked into those corner chain spaces to form the side and corner chain space of the next round.
Other Common Crochet Abbreviations
Here are some other standard crochet abbreviations that are commonly used in crochet patterns:
- Ch: Chain
- St: Stitch
- Sc: Single Crochet
- Dc: Double Crochet
- Tr: Treble Crochet
- Hdc: Half Double Crochet
These terms describe various types of stitches within a crochet pattern. They serve as a condensed language, allowing crocheters to execute complex patterns through shorthand instructions.
Working with Crochet Spaces
As explained above, in crochet, spaces refer to intentional gaps within the fabric that are accounted for in the pattern. These spaces play a critical role in the design and structure of the crochet work.
Chain Spaces and Their Importance
Chain spaces, often abbreviated as ch-sp, are created when you crochet one or more chain stitches and skip one or more stitches of the previous row or round. They are used for shaping and adding decorative elements to your crochet projects.
When forming chain spaces, pay close attention to the pattern instructions and make sure you skip the correct number of stitches from the previous round.
When working into a chain space, take care to work the right stitches into a given space. Depending on the item, you may need to work more stitches into a chain space than were skipped in the previous round.
Corner Spaces
One or two chain stitches can be used to form a corner space at the corner of a square or hexagonal motif. In these cases, they are used to increase the length of each side of your work so you will not be instructed to skip any stitches from the previous round. Instead, you will be instructed to work specific stitches into each corner space in the next round, to increase the length of each side.
Crochet Stitch Patterns and Techniques Using Chain Spaces
Various crochet stitch patterns and techniques use chain stitches to form spaces in the work. Some examples are presented below.
Moss Stitch
Moss stitch (also known as linen stitch) uses alternating single crochet stitches and chain spaces to create an attractive fabric with a wonderful drape. In the next row or round, the single crochet stitches are worked into the chain spaces of the previous row or round, and the single crochet stitches of the previous row or round are skipped with a chain stitch.
V-Stitch
V-stitch involves forming a stitch with a V-like shape by crocheting one double crochet, one chain and one double crochet into each chain space of the previous row or round.
Filet Crochet
Filet crochet is a technique that involves placing chain spaces in the crocheted fabric to create beautiful lacy patterns.
Reading Crochet Patterns
When immersing yourself in crochet, understanding pattern fundamentals is crucial for creating a successful project. Grasping the conventions of crochet patterns paves the way for translating yarn into beautiful creations.
Crochet patterns serve as a blueprint for crafting a project. They guide crocheters through each step with a series of abbreviations and terms that represent various stitches and techniques. Here is a basic breakdown of how to read crochet patterns:
- Abbreviations: These shortened forms of words, such as “sc” for single crochet or “dc” for double crochet, help keep the pattern concise.
- Instructions: A sequence of stitches often begins with an instruction like “Row 1” or “Rnd 2,” indicating whether the crocheter is working in rows or rounds, respectively.
- Repetitions: An asterisk (*) or parentheses often denote a repeated section of a pattern. Crocheters should execute the sequence of stitches following the asterisk, or within the parentheses, as many times as directed.
It’s always a good idea to read through a pattern carefully before you start, including any pattern notes. The notes can contain important information that will make your project a success.
When working through the pattern, read the instructions carefully and pay attention to each step. It can be helpful to tick off parts of the pattern as you progress, to ensure that you know exactly where you are.
Crochet Terminology Differences: US vs. UK Crochet Terms
When following a crochet pattern, it’s important to be aware that UK and US crochet terms differ. You will need to know whether the pattern you are following is written in UK or US crochet terms so always read the pattern carefully to check this before you start. If in doubt, ask the designer. However, the presence of a “single crochet” or “sc” in a pattern is a clear sign that it is written in US terms as this term does not exist in UK crochet terminology.
Here’s a quick reference table to illustrate some of the common differences:
| US Term | UK Term |
|---|---|
| Single crochet (sc) | Double crochet (dc) |
| Half double crochet (hdc) | Half treble crochet (htr) |
| Double crochet (dc) | Treble crochet (tr) |
| Treble crochet (tr) | Double treble crochet (dtr) |
Slip stitch (sl st), chain (ch), space (sp) and chain space (ch-sp) mean the same thing in both US and UK crochet languages.
Crochet Pattern Examples and Resources
In crochet, patterns serve as blueprints for creating textiles. This section provides resources and guides to understand and access crochet patterns, especially for those interested in free patterns and deciphering the common symbols and diagrams.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you interpret ‘sp’ in a crochet pattern?
In crochet patterns, ‘sp’ stands for ‘space’. This term indicates the gap or space underneath a chain or between stitches where the hook is to be inserted for the next stitch.
In crochet, what does ‘ch-1 sp’ refer to?
‘Ch-1 sp’ means ‘chain-1 space’ and refers to the space created by a single chain stitch. Crocheters work the next stitch into this open area rather than into a specific stitch. Alternatively, you may see it referred to as “1ch-sp”.
Can you explain the meaning of ‘ch-2 sp’ within a crochet project?
A ‘ch-2 sp’ or ‘chain-2 space’ signifies a larger gap that is created by two chain stitches. This space is used to create holes, patterns or corner spaces within the crochet fabric. Alternatively, you may see it referred to as “2ch-sp”.
How does ‘ch-3 sp’ impact the design of a crochet piece?
‘Ch-3 sp’ refers to a ‘chain-3 space’ which forms an even bigger gap than a ‘ch-1 sp’ or ‘ch-2 sp’. It is often used to create larger holes, arches, or the foundation for more complex stitches in the design.
What is the significance of ‘ch sp’ in crocheting instructions?
‘Ch sp’ denotes a ‘chain space’ and implies that the crocheter should identify a space created by chain stitches. Often, one or more stitches from the previous row or round will have been skipped. The exact number of chains should be specified in the pattern.
Does a ‘chain space’ count as a stitch in crochet patterns?
A ‘chain space’ itself is not counted as a stitch but rather as a gap between stitches.
However, when counting total stitches for a row, the number of chains may or may not be considered, depending on the pattern’s instructions.
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