Interpreting knitting pattern abbreviations can be challenging for beginners, but with a little practice, it can become second nature.
Knitting patterns often use abbreviations to save space and make the instructions more concise. Here are some common knitting pattern abbreviations and what they mean:
CO: Cast on.
This instruction tells you to create the foundation row of loops for your project.
K: Knit.
This instruction tells you to create a new loop by inserting the right needle into the next loop on the left needle and bringing the yarn over the top of the right needle.
P: Purl.
This instruction tells you to create a new loop by inserting the right needle into the next loop on the left needle from the front to the back, and bringing the yarn over the top of the right needle.
BO: Bind off.
This instruction tells you to remove the loops from the needles and finish the edge of your project.
St(s): Stitch(es).
This abbreviation is often used to indicate the number of stitches in a given row or section.
Rnd(s): Round(s).
This abbreviation is used to indicate the number of rounds in a pattern.
Inc: Increase.
This instruction tells you to add an additional stitch to your project.
Dec: Decrease.
This instruction tells you to remove a stitch from your project.
Rep: Repeat.
This instruction tells you to repeat a specific sequence of stitches or rounds.
K2tog: Knit 2 stitches together.
This instruction tells you to knit the next 2 stitches as if they were one.
P2tog: Purl 2 stitches together.
This instruction tells you to purl the next 2 stitches as if they were one.
Skp: Slip, knit, pass.
This instruction tells you to slip one stitch, knit the next, and pass the slipped stitch over the knit stitch.
YO: Yarn over.
This instruction tells you to bring the yarn over the right needle to create an additional loop.
WS: Wrong side.
This instruction tells you to work the pattern on the side of the fabric that will be facing inward when the item is worn.
RS: Right side.
This instruction tells you to work the pattern on the side of the fabric that will be facing outward when the item is worn.
It is important to note that not all patterns use the same abbreviations and some patterns may have their own unique abbreviation. It is best to check the key or legend of the pattern for any abbreviation that you may not be familiar with.
In conclusion, interpreting knitting pattern abbreviations can be challenging for beginners, but with practice and a little bit of knowledge about the common abbreviation, it becomes easy. Always check the key or legend of the pattern for any abbreviation that you may not be familiar with and don’t be afraid to ask for help if you need it. Happy knitting!
