Crochet Abbreviations for Amigurumi

Crochet abbreviations can look confusing at first, but they are simply a compact way to write a pattern. Once you understand the main terms, following amigurumi instructions becomes much calmer.

This guide explains the abbreviations most often used in amigurumi, how to make each stitch, and how to read repeats and stitch counts.

Loops in crochet

Every crochet stitch has a V shape at the top. The front loop is the side closer to you, and the back loop is the side farther away. If the pattern does not specify FLO or BLO, insert the hook under both loops.

• FLO means front loop only.
• BLO means back loop only.
• Working in one loop can create edges, texture or direction changes.

ch – chain

A chain is the starting base for many projects and is also used to add height or create small strips.

• Make a slip knot and place it on the hook.
• Yarn over and pull through the loop on the hook.
• Repeat until you have the number of chains requested.

sc – single crochet

Single crochet is the most important stitch in amigurumi because it creates a dense, firm fabric.

• Insert the hook into the stitch.
• Yarn over and pull up a loop; you now have two loops on the hook.
• Yarn over again and pull through both loops.

hdc – half double crochet

Half double crochet is taller than single crochet and shorter than double crochet. It helps create soft curves and gradual transitions.

• Yarn over before inserting the hook.
• Insert the hook, yarn over and pull up a loop.
• Yarn over and pull through all three loops on the hook.

dc – double crochet

Double crochet is taller and more open. It is less common in firm amigurumi bodies, but useful for clothes, accessories and decorative details.

• Yarn over, insert the hook and pull up a loop.
• Yarn over and pull through two loops.
• Yarn over again and pull through the last two loops.

sl st – slip stitch

Slip stitch is used to join, close rounds or move across the fabric without adding height.

• Insert the hook into the stitch.
• Yarn over.
• Pull the yarn through the stitch and through the loop on the hook at once.

inc – increase

An increase means making two stitches in the same base stitch. In amigurumi, increases are often distributed around a round to shape circles and volume.

• For example, (sc, inc) x 6 means repeat one single crochet and one increase six times.
• Count at the end of the round to confirm the total.

dec – decrease

A decrease turns two stitches into one. For amigurumi, the invisible decrease is usually the neatest option.

• Insert the hook into the front loop of the next stitch.
• Insert the hook into the front loop of the following stitch.
• Yarn over, pull through both front loops, then yarn over and close the stitch.

MR – magic ring

The magic ring starts a round piece with a tight center and almost no hole. It is the classic beginning for heads, bodies, ears and many rounded parts.

• Make a loop with the yarn.
• Secure it with a chain.
• Work the requested stitches into the ring and pull the tail to close.

Repeats and final stitch counts

Patterns use parentheses, asterisks and final numbers to avoid repeating long instructions.

• (sc, inc) x 6 means repeat that sequence six times.
• A final number such as (18) tells you how many stitches the round should have.
• If your count is different, correct it before moving on.

Key habits for reading patterns

Use a stitch marker, read each round before crocheting it and keep the materials guide nearby when choosing yarn and hook size. Then practice with the free amigurumi patterns hub.

• Count often.
• Go slowly with increases and decreases.
• Do not worry if you need to check this guide many times at first.

Frequently asked questions

What does sc mean in an amigurumi pattern?

sc means single crochet. It is the main stitch used in amigurumi because it creates a dense fabric that keeps the stuffing hidden.

What is the difference between sc and dc?

Single crochet is short and firm. Double crochet is taller and more open, so it is used more for accessories, clothes or decorative parts.

Why does my amigurumi have holes?

Holes often appear when the hook is too large or the tension is too loose. Try a smaller hook and keep the stitches firm.

What does BLO or FLO mean?

BLO means back loop only and FLO means front loop only. These techniques create texture, edges or direction changes.