repeats

Another problem some have with reading patterns is the use of symbols such as the ones used to indicate a repeat of a particular part of the pattern.

The symbols ( ) and [ ] set off instructions that are to be repeated within a pattern.

Example:
[dc, sk 2 ch, sc] across
That means you would repeat the stitches specified within the brackets across the row in that order.

A pattern might also use both parentheses and brackets.

Example:
[2 dc in next st, (dc, sk 2 ch, sc) four times] across.
This means that you would work 2 double crochet in the next stitch, then you would work a dc, sk 2 ch, sc, dc, sk 2 ch, sc, dc, sk 2 ch, sc, dc, sk 2 ch, sc. Then you would start over with 2 dc in next st, then the repeating (dc, sk 2 ch, sc) which would be worked four times. Each time you go back to the 2 dc at the beginning because it is included in the repeat.

Another way to set off particular pattern instructions is to use the asterisk  * .
The asterisk will be placed in front of the stitches that need to be repeated.

Example:
*dc, sk 2 ch, sc, repeat from * four times
In this case you would crochet dc, sk 2 ch, sc, then repeat that sequence four times for a total of five: dc, sk2 ch, sc, dc, sk 2 ch, sc, dc, sk 2 ch, sc, dc, sk 2 ch, sc

Another way the asterisk is used is to for one asterisk to be placed at the beginning of the instructions to be repeated and one at the end.

Example:
*dc, sk 2 ch, sc *, repeat from * to * four times

All of these may be combined in one pattern sequence. That is when it gets really confusing and you have to pay attention to what you are doing. If the repeats are confusing, you can put each sequence on a different line to make sure you follow them in the correct order and number of times.

Sometimes a pattern will not need to be that exact. It might say to work the sequence until you have crocheted a number of inches. That gives you the option of using different hooks or yarns as long as you get the required number of inches. I don't think this would work well in clothing, but for afghans, scarves and such it would work fine.

Happy crocheting!
Sandie