If your gauge is larger than the gauge indicated in the pattern, try a smaller hook. To check your gauge, crochet a swatch approximately 4 inches by 4 inches in the stitch pattern used in the crochet instructions. While it may not be so important if you are making a project for which you have an unending supply of yarn or thread and feel it isnВ’t important what size it turns out to be, you will be setting yourself up for disappointment if you are making a project that needs to be the size indicated in the pattern. It is important to count your stitches as you work so you have as many stitches on each row or round as the pattern indicates.As you gain more crochet experience, you will be able to successfully tackle more difficult patterns. Avoid the frustration in trying to work with a crochet pattern that is too advanced. Choose the level of difficulty most suited to your crochet abilities. Most crochet patterns are rated according to level of difficulty, including beginner, easy, intermediate and advanced.Each pattern will specify whether you are working in rows, rounds or a combination of both. Crochet patterns are worked in either rows or rounds (rnds).Some things to remember when reading crochet patterns:

It's not necessary to learn the abbreviations and symbols all at once, but refer to the lists as you find these terms listed in your crochet patterns. The key element in learning to read crochet patterns is understanding the writing style, which includes the crochet abbreviations and symbols included for your convenience at the end of this article.

Diamond symbol in crochet chart