Knitting Abbreviations

Just learning how to knit? Then, this article is for you, the beginning knitter. Having an overview that contains all knitting abbreviations is so handy to have. Even for those of us who have forgotten certain knitting terms. So, bookmark this knitting page for future reference. (I just did). Now, study the abbreviations table and, before you know it, you’ll knit like a pro!

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Knitting Abbreviations – What Do They Mean????

It’s nice to get some free knitting patterns, however, what to do? Knitting patterns seem to be written in another language. And yes, there’s no way around it: if you want to learn how to knit, you must know most of at least the basic knitting terms to use that lovely knitting pattern that you’ve been given.

I thought to give you a hand. Here is a little craft tool for you: a knitting abbreviations table so you can start knitting away:

Knitting Abbreviations

“ inch(es)

[ ] repeat instructions inside brackets as indicated

* or ** repeat instructions following or between asterisk as indicated

alt alternate

approx approximately
beg begin or beginning
BO bind off
CC contrasting color
CO cast on, cast off
cm centimeter
cn cable needle
cont continue
dec decrease
dpn double pointed needles
eor every other row
est established
inc increase
k or K knit
k1, s1, psso knit one, slip one, pass slipped stitch over
k2tog knit 2 stitches together
k2tog tbl knit 2 stitches together through back loop

MC main color
M1 make one

mm millimeter

p or P purl
p2tog purl 2 together
p2tog tbl purl 2 together through back loop
pat pattern
pm place marker
psso pass slip stitch over
rem remaining
rep repeat
Rev St st reverse stockinette stitch
RS right side
rnd round
sm slip marker
SSK slip 1, slip 1, knit two together
sl slip
sl 1, k1, psso or SKP slip 1, knit 1, pass slipped st over
st(s) stitch(es)
St st stockinette stitch, stocking stitch
tbl through back loop(s)
tog together
WS wrong side
wyib with yarn in back
wyif with yarn in front
yfon yarn forward over needle
yfrn yarn forward and round needle
yo yarn over
yon yarn over needle
yrn yarn round needle

Now, there you go. When you start chatting and sharing with other knitters, you know just what to write. As well, this chart will help you dare tackle more complicated knitting patterns.

knitting glossary: glossary w basic and advanced knitting terms.