What Are Crochet Pattern Skill Level Meanings?

With yarn companies that produce patterns, there is usually a pattern skill level bar or description of beginner, easy, intermediate and experienced.

Many crocheters use this bar as an indicator right off the bat to determine if they can do the pattern without actually reading it. Though I must admit, I have missed out on crocheting some great projects because I was afraid I couldn't do something.

What Does Frogging Mean?

In the world of crochet, you will see some of us saying we are frogging our work. It means we are ripping out our stitches. So the frog goes Ribbit Ribbit, but we crocheters go rip it rip it... To rip out our stitches. Get it!?

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Sometimes we want something simple, even though we could do something more challenging. Each of these increments has a meaning that is used to determine the skill level. Though I must admit, I have seen patterns marked easily, and I have had a conniption trying to figure it out. I have added in my own words what the levels mean to me.

Pattern Levels

As described by the Yarn Craft Council of America.

Beginner, 1 Increment Filled In

• Projects intended for first-time crocheters using basic stitches and minimal shaping.
  • In my own words, these are simple afghans and dishcloths. Most likely not changing colours or doing anything fancy.
  • An excellent pattern for new crocheters to build their skills. Practice makes perfect.
  • For experienced crocheters, you can probably watch TV and crochet at the same time without missing a stitch. A non-brainer, as your hands will do the work without much thought.

Easy, 2 Increments Filled In

• Projects using basic stitches, repetitive stitches, colour changes and simple shaping and finishing.
  • In my own words, afghans, or projects with repeating stitches that create stitch-based textures, have a unique look. There's not a lot of complex shaping or anything that requires you to throw your hook across the room in frustration.
  • Experienced crocheters glance up and down from the TV but have to concentrate once in a while. You don't have to obsessively count, but your family members may see you mumble and ask you to repeat.

Intermediate, 3 Increments Filled In

• Projects using a variety of different stitches or techniques, such as basic lace patterns or colour patterns with mid-level shaping and finishing.
  • In my own words, Afghan or projects where you are playing with multiple stitches to create interesting stitch effects. Shaping requires closer attention, such as clothing and more.
  • Better know how to count in your head, and hopefully not get tired of counting to the same number.
  • If the project is too big, you might get tired of it, depending on how badly you want to finish it.

Experienced, 4 Increments Filled In

• Projects with intricate stitch patterns, techniques, and dimensions, such as non-repeating patterns, multi-colour techniques, threads, small hooks, detailed shapes and fine attention to finishing.
  • In my own words, the hook has the potential to fly across the room if you are not paying attention to the pattern. The pattern will require much more concentration and much less conversation.
  • Your tongue may hang out of your mouth as you crochet, as you are concentrating so hard. You may have sudden fits of rage if something interrupts; it's better to warn anyone around you first.
  • You are better off crocheting on your own, and no one gets hurt.