How To Write A Crochet Pattern – Start Here!

Have you been crocheting for a while and want to start designing? If so, let’s Learn How To Write A Crochet Pattern – Start Here!

I’m excited to kick off my new series, in which I’ll share advice to help you grow your crochet business!

I started crocheting in 2011, and shortly after, I designed my first crochet pattern (a newsboy hat).

Since then, I’ve designed over 100 patterns and experienced many trials and errors. Now, I’m here to share my tips and tricks so you can start your own journey!

There are many things to share, but the first is How To Write A Crochet Pattern!

Disclaimer: While I’m not an expert, I’m simply a crocheter who has learned what works for me over the years. With that said, I’m sharing my personal experiences in hopes they’ll help you grow your own crochet business!

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1. Understanding Pattern Terminology & How To Write A Crochet Pattern

So, you’ve designed your first crochet pattern. Maybe it’s still in your head or scribbled down in unorganized notes—now what?

Let’s write a crochet pattern!

This post is primarily about formatting your crochet pattern for a PDF document, not how to design or write the actual stitch instructions from scratch (that’s a whole craft in itself and takes time, research, and practice to master).

With that said, I’ll share a few tips to help you start the writing process.

If you’re seeking in-depth guidance on writing stitch directions, pattern grading, or designing the actual projects, I highly recommend The Craft Yarn Council.

In addition, they provide helpful standards and resources, including:

• Common crochet abbreviations and symbols (e.g., dc, sc, ch, etc.)
• Crochet hook sizes and yarn weight systems
• Skill level definitions
• A glossary of crochet terms
• How to read & write a crochet pattern

Since crochet patterns come in various writing styles and formats, it may initially feel overwhelming. But as you read more patterns, you’ll begin to understand the structure and develop your own preferred writing style.

Additionally, the more you practice, the easier it becomes to write clear and consistent instructions for others to follow. Study other patterns, and you’ll catch on fast!

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2. What Program Should You Use To Write A Crochet Pattern?

Once your crochet pattern is designed, you’ll need to get it written down and put in a user-friendly PDF format.

When writing a crochet pattern, you have plenty of program options. Use a program that is comfortable for you.

I prefer the old-school method: I write my patterns in Microsoft Word and then convert them to PDFs.

I like using Word because it’s familiar, user-friendly, and allows for easy formatting.

In addition, you can insert photos, add clickable links, choose from various fonts, and arrange your content in a clean, readable layout. Don’t forget to use columns and bold headings!

Plus, saving your file into a PDF format (which is what you’ll need to sell your patterns online) is quick and easy.

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Other Program Recommendations for Writing A Crochet Pattern

If your pattern includes diagrams or charts, or you want a more custom layout, here are a few other programs to consider:

Stitch Fiddle, Excel, and Adobe Illustrator

These are great tools if you need to create stitch charts or illustrations. Stitch Fiddle is specifically designed for knit and crochet charts, while Excel and Adobe Illustrator offer more design flexibility—though they come with a steeper learning curve.

Canva

I use Canva almost daily for other creative projects. Although I haven’t personally used it for pattern writing, many crochet designers swear by it. It’s perfect for designing appealing, modern layouts and can easily export your pattern as a PDF.

Tip: If you use Canva, keep your background white. Colored backgrounds may look nice on screen, but they can use a lot of printer ink—something buyers won’t appreciate.

PowerPoint

Though I don’t use PowerPoint often, I have dabbled in it a little.

I know several designers who love it to write a crochet pattern. It’s especially useful for creating slide-style layouts with images and text side by side in a clean, structured way.

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3. What Information To Include When Writing A Crochet Pattern

There are many different ways to write a crochet pattern, and every designer has their own style.

When I first started, I often went overboard, writing wordy instructions, too many pages, and a layout that wasn’t very printer-friendly.

Over time, I’ve learned that most people who purchase a printable PDF pattern want something clear, concise, and easy to print.

That means minimal ink use, only essential photos, and an organized layout that’s easy to scan through quickly.

Crocheters appreciate detailed instructions but also value a user-friendly pattern that doesn’t overwhelm them.

In addition, use bold headings, short paragraphs, and clearly separated sections to help readers quickly find what they need.

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My Recommended Crochet Pattern Format

For years, I’ve used the same basic format to write a crochet pattern. I created it in Microsoft Word, and I duplicate and adjust it slightly for each new pattern.

The examples below are meant to serve as inspiration only—not a template to copy exactly.

Although, the examples below were made in Microsoft Word, you can use a similar layout in any program and adapt the format to fit your own style and needs.

Remember: Function always comes first. If a pattern looks beautiful but is hard to follow, it won’t serve your customers well.

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How To Write A Crochet Pattern | Page 1: Cover Page

• Links to your website and social media
• Your business name or logo
• A high-quality photo of the finished item (sometimes I create a collage of 3 photos)
• Copyright notice

Cover Page Sample Below:

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How To Write A Crochet Pattern | Page 2: Pattern Essentials

• Skill level
• Abbreviations
• Language (e.g., US or UK terms)
• Materials list (yarn size, notions, etc.)
• Gauge information
• Pattern Sizing

Pattern Essentials Page Sample Below:

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How To Write A Crochet Pattern | Page 3–4: Extra Details

• Yarn used and suitable alternatives
• Special stitches or techniques (with explanations, pictures, or links to tutorials)
• Notes or tips that will be helpful to the pattern (additional pictures if necessary)

Extra Details Page Sample Below:

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How To Write A Crochet Pattern | Last Pages: Pattern Instructions

• Begin with any important notes that you didn’t cover above
• Step-by-step pattern instructions
• Break the instructions into sections if the project has multiple parts or sizes
• Add additional pictures if necessary

Pattern Instructions Page Sample Below:

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4. How To Proofread & Format The Pattern For A PDF

Once you have your pattern written and laid out as you want, the next step is to proofread it and prepare it for PDF export.

• Start by checking for any grammatical errors, typos, or awkward phrasing.

The built-in spell check is a good first step if you’re using Word. However, I like to take it a bit further by copying my text into Grammarly.

This tool not only catches spelling and grammar mistakes but also suggests ways to improve sentence flow and clarity. Simply copy and paste your text, review the suggestions, and then make adjustments as needed.

Once your document is 100%, it’s time to convert it to a PDF.

The process will depend on your program, but most offer an option to “Export” or “Save As” a PDF.

Finally, you may need to reduce the file size before uploading your pattern to platforms like Etsy or Ravelry, which often have file size limits.

I recommend using PDF Resizer.com—it’s free and easy to use. Upload your PDF and follow the steps to resize it.

Note: Open your final PDF, ensure it looks good, and ensure all the outside links work.

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5. Get Your Crochet Pattern Tested

Your crochet pattern is complete—now what?

Before you list your PDF for sale (I have a new blog post coming soon on where/how to sell your crochet patterns!), it’s crucial to have your pattern tested.

Pattern testing is a key part of the design process, and I highly recommend not skipping it.

I aim to make the pattern as perfect as possible before sending it to testers.

Testers will work through your pattern to ensure it’s clear, accurate, and easy to follow. They’ll check things like:

• Stitch counts
• Gauge
• Grammar and formatting
• Clarity of instructions

Additionally, you might also consider working with a tech editor. A tech editor ensures that your pattern is technically accurate and well-written.

They focus on:

• Stitch math and measurements
• Abbreviations and terminology
• Matching instructions to photos, charts, etc.
• Overall readability

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How To Find Crochet Pattern Testers

The easiest way to find testers is to post a pattern tester call on social media platforms like Instagram or Facebook. It’s a good idea to have a few testers for each size, and you may need more if your pattern is advanced.

You can also find active tester groups in Ravelry forums.

The crochet community is incredibly supportive—many testers are happy to help in exchange for a free copy of the pattern or another pattern from your collection.

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What to Look for in a Crochet Pattern Tester

Before selecting testers, it’s helpful to ask a few questions to ensure they’re a good fit for your project.

Here’s a sample questionnaire:

1. How long have you been crocheting?
2. What skill level would you consider yourself? (Beginner / Intermediate / Advanced)
3. Have you tested patterns before? If yes, can you share a link or example?
4. Are you comfortable checking stitch counts, gauge, and instructions?
5. Can you complete the test by [insert deadline]?
6. Can you provide clear feedback and/or photos of your finished project?

In addition, you may require the tester to share the finished project on their social media. If this is the case, ensure they’re willing to share a clear picture by your deadline and tag you as the designer.

Pro tip: Testers with public, crochet-focused social media accounts can also help promote your pattern launch.

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Crochet Pattern Tester Feedback Questionnaire

Once you’ve selected testers, send them a feedback form to fill out when they’re finished.

Here’s a sample you can customize:

1. What yarn did you use?
2. What hook size did you use?
3. How many yards did you use?
4. Were you able to obtain gauge?
5. Did you find any typos in the pattern?
6. Were there any unclear instructions or confusing sections?
7. Were the photos helpful and adequate?

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Final Thoughts

Now that you’ve written your first crochet pattern and had it tested, you’re one step closer to sharing it with the world and even selling it!

Stay tuned for an upcoming blog post about Where And How to Sell Your Crochet Patterns, where I’ll walk you through the platforms and more!

I’m excited to share more crochet business tips and tricks with you!

If I missed something in this post or a topic you’d love to see covered in the future, please comment below—I’d love to hear from you.

Don’t miss out on future crochet tips and freebies—join my newsletter today

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Pattern and images are copyright-protected and the sole property of Simply Made By Erin.  The written pattern is for personal use only.  Please do not redistribute, transfer, or sell the pattern or images.

Feel free to do what you like with the finished product, but please credit me as the designer.
You may copy and paste the following information to your product:
Pattern Designed By Simply Made By Erin www.SimplyMadeByErin.com

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