I recently posed a question to a large crochet group on Facebook: “I’m curious…what does everyone think about crochet charts instead of written patterns?” I was blown away by the response. Out of the hundreds of people that commented a whopping 38% of people said they either preferred charts or like charts and written patterns equally.
A lot of the reasons that people said they liked charts more were surprising to me. Here are some of my favorite responses (paraphrased):
-Seeing that a pattern includes a chart increases confidence in the designer’s skills
-Charts are good for overcoming language barriers
-Written patterns can be too wordy while charts deliver a ton of information in a small amount of space
-Crochet charts used together with written patterns help provide added clarity to the pattern
-Crochet charts can be helpful for folks with dyslexia
-Crochet charts are well-suited to people who identify as visual learners
I’ll be honest, I never used to be a big fan of charts but seeing all these answers really made me think about what an amazing tool they can be! I especially love that crochet charts help to promote inclusivity by overcoming language barriers and making it easier for folks with dyslexia. I think we can all agree that the love of crochet goes beyond words!
If you are intimidated by crochet charts you are not alone! I know they can be a little confusing at first but there are plenty of amazing tutorials to get you started! Here are a few of my favorites:
For your first few times working from a crochet chart I recommend using patterns that provide both written and charted directions. If you would like to practice your newfound skills I have added charts to these two FREE patterns available on my website: the Star Bright Purse and the Self Care Scarf. Please let me know in the comments below if you would like crochet charts available for any of my other patterns!
______________________________________________________________________________
P.S. I am now offering crochet charting services in my Fiverr shop to help encourage more designers to include charts! (Tell your favorite designers!)
You do you boo! :*