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What Does ‘Skip’ Mean in Crochet and How to Do It!

In this video and written tutorial, Charlotte walks us through what a skip is, how to do it, and how skipping stitches can change the look of a crochet project. She demonstrates, using examples found in different patterns, a few ways that skips are used. You can find the written instructions just below the video!

Materials & Tools Shown

More about Charlotte Lee 

How to Skip in Crochet

SweetGeorgia Flaxen Silk DK in Rose Gold and SweetGeorgia Superwash DK in Mermaid.
In this example, we’re using SweetGeorgia Flaxen Silk DK in Rose Gold and SweetGeorgia Superwash DK in Mermaid.

In crochet patterns, “skip” is a common instruction abbreviated as SK. It directs us to avoid working on specific stitches, often followed by a number indicating how many stitches to skip. Here are a couple of examples:

  • SK1 means to skip the next stitch entirely.
  • If a pattern says, “Single crochet 7, skip 1, chain 1,” you would work 7 single crochets, skip the next stitch, make a chain, and then continue according to the pattern.
  • When skipping multiple stitches (e.g., SK2), you avoid the specified number of stitches and proceed to the next stitch as instructed by the pattern.
Here, Charlotte skips one stitch and is about to work a single crochet into the next stitch.
Charlotte skips one stitch and is about to work a single crochet into the next stitch.
And now Charlotte skips two stitches and is about to work a single crochet into the next stitch.
Here, Charlotte skips two stitches and is about to work a single crochet into the next stitch.

Additional Considerations

Skipping stitches reduces the stitch count, which can cause slanting or shaping in your work. Patterns may compensate by adding chains to maintain balance. Always read the pattern for instructions.

a complete row of crochet instructions from this tutorial.
In this example, reading the stitches from right to left, we see seven single crochet stitches, followed by a skipped stitch, a chain one, another skipped stitch, and a double crochet. Because a chain one is missing after the second skipped stitch, the stitch count is now off. Additionally, the double crochet, being taller, has caused a slight slant in the fabric.
a corrected slant
Sometimes, patterns will fix this slant by including instructions like chaining 3, which helps straighten the row and bring it back into alignment.

Skipped stitches can serve a variety of purposes in patterns; they might decrease stitches, shape the fabric, or add unique design elements. Always follow the pattern’s instructions carefully, and if you’re unsure about something, don’t hesitate to reach out to the pattern designer for clarification.

Need More Help?

Do you have questions about how to skip in crochet? If you’re an All-Access School of SweetGeorgia member, join us in our Community Forums! One of the great perks of being an All-Access member is the opportunity to ask Charlotte questions about their articles and courses and connect with fellow members.

Not yet a member of the School? We invite you to come and see what it is all about! Use the code: EXPLORETHESCHOOL to get a 14-day trial for just $1!

You’re also welcome to join us on the SweetGeorgia Yarns Discord server. Our community has discussion threads on knitting, spinning, weaving, crocheting, dyeing, and much more. Feel free to start a conversation, get inspiration from fellow SweetGeorgia members, and ask any questions you may have. 

Together we share, learn, and grow as a community. We would be happy to have you join us!

Original publication: November 30th, 2021; Refreshed: February 18th, 2025 


The post What Does ‘Skip’ Mean in Crochet and How to Do It! appeared first on SweetGeorgia Yarns.



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