Crochet stitches, free crochet charts, graphs in symbols (charted) patterns and borders ( edgings )

A form of knitting done with a hook, by means of which loops of thread or yarn are drawn through other, preceding loops. Crochet stitches are all based on the chain stitch, 

or single crochet, i.e., a single loop.  In double crochet  the thread is thrown once about the hook before the loop is drawn.
All other stitches and patterns are merely varying combinations of the single or double loop.
The art finds its highest expression in Irish crochet, done with the finest thread and hooks in intricate patterns, usually displaying a motif of leaves or flowers set in an open web like ground.

The word crochet is derived from the Middle French word croc or croche, meaning hook.
It describes the process of creating fabric from a length of cord, yarn, or thread with a hooked tool.
Crocheted fabric in the modern sense is begun by placing a loop on the hook, pulling another loop through the first loop, and so on to create a chain. The chain is either turned and worked in rows, or joined end-to-end and worked in rounds.
Stitches are made by pulling one or more loops through each loop of the chain.
This method distinguishes crochet from other methods of fabric-making as it is composed entirely of loops and is only secured when the free end of the strand is pulled through the final loop.

Beginning in the 1800s in Europe, crochet began to be used as a less costly substitute for lace.
It required minimal equipment and supplies, all easily accessible to all classes. At this time, thread spun from natural fibers was used without dyeing, and worked with handmade hooks of ivory, brass, or hardwood.
Those that survive to this day are often ornately carved or inlaid with mother-of-pearl.

Around the world, crochet became a thriving cottage industry, supporting communities whose traditional livelihoods had been displaced by imperialism. The finished items were purchased mainly by the emerging middle class. The introduction of crochet as an imitation of a status symbol, rather than a unique craft in its own right, had stigmatized the practice as common.
Those who could afford true lace disdained crochet as a cheap copy. This impression was partially mitigated by Queen Victoria, who conspicuously purchased Irish-made crochet lace and even learned to crochet herself. From 1800 to 1950, crochet was done almost exclusively in thread.

Crochet in the round or filet crochet, worked in rows of 'open' or 'closed'  mesh to create patterns, were most common.
Mass-produced steel hooks were used to work the thread beginning in about 1900.

In the 1950s, crocheters began to use thicker yarns to create less delicate clothes and home items, though thread crocheting remained more popular until about 1960. The craft remained primarily a homemaker's art until the late 1960s when the younger generation picked up on crochet.
Often using granny squares, a motif worked in the round, and incorporating bright colors.

Interestingly, crocheting with yarn may not have been a new practice, but a return to an old one; it is thought, but not proven, that prior to 1800 shepherds crocheted with wool to create warm clothes.

Today, crochet has inevitably declined in popularity as both men and women have less free time and more entertainment options. However, it still maintains a loyal following, who continue to create new stitches and innovative methods. Crochet is fun to do !

yarn wool yarn cotton yarn knitting yarn crochet yarn cashmere yarn merino yarn blended yarn novelty yarn luxury yarn

Crochet stitches & charts / graphs, (charted) patterns  

Crochet stitches in symbols and illustrations, crochet lessons

I have made lots of new crochet stitches

To increase a stitch, to make two stitches in the same loop.
To decrease, to take two stitches together, or to miss one stitch.
Decreasing is always done in the same ratio as increasing.
To fasten off, to draw the yarn through the last stitch.

If you are using an image, as crochet pattern;
The image has to be already on your computer !
Paint in Microsoft, will allow you to flip the diagram horizontally or
you can change the printer settings to print a mirror image.

USA Canadian and DUTCH

UK and Australian

Easy crochet borders or edgings   ( I used the USA Canadian abbreviations )

1 picot; 3 Chain stitches, 1 Half double crochet in the first Chain stitch