Tip of the Week: Read the Pattern Twice

This week I am discussing why it is a good idea to read through your pattern twice before starting your project.

We’ve all been there—enthusiastically starting on a new project, only to realise halfway through that we’ve misunderstood an instruction or missed an important note. That’s why one of the best habits any knitter or crocheter can develop is reading the pattern twice before starting.

Why Read the Pattern Twice?

Taking a few extra minutes to carefully read through the pattern before you begin can save you from frustration later. Here’s why it’s worth doing:

✔️ Spot Unfamiliar Techniques – If there’s a stitch or method you’ve never tried before, you can look it up before you get stuck mid-row.

✔️ Check for Special Instructions – Many patterns include key details in notes at the beginning or end, such as stitch counts, repeats, or finishing techniques.

✔️ Understand the Construction – Knowing whether a piece is worked flat, in the round, or in sections will help you visualise the project as you go.

✔️ Find Potential Errors – Occasionally, patterns have typos or missing information. Checking in advance gives you time to look up errata, or check with us if you can't find anything online especially if it is a newly released pattern.

✔️ Plan Ahead – If the pattern calls for increases, decreases, or shaping in multiple places, you can mark them ahead of time.

How to Read a Pattern Effectively

🧶 Read Once for Understanding - Start by reading the pattern all the way through to get a general idea of how it’s constructed. Don’t worry about every tiny detail just yet—just focus on the overall flow.

🧶 Read Again for the Details - The second time, go step by step and make sure you understand each section. Look for abbreviations, repeats, stitch counts, and any shaping instructions that happen at the same time.

🧶 Highlight or Make Notes - Use a highlighter or sticky notes to mark key instructions, like when to switch needles, change stitch patterns, or start shaping. If the pattern is digital, consider printing it out for easy annotation.

🧶 Check for Errata - If you’re using a published pattern, check the designer’s website or Ravelry for any corrections before you begin. A small typo can make a big difference!

A Small Step for a Smoother Project

Spending a few extra minutes reading your pattern twice can prevent confusion, mistakes, and unnecessary frogging. It’s a simple habit that makes a big difference!

Do you always read your pattern carefully before starting, or have you learned the hard way? Share your experiences in the comments!