Crochet abbreviation
What does cl mean in crochet?
Several incomplete stitches worked into the same or adjacent stitches and closed together; the pattern defines the exact count.
By the crochetpatterns.io editorial team · Updated · Editorial policy
| US patterns | UK patterns | |
|---|---|---|
| Abbreviation | cl | cl |
| Meaning | cluster | cluster |
cl is short for cluster in US patterns; UK patterns write cl (cluster).
How to work cl (bobble stitch)
- Yo, insert the hook into the stitch, yo and pull up a loop, yo and pull through 2 loops.
- Repeat the partial dc in the same stitch until there are 5 loops on the hook for a 4-dc bobble.
- Yo and pull through all loops on the hook.
- Ch 1 or work a firm sc in the next stitch to lock the bobble.
- Push the bobble forward so it sits on the right side of the fabric.
How cl appears in real patterns
Rnd 2 (B): Join B in any sc. Beg cl in same st, ch 2, *cl in next st, ch 2; rep from * around, sl st in top of beg cl. (8 cl, 8 ch-2 sps) Fasten off.
Row 5: Ch 6, 1 sc between the first and second cl of dc, ch 5, 1 sc between each of the next two cls, ch 5, 1 sc in the ch 2 at the end of the last 3 dc; turn.
1st cl: Ch 5, 2 dc in the 1st st of the ch 5, ch 4, 1 sl st in the same st, ch 5, 1 sl st in each of the 2 dc, taking up both loops of the st.
From Figure 52 Cluster Diamond Insertion (1913): vintage crochet pattern
Sources and scope
- Craft Yarn Council: Crochet Abbreviations Master List
Reference for US abbreviations and the main US/UK stitch-name differences. A designer's own abbreviation key takes precedence for special stitches.