If you’ve ever followed a crochet pattern, you may have come across the abbreviation “sk” and wondered what it means. In crochet, “sk” stands for “skip,” and it is an important instruction that helps create different stitch patterns, textures, and designs.
Whether you are making lacework, granny squares, or textured fabrics, learning how to properly “skip” stitches will help you improve your crochet skills. In this guide, we’ll explain what SK means in crochet, why it’s used, and how to follow SK instructions in patterns.
What Does SK Mean in Crochet?
🔹 SK (Skip) – The pattern tells you to “skip” a specific number of stitches or spaces before working into the next one.
🔹 This is commonly used in lacework, mesh patterns, filet crochet, and textured designs to create gaps or shaping.
🔹 The instruction may appear like this in a pattern:
- “Ch 3, sk next st, dc in next st.”
- This means you chain 3, skip the next stitch, and place a double crochet in the following stitch.
Why Is the SK (Skip) Used in Crochet?
✔️ Creates Openwork and Lace Effects – Many decorative stitches, such as mesh and filet crochet, require skipped stitches to form patterns.
✔️ Shaping & Decreasing – Skipping stitches helps shape projects like hats, garments, and amigurumi.
✔️ Adds Texture – Certain stitches, like the moss stitch and granny squares, use skipping to create unique textures.
✔️ Speeds Up Work – Patterns with skipped stitches work up faster because fewer stitches are used.
How to Use SK in Crochet Patterns (Step-by-Step Guide)
Basic Example: Skipping a Stitch in a Row
📌 Pattern Instruction: Ch 3, sk next st, dc in next st
📌 What to Do:
1️⃣ Chain 3 (as instructed).
2️⃣ Identify the next stitch in the row.
3️⃣ Skip it—do not crochet into it.
4️⃣ Work a double crochet (dc) into the next stitch.
💡 Skipping a stitch creates a small gap, perfect for lacework or decorative effects.
Common Crochet Stitches That Use SK (Skip) Instructions
🔹 Moss Stitch (Granite Stitch) – Uses “sk 1 st” to create a woven texture.
🔹 Mesh Stitch – Involves skipping stitches to form an open, breathable fabric.
🔹 Filet Crochet – Uses skipped stitches to create lacy designs and shapes.
🔹 V-Stitch – Made by skipping a stitch and working a double crochet, chain, and another double crochet into the next stitch.
🔹 Shell Stitch – Sometimes requires skipping stitches to create an elegant, wavy pattern.
How to Read and Follow SK Instructions in Crochet Patterns
📌 Example Pattern with SK:
“Ch 3, sk 2 sts, dc in next st, ch 2, sk next st, sc in next st.”
✅ Step-by-Step Breakdown:
1️⃣ Chain 3.
2️⃣ Skip the next two stitches.
3️⃣ Work a double crochet in the third stitch.
4️⃣ Chain 2.
5️⃣ Skip one stitch.
6️⃣ Work a single crochet in the next stitch.
💡 Tip: If you are unsure where to place your next stitch after skipping, count your stitches carefully to maintain the correct stitch count.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Skipping Stitches
🚫 Skipping Too Many Stitches – This can throw off the stitch count and distort the pattern.
🚫 Not Skipping Enough Stitches – The pattern may not look right if you miss a skipped stitch.
🚫 Skipping the Wrong Stitch – Always double-check which stitch needs to be skipped to avoid misalignment.
💡 Tip: When working on complex patterns, use stitch markers to keep track of skipped stitches.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What happens if I forget to skip a stitch?
A: Your project might become too tight or lose its lace effect. If you notice early, you can undo a few stitches and correct it.
Q: Can I skip more than one stitch at a time?
A: Yes! Some patterns require skipping two or more stitches to create larger gaps or special effects.
Q: Does SK only apply to basic stitches like SC and DC?
A: No! You can skip stitches with any type of crochet stitch, including treble crochet, bobble stitches, and puff stitches.
Final Thoughts
Understanding crochet SK (skip) is essential for reading patterns and creating beautiful stitch designs. Whether you’re working on lace patterns, mesh stitches, or decorative trims, knowing how to skip stitches correctly will open up new possibilities in your crochet projects.
Now that you know what crochet SK means and how to use it, why not try a new pattern that includes skipped stitches? Happy crocheting! 🧶✨