Written instructions or charts?

[dur30cat]

I am thinking of writing up some patterns when I realized I am truly stumped. Some of the pattern stitches I used don't translate well when it comes to written instructions. Or it's just odd shaped (like this pair of mary janes booties here...http://www.crochetville.org/forum/showthread.php?t=14145 - i just did it in the round.)

How many people would consider purchasing charts or symbols type patterns? (of course, I'll include some basic symbol instruction to let you know what they are.)

I'll be interested to hear what your views are!

Thanks in advance,
Emy

[vigilant20]

I have yet to do a chart...they kinda scare me.

[Katchkan]

You don't have the option of
Either: It doesn't matter to me I will use either.

I have used both methods and it doesn't matter to me which way it is done. The design is what counts.

[donnalynn2]

I much prefer step by step written instructions. Charts are confusing to me no matter how "well" they are explained!

[monael]

I like to have both. If it has a chart, then I don't have to have each step spelled out in excruciating detail but it is nice to have a few explanatory notes with the charts. Also, some patterns are better with charts, some don't need them.

[Yarn Duck]

I love the symbol type patterns. For some items, the written instructions for a single row can be long and I always seem to loose my place if there are more than two **'s! With a symbol pattern, in one glance I can see what I need to do now as well as what both the previous row and the next row should look like.

[Earth Angel]

I much prefer step by step written instructions. Charts are confusing to me no matter how "well" they are explained!

Ditto! I am easily confused and charts are like a foreign language to me! Though I would say to have the written instructions and a chart together, so that who ever buys the pattern(s) can use whichever they prefer. :)

[Natasha]

The charts remind me of counted cross-stitch patterns, which absolutely spoil the whole cross-stitch experience for me...all that counting makes my eyes cross. I much prefer written instructions that do the counting for me. :D

[origami]

How many people would consider purchasing charts or symbols type patterns? (of course, I'll include some basic symbol instruction to let you know what they are.)


I like having the chart to accompany written instructions. I am visual and so it helps me to be able to look at the chart. If a pattern doesn't have at least a picture, I won't do it. A chart is helpful because it helps me to keep count of stitches more easily. Written instructions are definitely necessary though. I also like it when a designer includes how many stitches and spaces at the end of each line of instructions. In other words, how many double crochets or how many chain-1 or chain-2 spaces I should end up with after following that line of instructions.

[dur30cat]

I am not at all surprised by the findings. Though my personal pet peeve is when I see written out instructions that require me to go repeat from ** to ** (xx times).

I was finding it difficult to explain certain stitches where the stitch calls for a ch2, a dec2dc with first dc through 1st chain and 2nd dc through 3rd chain ==> does that make any sense?

Or maybe it's just that i need to read up crochet instructions more?

[Sabra]

I prefer to have both, that way if the written instructions confuse me I can bounce it off the chart.

[diamond]

I prefer to have both, that way if the written instructions confuse me I can bounce it off the chart.
Ditto! I prefer both for the same reasons. Written instructions can be written wrong or unclear (which most of us have experienced a time or two). It's nice having a chart to refer to in case the written instructions aren't clear or wrong.

[Stacey]

What they said ^^^

I've never done an entire pattern from a diagram--I still find that a little intimidating (but I need to learn how because I found an old Magic Crochet full of snowflake patterns, and they're diagrams only). But I've found diagrams to be really helpful when they're included along with complicated patterns, so if I get confused by the written instructions I can check the diagram to see what's supposed to be going on.

[crochet mama]

I really like the charts as I can tell if something is written wrong or if I've done something wrong. Word for word takes a bit more effort for me, even though that's how I learned and 90% of what I do is from those patterns.

Either way, as long as I have fiber and hook, I'm good to go. :lol

[jacqui]

I like both. Charts are good and one of the reasons is that if i teach some one crochet they don't have to know how to read or read english to use them. It did take me a bit of patience to teach myself to use charts in the beginning. Since i conquered reading U.S patterns though i can do anything. Jacqui

[eurolyons]

I voted written instructions with a chart as an alternative. I'm still learning how to use the International symbols for crocheting and really when I get the hang of it, it will open up a whole new world with the German patterns and such...

But I am truly a written word person, with the exception of the charts for filet crochet...good luck with your endeavors.

[13bodies]

I can use either; which I prefer depends on the pattern. I like charts for doilies, for example.

[goldi316]

I prefer to have both at this time. I like having charts to refer to, like others have said, when written instructions aren't clear or are too lengthy and complicated. But it's hard to totally give up written instructions when that's been the primary form of pattern I've worked with for many years. I'd like to see more charted patterns included with written instructions, I think it would be easier to make the transition to a chart-only pattern that way.

[Tracy1cg]

I like having the chart to accompany written instructions. I am visual and so it helps me to be able to look at the chart. If a pattern doesn't have at least a picture, I won't do it. A chart is helpful because it helps me to keep count of stitches more easily. Written instructions are definitely necessary though. I also like it when a designer includes how many stitches and spaces at the end of each line of instructions. In other words, how many double crochets or how many chain-1 or chain-2 spaces I should end up with after following that line of instructions.

Me too! ;)

[cat_haven]

Personally it does not matter to me either way. I have translated a chart for someone that did not understand what the symbols meant. So I think charts are easier one you get the hang of how to read them...

[Teesachu]

Some stuff just works better charted to me. I keep passing up gorgeous doily books because they are not charted and I really prefer my doily patterns charted so I can see the repeats. For other stuff, it doesn't matter as much but it is nice to be able to choose.

[goldengal]

i taught myself to crochet using a japanese ondori book. i dont understand the language so i relied heavily on the charts and diagrams. when i started to search for patterns on the internet, it really irked me to find that only filet patterns came with charts. somehow, i understand charts better..... written instructions are confusing and are hard to check.

[hischildsindi]

I've only used one chart, on a doily. It was okay, simply because they also had a fair amount of the written instructions with it. I'd prefer written as I've been reading for over 20 years, but with practice and time (wait, what's that) I might become more comfy with charts. :)

[Crafterlady46]

Either way is good. I use several patterns in one doily. Doesn't matter. It's the same thing over and over and over...I really don't follow the patterns.

[snbarclay]

I think a chart is nice but I am still not up todate on all these fancy stitches and I need step by step even pictures to help.lol.......... once I get it down pat I don't need it again . I agree with the cross stitch deal also its confussing.

[crochetingfool]

Charts use to scare me too...then I sat down one time and figured them out and they are really easy.

Every whole you see is a chain 2 skip 2 chain...every line is a double crochet.
__
So if you see |__| it's a double crochet | chain 2 __ skip 2, double crochet |

or
__________
||||__||||__| then if you see a solid area the chain 2 becomes two double crochets instead of the chain 2 ...

Does this make more sense?

[Lucy]

The written out instructions are
much easier for me.

[knitcrochet]

I use both. sometime charts(symbol) will help a lot for understanding writting instruction. I think it just depends on which one you are used to using.

[Tamara]

I've been making several capes for a wedding, and I wish the pattern had come with a chart. It wasn't until I was making the second one that I finally figured out what the pattern was supposed to look like. The written instructions were ok, but I was wondering if the darn thing had been tested at all.

When I'm trying to make up a pattern for something, I'll often chart it out so I make sure I have my math right for the beginning chain to get the size that I want.

[funkyreporter]

counted cross-stitch patterns... which absolutely spoil the whole cross-stitch experience for me...all that counting makes my eyes cross...

That must be why they call it "cross" stitch:D

[knit-errant]

For me, it really depends on what the pattern is for, and what type of chart it is.

If you're trying to do some sort of intarsia, a color chart is going to work a lot better for me than, "15 sc in white, 34 sc in blue..." I did cross stitch and crewel before I ever learned to knit or crochet, so I'm not really intimidated by that.

For regular patterns, I don't really have a preference between written words or symbols. If you're looking at an international market -- posting them on your website, selling them on ebay or something -- I think charts would be a good idea, so language isn't so much of a barrier. I have some Japanese craft books that I love because even if you don't speak Japanese, the diagrams are easy to follow. ...And I also have some Dutch patterns that I would love to make, but having to translate from Dutch to English makes it really... challenging. Especially since I don't speak Dutch, and the one relative my husband has that does 1) doesn't remember much and 2) doesn't like me. :P

(The exception: knitting charts make me want to die -- especially if they involve cables or intricate lace. Those are scary. For some reason, I really prefer pithy instructions when it comes to knitting.)

[Yammy]

I love charts! I had been using a pattern book that had them for a while and got used to them. Later when I moved on to other projects with no chart, I really missed them. It's nice to see at a glance exactly what you need to do next.

[crochetfun]

Charts are great! Ideally you get both written pattern and charts.:)

Easier to see if I am interpreting the pattern correctly.

[centerpt1]

I much prefer charts. I can figure out the stitches easier, and it seems they are less often incorrect than written instructions.

[NexStitch]

I would love to include charts with my patterns, but I can't find good software for the MAC. I know that one company makes stuff for MAC, but I can't get a clear picture as to wether the grid gets printed out with the actual chart. I wouldn't want all that clutter along with the chart. It's just too busy to look at. I'm trying to find something that will produce chart as seen in SNB - without the grid, and the program works in MAC.

Edited to add: I just bought the Stitch Painter program. I will post my findings about this program once I get some use from it.

[Angelhair]

Hey why dont you ask the crochet magazines what programs they use for stitch patterns.

[NexStitch]

It's hard getting a response back from them. They are usually inundated with questions about patterns. I'm confident that this program will be good, especially since the woman over at the company told me that you can turn off the grid when exporting. My only singular concern is that I'm wondering if the image is a high resolution image before exporting. I've consulted the guru of all things technical (aka. Mr. NexStitch) and he says if it exports at a high res, I'm golden.

My fingers are crossed.

[eyenowhour]

I personally like written instructions with pictures every now and then.

[swtmollysmom]

This problem has made me decide to not buy patterns online anymore unless I know the designer or have contacted them to see if the pattern has row by row instructions. I stuggled with a shawl pattern and my attempts to get help from the designer left us both angry and I threw the pattern away.
I am presently working on another online pattern shawl pattern that I have had to contact the designer and she has been of great help.. but if she had written out the pattern it would have been much more enjoyable. I crochet as a stress reducer and struggling with a pattern can be very stressful.
I have crocheted for years and love to try new patterns but I am not a mind reader There are some great designers online (caneyland etc) but I have learn buyer beware... :yes

[sprout]

i like either, when i first used a chart it was a bit different but once i got used to them i found they are just as easy as written out directions:yes

[Nhewyt]

I love charts with accompanying text. I do almost all of my own design work by starting with a drawing and a chart and then writing down the stitches. That may come from me having a back ground first in graphic arts, computer 3d modeling and industrial drawing. I "see" my designs in my head as 3d objects that I can turn around and "look" at - the only way I can design things is to visualize them in my head that way.

So yes - charts please :clap

Nhewyt

[nightowl]

I like charts, both for the item, such as a doily, and sometimes for the stitch pattern too, if it's difficult to explain in words. If it's a wearable, I love to see a schematic as well.

If you have a chart I don't think you need to have word-for-word instructions also, just brief notes on what's happening in each row or round, the way the Japanese doily books or Anna magazine do.

I recently helped a crocheter who PM'd me after seeing I'd asked a question in the Drops/Garnstudio online forum about this shawl (http://www.garnstudio.com/lang/en/visoppskrift.php?d_nr=88&d_id=8&lang=us) pattern. She didn't understand the chart, so I wrote it out for her. But in my opinion Garnstudio were right to include it because it made seeing what was happening much easier. The pattern is really a simple one but the way of ending the rows is slightly unusual and sounded confusing (to me anyway!) written down; a glance at the chart and you can see exactly what to do!

(Incidentally, if anyone doesn't know, the English translations for Garnstudio chart symbols are listed in the instructions in the same order as they appear in the chart's key. You have to look for them because the symbols themselves aren't there -- presumably because they're impossible to typeset! -- just the list, but many people seem to overlook them, then write asking for help with the "foreign" symbols.)

The confused crocheter wrote to me: "In America we are used to written patterns", but it is so worth the effort to learn to read symbols; you can "see" what the pattern is supposed to look like and you can use all those wonderful European and Japanese patterns without needing to speak a word of the language.

Smiles,

[CLLinda]

I like instructions written out in words followed by the chart. Charts can help the crocheter figure out exactly what the words mean. Sometimes, the chart is there to clarify the directions that are written out.

It is also great to have polls on this site now also.

Linda:manyheart

[Susanne]

I prefer charts to written instructions. A symbol means the same in my mother tongue (as soon as I figured out which is which one) and then it is easy for me. Instructions in english or other for me foreign languages are very "hard work" for me because to work them I have to translate them first.

German written instructions followed by a detailed chart is my first choice, but I fear you won't do this for me...? :D

[DEMET]

I am thinking of writing up some patterns when I realized I am truly stumped. Some of the pattern stitches I used don't translate well when it comes to written instructions. Or it's just odd shaped (like this pair of mary janes booties here...http://www.crochetville.org/forum/showthread.php?t=14145 - i just did it in the round.)

How many people would consider purchasing charts or symbols type patterns? (of course, I'll include some basic symbol instruction to let you know what they are.)

I'll be interested to hear what your views are!

Thanks in advance,
Emy


Written instructions are good for the people they really know english language with this special crochet terms, diagrams are my favorate because of the language and when i see the diagram i can make correction before it is too late, sometimes ( i heard the written instructions are not giving the best result)

[Vik]

Written plus chart is the best!

[christinacoghill]

I like patterns that are written out, but if they are complicated I love the chart. Sometimes the chart is easier to read or follow then the written out pattern.

[blackpurl]

I am doing my first project from a symbol pattern and I actually understood it better than written instructions! I love being able to just glance at the chart and know exactly where I am and what comes next!

[lhasaapsolady]

You don't have a box for Any type of directions. I use worded patterns, graphed patterns, and symbol patterns. To me they are all just as good. Can't wait to see some of your creative patterns, whichever way you write them.

[laurastar0962]

I am too green for anything but patterns, and I still cant read them half the time!!

[Momcrochets]

For me, it depends on the project. Filet's (3 or 4 mesh) are easier to read in chart format...especially if the beginning chain length is given. Doilies can also be easier in standard charting. There are other patterns, where I prefer it written out. And if I design something, unless it's a fillet, it will probably be written out so I don't have to figure out how to make all those symbols. :P

[funkyreporter]

I have a growing contempt for charts. I don't know if it's me or the chart, but something is not right here:no . I did post for help with a picture of the chart (it was a free pattern, Drop Down Designs) and turns out it was a British pattern, but it's a major pain in the butt!

[tezcatlipoca98]

I like having patterns that have a diagram on how complicated parts are done or connected etc.
If it's just regular stitching I don't mind reading the directions out, but when it gets to placing markers then starting something at the marker, or matching markers up, I really need to see it drawn out.

I spend too much time drawing them out myself.

[bkrul]

To me, this is really an important subject, written instructions versus a chart, because on some projects I simply get lost in the written instructions. I'll only buy patterns now that have either a very sharp picture of the finished item or a chart. If there is an error or something is unclear in the written directions, I can always figure out what is meant in the chart or photograph. I love charts and sometimes that's all I'll use.

[Lillie]

I really like charts.
They are so easy to read.
It's like looking at a piece of crochet and copying the stitches.

I can follow written instructions, I don't have a problem with it, but I'm always having to find the right line, and then repeat from * to *.
I can't 'see' it when it's written down, but with a chart I can.

Given a choice I will work from a chart.

[judyann999]

I agree with the cross stitch analogy. It's hard for me to count the little symbols on a complicated chart and figure out what stitch goes where. It is useful as a reference, though, when you can't quite get the written instructions through your brain. Doilies aren't bad with charts, but some of the yarn patterns drove me nuts and I gave the pattern away.

Judy

[beth eathorne]

I am one of those people who sometimes just doesnt get it until i can see it. I dont like to try patterns that dont have a picture posted with them. I dont have trouble reading patterns but if i am tired or distracted i just need to see it and a chart or really good photo does it for me. I can alot of times on small items copy something from a picture if i cant get the pattern.(only for my own use of course).. i like to have both.

[needlesandpinza]

Normally I will grab for the chart first but there have been a few cases where the written pattern just is not written right and it does not come out no matter what, but it comes out perfectly by the chart...

[unicorn37757]

I like to have both so I can check back & forth as reference:think

[tracyleigh]

I have done a few chart afghans in the past month. I love them.

[hooked2]

Both step-by-step instructions and a chart please. I learned how to crochet from a step-by-step book, but I'm very visual so a chart or picture always helps me!

[remclave]

You don't have the option of
Either: It doesn't matter to me I will use either.

I have used both methods and it doesn't matter to me which way it is done. The design is what counts.

I'm with you Katchkan. Either's or Neither's fine also...

[yarndiva]

I mostly use charts, but I do appreciate it if it is written out as well (so I don't have to count as often...heeheehee)

I do wish the american patterns have accompanying charts. It's easier for me to visualize the final project and it encourages me to get a project done pronto!!

[Riohnna]

I reakly like the charts. My eyes seem to go crosseyed with the small type, and I get irritated when I lose my place constantly,,,having to re read where I got lost at. I like the written instructions with an accompanying chart, if the instructions are a bit hard to understand.

[crazeejanie]

i havent tried a chart but i know sometimes when im doing a long, detailed pattern that changes every row, i get lost if im doing other things (like at work or watchin tv) lol... i would like to have a chart beside it to know where i am at in the pattern just by quickly looking at it.

[needlesandpinza]

i would like to have a chart beside it to know where i am at in the pattern just by quickly looking at it.
ITA. I like having both sometimes because I can always "see" the inage thru theee chart better than through the words, but the words help when you are multi tasking

[StephanieD]

If I had to choose one or the other, I'd choose a written pattern. I like the charts to go along WITH my pattern, but never a chart alone. I like to have the charts in case I get confused with written pattern.

[Happy_Hooker]

I personally would prefer both, but that doesn't always happen...

With written instructions, it depends on who is doing the writing...

With charts, sometimes you have to fudge to make it happen.

[Leslee]

Both! I generally follow written instructions but if I'm really stuck I find it helpful to have a chart to see exactly where that stitch is coming/going to/from etc.

[ynkeyroze]

I prefer written instructions with a chart. When I start something unfamilar the chart is always good to have to see what the product looks like.

[sherryzzz]

I like a chart along with the written instructions. I often get lost in long row explanations, but I also don't like to have to count each tiny symbol on the chart in order to know how many stitches there are supposed to be.

[comfort80]

If a pattern doesn't have at least a picture, I won't do it.
i was going to say the exact thing.
i've been experimenting with charts and i seem to find them easier to keep track of, but there would definitely need to be stitch explanations.

[design-n-crochet]

I prefer a clear photo showing the sole, the instep the sides the heel and the cuff when it comes to booties. And the written instructions, but a chart would also be a good aid. For not all written instructions are either totally correct from not having been tested, or typos, or from being out of country.
But I can go by either of the three I've listed here as well as an original item. Sorry but it's true.

I would suggest the mentionable above for novice/students of crochet. And a reference guide with your symbols for the charts, as well as a stitch reference with the abbreviations, terms, and special stitches you may create.

I have patterns being tested at this time. I did not include the pictures or a chart for them. To make sure that the instructions are understandable. And when it comes to making charts, I have not found a program that helps me keep it organized.

Would you care to share on how to make a chart with me?

[rina]

Ideally I like to have both, but I find myself skipping the text and going straight to the charts whenever possible. Text patterns seem so error prone. You rarely see charts revised on errata sheets; it's always the text that turns out to be wrong. Rgh! Guess that's why I like Japanese crochet & knitting books; it's all charts, including stuff done in the round like hats--awesome.

[Sofia]

I guess that is a reason to have both - you can use a graph to check the written pattern, There seems to be so many mistakes in some pattern.

And sort of on topic, in terms of written patterns I like ones that tell you what the you should have at the end of a row --- 6 shells, 9 spaces, 35 stitches - what ever. I really appreciate the stitch count when there are increase or decrease stitiches in a pattern.
Hint hint for anyone writing patterns

[newthingcrochet]

I have not found a program that helps me keep it organized.

Would you care to share on how to make a chart with me?

Same here, I would love to have a computer program or something that would make crochet charts!

[MaryPat]

I prefer charts because of the silly way that written instructions evolved to repeat between ** so many times and then there'd be a repeat ++ inside the **. I ended up rewriting these so I could tick them off.

I thought Crochet Fantasy did a good job of writing instructions with a chart.

Crochet Magic had charts and then very minimal words. I guess it made it easier to publish in multiple languages, but I find with their designs that I have to study the pattern for about an hour before I feel comfortable starting it.

[Daisy]

I prefer written instructions to charts, but I like to have both for reference purposes. My eyes go :loco with a chart only.

[HappyOldCro]

I prefer writtten instructions with a chart on the side. Between the two I am able to figure out what is supposed to be done. Sometimes the written instructions get too complicated with all the ** () and stuff. Also there are typos in some instructions and charts get you through it all. Having both appeals to either type of crocheter, making your instructions more appealing, and ensuring a sale either way.

[sherryzzz]

Would you care to share on how to make a chart with me?

I use Word. I use line draw to create the symbol, select all parts of the symbol and then "group" it. I then keep all the symbols save in one document on my computer. When I'm writing a pattern, I just copy the symbols and paste them into my new document. You can copy one time, and then paste multiple times. To "nudge" the symbols into position, hold down the Ctrl key and use the arrow keys. After you have a group of symbols pasted and arranged on your page, you can then select all of those symbols and "group" them too. Then you can copy and paste the groups. Be sure to save often as you are working!

[LittleJadeFrog]

I like the words (abbreviations). I have not figured out how to read the charts.

[Krakovianka]

It really depends on what the pattern is. Doily patterns, with many, many stitch variations, are so much easier to see and understand in symbol form. A simple doily can take pages and pages to write out because every round is different. I hate repeat from * to * so many times. It's so easy to get lost.

Other patterns, with fewer stitch changes, but lots of increases and decreases, are sometimes easier to follow in writing. Some things, I think, would be virtually impossible to write out. Anyone want to try writing out a Bruges lace pattern?

So...for me, it depends on what the pattern is for, but I definitely prefer charts and will probably not make any complicated project that does not have one.

[hhensler]

I prefer to use a chart because I don't lose my place as much. However, there are times when written instructions are necessary for explaining special stitches or techniques... I can follow both, but do prefer charts.

[paperflowers]

They come with charts? :) I've been drawing my own for months. Sometimes enlarging the photo isn't enough to help you interpret a pattern.

When I meet people who gave up on crocheting, the #1 complaint I hear is reading patterns.

[DancingStitches]

Give me a chart anyday. It is so much easier to follow than * to * repeat 4 times...... A chart makes it so easy to see right were you are.

[Tracyskat]

I would much rather have written words, I get to confused otherwise. The only exception to that is if I'm doing filet, I need the chart to count squares!

:yarn Kathy

[msmarple]

For many years when they were available, I used charts from Magic Crochet magazine. I found that the charts were wonderful for making doilys and motifs, but not so good for making clothing patterns. However, I wish that magazine hadn't gone under--it was a fantastic publication.

msmarple

[lelwon]

Charts can confirm written words and vice versa. When a designer makes a mistake in the written format, he/she may show the correct way in the chart. (Errors in Stitch N B___ patterns are examples). I also read somewhere that the Japanese are printing most of their patterns in chart format now so that their patterns can be used Internationally crossing language barriers. Globalization hits the crochet community! I think charts are here to stay.

[Sbg4evr]

I like written instructions and I am now appreciating an attached chart as it confirms what is written.

[Syri]

I prefer charts. I don't like starting a written pattern to figure out later that it is a UK/Aus pattern and I have been reading it the American way, only to have to start over.
That being said I am perfectly comfortable with written instructions, they are easier to come across than are charts.
It comes down to, I am more likely to buy charts, however if I like the pattern enough it doesn't matter which way it comes in.

[dragonlady]

I was crocheting a shawl by a well known designer this past week. It could be me, but I had a real problem with the written instructions. I didn't find them clear or accurate. I used the chart (reading the written words once in a while to clarify) for the first time and I was amazed. I really enjoyed working from the chart.

[shelly_bean]

I actually don't like charts, I have never learned to read them. and now that my crochet for dummies is in the wind, that seems unlikely till i find it again. :sigh so I prefer at least written instructions so that I can figure it out.

[Puff]

I like to have both the chart and the written pattern when I try to follow a new project. It makes it a whole lot easier for me.
Puff

[Tia]

I have yet to work a chart, but I'm very visual, so I think if I could learn how to use them, I'd be much happier crocheting that way.

[cjansen]

I can't read a chart to save my life. some one has to tell what they symbols mean and in what order to do them. I almost work better from a photo! My brain just doesn't work that way

[jpr54_]

I tried using charts for fillet crochet class and I had lots of problems following the charts.

[jeannie1205]

Either way is fine even though I used the written out pattern most of the time. I've used charts/graphs when I used to make doilies many many years ago....

[JHablinski]

What I really prefer is the written word accompanied by a symbols diagram, not the cross-stitch type used in filet patterns. —I’ve never done filet work so I guess I’m disclosing some of my prejudices. Some of the things on “Handy are pretty enticing—I am an avid reader, and back during my youth (in the year 1) I was given an aptitude test, the outcome of which was a discovery that I had an affinity to spatial thinking. But some years back I began having seizures. (I’m fine now, but thanks for asking,) Anyway one of the things effected in my head, was my spatial projection abilities. Poor, poor, John. I wrote a posting yesterday concerning a problem with some stitching, and I spent hours online searching for symbols or “clip art” of crochet symbols to help explain my problem, finding nothing. If you know of such a site I would love to know where it is. —John Hablinski

[jheatherley]

How many times am I allowed to vote? Written instructions, written instructions, written instructions, etc., etc., etc.

[kookaloo_starr]

I'm a recent convert to charted patterns and finding it difficult to go back to patterns with just the written instructions. I treated myself to a lovely doily book but I'm getting lost in the text! The books with symbols that I got at the same time are getting lots of use though :D
Whoever posted the link to the Drops shawl - THANK YOU :D I forgot to bookmark this one. The thing that confused at first was the sl st until I counted the rows and realised what it was for. I wish they would give row numbers on the charts!

[mathwizard]

I like both. I do see the written explanation for certain areas of a chart pattern at times. I don't think you can get away with just a chart. I do find that some authors in writing their patterns tend to be wordy. Good clear explanations that aren't wordy and repetitive are the best. By repeating when unnecessary you can become confusing. Sometimes when looking at a symbol/chart it is helpful for a brief explanation at what might be confusing or difficult part clears up a lot for the reader.
I have a Macintosh pc and I know there is a symbol/chart program out there for the Windows computers. Does anyone know of one for the Macintosh pc?

[Gr8ful Momma]

I have to be a little difficult here :lol: I need the written instructions. I like to have a chart for reference but I MUST have a photo or two (at least one of the completed project and a few close ups of the stitches if they are complex).

[ctawq]

You don't have the option of
Either: It doesn't matter to me I will use either.

I have used both methods and it doesn't matter to me which way it is done. The design is what counts.


I'm with Katchkan
Either work for me.



:mug:cat:yarn

[antwerpnative]

I'm a fairly new crocheter and have made scarves, purses, dishcloths and afghans. I prefer to read the instructions because I looked at a chart and got nervous palputatios from looking at. Charts really scare me although I needlepoint from charts. I guess I should sit down and really look and practice but until then I prefer the written words.
Happy crocheting,
antwerpnative

[SlowCrocheter]

I can not read a chart at all. I have never seen one that was not confusing.

[Stitchstud]

I find it frustrating to write text instructions when what happens between * and * is different depending on what the foundation row is, or if shaping or short rows are involved. Charts make all these exceptions easy.

[bethintx1]

Both, plus lots of pictures. The more info the better! A summary of the pattern would be good too. Once the basics pattern is learned, a summary or a chart is a good reference for when you've put the project down for a while.

[almoreland]

I voted for "Written out instructions accompanied by pattern chart as an alternative." because it was the closest to my preference... I actually prefer a chart. I can take the written instructions or leave them as long as I have my glasses handy. Those little circles are hard to count! The other symbols I have no problem seeing...