How to Read an Overlay Mosaic Crochet Chart

By Overlay Mosaic · Updated October 2026 · 6 min read

In shortRead an overlay mosaic chart from the bottom row upwards, one chart row per crochet row, always with the right side facing. Each square is one stitch: a plain square is a back-loop single crochet, and a square with an X is a front-loop double crochet worked two rows below. The colour of the row tells you which yarn to use.

The parts of a mosaic chart

Element	What it means
Each square	One stitch
Each horizontal row	One row of crochet in a single colour
Row numbers	Usually on the side where the row begins
Plain square	Single crochet in the back loop only
Square with X or dot	Double crochet in the front loop of the stitch two rows below
Edge squares	Border stitches, often single crochet through both loops

Step-by-step: reading your first row

Find row 1 at the bottom of the chart and note its colour.
Read in your working direction – right to left for right-handed crocheters, left to right for left-handed.
Work each square as a single crochet in the back loop, unless it is marked with an X.
At an X, work a double crochet into the front loop of the stitch two rows below, in front of the previous row.
Finish the row, fasten off, and start the next chart row with the other colour.

Tips for big blanket charts

Print the chart large enough to read comfortably and mark rows as you go.
Place a stitch marker every 10 stitches to make counting easier.
Check your work every few rows – mistakes are easier to fix early.
If your pattern also has written row-by-row instructions, use them alongside the chart.

New to the technique? Start with our beginner’s guide to overlay mosaic crochet.

Practise on a small project

Baby blankets are the perfect size for your first mosaic chart.

See baby blanket patterns

Frequently asked questions

What does an X mean on a mosaic crochet chart?

On most overlay mosaic charts an X (or a dot) marks a double crochet worked into the front loop of the stitch two rows below. A plain square means a single crochet in the back loop of the current row.

Do you read a mosaic crochet chart from right to left?

For overlay mosaic you usually read every row of the chart from right to left if you are right-handed, because you always work with the right side facing. Left-handed crocheters read each row from left to right. Always check the notes in your pattern.

Where do I start reading a mosaic chart?

Start at the bottom row of the chart and work upwards. Row 1 is at the bottom, and each new row of the chart is one new row of crochet.

What are the border stitches on a mosaic chart?

Many charts include one or more border stitches at the start and end of every row. These are usually single crochets worked through both loops so the edges stay neat. Your pattern notes will say exactly how to work them.

How do I keep my place on a large mosaic chart?

Print the chart, highlight each row as you finish it, and use a ruler or sticky note under the row you are working. Placing a stitch marker every 10 stitches also makes counting much easier.