Introduction
This beautiful crochet project features an elegant and classic bedspread made up of individual granny squares, each adorned with a charming red rose motif at the center. The background is a soft, creamy off-white which highlights the vivid reds and greens of each floral square. The motif is framed with openwork mesh and delicate, scalloped edges for a sophisticated and timeless look. Arranged side by side, these squares cover the bed entirely, with matching pillows to complete the ensemble. This piece will instantly become the focal point of any bedroom, perfect for vintage-inspired or romantic décor.
Creating a coverlet like this is a rewarding journey in crochet, combining colorwork, motif-making, and join-as-you-go techniques. The visual impact is breathtaking, making it a standout handmade item that’s not just functional but truly heirloom-worthy. This versatile pattern allows you to create a full bedspread or smaller items, like throws or pillow covers, and is a gratifying project for those who love to see each finished motif come together into a grand design.
Project Overview
The bedspread is constructed from separate granny square motifs, each featuring a central rose worked in color changes, surrounded by a filet-style mesh background, and finished with a decorative scalloped border. Motifs are joined together as you go, or sewn together at the end, with each square fitting seamlessly into the overall layout. You can make matching pillow covers using the same method, simply adjusting the number of squares to fit your pillow size. The flexibility of motif-based construction means you can scale this project for any bed size or use it for other home décor items.
Skill Level
This project is suitable for intermediate crocheters. You should be comfortable with basic stitches, working in rows and rounds, changing colors, following a motif pattern, and joining motifs neatly. Some experience with tapestry or intarsia crochet is helpful for the rose design.
Materials
- Yarn: DK weight (light worsted, category 3) 100% cotton or cotton blend. Suggested approximate quantities for a queen-size bedspread:
- Off-white/cream (main color): 2500g (approx. 5400 yards/4950m)
- Red (rose petal color): 300g (650 yards/590m)
- Dark red (rose shading): 100g (220 yards/200m)
- Green (leaves/stem): 100g (220 yards/200m)
- Crochet hook: Size G/6 (4.0mm) or size required to achieve gauge
- Tapestry needle (for weaving in ends and seaming)
- Stitch markers (optional, helpful for marking motif corners)
- Scissors
- Blocking mats and pins (for shaping finished motifs)
Finished Size
Each granny square measures approximately 20cm x 20cm (8″ x 8″). A typical queen bedspread uses 9 squares across by 10 squares down (90 squares total), making the overall size roughly 180cm x 200cm (72″ x 80″). You can adjust the size by adding or removing motifs, or make smaller versions for throws or pillow covers. Pillow motifs are usually one or two squares each, depending on your pillow dimensions.
Gauge
To ensure your finished bedspread fits correctly, aim for a gauge of 16 double crochet (dc) stitches x 8 rows = 10cm x 10cm (4″ x 4″) using the main color and a 4.0mm hook. Since each motif is a combination of colorwork and mesh, focus on consistent stitch height and tension. Minor variations in gauge will modestly affect the finished size but can be eased during blocking.
Stitches and Abbreviations
- ch: chain
- sl st: slip stitch
- sc: single crochet
- dc: double crochet
- tr: treble crochet
- MR: magic ring
- sp: space
- st(s): stitch(es)
- inc: increase (2 dc in same st)
- dec: decrease (dc2tog)
- RS: right side
Pattern Notes
Each motif is worked flat in rows for the rose design, then in the round for the mesh background and border. Begin with the flower chart, using color changes as indicated for the rose and leaves, carrying yarn along the back or using bobbins for neat edges. When you start the mesh border, ch-3 at the beginning of a round counts as the first dc unless otherwise noted. Rounds are joined with a sl st. On subsequent rounds, ensure your corners align perfectly. Use stitch markers in corners for easier joining. For neat color changes, switch colors in the last yarn-over of the stitch before the new color is required. All motifs are blocked before joining for uniformity.
Crochet Pattern Instructions
1. Rose Center Motif (Worked Flat)
- With off-white, ch 21.
Row 1: Sc in second ch from hook and in each ch across (20 sc). Turn. - Rows 2-20: Follow the rose pixel chart for color placement using sc. Use off-white for background, alternating reds for rose petals, and green for leaves. Carry unused yarns along the row, crocheting over them when possible for neat edges. When in doubt, reference your working photo for guidance.
At end of Row 20, fasten off all colors except off-white.
Note: You can sketch or cross-stitch a rose pattern, approximately 15 stitches wide by 15 rows tall, centered in the square. The first and last 2 stitches/rows are always worked in off-white to frame the motif.
2. Mesh Background (Worked in Rounds Around the Rose Center)
- With off-white, join yarn in top right corner of the completed square.
- Round 1: Ch 3 (counts as dc), work 19 dc evenly spaced down side, ch 3 at the corner, rotate and repeat for all four sides, join with sl st in top of starting ch-3. (20 dc per side, 4 ch-3 corners)
- Round 2: Sl st to corner sp, ch 3, dc in same sp, ch 2, 2 dc in same sp (corner made), *ch 1, skip next st, dc in next st*, repeat * to corner, 2 dc in corner sp, ch 2, 2 dc in same sp*, repeat around square, join with sl st. (4 corners, mesh beginning to form between dcs)
- Rounds 3-4: Repeat Round 2, adding more ch-1 spaces between dc as the square grows. Each round, place 2 dc, ch 2, 2 dc in each corner. End with sl st. (Stitch count increases per side.)
3. Lace and Scalloped Border
- Next Round: In each corner, (2 dc, ch 3, 2 dc); along each side, continue dc separated by ch-1 or ch-2 for wider mesh. Join with sl st.
- Final Round: *Sc in dc, skip sp, 5 dc in next ch-2 sp (shell made), skip dc, sc in next dc*, repeat across each side. In corners, place (sc, ch 2, sc) in ch-3 corner. Join and fasten off. (This creates the scalloped, lacy look seen on the sample.)
Block each motif to an even square before joining.
4. Joining Motifs
- Lay out all squares in your desired arrangement—roses can all face the same direction or alternate in orientation for visual variety.
- With off-white, whipstitch or crochet motifs together through back loops only for an invisible seam. Continue until all squares are joined into rows and then join rows together.
5. Bedspread Edging
- Once assembled, work one final round of scallops or shells (as in the motif border) around the entire outer edge of the bedspread for a finished look. Work carefully around corners to keep the edging smooth and flat.
For pillow covers, use 1 or 2 motifs per cover, joining on three sides then adding a simple envelope or buttoned flap backing.
Assembly and Finishing
After joining all motifs, weave in all loose ends using a tapestry needle to keep the wrong side tidy. Gently wash and block the entire bedspread or each square before assembly. Use blocking mats and pins to stretch each motif into a perfect square, which ensures a uniform finished item. For blocking, lay the item flat, spray with water, and pin out to size, letting it dry completely before unpinning. When finished, neatly arrange the bedspread on your bed, smoothing out the scallops and making sure the edges drape evenly. Add pillow covers made from matching motifs for a coordinated set. Store folded in a cool, dry place when not in use to keep the stitches in great shape.
Customization Ideas
- Change the rose color for a different look, such as dusty pinks, yellows, or purples.
- Use a dark background (navy or black) for a dramatic vintage effect.
- Swap out the flower motif for other designs—try daisies, tulips, or even geometric patterns.
- Use lighter weight yarn for a lacier, lighter result, or a heavier yarn for a warm throw.
- Create a smaller lap blanket, decorative table runner, or stylish scarf using the same motifs.
Troubleshooting
- Curling Motifs: Stiff or curling squares are often due to tight tension. Try using a larger hook or blocking your work.
- Uneven Edges: If edges wave or ripple, double-check your stitch count at the end of each round. Ensure consistent stitch placement, especially in corners.
- Piece Too Large/Small: Measure your gauge motif and adjust hook size if needed. Making extra or fewer squares can resize the project.
- Loose Color Changes: Always change colors in the last yarn over of the previous stitch. Weave in ends snugly and crochet over carried yarn to keep the back neat.
- Uneven Tension: Practice keeping your yarn tension relaxed and steady. Block squares before joining for uniformity.
Care Instructions
Hand wash the finished bedspread in cool water with mild detergent. Rinse thoroughly and gently squeeze excess water—do not wring. Lay flat to dry, shaping scallops and edges as needed. Cotton yarn can be ironed on low heat with a pressing cloth, if required. Store in a dry, protected area to prevent snagging or color fading.
Final Notes
Take your time to check stitch counts at the end of each row and round for neat squares. Adjust hook size or tension as needed for even motifs. Use the image as a visual guide for your motif placement and colorwork. The end result will be a gorgeous, classic bedspread that showcases your crochet skills and becomes a treasured heirloom.
