Introduction
This splendid crochet project recreates a classic bedspread adorned with vintage floral motifs, capturing both nostalgic elegance and handcrafted charm. Featuring a striking arrangement of rose squares, each with a vibrant red flower and green leaves set against a creamy, lacy backdrop, the bedspread exudes timeless appeal. The openwork design, framed by delicate scalloped borders, gives the finished piece a light, intricate texture—perfect for displaying over beds as both a functional and decorative accent.
Ideal as a show-stopping centerpiece in a bedroom or a treasured heirloom gift, this rose motif bedspread combines motif work and colorwork for a deeply satisfying and impressive project. The repeated square patterns make it approachable, while the finishing and assembly provide rewarding, visually stunning results. Whether draped over a bed or used as a throw, it’s a versatile textile masterpiece that infuses any room with warmth and artistic flair.
Project Overview
This bedspread is constructed from multiple crocheted square motifs, each featuring a filet crochet rose design bordered by an open mesh frame. The motifs are joined together as you go or during assembly, forming seamless connections. Pillows and cushion covers are made from matching squares. A decorative scalloped edge is added for a refined finish. The modular approach allows customization in size (twin, queen, king) and easy expansion.
Skill Level
Intermediate. The pattern involves working filet crochet motifs, color changes (intarsia or tapestry style), and joining motifs with lacy borders. Experience with reading charts or spatial diagrams and maintaining even tension is recommended.
Materials
- Yarn: Category 2 (Sport/Fine) 100% cotton or cotton blend for crisp stitch definition and comfort.
- Cream/Main Color: Approx. 1800–2200g (6400–7800 yds) for a queen bedspread; adjust as needed.
- Red (Rose): Approx. 180–220g (640–780 yds).
- Green (Leaves): Approx. 80–120g (280–420 yds).
- Crochet Hook: US Size C/2 (2.75 mm) or size for gauge.
- Tapestry Needle for weaving in ends and embroidery (if needed).
- Sharp Scissors.
- Stitch Markers for tracking rounds, especially during border and joining.
- Blocking Boards & Pins for shaping motifs after crocheting.
Finished Size
A typical finished queen-size spread measures approximately 230 x 240 cm (90 x 95 inches) when composed of about 8 x 9 motif squares. Each motif square is roughly 25 x 25 cm (10 x 10 inches) after blocking. Easily adjust the final measurements by adding or removing motif rows and columns. Pillows use 1 or 2 squares each, bordered and assembled as covers.
Gauge
Gauge: One completed square motif (pre-blocking) should measure about 24 x 24 cm (9.5 x 9.5 inches). After gentle blocking, it should reach 25 x 25 cm (10 x 10 inches). Gauge is not critical, but consistent sizing helps ensure motifs will fit together and cover the bed as intended. Always make and block a sample motif to check sizing before proceeding.
Stitches and Abbreviations
- ch – chain
- sc – single crochet
- dc – double crochet
- tr – treble crochet
- sl st – slip stitch
- sk – skip
- st(s) – stitch(es)
- inc – increase (work two sts in same space)
- dec – decrease (work two sts together)
- RS/WS – right side/wrong side
Pattern Notes
- Each motif is worked in rows (filet crochet for the rose section), then bordered and turned into a square with rounds using the main color.
- Starting chains for rows and rounds count as the first stitch unless otherwise noted.
- Rounds for borders are joined with sl st; work in the round after completing the filet motif center.
- Change color for the flower and leaves as needed—carry unused strands along the wrong side or use bobbins for tidy transitions.
- Motifs are joined by crocheting through the border spaces, using join-as-you-go for seamless assembly or sewing with a tapestry needle.
- Use stitch markers in corner spaces to maintain alignment and symmetry, especially during joining and for the scalloped edge.
- Block each motif and final assembly for crisp results and consistent size.
Crochet Pattern Instructions
Motif Center (Filet Crochet Rose Square)
- Foundation: With cream, ch 33.
- Row 1: Dc in 6th ch from hook (counts as first open mesh: dc, ch 2, dc), *ch 2, sk next 2 ch, dc in next ch*; repeat across (11 open squares). Turn. (Note: Each mesh = 1 dc + 2 ch)
- Rows 2–18: Work filet crochet grid: ch 5 (counts as dc, ch 2), *dc in next dc, ch 2* across. This forms an 11 x 11 mesh grid. Follow the rose chart for filled blocks (dc in ch-spaces) and open mesh (ch 2), changing to red or green yarn as appropriate for roses and leaves. Keep all color changes on the WS for tidy motifs. Fasten off and weave in ends.
Motif Border (Lacy Openwork Square)
- Round 1: Attach cream yarn to any corner. Ch 3 (counts as dc), dc in same sp, (ch 2, 2 dc) in same sp. *Ch 2, (2 dc in next open mesh space) x 2, ch 2,* repeat until corner, (2 dc, ch 2, 2 dc) in each corner; join with sl st.
- Rounds 2–5: Continue working around, always (2 dc, ch 2, 2 dc) in corners and (2 dc, ch 2, 2 dc) in mesh spaces along sides as set. Increase ch-2 spaces by one on each side per round to maintain a flat square. Join with sl st at the end of each round. Fasten off.
Lattice Join (Connect Motifs)
- Join-As-You-Go: On final border round, when reaching a ch-2 corner or side space, ch 1, sl st to adjacent motif’s corresponding ch-2 sp, ch 1, complete border stitch. Continue, joining motifs horizontally in rows, then vertically.
- Sewing Option: Alternatively, lay motifs flat and whipstitch or mattress stitch using a tapestry needle and cream yarn through the outer chains for an invisible join.
Scalloped Border Edge
- After all squares are connected and the bedspread is assembled, work a final border as follows:
- Round 1: With cream, attach to any outer ch-2 space, ch 1, sc evenly around, working 3 sc into each joining space; join with sl st.
- Round 2: Ch 1, *sk 1, 7 dc in next st (shell made), sk 1, sc in next st*; repeat around entire edge. At corners, adjust by adding an extra shell or spacing as needed. Fasten off, weave in ends.
Matching Pillows and Accents
- Create pillow cases using the same motif square pattern, edged and joined as for the bedspread. For each pillow (standard size), make two squares, join on three sides, insert pillow form, and slip stitch or sew closed.
- For decorative cushions, add small pompom trim or extra shell edging as desired.
Assembly and Finishing
Lay out all completed motifs on a flat surface to finalize arrangement and confirm orientation (ensure all roses face the same direction). Join motifs one row at a time, using the join-as-you-go method for speed or sewing for a flat finish. Once all motifs are attached, work the scalloped border around the entire spread for cohesion. Weave in all ends securely on the wrong side using a tapestry needle. Gently hand wash or mist-spray the finished spread, then pin out and block to recommended dimensions for crispness and definition. Allow to dry thoroughly before use. For pillows, align motif seams carefully and weave in ends on the inside for a neat finish.
Customization Ideas
- Colors: Swap out red roses for your favorite colors (yellow, pink, lavender, or blue) for a personalized look.
- Yarn Weight: For a lightweight throw, use lace or fingering weight yarn and a smaller hook; for added warmth, use DK or worsted, adjusting hook and square counts for size.
- Uses: Make individual motifs as placemats, doilies, or wall hangings. Combine for throws, table runners, or baby blankets by adjusting motif numbers.
Troubleshooting
- Curling Motifs: If motifs curl, check tension and hook size. Washing and blocking the squares individually before assembly helps flatten them.
- Uneven Edges: Lopsided stripes indicate inconsistent stitch counts—count every row or round to confirm accuracy, especially at corners.
- Spread Too Large/Small: Make and measure a sample square, block it, and calculate total size needed. Adjust hook or yarn size as needed before starting large numbers of squares.
- Loose Color Changes: Carry yarn neatly at the back or use bobbins when working multiple sections of color; secure ends well on WS to prevent unraveling.
- Uneven Tension: Maintain relaxed, even hand positioning throughout, and take breaks to prevent fatigue, especially on motifs requiring colorwork.
Care Instructions
Hand wash in cool water with mild, plant-based detergent to protect cotton fibers and maintain vibrant colors. Rinse thoroughly. Gently squeeze out excess water; do not wring. Reshape and block while damp, pinning motifs for accurate dimensions. Air dry flat and store folded in a cool, dry place. Avoid bleach and hot dryers.
Final Notes
Keep a close eye on stitch counts and motif sizing as you work—small deviations add up over a large project. Adjust your tension and always block a sample. Use the project’s photos as a visual reference for motif placement and orientation. Enjoy the process and savor the heirloom beauty you’re creating with every square!
