Introduction
This stunning crochet project showcases a contemporary take on classic lacework, featuring an elegant green blanket and matching pillow covers crafted from repeated lacy square motifs. The blanket is comprised of identically sized squares, each with geometric, radiating star lines framed by an airy, open texture of chains and double crochets. The subtle sage-green color brings a serene, nature-inspired touch to any bedroom, making this set both eye-catching and calming.
The design’s main appeal is its harmonious blend of solid sections and delicate latticework. Each square motif combines straight lines with soft, rounded chain spaces, creating a starburst pattern that’s both graphic and light. Once all motifs are joined, the finished blanket drapes beautifully, and the matching pillow shams make your bedding look cohesive and luxurious. This project is ideal for crocheters looking to expand their skills with motif work or to make a memorable gift or heirloom piece.
The versatility of this project means you can create a full bedspread as shown, or size it down for a throw, baby blanket, or even a decorative tablecloth. Whether you’re seeking a statement piece or an enjoyable, repetitive crochet journey, this geometric lacy motif set is the perfect project to dive into.
Project Overview
This crochet blanket and pillow set is made from individual lacy square motifs, each crocheted separately in flat rows, then joined together to form the finished pieces. The squares are worked in rounds, starting from the center outwards, with a combination of solid and openwork stitches. After joining all the motifs using a simple flat-join method, a delicate edging is added to complete the look. The pillow covers use the same motif technique for a coordinated bedroom set.
- Crocheted in individual squares (motifs)
- Squares joined with flat slip stitch or whipstitch seams
- Border added after joining
Skill Level
This project is suitable for advanced beginners to intermediate crocheters. If you are comfortable working in the round, following motif instructions, and joining pieces together, you’ll find this pattern accessible. The stitches used are basic, but careful counting is required for an even and symmetrical result.
Materials
- Yarn: Lightweight cotton yarn (category 2/#3 DK or light/sport weight) recommended for a fresh and crisp finish. For a queen-size blanket (roughly 180 x 220 cm / 70 x 86 in), you’ll need approximately 2,200–2,600 yards (2,000–2,400 m) of yarn.
- Color: Solid light sage green, or any color of your choice.
- Crochet Hook: US Size D/3 (3.25 mm) or size needed to obtain gauge.
- Tapestry Needle: For weaving in ends and joining motifs.
- Scissors: For trimming yarn ends.
- Stitch Markers: Useful for marking beginning of rounds or motif corners.
- Flexible Tape Measure: For checking motif and finished blanket dimensions.
- Pillow Inserts: Approx. 45 x 45 cm (18 x 18 in), if making matching pillows.
Finished Size
Blanket Size: Approx. 180 x 220 cm (70 x 86 in) when assembled with 6 x 8 squares.
Square motif size: Each square is about 25 x 25 cm (10 x 10 in) after blocking.
Adjusting Size: To modify your blanket size, simply increase or decrease the number of motifs horizontally or vertically. Adjusting hook size or yarn weight will also affect the finished size.
Gauge
One completed square motif (unblocked) should measure about 24 x 24 cm (9.5 x 9.5 in). After blocking, squares should reach 25 x 25 cm (10 x 10 in). If your motif is much larger or smaller, adjust hook size up or down. Consistent gauge is key for an evenly joined blanket, though minor differences won’t affect the pattern’s beauty.
Stitches and Abbreviations
- ch – chain
- sl st – slip stitch
- sc – single crochet
- dc – double crochet
- tr – treble crochet
- st(s) – stitch(es)
- sp – space
- beg – beginning
- rep – repeat
- RS – right side
Pattern Notes
- Each square motif is worked in joined rounds from the center out.
- Turning chains count as the first stitch unless otherwise specified.
- Join rounds with a slip stitch to the top of the beginning chain.
- Motifs are whipstitched or slip-stitched together after all have been completed. Alternatively, you can join them as you go (explained below).
- Maintain consistent tension for identical motif sizes.
- Mark the corners of your motifs with stitch markers to keep edges square, especially important when joining.
- Yarn color changes are not needed for single-color versions, but for multi-color projects change color at the end of a round and fasten off neatly.
- To get crisp, squared corners, block each motif before joining.
Crochet Pattern Instructions
Center Lacy Square Motif
- Round 1 (RS): Ch 6, join with sl st to form a ring. Ch 3 (counts as dc), dc in ring, *ch 2, 2 dc in ring; rep from * six more times (for 8 sets of 2 dc), ch 2, join with sl st to top of beg ch-3. (16 dc, 8 ch-2 sps)
- Round 2: Sl st to next ch-2 sp, ch 3 (counts as dc), dc in same sp, ch 3, 2 dc in same sp, *ch 2, 2 dc in next ch-2 sp, ch 3, 2 dc in same sp; rep from * around, join with sl st to top of beg ch-3. (32 dc, 8 ch-3 sps, 8 ch-2 sps)
- Round 3: Ch 3 (counts as dc), dc in next dc, sk 2 dc, in ch-3 sp: (2 dc, ch 3, 2 dc), *dc in next 2 dc, sk 2 dc, in next ch-3 sp: (2 dc, ch 3, 2 dc); rep from * around, join. (40 dc, 8 ch-3 sps)
- Round 4: Sl st to ch-3 sp, (ch 3, dc, ch 3, 2 dc) in same sp, *ch 1, dc in next 2 dc, ch 2, dc in next 2 dc, ch 1, in next ch-3 sp: (2 dc, ch 3, 2 dc); rep from * around, join. (48 dc, 8 ch-3 sps, 16 ch-1 sps, 8 ch-2 sps)
- Round 5: Sl st to ch-3 sp, (ch 3, dc, ch 4, 2 dc) in same sp (corner), *ch 2, dc in next ch-1 sp, dc in next 2 dc, ch 2, dc in next 2 dc, dc in ch-1 sp, ch 2, in next ch-3 sp: (2 dc, ch 4, 2 dc); rep from * around, join. (56 dc, 8 ch-4 sps, 24 ch-2 sps)
- Round 6 (Forming Larger Holes): Sl st to ch-4 sp, (ch 3, dc, ch 5, 2 dc) in same sp (corner), *ch 3, sk 6 dc, in next ch-4 sp: (2 dc, ch 5, 2 dc); rep from * around, join. (32 dc, 8 ch-5 sps, 8 ch-3 sps)
- Round 7: Ch 3, dc in next dc, *ch 3, sc in next ch-3 sp, ch 3, dc in next 2 dc, in ch-5 sp: (dc, ch 3, dc), dc in next 2 dc; rep from * around, join. (48 dc, 8 sc, 16 ch-3 sps)
- Round 8: (Ch 3, dc) in same st as join, *ch 4, sc in next ch-3 sp, ch 4, (2 dc in next dc) twice, ch 4, sc in next ch-3 sp, ch 4, (2 dc, ch 4, 2 dc) in next ch-3 corner sp; rep from * around, maintaining symmetry, join. (total dc count will increase, keep stitch placement even)
- Round 9 (Border): Ch 1, *sc evenly along all sides, placing (sc, ch 3, sc) in each corner ch-4 sp to form a firm edge; rep from * around. Join with sl st. (Number of scs varies by motif size. Ensure sides are straight and corners firm.)
Notes for Motif Pattern: The aim is to maintain a starburst of solid dc sections radiating toward each corner, with vertical and diagonal lines defined by alternating chains and open spaces. Adjust ch-spaces as needed to keep proportions and square shape consistent.
Joining the Motifs
- Block each motif before joining for evenness.
- Arrange motifs in your chosen layout (for a queen-size, typically 6 x 8 motifs).
- Join squares using your preferred method—whipstitch with a tapestry needle for an almost invisible join, or sl st through back loops with a crochet hook for a decorative ridge.
- For “join-as-you-go”: on the final round (border), replace corner ch-3 or ch-4 with ch-1, slip stitch into adjacent motif’s matching corner, ch-1, then continue motif border. Repeat for each adjoining side/corner.
Edging (Optional)
- Work a border of sc evenly around the entire blanket, placing 3 sc in each corner for sharp edges.
- Add a final lacy round: *Ch 5, skip 2 sts, sc in next st; rep from * around, adjusting as needed at corners.
Pillow Cover Construction
- Make additional motifs for each pillow cover (typically 2 motifs per side per pillow, depending on pillow size).
- Join motifs as for blanket to create pillow front and back.
- Crochet two squares together on three sides; insert pillow form; close final side with slip stitches or an envelope closure using buttons/chains for easy removal.
Assembly and Finishing
- Check each motif for size and shape consistency; block as needed.
- With right sides facing up, join motifs according to your chosen seam method, working in rows or strips for fastest assembly. Lay assembled strips flat and join these into the larger blanket to maintain straight lines.
- Weave in all yarn ends securely using a tapestry needle.
- For the neatest appearance, block the entire completed project by misting with water, pinning to shape (stretching gently as needed), and allowing to dry flat.
- Pay special attention to corners and side tension for a perfectly rectangular finish.
- If adding a border, crochet it after the full blanket is assembled and blocked, then block a final time to ensure a finished look.
- For pillows, insert forms after joining and weaving in ends, and optionally add buttons, snaps, or decorative ties for closure.
Customization Ideas
- Colors: Try a gradient of greens for an ombre effect, or make each motif in a different pastel for a patchwork vibe.
- Yarn Weight: For a warmer, heavier blanket, use worsted or aran weight yarn; for a delicate summer throw, use fingering cotton or linen blends.
- Alternative Uses: Make a tablecloth, accent throw, baby blanket, wrap, or curtain by adjusting motif count and joining pattern. Single motifs make lovely coasters or placemats.
- Edging Styles: Add a picot or scalloped border for extra elegance, or sew decorative beads at motif corners for a unique finish.
Troubleshooting
- Curling: If motifs curl, try a larger hook, loosen your tension, or block motifs before joining.
- Uneven Edges/Joints: Double-check motif counts before assembling and always block to size. If join seams pucker, use less tension or try a different join method.
- Piece Too Large/Small: Motif size is affected by gauge and yarn choice. Adjust hook size or try a different yarn weight to achieve the correct measurements.
- Loose Color Changes: Fasten off tightly and weave in ends back and forth through stitches for a secure, neat finish.
- Uneven Tension: Practice with scrap yarn first and focus on maintaining an even loop height, especially when working chains and open spaces.
- Misshapen Squares: Lay motifs flat, block thoroughly, and pay attention to ch-spaces and solid sections so that each motif is uniformly square before joining.
Care Instructions
- Hand wash in cool or lukewarm water with mild detergent.
- Roll gently in a towel to remove excess water; lay flat to dry.
- Avoid wringing or drying in direct sunlight for prolonged periods to prevent fading.
- If machine washing is necessary, use a laundry bag and a delicate cycle.
Final Notes
This harmonious geometric crochet blanket and pillow set is a wonderful opportunity to practice motif work, improve counting skills, and create an heirloom-quality home accessory. Always count stitches at the end of each round, adjust your tension as needed, and use blocking to achieve crisp, even motifs. Use the project photo as inspiration and a guide—don’t be afraid to make this pattern your own!
