Introduction
If you are searching for an elegant and timeless crochet project to grace your bedroom or living space, this Blue and White Square Motif Blanket is sure to inspire. The blanket features alternating blue and white square motifs, each showcasing bold color blocks and clean lines. These geometric motifs are joined together to form a classic patchwork style, highlighted by the rich contrast of sky blue and bright white. The airy yet sturdy texture of each square creates a visually striking fabric that is both decorative and functional.
This blanket brings together versatility and comfort. Whether used as a bedspread, a cozy throw for the sofa, or even as a decorative accent at the foot of the bed, its cool color palette and timeless design fit a range of home décors. The modular construction means you can make it as large or as small as you wish, adapting easily to any mattress size or personal preference. This project is an engaging way to practice motif-making and joining techniques while working with vibrant colors and creating a stunning finished piece.
Project Overview
The blanket is constructed from square crochet motifs, each made separately and joined with the join-as-you-go method or sewn together afterwards. Every motif is crocheted in rounds, alternating blue and white for a striking checkerboard look. Once all squares are joined, a finishing border with a gentle scallop is added around the perimeter to complete the blanket’s elegant appearance. The pattern can be easily adjusted by altering the number of motifs for different sizes, making it suitable for throws, lapghans, and bedspreads.
Skill Level
This project is suitable for advanced beginners or intermediate crocheters. The pattern combines basic stitches (chain, double crochet, slip stitch) with motif construction and simple joining techniques, making it an accessible yet rewarding project for those ready to move beyond basic rows or granny squares.
Materials
- Yarn: Worsted weight yarn (category 4). For a bed-sized blanket (about 40 squares), you will need approximately:
- Blue: 1000 g (about 2000 yards/1830 meters)
- White: 1000 g (about 2000 yards/1830 meters)
- Fiber: 100% cotton or a cotton/acrylic blend for softness and durability
- Crochet Hook: US size H/8 (5.0 mm) or size needed to achieve gauge
- Tapestry needle (for weaving in ends and joining squares, if not joining as you go)
- Scissors
- Stitch markers are helpful for marking corners and tracking rows if desired
Finished Size
Each finished motif measures approximately 5.5 inches (14 cm) square. For a standard queen-size blanket (8 squares by 10 squares), the finished size will be approximately 44 x 55 inches (112 x 140 cm), not including the border. To make a larger or smaller blanket, simply increase or decrease the number of motifs. The border adds approximately 2 inches (5 cm) on each side.
Gauge
Gauge is approximately 13 double crochets and 6 rows = 4 inches (10 cm) in double crochet. Each completed motif before joining should measure around 5.5 inches (14 cm) square after blocking. Adjust hook size as necessary to achieve the correct motif size for an even, neat blanket.
Stitches and Abbreviations
- ch – chain
- sl st – slip stitch
- sc – single crochet
- dc – double crochet
- tr – treble crochet
- sp – space
- st(s) – stitch(es)
- MR – magic ring
Pattern Notes
- All motifs are worked in the round, right side facing throughout.
- Chains at the beginning of rounds count as stitches unless otherwise noted.
- Color changes occur at the end of a round; fasten off and join new color with a slip stitch in the appropriate stitch unless choosing to carry colors.
- To keep joins neat, always work slip stitch joins or opt for join-as-you-go with slip stitches in the last round.
- Mark the first stitch or corner as needed to avoid losing your place.
- For crisp corners, pay close attention to corner space counts (often (dc, ch 2, dc) or similar structures).
- Blocking motifs prior to joining ensures a uniform, flat finished piece.
Crochet Pattern Instructions
Part 1: Motif Center
- With blue yarn, make a magic ring (MR). Ch 3 (counts as first dc). Work 11 dc into the ring. Join with sl st to top of ch-3. (12 dc)
- Ch 3 (counts as dc), dc in same st, ch 2, (2 dc in next st, ch 2) around, for a total of 6 times. Join with sl st to top of beginning ch-3. (12 dc, 6 ch-2 sps)
Part 2: Squaring the Motif
- Switch to white yarn. Sl st to next ch-2 sp. Ch 3 (counts as dc), (dc, ch 2, 2 dc) in same sp, [corner made]. (Dc in next 2 sts) across to next ch-2 sp, (2 dc, ch 2, 2 dc) in ch-2 sp. Repeat from * around. Join with sl st to top of ch-3. (32 dc, 4 ch-2 corners)
- Sl st to next ch-2 sp. Ch 3 (counts as dc), (dc, ch 2, 2 dc) in same sp. [corner] (Dc in each st to next corner sp) around, (2 dc, ch 2, 2 dc) in ch-2 corner space. Repeat for each side. Join with sl st to top of ch-3. (48 dc, 4 ch-2 corners)
Part 3: Framing and Finalizing the Square
- Switch to blue yarn. Sl st to next ch-2 corner sp. Ch 3, (dc, ch 2, 2 dc) in same sp, dc in each st across to next corner. Repeat for each side. Join with sl st. (64 dc, 4 ch-2 corners)
- Final round with white: Sl st to next ch-2 corner sp. Ch 3, (dc, ch 2, 2 dc) in same sp, dc in each st across to next corner. Repeat for each side. Fasten off and weave in ends. (80 dc, 4 ch-2 corners)
Each motif should now have prominent color blocks and firm, straight edges.
Part 4: Joining the Motifs
- Arrange motifs in chosen layout (alternating blue/white or all the same, as pictured).
- With blue yarn and right sides facing up, join motifs with single crochet or slip stitch in final round, matching corner to corner and stitch to stitch for a neat finish. Alternatively, use the join-as-you-go method by slip stitching into adjacent motif as you work the final round of each new motif.
Part 5: Blanket Border
- With blue yarn, join with sl st in any corner of the blanket. Ch 3, (dc, ch 2, 2 dc) in same corner space.
- Dc evenly across all sides, working (2 dc, ch 2, 2 dc) in each corner space, ensuring you place 1 dc in each joining seam for consistency.
- Optional scallop: For a decorative finish, work *(skip 1 st, 5 dc in next st, skip 1 st, sl st in next st)* around the blanket. In corner spaces, work 7 dc for slightly larger scallops.
Assembly and Finishing
After joining all motifs, weave in any remaining ends with a tapestry needle. Lay the blanket flat on a bed or blocking mats and gently shape it to perfect the edges. For a polished and professional look, wet block the blanket by lightly misting with water and pinning it to correct dimensions. Allow it to dry completely before use. Ensure all joins are secure and no loose threads remain. If you prefer a softer drape, use a fabric steamer carefully on the finished blanket, avoiding direct contact with the yarn.
Customization Ideas
- Try other color combinations, such as cream and taupe for a neutral palette, or pastel hues for a softer look.
- Switch to bulky yarn and a larger hook for a thick, cozy throw, or use thread weight for a delicate baby blanket or tablecloth.
- Add extra rounds to each motif for larger squares, or reduce rounds for smaller, finer motifs.
- Try a contrasting color for the border, or add a second scalloped round in a different color to highlight the edge.
- Repurpose the motif design for cushion covers, table runners, or even garment panels.
Troubleshooting
- Curling edges: Blocking each motif before joining can prevent curling. If you work tightly, try a larger hook.
- Uneven sides: Make sure to correctly count stitches on each side of the motif, particularly after color changes.
- Piece too large or small: Adjust your hook size or tension, and consider the effect of blocking before assembly.
- Loose color changes: Always secure the last stitch before changing color and weave ends in securely.
- Joining seams are tight or puckered: Use a flexible joining method such as whip stitch or slip stitch through both loops, and avoid pulling yarn too tight.
- Uneven tension: Practice consistent yarn feeding and hand placement, and take breaks to relax your grip.
Care Instructions
Wash gently by hand in cool water with mild detergent, or machine wash on a delicate cycle if using superwash cotton or blends. Lay flat to dry to maintain shape and avoid stretching. Do not bleach. A light press with a steam iron (without touching the fabric) can refresh the piece. Store folded in a dry, well-ventilated space away from direct sunlight.
Final Notes
Take time to check your stitch counts at the end of each round for every motif to ensure accuracy. Adjust your tension or hook size if needed to keep motifs even and consistent. Use the finished image as a visual reference for color placement, motif arrangement, and overall blanket layout. Enjoy every step of the process from motif to magnificent blanket!
