Introduction
This beautiful crochet bedspread features alternating stripes of soft lavender and creamy off-white, worked in rows of classic shell stitch for a rich, textural effect. The visual charm of this blanket comes from its elegant stripes and raised shell pattern, creating a stunning look that instantly brightens up any bedroom. Each stripe, delicately bordered by shells, brings a vintage yet modern vibe, making it a wonderful decorative piece for your home. The pillow shams, worked in a matching motif, tie together the whole ensemble for a coordinated finish.
Ideal as a show-stopper on a queen or full bed, this bedspread can be made in your choice of colors for a fresh twist or to match any room. The plush texture makes it cozy to curl up under while displaying advanced crochet artistry with its well-defined shells. Whether made as a gift, for a family keepsake, or for yourself, this project rewards its maker with both soothing repetition and eye-catching beauty.
Project Overview
This bedspread is crocheted in long horizontal rows, alternating lavender and cream stripes with prominent shell stitch patterns. Each row builds directly onto the last, creating a seamless flow. The border is finished with a scalloped shell edge. Matching pillow shams are constructed in flat rectangles using the same stripe and shell sequence and sewn to pillow forms. There are no separate motifs or appliqués in the main blanket; all texture is created within the striped construction.
Skill Level
Intermediate. You should be comfortable with counting stitches, changing colors cleanly, and working the shell stitch. Experience managing large projects and consistent tension is recommended due to the size and weight of the finished piece.
Materials
- Worsted weight (category 4) yarn in two colors:
- Color A (Lavender): Approx. 1,800 g (3,600 yds / 3,300 m) for a queen-size bedspread, plus 400 g for matching pillows
- Color B (Cream): Approx. 1,700 g (3,400 yds / 3,000 m) for the main blanket and pillow shams
- Hook: US size I/9 (5.5 mm) crochet hook, or size needed for gauge
- Tapestry needle for weaving in ends
- Scissors
- Stitch markers (optional but helpful for start of rows and color changes)
- Pillow forms (for shams): 18″ x 18″ (45 x 45 cm), adjust as needed
Finished Size
The completed blanket measures approximately 86″ x 90″ (218 x 229 cm) to fit a standard queen-size bed with a generous drape. The pillow covers are about 18″ x 18″ (45 x 45 cm). You can adjust the size by increasing or decreasing the foundation chain in multiples of the shell stitch sequence and adding or omitting rows as desired for length.
Gauge
Gauge is approximately 11 stitches x 8 rows = 4″ (10 cm) in double crochet with a 5.5 mm hook. Because this is a large project, slight differences in gauge will affect the finished size. Always create a small swatch (about 20 stitches x 12 rows) in the shell pattern to check your measurements before starting the entire bedspread.
Stitches and Abbreviations
- ch – chain
- sl st – slip stitch
- sc – single crochet
- dc – double crochet
- tr – treble crochet
- Shell – 5 dc in same stitch
- sk – skip
- RS – right side
- WS – wrong side
Pattern Notes
- Work back and forth in rows; turn after each row unless otherwise stated.
- Chains at the beginning of rows (ch 3 for dc rows) count as the first dc unless noted.
- Color changes are done at the last yarn over of the last stitch at the end of the row; carry the unused color up the side or cut and rejoin as you prefer for neatness.
- The shell stitch is always worked as 5 dc in the same st or space; this is what creates the signature texture.
- For clean color transitions, use tapestry needle to weave in color ends at the sides as you go.
- Stitch markers are helpful to keep track of the first stitch of each row for consistency, especially on a long foundation chain.
Crochet Pattern Instructions
Foundation & Setup
- With Color A (Lavender), ch 236. This number makes a bedspread ~86″ wide; to adjust width, add or subtract multiples of 8 ch (each repeat = ~3″).
- Row 1 (RS): Dc in 4th ch from hook and in each ch across (234 dc). Ch 3, turn.
Main Striped Panel
Stripe Pattern Sequence: 2 rows Color A (Lavender), 2 rows Color B (Cream). Repeat throughout. Each ‘shell row’ is worked in Color A, with plain dc rows in Color B for maximum contrast.
- Row 2 (Color A): (ch 3 counts as dc), * sk 3, shell (5 dc) in next st, sk 3, dc in next st. Repeat from * across. End with dc in last st (29 shells + 30 dc including turning chains). Ch 3, turn.
- Row 3 (Color A): Dc in next 3 sts, * shell in central dc of next shell below, dc in next 3 sts; repeat from * across. End with dc in last st. Drop Color A, join Color B at end of row. Ch 3, turn.
- Rows 4-5 (Color B): Dc in each st across (234 dc). Ch 3, turn at end of each row.
- Rows 6-7: As Rows 2-3 with Color A. Join Color B at end of row 7. Continue alternating in this way, until you reach desired length (for queen: approx. 40 paired stripes, ending with 2 rows in Color A for symmetry).
Border / Edging
- With RS facing and Color A (Lavender), join to any corner. Ch 3 (counts as dc), work shell (5 dc) in next st along edge, * sk 3, dc in next st, shell in next st; repeat from * around. At each corner, add (dc, ch 2, dc) for a gentle curve, then continue the shell pattern along each side.
- For the final touch, add a second round of scalloped edge: Ch 1, sc in each stitch around, working 2 sc in each ch-2 corner. Fasten off and weave in all ends neatly.
Pillow Sham Instructions
- Ch 62 with Color A. Row 1: Dc in 4th ch from hook and in each ch across (60 dc). Ch 3, turn.
- Follow blanket instructions for stripe and shell placement for 12 stripes (approx. 16″).
- Fasten off. Repeat to make back panel in plain dc stripes if preferred.
- With WS together, sc around three sides to join. Insert pillow form, then seam last side. Optionally, add button or zipper closure for a removable cover.
Assembly and Finishing
Once all the rows of your blanket and pillows are complete, lay the pieces flat and gently steam block or wet block to even out the shell pattern and help the edges relax. For the blanket, ensure all ends from color changes are woven neatly at the side edges. For the pillow shams, check corners for fullness and adjust seaming as necessary. Shape gently while damp and allow to dry fully for crisp stitch definition. Use a tapestry needle to tidy up any stray yarn ends and smooth out the border scallops for a professional finish.
Customization Ideas
This pattern looks stunning in classic lavender and cream, but you can personalize it by trying other pastel pairs, bold brights, or even a monochrome version for modern flair. Use ombré yarn or add a third color for extra richness. For a lighter throw, use DK weight yarn and a smaller hook, or for extra coziness, try chunky yarn—but adjust the foundation chains and row counts accordingly. The shell-and-stripe panel could also be adapted into cushion covers, table runners, or even baby blankets by resizing the base chains and rows.
Troubleshooting
- Curling Edges: This can happen if your foundation chain is too tight. Try using a larger hook for the first chain or working a foundation dc row instead.
- Uneven Edges: Count stitches at the start and end of each row; use stitch markers to remember the first and last stitch placement.
- Piece Too Large/Small: Always check your gauge before starting. If size is off, adjust your hook up or down, or redo the math for how many shell repeats you need to reach the required width.
- Loose or Sloppy Color Changes: Change color in the final yarn over of last stitch in the row for a clean transition, and always pull yarn tails snug before weaving in.
- Tension Inconsistencies: Take breaks and check your work often; if tension loosens as you go, consider frogging back a few rows to maintain overall appearance.
Care Instructions
Machine wash your bedspread cold on a gentle cycle if using machine-wash acrylic or superwash wool. Lay flat to dry, or tumble dry low if your yarn allows. Always check your yarn label for specific care guidelines. Avoid ironing; block to shape with steam or as recommended for the yarn type.
Final Notes
Check stitch counts at the end of each row for symmetry, and adjust your starting chain or tension as needed. Refer to the project photo for guidance on stripe placement and shell fullness. Enjoy the rhythmic flow of shells and stripes as you create a timeless, textured heirloom for yourself or a loved one.
