Introduction
This crochet project captures the charm and elegance of a classic lacy bedspread, composed of delicate motif squares with an openwork grid interior and beautifully scalloped edges. The creamy, soft natural color fits effortlessly into cozy, sunlit bedrooms or serene guest rooms. Each square motif is meticulously worked with fine stitches, and when joined together, they create an heirloom-quality textile. The texture is airy yet substantial, perfect for draping over a bed for decorative appeal, or for practical use in the summertime. This type of crochet design is especially satisfying because it grows steadily with each motif you complete, allowing you to customize the size as you go. Whether you are making a full bedspread, a throw blanket, cushion covers, or decorative pillow shams, this pattern is both a rewarding challenge and a timeless addition to any home decor.
The intricate grid gives the bedspread a delicate, lacy appeal that feels vintage yet modern. Its open design makes it wonderfully light—which is ideal for layering—and also provides a visually striking geometric regularity that is balanced by the soft, rounded details of the scalloped border. The room’s warm embracing feel is enhanced by the handcrafted look, and making this bedspread lets you bring a unique piece of textile art into your home or offer it as a heartfelt handmade gift.
Project Overview
This bedspread is constructed from individual crochet squares, each featuring an open lattice (grid) center surrounded by solid rounds and a prominent scalloped border. Motifs are made separately and then joined together, usually as you go in the final round or sewn together afterward. Pillow shams are made from matching squares, which can be worked similarly. This modular construction makes it easy to scale your project from a throw to a full-sized bedspread, or create coordinating pieces as desired.
Skill Level
Intermediate. This pattern involves working with fine threads or light yarn, maintaining even tension, crocheting in both open chain spaces and solid stitches, joining motifs, and working scalloped edging. A crocheter comfortable with double crochet, chain spaces, and reading stitch patterns will find this manageable with patience and attention.
Materials
- Yarn: Cotton crochet thread #10 or light sportweight cotton yarn in a natural, cream, or off-white shade. For a queen-size bedspread and two pillow shams (approx. 200 squares), estimate 3,000-3,500 yards (2,750-3,200 m). For smaller throws or single blankets, adjust accordingly.
- Crochet Hook: 1.75 mm to 2.00 mm steel crochet hook, or size needed for your chosen yarn/thread and tension.
- Tapestry Needle: For weaving in ends and joining motifs if not joining as-you-go.
- Sharp Scissors.
- Stitch Markers: Optional, to mark corners or starting points.
- Blocking Supplies: Pins and a foam mat or blocking board to shape your motifs.
Finished Size
Each square motif measures approximately 12 cm x 12 cm (4.75 in x 4.75 in) after blocking. For a standard queen bedspread (approx. 210 cm x 240 cm / 83 in x 95 in), you will need roughly 17 squares across and 20 squares down (340 motifs in total). Adjust size by adding or removing motifs, or by using different yarn weights or hook sizes. Pillow shams use 2-3 motifs each depending on size preference.
Gauge
One finished, blocked motif should measure about 12 cm x 12 cm (4.75 in x 4.75 in). Check that your center grid sits flat and edges are not ruffled. Exact gauge is less critical for a bedspread, but variations in gauge will affect the finished size and yarn usage.
Stitches and Abbreviations
- ch: chain
- sl st: slip stitch
- sc: single crochet
- dc: double crochet
- tr: treble crochet
- sk: skip
- sp: space
- rep: repeat
- st(s): stitch(es)
Pattern Notes
- Chains at the beginning of rounds do count as a stitch unless stated otherwise.
- Rounds are joined with a sl st into the top of the initial chain or first st.
- Color changes are not included, as this is a solid color pattern. If making striped or multicolor motifs, change colors at the end of a round and fasten off neatly.
- Work right side (RS) facing unless otherwise noted.
- Use stitch markers to help locate corners in the initial rounds, especially when joining squares together.
- Motifs can be joined with whip stitch, mattress stitch, or by slip stitching through both motifs on the final round.
Crochet Pattern Instructions
Motif Center (Openwork Grid)
- Foundation: Ch 20. Turn. (This creates the bottom of the grid, adjust in multiples of 4 if changing size.)
- Row 1: Dc in 5th ch from hook (counts as 1 dc, ch 1, 1 dc), *ch 1, sk 1, dc in next ch; rep from * across. (You will have 9 dc and 8 ch-1 sps.) Turn.
- Rows 2-8: Ch 4 (counts as dc, ch 1), dc in next dc, *ch 1, dc in next dc; rep from * across, ending with dc in 3rd ch of turning ch. (9 dc, 8 ch-1 sps per row) Turn. Fasten off. You have formed an open 9 x 9 grid square.
Motif Border (Solidify the Square)
- With RS facing, join yarn to any corner (outer edge stitch). Ch 1, sc evenly all around the motif, working 2 sc in each corner for sharp turns. Each side should have 18 sc (1 sc per original foundation ch and row end; adjust to keep motif square). Join with sl st to first sc.
First Decorative Round
- Ch 3 (counts as dc), dc in each sc around, working (2 dc, ch 2, 2 dc) in each corner st. Join with sl st. (Each side should have approx. 22 dc between corners; adjust for even tension.)
Setting Up the Scalloped Border
- Ch 1, sc in each dc around, working (sc, ch 2, sc) in each corner ch-2 sp. Join with sl st. (Evens out the edge for final lace.)
Scalloped/ Picot Edging
- Ch 1, *(sc in next st, sk 1 st, 5 dc in next st, sk 1 st, sc in next st); rep from * across to next corner, sc in corner ch-2 sp, ch 3 (picot), sc back into same sp; rep around. Join with sl st, fasten off, and weave in all ends.
Your motif is now complete! Block the square gently to shape.
Joining Motifs
- Work all motifs to the last round. On the last round (the scallop round), join to neighboring squares by slip stitching through the picot or center dc of adjacent scallops as you go (join-as-you-go method). Alternatively, whip stitch or mattress stitch motifs with a tapestry needle.
- Continue joining squares row by row, ensuring all motifs are oriented the same way for consistency in the lattice pattern.
Bedspread and Pillow Assembly
- Once all motifs are joined, add a border of one or more rounds of sc and the scallop lace around the outer edge of the whole bedspread for a finished look. Block the entire piece for best drape.
- For pillow shams, join 2-3 motifs (for small shams) or arrange rows for larger pillows. Seam three sides, add a button or envelope enclosure for easy washing as desired.
Assembly and Finishing
After completing all motifs and joining them together, take time to weave in all loose ends carefully with a tapestry needle. Lay the finished bedspread flat on a blocking board or a soft carpet, pinning the edges gently to open up the lace and set the shape. Lightly steam (if using cotton) or spray with water and allow to dry fully. This will ensure your motifs retain their crisp edges and overall square shape. For pillow shams, sew or slip stitch motifs together, leaving one side open for inserting the pillow. Attach buttons, flaps, or hook-and-loop closures as appropriate. Take extra care to line up the motifs for a uniform grid and elegant finish. Regularly check as you join that all corners align for a professional appearance. Once blocked and dried, your bedspread and shams are ready to use, transforming any room with timeless handmade charm.
Customization Ideas
This design offers endless potential for personalization. Use colorful thread for each motif, alternate rows in a gradient, or add a contrasting border for a more modern touch. Try using soft pastel colors for a vintage or cottage-core look, or bold jewel tones for dramatic effect. Choose thicker yarn and a larger hook for a warm winter blanket with more texture, or lighter thread for an airy summer coverlet. Assemble motifs into smaller projects such as table runners, shawls, or bags if you wish. You can also create a dangling fringe, add beads to the borders, or alternate some motifs with solid crochet squares for variety.
Troubleshooting
- Curling motifs: This is usually caused by tight tension or uneven stitch height. Block your motifs immediately after each is finished, and try going up a hook size if necessary.
- Uneven edges: Carefully count stitches on each side, especially in the border rounds. Use stitch markers in corners to maintain consistency.
- Piece too small or too large: Adjust the hook size, or add/subtract chains from the motif foundation. Always block a test motif and measure before making the final quantity.
- Loose or messy color changes: If using multiple colors, always join new yarn at the start of a round and weave in ends securely.
- Uneven tension in join-as-you-go: Join only through the picot or selected stitches and avoid pulling too tight. Lay joined motifs flat often to check for puckering or gaps.
Care Instructions
Hand wash with cold water and gentle soap or use a delicate cycle in a mesh bag. Lay the crocheted piece flat to dry, reshaping it as it dries to retain the square form and edging. Avoid wringing or hanging, as this can distort the lace shape. Ironing is usually not needed if blocked, but you can lightly steam stubborn spots from a safe distance. Store flat or gently folded to preserve the delicate structure.
Final Notes
As you work through the bedspread, periodically count your stitches to ensure motifs remain consistent. Adjust tension if you notice sagging or curling, and feel free to refer to the image as a helpful visual reference. Take your time—this project rewards patience and careful attention. The result is a piece of enduring beauty, perfect for both everyday use and special occasions.
