Introduction
This crochet project features a classic and elegant bedspread with matching pillow covers, crafted from repeated lacy square motifs. The entire ensemble exudes a timeless charm with its soothing beige hue and intricate openwork, forming a sophisticated diamond pattern throughout. Each motif is beautifully geometric, boasting a clean grid of filet crochet and solid stitches, arranged together for a seamless and substantial look. The blanket is finished with a gently scalloped border that adds a soft, decorative touch, complementing the sharp lines of the squares.
Perfect for gracing a bedroom with understated luxury, this set is both functional and decorative. The light, airy pattern provides cozy warmth without being too heavy, and the repetitive motif construction makes it a relaxing long-term project. Whether you wish to enhance your own room or make a stunning handmade gift, this pattern delivers both beauty and versatility. The repetitive, mindful nature of joining motif squares is deeply satisfying, offering visible progress and a rewarding finished product.
Project Overview
This bedspread and pillow cover set is composed of identical, lacy square motifs worked separately and then joined together. Each motif is crocheted in rounds, using a combination of filet crochet and solid stitches to form the striking diamond design. Once all motifs are completed, they are sewn or crocheted together, followed by adding a lacy scalloped border around the joined piece. The pillow covers mirror the bedspread by using the same motifs, with additional edging as needed for a snug fit.
Skill Level
Intermediate. This project is well-suited for those comfortable with reading patterns, changing stitch types, working in the round, and assembling motifs. Experience with filet crochet or openwork is helpful, though detailed guidance is provided.
Materials
- Yarn: Approximately 2,600–3,000 grams (92–106 oz) of DK weight (category 3/light worsted) 100% cotton yarn for a queen-size bedspread and two pillow covers. (Estimate 2,400g for the spread, 600g for pillows.)
- Color: Solid beige, natural, or your chosen neutral tone.
- Crochet Hook: Size G/6 (4.0 mm) or to achieve gauge.
- Tapestry Needle: For joining motifs and weaving in ends.
- Scissors.
- Stitch Markers: Helpful for marking motif corners and joins.
- Measuring tape or ruler.
Finished Size
The bedspread as worked fits a standard queen-size bed, measuring approximately 200 cm x 220 cm (78 x 87 inches). Each square motif measures about 20 cm (8 inches) per side. For the pillows, the covers are sized for 50 x 50 cm (20 x 20 inches) inserts. Adjusting the number or size of motifs allows for customization to fit twin, full, or king beds.
Gauge
One completed motif (before joining or blocking) should measure approximately 20 cm x 20 cm (8 x 8 inches). Achieve this by making a test motif and adjusting your hook size if necessary. Slight variations in gauge will alter overall bedspread dimensions.
Stitches and Abbreviations
- ch – chain
- sl st – slip stitch
- sc – single crochet
- dc – double crochet
- tr – treble crochet (for border scallops)
- sp – space
- st(s) – stitch(es)
- RS/WS – right side/wrong side
Pattern Notes
- Motive squares are worked in joined rounds. The initial chain usually counts as a stitch unless otherwise specified.
- Rounds are joined with slip stitch unless stated, and new rounds typically begin in a motif corner.
- When chaining for spaces, keep your tension consistent; too tight or too loose will distort the motif shape.
- For seamless color, stay with one color throughout, fastening off and weaving ends as you go.
- Use a stitch marker in one corner to track the start of new rounds, ensuring accurate increases at the corners.
- The final border is worked around the full bedspread after joining all motifs.
Crochet Pattern Instructions
Center Motif (Make as many as needed)
Each finished square measures about 20 cm (8 inches). For a queen-size bedspread (approx. 200 x 220 cm), you will need about 10 motifs wide x 11 motifs long (110 total squares).
- Begin with a foundation: Ch 6, sl st to form a ring.
Alternative: Magic ring for a tighter center. - Round 1: Ch 3 (counts as 1 dc), dc into ring, ch 2, [2 dc into ring, ch 2] three more times; join with sl st to top of ch 3. (8 dc, 4 ch-2 sps: forms four corners)
- Round 2: Sl st to next ch-2 sp, ch 3 (counts as dc), dc in same sp, ch 2, 2 dc in same sp (first corner made), *ch 2, skip 2 dc, 2 dc, ch 2, 2 dc in next corner sp, repeat from * 3 times; join. (Each side: 2 dc, ch-2 sp between, corners: 2 dc ch 2 2 dc)
- Round 3: Sl st to corner, ch 3, dc in same, ch 2, 2 dc in same (corner), ch 3, [skip 2 dc, sc in ch-2 sp, ch 3, skip 2 dc], *2 dc in next corner, ch 2, 2 dc in same, ch 3, skip 2 dc, sc in next ch-2 sp, ch 3, skip 2 dc*, repeat **around; join. (Corners: 2 dc, ch 2, 2 dc each; 2 ch-3 spaces per side)
- Round 4: Sl st to corner, ch 3, dc in same, ch 2, 2 dc in same; ch 2, 2 dc in first ch-3 sp, ch 3, 2 dc in next ch-3 sp, ch 2, repeat corner; continue around. Join. (Increase number of dc and spaces to keep motif square.)
- Rounds 5–10: Continue the established pattern, maintaining: 2 dc, ch 2, 2 dc in each corner; for sides, alternate blocks of dc and ch-3 spaces to form the diagonal diamond mesh. When you work across the side, make sure that the openwork filet mesh (dc, ch space, or solid dc blocks) forms the ‘X’ pattern as seen in the visual, expanding as the motif grows. By Round 10, the square will have about 20–22 stitches per side, depending on tension.
- Final round: For a clean edge, work sc evenly around, with (sc, ch 1, sc) in each corner. Fasten off and weave in ends.
Tip: The visual ‘X’ pattern is made by alternating solid and open areas. For open squares: [dc, ch 1, skip 1, dc], for solid blocks: [dc in next 2 sts]. Adjust for your chosen motif size, keeping symmetry.
Joining the Motifs
- Lay motifs out in desired arrangement (10 x 11 squares for queen-size). Ensure all motifs are oriented the same way for the continuous diamond/X effect.
- Join using your preferred method: slip stitch seam, whip stitch with yarn needle, or continuous join-as-you-go on the final round of each motif (replace the last sc round with [sc in motif edge, sl st to adjacent motif, repeat]).
- Work in rows, joining motifs side by side, then joining the rows together at the edges, aligning corners neatly.
Pillow Covers
- Make 2 x 2 motifs per pillow cover (approx. 40 x 40 cm), or 3 x 3 for larger cases. Join as for bedspread, leaving one side open for inserting pillow.
- After joining, add a round of sc around the assembled pillow covers. For the closing side, add button loops (ch-5 or ch-6 spaces for each button), or sew in a zipper if preferred.
Scalloped Border
- With RS facing, join yarn to any corner of assembled bedspread.
- Border Round 1: Ch 1, sc evenly around, (sc, ch 1, sc) in each corner. Join.
- Border Round 2: *Skip next st, 5 dc in next st, skip next st, sc in next.* Repeat from * around. For corners, work (5 dc, ch 1, 5 dc) or add extra sc between scallops as needed for smooth corners.
- Fasten off, weave in all ends.
Assembly and Finishing
After crocheting and joining all motifs, gently block the assembled bedspread and pillow covers to shape. Pin out on a large, flat surface, mist lightly, and let dry for crisp corners and uniform squares. Carefully weave in all yarn ends using a tapestry needle, pulling through the sc border to secure. For pillow covers, attach buttons or sew in zippers for closure after inserting the form. Lay the finished bedspread over your bed and adjust borders as necessary so it lays flat and even. The gentle scalloped edge should drape elegantly with no curling or puckering.
Customization Ideas
- Color: Choose a rich jewel tone (emerald, sapphire, or burgundy) for dramatic effect, or soft pastels for a nursery or cottage look. Use different colors for each motif for a playful patchwork effect.
- Yarn weight: Use lighter fingering weight yarn for a delicate lace throw, or chunky yarn for a cozy, oversized blanket (adjust hook and motif count).
- Alternative uses: Make extra motifs to create matching table runners, curtains, or even use single motifs as coasters and placemats.
- Border styles: Substitute the scalloped border with picots, shells, or a simple dc edge for a personalized finish.
Troubleshooting
- Curling motifs: If squares are curling, try blocking after each motif is finished. Excessive curl can indicate your tension is too tight, or your hook is too small. Adjust as needed.
- Uneven edges: Double-check stitch counts, especially at corners, and ensure you work the same number of stitches each round. If a motif seems misshapen after several rounds, gently frog and redo the previous round.
- Piece too large or too small: Revisit your gauge swatch. Adjust hook size up (for larger) or down (for smaller) until a single motif matches target measurements. Double-check row/round counts for consistency.
- Loose color changes: If fastening off for color changes or ends is too loose, be sure to knot ends securely and weave at least 10 cm (4 in) back through the finished work.
- Uneven tension: Be mindful of how tightly you hold the yarn, especially during long stretches of chain or filet mesh; a consistent hand gives smoother results.
Care Instructions
Hand wash or machine wash on gentle with cold water and mild soap. For best results, lay flat to dry to maintain the shape of motifs and the lacy border. Avoid bleach, high heat, or heavy machine agitation. Store folded in a cool, dry space.
Final Notes
Keep a close eye on stitch counts at corners and on sides throughout each motif for consistent dimensions. Take time to relax and enjoy the meditative rhythm of repeated squares. Don’t hesitate to refer to your working piece and the accompanying photo for visual guidance and motivation as you go. The beauty of this lacy bedspread comes from the subtle repetition and the care poured into every motif—embrace the artistry with every stitch!
