Introduction
This visually striking crochet blanket features bold sunburst granny squares in alternating deep forest green and soft cream, creating a dynamic yet classic look perfect for any bedroom or as a cozy throw. Each square showcases a radiant design with extended spokes emanating from a tightly worked center, surrounded by a crisp border that highlights the geometric motif and brings order to the overall composition. The slightly raised texture and open spokes add dimension to the blanket, which lies elegantly across the bed in the image. Whether used as a statement bedspread, a throw for the living room, or a cherished handmade gift, this project marries timeless crochet style with contemporary color blocking. The appeal of this blanket lies not only in its visual beauty but also in its construction: assembling squares allows for progress in small, satisfying steps, making it ideal for working at your own pace. With its graphic floral design and rhythmic repetition, crocheting this blanket is a rewarding experience for crafters who love impactful results from simple yet eye-catching motifs.
Sunburst granny blankets are always in style, and this version’s alternating color squares create a fresh, modern accent for today’s interiors. The pattern is engaging but not overly complicated, making it a perfect choice both for those looking to expand their motif repertoire and for experienced crocheters seeking a relaxing, meditative project. You’ll enjoy watching each square blossom in your hands as your blanket grows, stitch by stitch, into a handmade heirloom.
Project Overview
This blanket is constructed from individual crocheted squares featuring an open, radiating sunburst pattern. Squares are made separately, then joined together in a checkerboard layout (alternating green and cream). The blanket is edged with a decorative lacy border to unify the finished piece. Each square is worked in rounds from the center outward. Assembly is done by sewing or crocheting the squares together, followed by the addition of the border. The pattern provides instructions for both square motifs and joining technique.
Skill Level
Intermediate. This pattern uses standard stitches (chain, double crochet, treble crochet) and some special techniques such as cluster stitches, working in the round, and joining motifs. Comfort with following round-based motif instructions and keeping an even tension is recommended.
Materials
- Worsted weight yarn (Category 4), smooth cotton or acrylic recommended for stitch definition and durability
- Color A: Forest green – approx. 800g (1,260 yds/1,150 m) for a throw size
- Color B: Cream – approx. 800g (1,260 yds/1,150 m) for a throw size
- 5.0 mm (H-8) crochet hook (adjust as needed for tension)
- Tapestry needle (blunt tip) for weaving in ends and sewing squares
- Small, sharp scissors
- Stitch markers (helpful for marking corners or start of rounds)
- Blocking pins and mat (optional, for finishing)
Note: The above yarn amounts are for a blanket roughly 152 cm x 122 cm (60\” x 48\”), with 6 x 8 squares (48 total), based on an estimated 40g per square. Adjust quantities if making a larger or smaller blanket. Choose a high-twist yarn for best stitch definition.
Finished Size
Each granny square measures approximately 18 cm x 18 cm (7\” x 7\”) after blocking. As shown: 6 squares across by 8 squares down, with a lacy border, gives a finished size of approximately 152 cm x 122 cm (60\” x 48\”). To adjust size, simply make more or fewer squares and adapt the border as needed.
Gauge
One completed granny square, after blocking, should measure 18 x 18 cm (7 x 7 inches). Gauge isn’t critical for the fit but will affect the finished size and yarn usage. To check, work one full square and adjust hook size if needed. A typical gauge swatch in double crochet: 13 dc x 7 rows = 10 x 10 cm (4 x 4 inches).
Stitches and Abbreviations
- ch – chain
- sl st – slip stitch
- sc – single crochet
- hdc – half double crochet
- dc – double crochet
- tr – treble (triple) crochet
- MR – magic ring
- sp – space
- beg – beginning
- rep – repeat
- RS – right side
Pattern Notes
Each granny square is worked in joined rounds, with the right side always facing. Chains at the beginning of rounds count as stitches unless otherwise specified. Use either the magic ring (MR) or chain 4 and join to form a ring for the center. When changing colors, fasten off after completing a round and join new yarn with a slip stitch in any corner. For neat color changes, weave in ends as you go. Place a stitch marker in the first stitch of each round if you lose track easily. Joining is done with whip stitch or single crochet for a flat or slightly raised seam, based on preference.
Crochet Pattern Instructions
Sunburst Granny Square (Make equal numbers in Color A (green) and Color B (cream))
- Round 1 (Center): With chosen color, make a MR. Ch 3 (counts as dc), work 15 dc in ring. Join with sl st to top of beginning ch-3. (16 dc)
- Round 2 (Sunburst Spokes): Ch 1, sc in same st, ch 7, skip next st, *sc in next st, ch 7, skip next st*. Rep from * to * around. Join with sl st to first sc. (8 ch-7 loops)
- Round 3 (Second Round of Spokes): Sl st into first ch-7 sp, ch 1, sc in sp, ch 8, sc in next ch-7 sp. Rep *[ch 8, sc in next ch-7 sp]* around. Join with sl st to first sc. (8 ch-8 loops)
- Round 4 (Extend Spokes & Form Square):
- Sl st into next ch-8 loop, ch 3 (counts as dc), 3 dc in same sp, tr in same sp (corner formed), ch 2, tr in same sp.
- In next sp: 4 dc, tr, ch 2, tr (corner made again). Rep this in each sp around (total of 4 corners). Join with sl st to top of beg ch-3. (Each side: 4 dc + 2 tr in each corner; 4 corners; 4 ch-2 at corners)
- Round 5 (Building Border): Sl st to corner ch-2 sp, ch 3 (counts as dc), (2 dc, ch 2, 3 dc) in same sp (corner worked), *dc in each st across to next corner, (3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc) in ch-2 corner sp*. Rep from * to * around. Join with sl st to top of beg ch-3. (Each side: 14 dc; 4 corners with ch-2 sps)
- Round 6 (Final Border): Sl st to corner ch-2 sp, ch 2 (counts as hdc), (2 hdc, ch 2, 3 hdc) in same sp, *hdc in each st across to corner, (3 hdc, ch 2, 3 hdc) in next corner*. Rep around. Join with sl st to top of beg ch-2. Fasten off and weave in ends. (Each side: 20 hdc; 4 ch-2 corners)
Repeat for total needed squares
Repeat steps above, making half the squares in Color A and half in Color B, or another checkerboard ratio as desired.
Joining Squares
- Lay out completed squares in alternating colors for a checkerboard effect.
- With RS facing, join squares edge to edge using your preferred method: single crochet seam (with RS facing for ridged join, or WS facing for flat join), or whip stitch with a tapestry needle and matching yarn.
- Continue joining rows, then join all rows horizontally to complete the main blanket body.
Lacy Border
- With main blanket RS facing and cream yarn (or color of choice), join in any corner ch-2 sp. Ch 1, (sc, ch 2, sc) in corner.
- *(Skip 2 sts, 5 dc in next st, skip 2 sts, sc in next st)*, continue across edge, adjusting the “skip” to fit as needed for even spacing. In each corner: (sc, ch 2, sc).
- Repeat on all sides for 1 or 2 rounds, ending with a slip stitch and fastening off.
Assembly and Finishing
Once all squares are crocheted and ends are woven in, carefully lay out your desired arrangement for the blanket. Join squares row by row using the chosen joining technique, keeping the seams tidy and making sure corners align. After all squares are connected, use pins and a blocking mat to square up the blanket and lightly steam or wet block it, allowing the sunburst spokes and border to open up and the blanket to reach its final dimensions. Once dry, work the lacy border evenly around all four edges, ensuring corners remain sharp and the edging sits flat. Weave in all ends securely on the wrong side, and use a tapestry needle to close any minor gaps at the joins for a professional finish.
Customization Ideas
Personalize your blanket by using any two or more contrasting colors for the squares—try jewel tones, neutrals, or even a rainbow effect for each motif. Use variegated yarn for an ombré look or substitute all squares with a single color for a minimalist statement. Adjust square size by varying yarn weight (DK or bulky) and hook size, or make the blanket larger or smaller by changing the number of motifs. The motif also works great for cushion covers or as part of a tote. For extra warmth, join a fleece backing or crochet two layers and sew together.
Troubleshooting
- Curling Squares: If the squares curl, block them thoroughly after finishing. Try going up a hook size or loosening tension.
- Uneven Edges: Ensure that stitch counts are correct at the end of each round. If edges are wavy or ruffled, check that you are adding the correct number in each side and corner.
- Piece Too Large or Small: Adjust hook size and/or yarn weight to achieve target square size. Rework one square and measure before making all.
- Loose Color Changes: Securely fasten and weave in ends at each color change to avoid gaps.
- Uneven Tension: Maintain consistent grip and stitch height. Practice a few squares before assembling the main blanket.
Care Instructions
Hand or machine wash on a gentle cycle with cool water and mild detergent. Lay flat to dry, reshaping as needed. Avoid bleach and high heat. For best results, block after washing to help maintain the pattern’s crispness. Store folded in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Final Notes
Always count stitches at the end of every round to ensure accuracy and uniformity. Take the time needed to adjust tension and block each square, using the finished photo as a visual guide. With patience, your radiant sunburst granny blanket will become a cherished handmade treasure for years to come.
