Introduction
This crochet project brings a touch of timeless elegance to any bedroom: a botanical lace bedspread composed of delicate floral granny square motifs. The visible bedspread showcases a uniform field of lacy, light green squares, each featuring a prominent central flower framed by lattice-like openwork and a subtle scalloped edge. The bedspread is lightweight and classic, draping beautifully over the bed and complementing a room filled with greenery, botanical prints, and soft lighting. Whether aiming to recreate a vintage look or to introduce handmade artistry into modern decor, this pattern stands out with its soft texture, intricate openwork, and the striking, three-dimensional floral medallions in each square.
This project makes for a beautiful heirloom piece: perfect as a bedspread or large throw, wedding or housewarming gift, or a meditative long-term crochet adventure. Crafters will enjoy watching each motif bloom through their hands, and the process of joining squares can be both rhythmic and satisfying. The repetitive yet engaging motif construction means crocheters can carry a square-in-progress on the go, and methodically join as they build a truly stunning lace textile.
Project Overview
The bedspread is constructed by making multiple identical square motifs, each crocheted separately and then joined in a grid to form the finished piece. The squares feature a central flower surrounded by a lacy mesh, concluded with a gentle scallop edge. Squares are joined with a join-as-you-go method on the final round or are whipstitched together with a tapestry needle. No additional border is required, as the scalloped motif edges provide a finished look. This project is modular, allowing easy adjustment of size by making more or fewer motifs.
Skill Level
Intermediate. While the stitches are not extremely advanced, the combination of rounds, working in the round, reading a motif pattern, and joining motifs requires some crochet experience. Adventurous advanced beginners familiar with motif work can also enjoy this project.
Materials
- Yarn: Fingering or sport weight cotton yarn recommended for crisp stitch definition and drape. For a queen-sized bedspread (approx. 72 x 90 in/183 x 229 cm), estimate 2700–3000 yards (2460–2740 m). In the sample, a soft sage green is used throughout. For accent pillows or a mixed look, use multiple colors.
- Crochet Hook: 2.75 mm (US C-2) or hook to achieve gauge. Choose a smooth, comfortable hook for ease of motif work.
- Tapestry Needle: For weaving in ends and joining motifs, if not worked join-as-you-go.
- Scissors
- Stitch Markers: Optional—for marking beginning stitches or motif corners.
Finished Size
Each finished motif measures approximately 5.5 x 5.5 inches (14 x 14 cm) unblocked, stretching to 6 x 6 inches (15 x 15 cm) after blocking. For a queen bedspread (roughly 72 x 90 in/183 x 229 cm), you will need about 12 squares across by 16 squares down (192 motifs). Adjust bedspread size by making more or fewer squares; for a throw, tablecloth, or smaller blanket, alter the number of motifs accordingly.
Gauge
One motif, unblocked, should measure approximately 5.5 in (14 cm) across. If your motifs are significantly larger or smaller, adjust your hook size accordingly. Gauge is not critical for this flexible project, but consistent squares will make joining and drape easier. If possible, block one finished motif before measuring.
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
- st(s) – stitch(es)
- rep – repeat
Pattern Notes
- This pattern uses US crochet terms.
- Ch-3 at start of a round always counts as the first dc; ch-4 counts as tr.
- Work squares in joined rounds unless otherwise noted. Use a sl st to join each round.
- On the final round, motifs may be joined using join-as-you-go or sewn after completion.
- The motif is worked right side facing throughout.
- To change color (if desired), do so at the beginning of any round; use the invisible join for a neat finish.
- Block all motifs to measurement before joining for a professional look.
Crochet Pattern Instructions
Center Flower Motif
- Round 1: Make a MR, ch 3 (counts as dc), 15 dc into MR. (16 dc) Sl st to top of ch-3 to join. Pull ring tight.
- Round 2: Ch 1, sc in same st, ch 2, skip 1 st, *sc in next st, ch 2, skip 1 st; rep from * around. (8 sc, 8 ch-2 sps) Sl st to first sc.
- Round 3: Sl st into first ch-2 sp, ch 3 (counts as dc), 1 dc, ch 2, 2 dc in same sp, *in next ch-2 sp: 2 dc, ch 2, 2 dc; rep from * around. (8 petals of 4 sts, 8 ch-2 sps) Sl st to top of first ch-3.
- Round 4: Sl st into next dc and into ch-2 sp, ch 3 (counts as dc), 6 dc in same sp, sl st in space between next 2 dc groups, *in next ch-2 sp: 7 dc, sl st in space between next sets; rep from * around. Sl st to top of ch-3. (8 petals of 7 dc each)
- Round 5: Ch 1, sc in same st, ch 5, *skip to next sl st between petals, sc in sl st, ch 5; rep from * around. (8 sc, 8 ch-5 sps) Join with sl st to first sc.
Lattice Mesh Surround
- Round 6: Sl st into first ch-5 sp, ch 3 (counts as dc), 4 dc in same sp, ch 3, *5 dc in next ch-5 sp, ch 3; rep from * around, join with sl st to top of ch-3. (8 clusters, 8 ch-3 sps)
- Round 7: Sl st into next dc, sl st into ch-3 sp, ch 1, sc in same sp, ch 5, *sc in next ch-3 sp, ch 5; rep from * around, join with sl st to first sc. (8 sc, 8 ch-5 sps)
- Round 8: Sl st into first ch-5 sp, ch 3 (counts as dc), 6 dc in same sp, ch 4, *7 dc in next ch-5 sp, ch 4; rep from * around, join with sl st to top of ch-3. (8 clusters, 8 ch-4 sps)
- Round 9: Sl st into next dc, sl st into ch-4 sp, ch 1, sc in same sp, ch 7, *sc in next ch-4 sp, ch 7; rep from * around, join to first sc. (8 sc, 8 ch-7 sps)
Square Shaping and Edging
- Round 10: Sl st into first ch-7 sp, ch 3 (counts as dc), 2 dc in same sp, ch 2 (corner), 3 dc in same sp, ch 1, *(3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc) in next ch-7 sp, ch 1; rep from * around, join with sl st to top of ch-3. (4 corners, each with (3dc, ch 2, 3dc); 4 ch-1 sps between corners)
- Round 11: Sl st to corner ch-2 sp, ch 3 (counts as dc), (2 dc, ch 2, 3 dc) in corner, *(ch 1, 3 dc in next ch-1 sp, ch 1, (3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc) in next corner); rep from * around, join. (Sides lengthen; 4 corners)
- Round 12: Sl st to corner ch-2 sp, ch 1, (sc, ch 2, sc) in corner, *(skip to next side ch-1 sp, 5 dc in ch-1 sp, skip to next corner ch-2 sp, (sc, ch 2, sc) in corner); rep from * around, join with sl st to first sc. Fasten off for single motif, or do not fasten off if joining squares as you go.
Joining Motifs
- If sewing, lay squares out in desired arrangement, right sides up. Whipstitch or mattress stitch through back loops of corner and side stitches, keeping tension even.
- Join-As-You-Go: Work final round of square as above, but at each ch-2 corner and ch-1 side where the new motif meets a previous motif, substitute a sl st into the corresponding ch-sp on the adjacent motif for a ch (or ch-2 becomes ch 1 + sl st in adjoining corner + ch 1). It helps to join motifs in rows, then join rows together.
Assembly and Finishing
Once all motifs are joined, weave in all loose ends on the wrong side using a tapestry needle. Place the bedspread flat on a clean, padded surface (such as a bed, blocking board, or towels) and gently block the entire bedspread to shape. Pin out each point and gently steam (if using cotton) or use a damp cloth and iron set to appropriate fiber for crispness and to even out tension. Allow to dry fully before use. Ensure motifs are lying flat and uniformly, adjusting stretch as necessary. No additional border is required, as the scalloped edges finish the perimeter elegantly. If you prefer, add a simple single crochet or picot edge all around for extra stability.
Customization Ideas
- Use a gradient or ombré yarn for a more modern, boho look, or make each motif a different color for a cheerful patchwork effect.
- Choose pure white or cream cotton for a traditional heirloom appearance, or deep jewel tones for a dramatic accent.
- The finished motifs can also be used for tablecloths, cushion covers, curtains, or even stitched together for an elegant wrap or shawl.
- For thicker, warmer blankets, use thicker yarn and a larger hook. Make fewer motifs to accommodate the larger size.
Troubleshooting
- Curling Motifs: If your squares curve up, your hook may be too small or your tension too tight. Go up a hook size or relax your tension. Blocking will also help flatten motifs.
- Uneven Edges: Make sure to count stitches at corners and along sides for every motif. Blocking will fix minor irregularities.
- Piece Too Large or Small: Adjust hook size and measure blocked motif before committing to large numbers. Make a test square and calculate how many are needed for your desired size.
- Loose Color Changes or Gaps at Joins: Use the invisible join for color changes and carefully align corner stitches when joining. Weave ends securely to prevent unraveling.
- Uneven Tension: Work motifs in good lighting and take breaks to keep an even gauge. Consistency is key for professional results.
Care Instructions
Hand wash in cool water with a gentle detergent, especially if working in cotton or fine yarn. Gently squeeze out excess water; do not wring. Lay flat to dry, reshaping the bedspread as it dries. If ironing is needed, use a low setting with a damp cloth to avoid damaging the fibers. Store folded in a dry, cool area to maintain the lace structure.
Final Notes
Check motif stitch counts and measurements regularly to ensure uniformity. Adjust your tension or hook size as needed. Use the project photo as a helpful visual guide for motif orientation and motif layout on your bed. Enjoy the process, whether making a single blanket or a family heirloom!
