Introduction
This crochet project features an exquisite and timeless design that adds elegance to any bedroom. The bedspread is constructed from repeating lace blossom floral squares, each intricately crafted with petal-like motifs radiating from a prominent center. The pure white color gives the blanket a crisp, classic appearance, making it suitable for both vintage and contemporary decor. The texture is beautifully multidimensional, with puff stitches, lacy openwork, and a prominent popcorn flower at the core of each square. The motifs are joined seamlessly to create a uniform negative space, while a scalloped lace border frames the entire piece.
This bedspread can serve as a show-stopping master bedroom feature or a treasured wedding or housewarming gift. It is not only visually stunning but also a pleasure to make, combining classic granny square construction with intermediate lace techniques. You can adapt this statement piece for smaller throws, baby blankets, or dramatic cushion covers. If you enjoy projects that grow motif by motif and invite meditative repetition, this beautiful bedspread will be as enjoyable to craft as it is to display.
Project Overview
This lacy bedspread is assembled from individual crochet squares, each with a prominent floral medallion center. The squares are crocheted separately in rounds, working outward from a raised center to a textured, openwork border, then joined together as you go or sewn after all pieces are finished. The outer edges are completed with a scalloped border for a decorative finish. Matching squares are also used for the pillow shams, while a ribbed bolster pattern adds a cozy touch.
Skill Level
Intermediate. This project involves a variety of stitches, including puff, cluster, and picot, plus join-as-you-go and border techniques. It’s suited for crocheters comfortable with reading patterns and working in the round, with some experience in motif joining and textured stitches.
Materials
- Yarn: DK weight (category 3), 100% cotton suggested for crisp stitch definition. Acrylic or cotton blend can also be used.
- Main Color: Approx. 3,000-3,800g of white DK weight yarn (for a queen-size bedspread and 2 pillow covers; adjust up or down as necessary for different sizes).
- Crochet Hook: 4.0 mm (G/6) or size needed to obtain gauge.
- Tapestry needle for sewing motifs and weaving in ends.
- Scissors.
- Stitch markers (helpful for marking corners and motif joins).
Finished Size
The finished bedspread as shown fits a queen mattress (approx. 152 cm x 203 cm / 60 in x 80 in), with a generous drape on the sides. Each motif square is about 18 cm x 18 cm (7 in x 7 in) after blocking. Adjust the number of motifs for a twin, full, or king-sized blanket, or make fewer for a throw or baby blanket. Pillow covers measure about 45 cm x 45 cm (18 in x 18 in).
Gauge
One finished square motif should measure approximately 18 cm x 18 cm (7 in x 7 in) after light blocking. Gauge is not critical for this project but will affect finished size and yarn usage. Adjust hook size if needed to achieve the desired motif size and fabric drape.
Stitches and Abbreviations
- ch = chain
- sl st = slip stitch
- sc = single crochet
- hdc = half double crochet
- dc = double crochet
- tr = treble crochet
- puff = puff stitch (explained below)
- popcorn = popcorn stitch (explained below)
- picot = picot (explained below)
- sp = space
- st(s) = stitch(es)
- rep = repeat
- MR = magic ring
Pattern Notes
– Chains at the start of rounds count as stitches unless otherwise specified.
– Motifs are worked in the round, with each round joined with a slip stitch to the top of the initial chain or first stitch.
– Use a stitch marker to mark the first stitch of the round if needed.
– To change colors (if desired), finish the last stitch of the round with the new color and continue in pattern.
– Join motifs together via slip stitch in the final round or sew together after all motifs are complete. Pay attention to right side/wrong side for consistent appearance.
– The border is worked in joined rounds after all motifs are attached.
– Puff stitch: *Yarn over, insert hook in next st, yarn over, pull up a loop; rep from * 3 more times (9 loops on hook), yarn over, pull through all loops, ch 1 to close.
– Popcorn: 5 dc in same st, remove hook, insert into first dc, draw through loop of last dc.
– Picot: ch 3, sl st in first ch (or as indicated).
Crochet Pattern Instructions
Motif Center Blossom
- Round 1: Begin with a MR. Ch 2 (counts as first hdc), work 11 hdc into ring. Join with sl st to top of ch-2. (12 hdc)
- Round 2: Ch 2, *puff (as defined above) in next st, ch 1* around. Join with sl st to top of first puff. (12 puff sts, 12 ch-1 sps)
- Round 3: Sl st into first ch-1 sp. Ch 2, 1 dc in same sp, ch 2, 2 dc in next ch-1 sp, ch 2; rep from * around, join with sl st to first dc. (24 dc, 12 ch-2 sps)
- Round 4: Sl st into next dc, into ch-2 sp. In each ch-2 sp work (2 dc, ch 2, 2 dc) to start shaping corners. In each 2-dc group between corners, work dc in next st, ch 1, skip 1 st; rep around. Join. (48 dc, 12 ch-2 corners, 12 ch-1 sides)
Square Motif Body
- Round 5: Into each ch-2 corner sp, work (2 dc, ch 2, 2 dc). Along each side, (dc in next st, ch 1, sk 1, dc in next st, ch 1, sk 1, dc in next st), continue around. Join. (64 dc, 12 ch-2 corners, ch-1 along sides)
- Round 6: Ch 3, *(2 dc, ch 2, 2 dc) in corner sp, dc in each st and ch-1 sp along side* rep 3 more times. Join. (Corners growing, sides longer each round)
- Round 7: In each corner, (2 dc, ch 2, 2 dc). Along each side, dc in each st and ch-1 sp, but at midpoint of sides work a popcorn in the central dc for texture. Join. (Motif is squaring off more clearly now)
- Round 8: Ch 1, sc in each st around, working 3 sc in each corner ch-2 sp. Join. (Number of sc per side increases with motif size; for our 18 cm square, expect ~22-24 sc per side after blocking)
Final Rounds and Edging
- Round 9: Ch 3, dc in each st around, work (2 dc, ch 2, 2 dc) in each corner. Join. Fasten off and weave ends. (Motif complete)
- Optional last round (for extra width): Repeat Round 9 for one more round, or add a ch-1 between side dc for extra lacy look.
Joining the Motifs
- Join motifs by sewing or slip stitching through corner ch-2 spaces and side dc rows, right sides facing up. Align corners and seams carefully for a seamless look.
Scalloped Border
- Round 1: With RS facing, join yarn anywhere along the edge. Ch 1, sc evenly around, working 3 sc in each corner. Join with sl st.
- Round 2: *(Skip 2 sts, 7 dc in next st, skip 2 sts, sc in next st)* around. Curves should align with square corners and motif centers; adjust as needed for even curves. Join.
- Round 3: In each 7-dc group, (sc, hdc, dc, picot, dc, hdc, sc). Sc in next sc. Repeat around. Join and fasten off.
Pillow Covers
- Make front and back panels using same square motif, block to fit pillow form.
- Join three sides with sc seam, insert pillow, then seam remaining side.
Bolster Pillow
- Optionally, crochet a rectangle of ribbed stitches (alternating front and back post dc), seam along the long edge and gather/close ends with decorative pom poms or tassels.
Assembly and Finishing
After joining all the motifs for the bedspread, use a tapestry needle to carefully weave in all yarn ends for a polished finish. Lay out the finished piece and gently block it: Mist with water and stretch edges into a square or rectangular shape, pinning in place until dry. Align the pillow covers carefully for uniform appearance, and sew closed neatly after inserting inserts. For the scalloped border, ensure picots are even and that the border lays flat (steam blocking can help smooth curves). Take time to smooth out seams and adjust motifs before final blocking—this attention to detail makes the difference in an heirloom-quality project.
Customization Ideas
- Choose an off-white, cream, or pastel palette for a softer or more vintage feel.
- Use chunky yarn and a large hook for a cozy, dramatic throw, or fine lace-weight yarn for an heirloom baby blanket or tablecloth.
- Alternate motif colors for a patchwork style, or edge in gold/silver for a festive look.
- Make fewer squares for a throw or lap blanket, or use as cushion covers or wall art.
- Embellish the centers with tiny buttons, pearls, or embroidery for extra detail.
Troubleshooting
- Curling Motifs: Curling often results from tight tension or too many stitches in corners. Loosen your grip and ensure you’re not adding stitches unintentionally. Blocking motifs immediately after finishing helps flatten stubborn edges.
- Uneven Edges: Count stitches diligently, especially at corners. If one motif grows larger than the others, double-check your rounds. Blocking after assembly will even out slight size discrepancies.
- Piece Too Large or Too Small: Swatch one motif before starting the whole project. If your motif is off-size, try adjusting hook size (larger hook for bigger motif, smaller hook for more compact result).
- Loose Color Changes: Fasten off carefully and weave in color-change ends with a blunt-tipped needle, splitting yarns if necessary to avoid visible weaving.
- Uneven Tension: Pause and shake out your hands periodically. Practice with the motif center before starting the full project. If sides pull inward (dishing), block and gently steam motifs before joining.
Care Instructions
To keep your lace bedspread looking pristine, hand wash in lukewarm water with a mild detergent, or machine wash on a gentle cycle in a mesh bag. Lay flat to dry, gently shaping the motifs and border. Avoid wringing or hanging, as this may distort the squares. Iron on low with a towel barrier if needed; steam block gently to preserve the lacy structure.
Final Notes
Before assembling, double-check stitch counts to ensure all motifs are uniform. If you’re an adventurous crocheter, don’t hesitate to tweak tension or yarn weight to suit your taste. Keep the photo on hand as a visual guide for motif placement and join direction. Enjoy every step of creating this elegant heirloom piece!
