Introduction
This bold and beautiful crochet project features striking sunburst motif squares arranged in a checkerboard pattern, alternating between deep emerald green and dreamy cream. Each square boasts a lacy, spoke-like design that radiates from the center, giving the finished blanket a vibrant, light-catching look. The blanket is visually dramatic with its orderly squares, openwork texture, and rich color contrast, making it a gorgeous statement piece for any bedroom or cozy corner.
The sunburst squares, each resembling a radiant flower or mandala, bring a contemporary yet timeless flair. This blanket is perfect as a full bedspread, a luxurious throw on the sofa, or an eye-catching accent draped over an armchair. The open, airy stitches make it both warm and lightweight, suitable for year-round use.
Making this blanket is especially rewarding: each motif works up quickly and offers the satisfaction of seeing progress with every square. It’s a perfect project for anyone who loves bold texture, clean geometric layouts, or classic crochet motifs with a modern twist.
Project Overview
This blanket is constructed from individual sunburst motif squares worked in the round and joined together in a grid. Each motif is made separately in your chosen colors, then joined using a decorative or invisible seam. The motifs are bordered as you go or after joining, and an elegant lacy edging adds a polished finish. You can create as many motifs as needed to reach your preferred blanket size.
Skill Level
Advanced Beginner to Intermediate. You should be comfortable with working in the round, basic increases, post stitches, and joining motifs. Some experience with lacy stitches and consistent tension is helpful, but adventurous beginners can succeed with careful counting and patience.
Materials
- Yarn: Medium weight (worsted/aran, category 4) cotton or cotton-blend yarn for crisp stitch definition. Approximate amounts for a throw: 850 yds (775 m) of Color A (emerald green), 850 yds (775 m) of Color B (cream). Adjust as needed for larger/smaller blankets or personal gauge.
- Crochet Hook: US size H/8 (5.0 mm), or size to match gauge and achieve desired drape.
- Tapestry needle for weaving in ends and sewing motifs.
- Sharp scissors for trimming yarn.
- Stitch markers (recommended for marking corners and rounds).
- Measuring tape (to check motif size and overall blanket dimensions).
Finished Size
Each finished motif measures approximately 14 x 14 cm (5.5 x 5.5 in) after blocking. For a throw approximately 140 x 168 cm (55 x 66 in), create a 10 x 12 motif grid (120 squares). Adjust the number of motifs for a smaller or larger blanket. Motif size can be adjusted by changing hook size or yarn weight.
Gauge
One sunburst motif square = 14 x 14 cm (5.5 x 5.5 in) after blocking. Work one motif and block to check gauge. Adjust hook size if necessary. Differences in gauge will change finished size and yarn usage, so check gauge for best results.
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
- st: stitch
- sp: space
- beg: beginning
Pattern Notes
- Ch-3 at the beginning of a round counts as a dc unless otherwise noted.
- Rounds are joined with a sl st to the top of the starting ch or st.
- Motifs are worked in the round from the center out; use the right side (RS) facing throughout.
- Change colors at the end of a round with a sl st to join new yarn; pull the new color through the last yarn-over of the last st of the round for a neat finish.
- Stitch markers help mark the 4 corners or starting points for easier assembly.
Crochet Pattern Instructions
Center Sunburst Motif (make as many as needed, alternating colors)
- Round 1: With Color A (or B), make a MR, ch 3 (counts as dc), 15 dc in MR. Join with a sl st to top of beg ch-3. (16 dc)
- Round 2: Ch 1, work 1 sc in same st, ch 7, skip 1 dc, *sc next dc, ch 7, skip 1 dc; repeat from * around, join with a sl st to first sc. (8 ch-7 spaces, 8 sc)
- Round 3: Sl st into first ch-7 space, ch 3 (counts as dc), 7 dc in same space, sc in next sc, *(8 dc in next ch-7 sp, sc in next sc); repeat from * around, join to top of beg ch-3. (64 dc, 8 sc)
- Round 4: Ch 1, sc in same st, *ch 3, skip next 2 dc, sc in next dc, ch 5, skip next 2 dc, sc in next dc, ch 3, skip next 2 dc, sc in next dc, sc in next sc; repeat from * around to end, join with sl st to first sc. (Each motif side will start to form here; 8 ch-5 spaces [“petals”] per round)
- Round 5: Sl st to first ch-5 space, ch 4 (counts as tr), 7 tr in same sp (8 tr in ch-5 sp), sc in next sc, *(8 tr in next ch-5 sp, sc in next sc); repeat from * around, join to top of beg ch-4. (64 tr, 8 sc)
- Round 6 (Forming Corners): Sl st to first tr, ch 1, sc in same st, (hdc, dc, tr, ch 2, tr, dc, hdc) all in next tr (corner made), sc in next tr, *sc in next tr, (hdc, dc, tr, ch 2, tr, dc, hdc) in next tr, sc in next tr; repeat from * around, ending with sl st to first sc. (Each side now has 2 corners and 2 sc in between).
- Round 7 (Squaring Up): Sl st to ch-2 corner space, ch 3 (counts as dc), (2 dc, ch 2, 3 dc) in same space, dc in each st to next corner, *(3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc) in corner, dc in each st to next corner; repeat from * around, join with sl st. Fasten off and weave in ends. (Each side: approximately 18 dc)
Note: If your motif isn’t square enough, block it at this stage. Slight adjustments can be made in Round 7 by adding or subtracting dcs between corners as needed.
Joining Motifs
Arrange finished motifs in a checkerboard layout, alternating colors. Use a slip-stitch or whipstitch join on the wrong side, or try join-as-you-go (JAYGO) for seamless results. Join through the outer loops only for a decorative ridge, or both loops for a flatter seam. Join all columns, then all rows for neat alignment.
Border (Optional)
- With Color B (or preferred color), join at any corner ch-2 space. Ch 3 (counts as dc), (2 dc, ch 2, 3 dc) in corner, *dc in every st and seam along the edge, (3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc) in each corner; repeat from * for all four sides, join with sl st. Repeat one or two more rounds as desired. For a lacier edge, on the final round: *(sc, ch 5, sc) in each corner, ch 3 between scs along sides.*
Assembly and Finishing
After joining all motifs, ensure that all seams are secure and the blanket lays flat. Weave in any remaining yarn tails with a tapestry needle on the wrong side of the blanket for a tidy finish. If your blanket edges ripple or curl, dampen the blanket and pin it out flat on blocking mats or a clean towel. Gently stretch to shape each motif and straighten seams, then allow it to dry thoroughly. Blocking is especially important for lacy motifs to enhance their stitch definition and maintain the square shape.
If you added a border, pay extra attention to the corners and ensure an even, unruffled finish. Once blocked and dry, your blanket is ready to use or gift!
Customization Ideas
- Color Variations: Use a gradient of green, pastels, or a rainbow for a playful effect. Try tone-on-tone shades for a more subtle, elegant look.
- Yarn Choices: Substitute acrylic for an easy-care version, or wool for extra warmth. A lighter sport weight will give a more delicate result, while super bulky yarn creates a dramatic, chunky throw.
- Alternative Uses: Create fewer motifs for a cushion cover, baby blanket, tote bag, or wall hanging. Use single motifs as large coasters or trivets.
Troubleshooting
- Curling Motifs: Motifs may curl if stitches are too tight; try using a larger hook or blocking aggressively.
- Uneven Edges: If your motifs are warping or the blanket edge is wavy, check that stitch counts are consistent for every side and corner, and adjust as necessary during the border rounds.
- Blanket Too Large/Small: Count stitches carefully in each motif, and check motif size before making all your pieces. Adjust by changing hook size or working fewer/more motifs.
- Loose Color Changes: Secure each color change by joining new yarn at the end of a round with a clean finish. Weave in tails neatly to avoid unraveling.
- Uneven Tension: Practice making a few motifs to get a consistent feel. If your tension varies, blocking will help even out finished motifs.
Care Instructions
Handwash or machine wash your blanket on a gentle cycle using cool water and mild detergent. Lay flat to dry and reshape while damp to preserve motif shape and border. Avoid direct heat and do not wring. Store folded in a cool, dry place.
Final Notes
Careful stitch counts and steady tension are the keys to a beautiful sunburst motif blanket. If you lose track, recount at the end of each round before joining or adding the next motif. Use the photo as visual inspiration and guide—there’s room for your creativity as you choose colors and arrangement. Enjoy the relaxing repetition of making each square, and take pride in your stunning finished heirloom piece!
