Swirl Motif Crochet Blanket Pattern: Create an Elegant Spiral Lace Bedspread

Introduction

This stunning crochet project features an elegant, swirling design in soothing shades of lavender and white. Each motif is made up of two interlocking spirals, giving a dynamic sense of movement while maintaining a harmonious, circular shape. The motifs are bordered by a decorative lace edge, which adds to the visual appeal and sophistication. When joined together, these motifs create a striking bedspread or throw, perfect for adding a touch of artistry and craftsmanship to any bedroom or living space.

The interplay of the lavender and bright white yarn highlights the swirling pattern beautifully, drawing the eye smoothly from one motif to the next. The spiral design is not only visually captivating but also a pleasure to construct, making this project ideal for those looking to challenge themselves creatively. Whether displayed as a show-stopping blanket, a tablecloth, or a wall tapestry, this motif-based project is versatile and impressive. The completed piece can be used as a centerpiece in a master bedroom, a sofa throw, or even as an heirloom to be cherished for years to come.

Project Overview

This blanket is constructed by making individual circle motifs featuring two interlocking spirals and a decorative lace border. Motifs are crocheted flat, then joined together at the lacy edges to form rows and columns. Optional finishing includes a broader lace border around the entire blanket. The motifs may also be used singly as coasters or placemats, or grouped in smaller numbers for runners or pillow covers.

Individual spiral motifs worked in the round
Lace borders added to each motif
Motifs joined together through border points

Skill Level

Intermediate. This project involves color changes, working in the round, creating spiral shapes, and handling lace borders. Familiarity with basic stitches and working spirals is required, but step-by-step instructions are supplied.

Materials

Yarn: Fingering weight cotton yarn (Category 1 super fine) or high-quality mercerized cotton. Approximate amounts per motif: 12 g (0.42 oz) lavender, 12 g (0.42 oz) white. For a large blanket (e.g., 8 x 10 motifs), plan for 1,000 g (35 oz) total—adjust as needed depending on project size.
Crochet hook: 2.5 mm (C/2 US) steel or aluminum hook. Adjust for your tension.
Tapestry needle (for weaving in ends and joining motifs)
Sharp scissors
Stitch markers (helpful for marking spiral and border beginning points)
Blocking mats and pins (recommended for shaping motifs and finished blanket)

Finished Size

Each motif measures approximately 15 cm (6 inches) across when blocked, including the lacy border. For a queen-size blanket (8 motifs x 10 motifs), the finished size will be about 120 cm x 150 cm (48 in x 60 in), not accounting for border joins. To adjust size, simply add or subtract motifs in rows and columns.

Gauge

Gauge is approximately 10 rounds in spiral motif = 6 cm (2.4 inches) in diameter, before adding the lace border. Precise gauge is not critical; however, consistent stitch tension is important for motifs to fit together evenly. Block a test motif before starting to check your finished measurement.

Stitches and Abbreviations

ch: chain
sl st: slip stitch
sc: single crochet
hdc: half double crochet
dc: double crochet
tr: treble crochet
inc: increase (2 sts in same st)
sp: space
MR: magic ring

Pattern Notes

This pattern is written in US crochet terminology.
Begin motifs with a magic ring (MR) for a tight center. Chain stitches at the beginning of rounds count as the first stitch, unless specified.
Spirals are crocheted in two colors, one at a time; you’ll work several rounds in one color, set that aside, and then fill in the spirals with the second color.
Always finish rounds with a sl st unless working spiral rounds. Mark the last st or round change with a stitch marker for accuracy.
For neat color changes, switch to the new color when drawing through the last st of the previous color’s spiral.
Work with the right side (RS) facing at all times for uniform texture. Weave in color changes on the wrong side (WS).

Crochet Pattern Instructions

Center Spirals

Lavender Spiral Start: With lavender, make a magic ring (MR), ch 2 (does not count as a stitch). Work 6 dc into MR. Pull ring tight. Do not join. (6 dc)
Turn, ch 2. Work 2 dc in each dc around (12 dc). Do not join. Note: Work in a continuous spiral. Place a marker at the start of round.
Continue working 2 dc in each st around (24 dc).
For the next round, *dc in next st, 2 dc in the next st*; repeat from * around (36 dc).
Continue: *dc in next 2 sts, 2 dc in the next st*; repeat all the way (48 dc).
Repeat: *dc in next 3 sts, 2 dc in the next st*; around (60 dc). Set aside with loop active.

Note: You have created the first spiral, curving in one direction. You’ll finish the curve later when the white spiral is complete.

Second Spiral (White)

Attach white with a slip knot to MR, insert hook adjacent to lavender beginning.
Repeat instructions 1-6 for the lavender spiral, working the white spiral alongside and into the same MR, filling the spaces between lavender sts. Each color alternates in arcs, hugging the previous row of the opposite color. You should now have two intertwined spirals with 60 dc each, completing a round form.

Shaping the Spirals

For both spirals, continue the spiral by working dc increases at the outer edge of each swirl, staggering the increases. Each spiral continues for an additional 2 rounds, with 2 dc in every 4th st in the first extended round, then 2 dc in every 5th st in the next (ending with about 74 dc per color spiral).
You’ll see the swirling shape continue to fan outward, maintaining smooth curve transitions between lavender and white. After two extending rounds, fasten off both colors and weave in ends on WS.

Lace Border

With white, join yarn at any spiral tip. Ch 3 (counts as dc), *ch 2, skip next st, dc in next st* around the motif.
Continue: On next round, in each ch-2 space, work (sc, ch 3, sc) to create small loops. In every 4th loop, increase by working (sc, ch 4, sc). Join with sl st.
Last border round: *In each ch-3 sp: (sc, ch 2, sc). In each ch-4 sp: (sc, ch 3, sc).* This rounds the lace and creates a gentle, even shell.
Fasten off, weave in ends.

Joining the Motifs

Lay out motifs flat side by side as desired. Working with white, join through the last round of each motif by slip stitching or sewing at the tips of the ch-4 spaces formed in the lace border. Join at every 4th loop to ensure stability and a visible connecting pattern.
Continue joining motifs row by row and then column by column, maintaining even tension to keep motifs lying flat.

Optional Blanket Border

For a complete blanket, join white at any outer ch-3 space. Ch 3, *dc in the next ch-3 sp, ch 2, skip the next ch-3 sp, dc in next sp* around. On the next round, add a gentle shell by working 5 dc into every other ch-2 sp and sc in the skipped space. This gives a finished, scalloped appearance.
Fasten off, weave in all ends.

Assembly and Finishing

After all motifs have been crocheted and the lace border is completed on each, lay out motifs on a flat surface to arrange your design. Carefully join motifs in rows by sewing or slip stitching through their connecting border points (usually the ch-4 loops or ch-3 spaces) to create a seamless join. Work row-by-row, attaching additional motifs as you go.

Once the motifs are joined in full rows, connect each row to the next in the same manner by aligning motif edges. Take care to match up border loops precisely for a neat, even join. After assemble, weave in all yarn tails securely on the WS.

To ensure the blanket lays flat and the motifs display perfectly, block the entire piece on a blocking mat. Mist with water and gently stretch into shape, pinning each motif into a flat circle for a consistent look. Allow to dry completely before use.

Customization Ideas

Colors: Create soft pastel motifs for a baby blanket, or use bold contrasting shades for modern flair. Consider cool or warm monochromes for subtlety or rainbow colors for playful vibrancy.
Yarn: Substitute wool or acrylic yarn for different textures and warmth. Fingering or sport weight preserves delicacy; worsted gives a larger, cozier motif.
Uses: Make single motifs as coasters, placemats, or decorative wall art. Combine four motifs for a unique pillow cover or twelve for a centerpiece table runner.

Troubleshooting

Curling: If motifs curl, ensure your increases are placed evenly and your tension is not too tight. Block each motif flat before joining.
Uneven Edges: Double-check stitch counts at the end of each round, particularly in the lace border. Adjust as needed to maintain symmetry.
Piece Too Large/Small: Use a larger or smaller hook to adjust motif size. If overall blanket does not fit as desired, add or remove motifs accordingly.
Loose Color Changes: Be sure to switch colors by drawing the new color through the last loop of the previous spiral. Weave in color ends securely on the WS.
Uneven Tension: Practice with scrap yarn to achieve even dc stitches in the spirals. Relax your grip and maintain steady hand positioning for consistency.

Care Instructions

Hand wash in cold or lukewarm water with mild soap. Rinse thoroughly and gently squeeze out excess water; do not wring. Lay flat to dry on a towel or blocking board, reshaping motifs as needed. Avoid direct sunlight when drying to prevent fading. If needed, lightly steam block for extra crispness. Store folded in a dry place.

Final Notes

Take your time with each motif and check stitch counts at the end of every round. Don’t hesitate to adjust tension or hook size to achieve a consistent result. Refer to the main photo as a visual guide for motif arrangement and color placement. Enjoy the meditative process and admire the swirling beauty you create!