Introduction
If you’re searching for a statement piece that marries classic elegance with modern flair, the Swirling Waves Crochet Bedspread is the answer. Each motif in this throw is a stunning spiral of blue and white, reminiscent of ocean waves or a swirling breeze. The entire bedspread consists of these beautifully intricate motifs, each edged with delicate bobbles and lacy picots, creating texture and dimension. Gentle curves of color interplay across the bed, producing a mesmerizing, almost hypnotic effect. Finished off with coordinated pillows and bordered with the same spiraling design, this bedspread instantly transforms any bedroom into a serene, artful retreat.
This crochet project is perfect for the maker seeking a visually dynamic and satisfying long-term project. The repetitive creation of spiral motifs makes it approachable—even meditative—while the joining and careful border keep it captivating for advanced crocheters. Whether you’re aiming to impress at a local fair or simply seeking to elevate your home with handcrafted style, this bedspread will inevitably draw admiration.
It’s ideal for display year-round, especially in spring and summer when airy, openwork crochet takes center stage. It also makes a thoughtful and lavish gift for weddings, anniversaries, or new homes. The best part? The motifs lend themselves well to mix-and-match color explorations and plenty of creative personalization.
Project Overview
This bedspread is constructed from individual swirl motifs worked in the round with alternating colors. Each motif is edged with a lacy border featuring a bobble-picot effect, then joined together using a continuous join-as-you-go method. The finished motifs are arranged in neat rows and columns, and the joined pieces are bordered for a refined finish. The overall process involves crocheting multiple motifs, joining them as you go, and finally adding the decorative border to complete your bedspread.
Skill Level
Intermediate. This project involves working in the round using color changes, handling post stitches for definition, crocheting consistent motifs, and joining motifs with a decorative border. Experience reading patterns and maintaining even stitch tension is recommended.
Materials
- Yarn: DK weight (Light Worsted, #3). Suggested fiber: 100% cotton or a cotton blend for crisp stitch definition and durability.
- Yardage (approximate for a queen-sized bedspread):
- Blue: 2000–2200 yds (1829–2012 m)
- White: 2000–2200 yds (1829–2012 m)
- Crochet hook: US size G/6 (4.0 mm)
- Tapestry needle
- Sharp scissors
- Stitch markers (handy for marking motif joins and round starts)
- Measuring tape
- Blocking tools (pins/mats, optional but recommended)
Finished Size
Each individual motif is approximately 5.5–6 inches (14–15 cm) in diameter after blocking. The overall bedspread size shown fits a queen bed—approximately 84 x 90 inches (213 x 229 cm), using about 14 motifs across and 15 motifs down (totals may vary slightly by your motif size and tension).
To alter the size: add or subtract motifs in length and width, or use a heavier or lighter yarn and adjust your hook size accordingly. Always account for slight shrinkage during blocking and joining.
Gauge
One completed spiral motif, unblocked, should measure about 5.25 inches (13 cm) across. After blocking, it opens to 5.5–6 inches (14–15 cm). Gauge is not crucial but consistency ensures motifs will fit together evenly. Adjust hook size if needed to match motif size.
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)
- st(s) – stitch(es)
- MR – magic ring
- RS – right side
- WS – wrong side
- pc – picot (ch 3, sl st in first ch)
- bpdc – back post double crochet
Pattern Notes
- Chains at the beginning of rounds count as stitches unless otherwise noted.
- Motifs are worked in continuous rounds; use a stitch marker to mark the first stitch of each round.
- Color A = Blue; Color B = White (reverse as desired).
- Change colors after spiral sections as directed. Carry the unused color along the wrong side, catching it every few stitches to reduce bulk.
- For neat color changes, finish the last yarn-over of the last stitch in old color with the new color.
- Join motifs by slip stitching adjoining sides through outer loops; join as you go for seamless appearance.
- Blocking motifs before joining helps keep your bedspread flat and even.
Crochet Pattern Instructions
Spiral Motif: Center
- With Color A (Blue), MR, ch 2 (counts as first hdc). Work 11 hdc into ring. (12 sts)
- Spiral Round 1:
- With Color A, *hdc in next st, 2 hdc in next st* around for first 6 sts. (9 hdc)
- Drop Color A, join Color B (White) in next st, repeat from * for next 6 sts. (9 hdc)
- Total round: 18 hdc
- Pull ring tight. Don’t join; you’ll spiral outwards with color changes.
Main Spiral Expansion
- Spiral Round 2:
- With A, *hdc in next st, hdc inc in next st* x3, then hdc in next 3 sts.
- Switch to B at color transition, repeat above: *hdc in next st, hdc inc in next st* x3, hdc in next 3 sts.
- Stitch total per side: 12 hdc (24 sts total)
- Spiral Round 3:
- Continue with current color, *hdc in next 2, hdc inc in next st* x3, hdc in next 3 sts for the rest of the spiral half (now you’ll see the spiral shape as you stagger the increases).
- Repeat with other color; total per color: 15 hdc (30 sts total)
- Spiral Round 4:
- With each color: *hdc in next 3, hdc inc in next st* x3, hdc in next 3, repeat, now working around the spiral as established.
- Continue spiraling, working increases at edge.
- Total per color: 18 hdc (36 sts total)
- Continue in this pattern, increasing at each spiral tip (before the color change) so each round adds 3 new stitches per color section, working until motif measures about 5–5.25 inches (13–13.5cm) across (usually 6–7 rounds). End both colors at the tip of the spiral (after completing a boomerang arc shape).
Lacy and Bobble Edging
- Attach Color A at any stitch on outer edge (preferably at the tip of the blue section).
- Ch 4 (counts as tr), tr in next st, ch 2, skip 1 st, tr in next st. Repeat around motif, following curve closely; at sharp increases, work 2 tr in same st at tip, with picot (ch 3, sl st in first ch) in between. Approx 22–24 tr around, varying by motif growth; adjust spacing as needed to keep edge flat.
- With same color, work bobble or picot as follows on outer edge:
- In each ch-2 sp, (sc, ch 3, sc) or work a small bobble by: [yarn over, insert hook, yarn over, pull up a loop, yarn over, pull through 2 loops] 3 times in same st, yarn over and pull through all loops, ch 1 to close bobble.
- Continue around, alternating between sc-picots and bobbles for the lacy ruffle.
Joining Motifs
- Lay motifs in desired arrangement (for example, 14 motifs across by 15 down for a queen-size). You can pin them lightly to see spacing.
- Begin join-as-you-go with Color B:
- While adding the lacy edge to a motif, join to neighboring motifs by replacing an sc (or bobble) at the edge with a sl st to the corresponding stitch on the adjacent motif, then continue on your motif. (This keeps the join flat and slightly decorative.)
- Repeat around joining sides to connect all motifs, leaving border motifs unjoined on their outermost edge.
Final Border
- Work a border around the entire finished bedspread:
- With Color A, join at any motif edge, sc evenly along all sides, placing (sc, ch 2, sc) in each outer motif tip for a gentle curve.
- For a picot edge: *sc in next 3 sts, picot (ch 3, sl st in first ch), repeat*.
Assembly and Finishing
After completing each motif, block them flat by pinning to shape and spraying with water or using steam. Let fully dry before joining for best results. When all motifs are complete and edged, lay out on a large flat surface, arranging the color spirals in a pleasing pattern (alternate which color is inside/outside for visual movement). Join motifs as you go during the lacy border round, slip stitching in place to form a seamless surface.
Once motifs are fully joined, add the final border with picots for a polished edge. Weave in all yarn ends gently using a tapestry needle, securing tails invisibly along the motif ridges. Lay the finished bedspread flat, pin to shape, and wet-block one more time. Allow to dry fully—this helps open up the lace, smooth the spirals, and give your throw its luxurious drape and shape. Fold carefully or display proudly!
Customization Ideas
- Color Play: Use gradient or ombré yarns for sweeping color changes, or swap blue and white for any two high-contrast shades (teal/gold, grey/cream, raspberry/mint).
- Motif Arrangements: Arrange motifs asymmetrically or alternate color order for a modern look.
- Other Uses: Use single motifs for coasters, placemats, wall hangings, or sew 4–6 together for couch throws or baby blankets.
- Yarn Weight: Use lighter yarns for airier throws, or chunky yarn for oversized, cozy coverage (adjust hook size).
Troubleshooting
- Curling Motifs: If motifs curl, you may be working too tightly. Block each motif and try going up a hook size.
- Uneven Edges: Incorrect stitch count at the motif tips will cause rippling; count carefully, especially at spiral increases.
- Piece Too Large/Small: Gauge swatching with one motif helps! Adjust hook size or yarn weight as needed.
- Loose Color Changes: Make color changes at the last yarn-over of the previous stitch for crisp lines; keep tension even across changes.
- Uneven Tension: Relax hands, focus on consistent movement, and block all motifs before joining for best fit.
Care Instructions
Hand wash in cool water with mild detergent, or use a gentle cycle on your washing machine if yarn is machine-washable. Lay flat to dry on towels, reshaping gently while damp. Avoid wringing. If pressing, use a low-heat iron with a damp cloth to maintain the lacy definition. Store folded in a cool, dry place; avoid direct sunlight to prevent color fading.
Final Notes
Count stitches at the end of each round to keep your spirals crisp and your motifs flat. Don’t be afraid to adjust hook size mid-project if tension shifts, especially after blocking a few motifs. Use the finished photo as visual inspiration—your individual spirals and color choices will make your version uniquely beautiful. Enjoy watching your swirling waves come together in a bedspread full of movement, color, and warmth!
