Introduction
Imagine transforming your bedroom into a haven of vintage elegance with a breathtaking handmade crochet bedspread. This project features beautifully intricate, sunburst-inspired square motifs with a dual-tone cream and camel color palette. Each square is adorned with ornate puff stitches, intricate lacy details, and a distinctive flower-like center radiating outwards in petal segments. The motifs are joined seamlessly for a quilted look and finished with a playful bobble border that adds delightful texture and movement to the finished piece. Coordinating pillow covers make this set picture-perfect for any classic or modern decor.
Not only is this bedspread an eye-catching centerpiece, but its timeless charm and inviting texture also make it a joy to create and display in your home. The decorative openwork lets the light play through the stitches, while the tactile bobble motifs invite you to reach out and touch. Crafted entirely by hand, this heirloom-worthy piece is as satisfying to crochet as it is impressive to present, perfect for anyone seeking a rewarding project with show-stopping results.
Project Overview
This crochet bedspread is constructed from individual square motifs, each worked from the center outwards in the round. The squares feature a sunburst design with raised puff/bobble stitches and lacy mesh, bordered in a contrasting color. Squares are joined using a join-as-you-go method or sewn together afterward. The edges are adorned with a deep, matching border embellished with large, dramatic bobbles for a cohesive, luxurious finish. Coordinating pillow covers are constructed using the same motif, with additional joining and envelope closure options.
- Motifs: Sunburst squares, constructed in rounds
- Assembly: Squares joined for main body, pillows constructed separately
- Border: Bobble edge for extra style
Skill Level
Intermediate. This pattern uses a variety of stitches such as puff, bobble, and lace mesh, and requires confidence in following round-by-round instructions, changing colors, and joining motifs. Some experience with motif-based or join-as-you-go projects is helpful.
Materials
- Yarn: Worsted-weight yarn (category 4) in two colors: Cream (MC) and Camel/Biscuit (CC). Approximate amounts:
- Cream (MC): 2,500–3,500g for a queen-size bedspread (estimate 80–110m/88–120yd per motif)
- Camel (CC): 800–1,200g for motif borders, joining, centers, and edging
- Fiber: 100% cotton or soft-blend yarn for drape and structure
- Hook: US H/8 (5.0mm) crochet hook
- Tapestry needle: For sewing in ends and joining
- Scissors
- Stitch markers: Optional, for marking rounds or corners
- Pillow inserts: For matching cushion covers (approximately 18″ / 45cm square)
Finished Size
Each motif block measures approximately 8 x 8 in (20 x 20 cm) blocked. For a queen-size bedspread (90 x 90 in / 230 x 230 cm), make 11 x 11 squares (121 squares). Adjust size by adding or subtracting motifs for different beds. Pillow covers: Each uses one front and one back panel at the same dimensions as the motifs.
Gauge
One finished and blocked motif should measure approximately 8 x 8 in (20 x 20 cm). Gauge is not crucial unless an exact fit is required, but variations will affect overall size and yarn needed. Adjust hook size if your motif is consistently off.
Stitches and Abbreviations
- ch – chain
- sl st – slip stitch
- sc – single crochet
- hdc – half double crochet
- dc – double crochet
- tr – treble crochet
- MR – magic ring
- inc – increase (work 2 sts in same spot)
- puff – puff stitch (see notes)
- bobble – bobble stitch (see notes)
Pattern Notes
- All rounds begin with a ch (counts as stitch only if specified).
- Sl st to the top of the starting ch or indicated stitch to join each round, unless noted otherwise.
- When working puff or bobble stitches, keep loops even for best effect.
- Color changes: Complete the last yarn over of the previous stitch with the new color for crisp transitions.
- Motifs are worked right side facing unless specified. Mark the right side if helpful.
- Stitch markers can help identify corners or first chains in each round, especially when joining.
- Bobble edge is worked after motifs are assembled.
Crochet Pattern Instructions
Motif Center
- With camel (CC), MR, ch 2 (counts as first hdc), work 11 hdc into ring (12 hdc). Join with sl st to top of ch 2. Fasten off CC.
- Attach cream (MC) to any hdc. Ch 1, *puff in same st, ch 1, sk 1* repeat around (6 puff, 6 ch-sps). Join. Puff: (yo, insert hook, pull up loop) 4 times, yo, pull through all loops, ch 1 to close puff.
- Continue with MC: (sl st in next ch-sp, ch 4, tr, ch 2, tr, ch 4, sl st in next ch-sp) around, shaping six fan “petals”. Fasten off MC.
Expanding the Sunburst & Bobbles
- Join CC in any ch-2 sp (center of petal); ch 2, 2 hdc in same sp, ch 2, *3 hdc in next ch-2 sp, ch 2* repeat around (6 clusters, 6 ch-2 sps). Join.
- Switch to MC. Sl st to next ch-2 sp, ch 3 (counts as dc), 2 dc, ch 2, 3 dc in same sp (first corner), *dc in next 3 sts, [bobble in next ch-2 sp, dc in next 3 sts], (3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc) in next ch-2 corner* repeat around. Join. Bobble: (yo, insert hook, pull up loop, yo, draw through 2) 5 times in same sp, yo, draw through all 6 loops.
Building the Square
- With MC, ch 3 (counts as dc), work in rounds as: In each corner ch-2 sp, (3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc). Work dc across each side, placing bobbles every alternate ch-2 sp to echo the sunburst effect, and increasing dc as necessary to maintain integrity. Continue for 2–3 more rounds, each time expanding the corners and spacing bobbles evenly to reach approximately 8″ (20 cm) square.
- Switch to CC for the final border round (optional). In each corner: (sc, ch 2, sc). Along sides, sc in each st and ch, working over bobbles and between to create clean, even edges. Fasten off and weave in ends.
Motif Count and Joining
- Make as many motifs as required for your project size.
- Join motifs using whipstitch seam, mattress stitch, or by slip stitching through outer loops of adjacent motifs with CC for a raised join, matching corners and paying attention to right side alignment. Alternatively, employ a join-as-you-go technique in the final round if desired.
Pillow Cover
- Make two motifs per pillow cover (one front, one back).
- Join on three sides using the same joining method as motifs, insert pillow, and seam remaining side closed or add a buttoned or envelope-style closure for easy removal.
Dramatic Bobble Border
- With CC, attach yarn to any corner of the joined bedspread. Work along edges: *(sc, ch 2, sc) in each corner, along sides: sc in each st, then [bobble, ch 2, sc], spacing bobbles every 2–3 sc for a fluffy, ornate edge. Work all around. Join and fasten off, weave in ends.
Assembly and Finishing
After all motifs are made and joined, gently block the finished bedspread and pillow covers to square edges and accentuate the lacy details. Pin out to desired measurements, mist with water, and allow to dry flat. Weave in any remaining ends using a tapestry needle on the wrong side. If corners curl, lightly steam to relax. Puff and shape bobbles for a neat finish. Attach buttons or closure to pillows if required. Display immediately or store folded, protected from dust.
Customization Ideas
- Colors: Try monochrome for modern chic, or vintage pastels for a retro feel.
- Yarn Weight: Use DK or fine cotton for lighter throws, chunky yarn for faster, denser results.
- Border: Replace bobble edge with picot, shell, or scallop for a different aesthetic.
- Alternative Uses: Turn a single motif into a doily, table mat, or wall art. Make smaller runs for runners or baby blankets.
Troubleshooting
- Curling: Motifs may curl if gauge is tight; block while damp and pin flat.
- Uneven Edges: Ensure corners have the same stitch count; add stitch markers to corners for consistency.
- Piece Too Large/Small: Adjust hook size and yarn weight, or remove/add a round in the motif for dimension control.
- Loose Color Changes: Always close the last stitch with the new color and weave in tails securely.
- Uneven Tension: Relax hands, keep stitches even; practice puff and bobble stitches on a swatch first if needed.
Care Instructions
Hand wash gently in cool to lukewarm water with mild detergent suitable for cotton or the fiber used. Roll in a towel to remove excess water; reshape and dry flat away from direct sunlight. Avoid stretching motifs when wet. Store folded, or drape to avoid creases.
Final Notes
Carefully check your stitch counts in each motif round for square, even pieces. Adjust hook size or yarn if needed to meet gauge. Use the image as a visual guide to proportion, colors, and motif arrangement for a stunning, personalized result. Happy crocheting!
