Add a pop of color and handmade charm to your blankets, bags, and home decor with this beautiful three-color crochet square motif! Inspired by a clear and detailed tutorial, this pattern is surprisingly easy for beginners and creates a stunning visual effect with its layered colors.
Skill Level: Easy
Finished Size (Approximate):
- Approximately 4 – 4.5 inches (10 – 11.5 cm) square
- Size can vary based on yarn, hook, and tension.
Materials You’ll Need:
- Yarn: Small amounts of DK weight (Light Worsted / 8 ply) yarn in three colors:
- Color A (Center): White (or a light, contrasting color)
- Color B (Petals): Orange (or a vibrant, contrasting color)
- Color C (Border): Green (or a complementary color)
- Any smooth acrylic or cotton yarn will work beautifully.
- Crochet Hook: E/4 (3.5 mm) or size needed to obtain a firm but flexible fabric.
- A slightly smaller hook than recommended for your yarn weight will help the motif hold its shape better.
- Tapestry Needle: For weaving in ends.
- Scissors
Gauge (Not Critical, but Aim for Consistency!):
Since this is a decorative motif, exact gauge isn’t crucial. However, consistency in your stitches will ensure your motif is square and the colors blend nicely. If your fabric seems too loose, try a smaller hook.
Abbreviations (US Crochet Terms):
- ch: chain
- sl st: slip stitch
- sc: single crochet
- dc: double crochet
- st(s): stitch(es)
- FO: Fasten off
Let’s Crochet Your Vibrant Square Motif!
This motif is worked in rounds, starting with the center, then adding the “petals,” and finally squaring it off with borders.
Part 1: The White Center (Color A)
Start with Color A (White).
Rnd 1: Ch 5. Sl st into the first ch to form a ring. Ch 3 (counts as 1st dc). Work 7 dc into the ring. Join with a sl st to the top of the beginning ch 3. (8 dc)
- This creates the small central circle of your motif.
FO Color A. Weave in ends.
Part 2: The Orange Petals (Color B)
Now, switch to Color B (Orange).
Rnd 2: Attach Color B with a sl st to the top of any dc from Rnd 1. Ch 3 (counts as 1st dc). Work 3 dc into the same stitch. (This forms the first “petal” group). Sk 1 dc. Work 4 dc into the next dc. Repeat from * to * 2 more times. Sk 1 dc. Join with a sl st to the top of the beginning ch 3. (4 groups of 4 dc, total 16 dc)
- This round creates the four distinct “petal” sections that will form the corners of your square.
FO Color B. Weave in ends.
Part 3: The Green Border (Color C)
Now, switch to Color C (Green) to begin squaring off the motif.
Rnd 3: Attach Color C with a sl st into the space between any two 4-dc groups from Rnd 2. Ch 3 (counts as 1st dc). Work 2 dc into the same space. (This is the start of your first side). In the next space (between the next two 4-dc groups), work (3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc) – this forms a corner. In the next space (between the next two 4-dc groups), work 3 dc – this forms a side. Repeat from * to * around, ending with a corner. Join with a sl st to the top of the beginning ch 3. (4 corners, 4 sides of 3 dc each)
- You are now creating the square shape. The ch-2 spaces are your corners.
FO Color C. Weave in ends.
Part 4: The Final White Border (Color A)
Now, switch back to Color A (White) for the finishing touch.
Rnd 4: Attach Color A with a sl st into any ch-2 corner space from Rnd 3. Ch 3 (counts as 1st dc). Work (1 dc, ch 2, 2 dc) into the same ch-2 corner space. (This forms your first corner). Dc in each dc along the side until you reach the next corner space. (9 dc along each side) In the ch-2 corner space, work (2 dc, ch 2, 2 dc). Repeat from * to * around, ending with a corner. Join with a sl st to the top of the beginning ch 3. (4 corners, 4 sides of 9 dc each, total 36 dc + 4 ch-2 spaces)
FO Color A. Weave in ends.
Part 5: Finishing Touches
- Weave in all ends: Use your tapestry needle to neatly weave in any remaining loose yarn tails. This is crucial for a tidy and professional finish.
- Block (Optional but Recommended): Gently wet your motif and pin it to a foam board or blocking mat, shaping it into a perfect square. Let it dry completely. Blocking helps open up the stitches and gives your motif a crisp, finished look.
Video tutorial
Versatile Uses for Your Crocheted Square Motif:
- Granny Squares: Join multiple motifs together to create blankets, throws, scarves, or garments.
- Coasters: A single motif makes a lovely coaster.
- Appliqué: Sew onto bags, hats, cushions, or clothing for a decorative accent.
- Garlands: String several motifs together for a colorful garland.
- Pillow Covers: Combine motifs to create unique pillow covers.
Customization & Tips:
- Color Combinations: The possibilities are endless! Experiment with different color palettes – pastels, brights, or even monochromatic schemes.
- Size Adjustment:
- Larger Motif: Use a thicker yarn (e.g., worsted weight) and a larger hook (e.g., H/5.0 mm). You can also add more stitches in the initial rounds or add more border rounds, ensuring you maintain the square shape.
- Smaller Motif: Use a finer yarn (e.g., fingering or lace weight) and a smaller hook (e.g., 1.5 mm or 2.0 mm). Reduce the initial chain count or skip a border round.
- Stitch Variations: Once you’re comfortable with the pattern, try substituting different stitches (e.g., hdc instead of dc) for varied textures, always ensuring you maintain the stitch count for squaring.
Enjoy creating these beautiful and versatile 3-color crochet square motifs! They’re a fantastic way to add a personal touch to your handmade projects.
