Square and Ripple Crochet Blanket – Free Crochet Pattern

In this tutorial, we’ll walk you through creating a Square and Ripple Crochet Blanket step-by-step, making it an excellent project for crocheters of all levels.

Materials Needed for the Square and Ripple Crochet Blanket

To create your Square and Ripple Crochet Blanket, gather the following materials:

• Yarn: Choose medium-weight (category 4) yarn in at least two contrasting colors (one for the squares and one for the ripple sections).
  • Main Color (MC): 400-600 grams (depending on the size of your blanket).
  • Contrast Color (CC): 200-400 grams (depending on your design).
• Crochet Hook: Size 5mm (H-8) or 5.5mm (I-9), depending on your yarn choice.
• Tapestry Needle: For weaving in ends and sewing squares together.
• Scissors: For trimming yarn.
• Stitch Markers: Optional, to help keep track of your rounds.

You can use any type of yarn for this project, but acrylic or cotton yarns are popular choices for blankets because they are soft, durable, and easy to care for.

Stitches Used in the Pattern

• Chain (CH)
• Slip Stitch (SL ST)
• Single Crochet (SC)
• Double Crochet (DC)
• Half Double Crochet (HDC)
• Treble Crochet (TR)
• Increase (INC): 2 stitches worked into the same stitch.
• Decrease (DEC): Work 2 stitches together to decrease.

This blanket pattern involves crocheting squares and ripple sections separately and then joining them together to form the blanket.

Step-by-Step Instructions for the Square and Ripple Crochet Blanket

The Square and Ripple Blanket consists of alternating squares and ripple rows. You will first create several square motifs and then work ripple rows between them. This gives the blanket its unique blend of geometric and flowing elements.

Part 1: Crocheting the Squares

We’ll start by making the square motifs, which form the base of the blanket.

1. Start with a Magic Ring using your contrast color (CC).
2. Round 1: Work 12 double crochets (DC) into the magic ring.
   • Pull the magic ring tight and slip stitch to the first DC to close the round.
   • Total: 12 DC
3. Round 2: Chain 3 (counts as first DC), work 1 DC in the same stitch, 2 DC in each stitch around (increase in every stitch).
   • Slip stitch to the first DC to join the round.
   • Total: 24 DC
4. Round 3 (Forming Corners): Chain 3 (counts as first DC), work 1 DC in the next 2 stitches, chain 1, skip the next stitch (this forms a corner), repeat around.
   • Slip stitch to the first DC to join the round.
5. Round 4 (Increasing Square Size): Chain 3 (counts as first DC), work 1 DC in each stitch until you reach the chain-1 space from the previous round, work (2 DC, chain 2, 2 DC) in the chain-1 space (this forms the corner), repeat around.
   • Slip stitch to the first DC to join the round.
6. Rounds 5-8: Continue working the square by repeating Round 4, making the corners with (2 DC, chain 2, 2 DC) in each chain-1 space and working 1 DC in each stitch between the corners. Increase the size of the square as needed for your blanket.

Once your square reaches the desired size, fasten off and leave a long tail for joining. You will need to make multiple squares, depending on the size of your blanket.

Part 2: Crocheting the Ripple Sections

The ripple section adds a flowing wave effect between the squares. We’ll use a ripple stitch pattern here.

1. Foundation Chain: Chain a multiple of 12 + 3 for the foundation chain. For example, if you want a 36-inch wide blanket, chain approximately 183 stitches (adjust based on your tension and yarn).
2. Row 1 (Foundation Ripple Row): Skip the first 3 chains (counts as first DC), work 1 DC in each of the next 5 chains, DC 2 together (DC DEC) over the next 2 chains, work 1 DC in each of the next 5 chains, work 2 DC in the next chain (this forms the “peak” of the ripple), repeat across the row.
   • Turn your work.
3. Row 2 (Ripple Pattern): Chain 3 (counts as first DC), work 1 DC in each of the next 5 stitches, DC 2 together (DC DEC), work 1 DC in each of the next 5 stitches, work 2 DC in the next stitch (increase), repeat across the row.
   • Turn your work.
4. Rows 3-8: Continue repeating Row 2, working the ripple pattern across until the ripple section reaches the desired height (about 4-6 inches is typical between square rows).

Part 3: Joining the Squares and Ripple Sections

Once you have crocheted your squares and ripple sections, it’s time to join them to form the blanket.

1. Layout the Squares: Arrange the squares in rows with ripple sections between them. For example, you can alternate between rows of squares and ripple sections, depending on your design.
2. Joining the Squares: Use the long tails left from the squares to whipstitch or slip stitch the squares together, forming strips. You can also crochet them together using a single crochet join.
3. Joining the Ripple Sections: Once the squares are joined, place the ripple sections between the rows of squares and use the same joining method to attach them. This will create alternating rows of square motifs and ripple rows.

Part 4: Adding a Border

To give the blanket a finished look, you can add a simple border around the entire edge.

1. Single Crochet Border: Work 1 SC in each stitch along the edge of the blanket, placing 3 SC in each corner to keep the edges square.
   • Slip stitch to the first SC to join the round.
2. Optional Ripple Border: For a more decorative edge, you can use the ripple stitch pattern for the border. Simply work the ripple stitch along the edge, making sure to adjust the peaks and valleys to fit the corners.

Finishing the Blanket

1. Weaving in Ends: Use a tapestry needle to weave in any loose ends, making sure they are securely hidden within the stitches.
2. Blocking (Optional): Blocking your blanket can help even out the stitches and make the ripple pattern more defined. To block your blanket:
   • Dampen it with water or use a steam iron on a low setting.
   • Lay it flat on a clean towel or blocking mat, gently shaping it into the correct dimensions.
   • Pin the edges in place and allow the blanket to dry completely.

Customizing the Square and Ripple Crochet Blanket

There are many ways to customize your Square and Ripple Crochet Blanket to fit your style and preferences.

Change the Colors

You can create bold or subtle effects by using different colors for the squares and ripple sections. Try alternating between two colors or use multiple colors for a fun, rainbow-like effect.

Vary the Size

To make a larger or smaller blanket, simply adjust the number of squares and ripple rows. You can also increase or decrease the size of the squares or add more ripple rows between the square rows.

Add Texture

If you want to add more texture, you can use different stitch patterns within the squares or ripple rows. For example, try using a popcorn stitch for the squares or a shell stitch for the ripple rows.

Common Questions About the Square and Ripple Crochet Blanket

How do I adjust the size of the blanket?
To adjust the size, simply make more squares and ripple sections, or increase the size of each square. You can also make the ripple rows longer or shorter by adding or subtracting chains in the foundation row.

Can I use different yarn weights?
Yes! You can use any yarn weight for this blanket, but be sure to adjust your hook size accordingly. Lighter yarns will create a more delicate blanket, while bulkier yarns will make a thicker, warmer blanket.

How do I care for the blanket?
Most blankets made with acrylic or cotton yarn can be machine washed on a gentle cycle and air-dried. Follow the care instructions on your yarn label for best results.