For part 7 of Learn to Crochet, we are going to crochet a pink checkboard! I have been trying to add some small patterns into the series, and I wanted to include one that consisted of crocheting in rows. This pattern will also introduce tapestry crochet (a method that is used to change color within the row). The number of checkers per row can be adapted easily, so you could make a blanket, scarf, or pillow with this pattern!
The video is now up on YouTube. I have written out the pattern here with some step-by-step pictures, but if you are a beginner, the video will probably be more helpful.
A Little Note
This pattern is a swatch of this pillow that I made last summer. The pillow pattern is free on the blog:
The first swatch is the one that I made while filming the video. The colors match the colors in the pillow, and for some reason, since the swatch does not have as many checkers per row, it creates an optical illusion. After a minute, it starts to look like a pattern with crosses.
If you are expanding the pattern for a larger project, you can use three colors if you would like! If you are just making the swatch, I would recommend sticking to two colors.
Stitch Abbreviations
Abbreviations: In U.S. Terms (Translated to UK in parentheses)
st= stitch
sp = space
ch= chain (chain)
dc= double crochet (treble)
cc = change color
[ ] indicate that the sts are worked into the same space
{ } indicate that the the sts are repeated later in the pattern
Starting Stitches
The chain 3 at the beginning of a row counts as the first double crochet stitch.
How to Change Color
During the stitch before the pattern reads “cc” (change color), use the new color to complete the final yarn over, pull through 2 loops of the double crochet stitch.
Carrying the Yarn
While crocheting, hold the other color against the work. In both of these pictures, the dark pink yarn is being held against the work. It will end up inside the work.
- For ODD numbered rows, hold the yarn against the BACK of the work (picture 1).
- For EVEN numbered rows, hold the yarn against the FRONT of the work (picture 2).
This means that when you are crocheting the odd numbered rows, the front side of the work is facing you. It is ok if some of the color changes can be seen on the other side of the work (it will become the back side).
The End of a Row
Before the last three stitches of a row, drop the yarn that is being held against the work where it is.
- Picture 1 shows the end of an odd numbered row.
- Picture 2 shows the end of an even numbered row.
The Beginning of a Row
After the first 3 stitches of the next row, pick the carried yarn back up.
- Picture 1 shows the beginning of an odd numbered row.
- Picture 2 shows the beginning of an even numbered row.
The Pattern
Note: This pattern repeats every 6 stitches, so if you would like to make it longer, chain a multiple of 6 at the beginning and then add 2.
Foundation: Ch 32.
Row 1: Skip over the first 3 chains (they count as the first dc), and dc into the fourth chain from the hook. Dc into each of the following chains (there will be 28). Ch 1. Fasten off. (30).
Rows 2-4 create the first section of checkers. I alternated between dark pink and light pink.
Row 2: Join the dark pink yarn into the last dc st of row 1. Ch 3 (counts as first dc throughout). Flip. 5 dc. {Cc to light pink, 6 dc. Cc to dark pink, 6 dc}. Repeat {} one more time. (30).
Row 3: Ch 3. Flip. 5 dc. {Cc to light pink, 6 dc. Cc to dark pink, 6 dc}. Repeat {} one more time. (30).
Row 4: Same as row 3. At the end, ch 1 and fasten off. (30).
Rows 5-7 create the next section of checkers. I alternated between light pink and cream, but you might want to replace the cream with dark pink.
Row 5: Join the light pink yarn into the last dc st of the previous row. Ch 3. Flip. 5 dc. {Cc to cream, 6 dc. Cc to light pink, 6 dc}. Repeat {} one more time. (30).
Row 6: Ch 3. Flip. 5 dc. {Cc to cream, 6 dc. Cc to light pink, 6 dc}. Repeat {} one more time. (30).
Row 7: Same as row 6. At the end, ch 1 and fasten off. (30).
To continue: Repeat rows 2-4 followed by rows 5-7 as many times as you would like!
Last row: Join the cream into the last stitch of the previous row. Ch 3. Flip. Dc into each of the following stitches of the previous row. Ch 1. Fasten off. (30).
Thanks for joining in!
If you follow along with the pattern for the swatch or use it to make a larger project, I would love to see some pictures. If you post them on Instagram, make sure you tag me, so I can see them!
Up next:
We will finally crochet some solid granny squares!