Striped Square

Sample by Siobhan

Level: Beginner

Yarn weight: Chunky (6.0mm hook) or adapt for DK yarn (4.0mm hook)

Source: Eli

Pattern

This pattern uses US stitch terminology (the same as the EMF workshop teaches).

Stitch Key:

• ch: chain stitch
• dc: double crochet
• st: stitch (any)

Foundation chain. Work approximately 17 ch - adjust the exact number so you have a chain between 12-13 cm long. Ch 2 more.

Row 1. 1 dc into the third ch from the hook, *dc into next st, repeat from * to end of row, turn. The length of the work should have grown to around 14-15 cm - if it is significantly over or under, undo the row and adjust the number of stitches in the foundation chain, then try again.

Row 2. 2 ch, *dc into next st, repeat from * to end of row, turn.

Rows 3-end. Repeat row 2 until the height of the work is 14-15 cm. You can expect to have approximately 9 rows.

Finishing Fasten off and weave in ends.

Modifications

• Incorporate one or more rows of single crochet to create a slightly different texture. Single crochet is especially useful for getting the square to be the right height.
• Change colour at the end of a row to create a stripe. To create equal-width stripes, change after a consistent and ideally even number of rows (e.g. every 4 rows). This pattern is great for making pride flags and country flags!
• Add an extra design by sewing or embroidering on top of the finished square.

Adapt for DK yarn (4.0mm hook)

The pattern is exactly the same, but your stitches will be smaller and so it will take longer to make a square of the same size. Your foundation chain will be approximately 23 stitches (still 12-13 cm long), and you will work approximately 13 rows (still 14-15cm high).