How to crochet afghan

How to crochet afghan for beginners

Written by: Jeff Tse

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Time to read 5 min

Table of content
Introduction Step by Step: How to Crochet Afghan Step 1: Gather Your Materials Step 2: Choose Your Stitch Pattern Step 3: Create a Foundation Chain Step 4: Work the First Row Step 5: Turn Your Work Step 6: Continue Crocheting Step 7: Add a Border (Optional) Step 8: Weave in Ends Step 9: Block Your Afghan (Optional) Tips for Crochet Afghan

Introduction

Crocheting an afghan is a rewarding and enjoyable project that allows you to create a beautiful, functional piece for your home. Whether you're looking to make a cozy blanket for chilly nights or a decorative throw for your living room, learning how to crochet an afghan can be a fulfilling experience. This versatile project is perfect for crafters of all skill levels, from beginners to more advanced crocheters, as it can be customized in size, color, and stitch patterns to suit your personal style.

To get started, you'll need some basic supplies, including yarn, a crochet hook, and scissors. The choice of yarn can greatly affect the final look and feel of your afghan, so consider options like worsted weight or bulky yarn for a cozy finish. Once you have your materials ready, you can choose from various crochet stitches, such as double crochet, half double crochet, or even a combination of stitches, to create texture and visual interest.

Throughout this guide, we will walk you through the essential steps and techniques needed to crochet your own afghan, providing tips and tricks to help you achieve a beautiful finished product. Whether you’re making a simple lap blanket or a large bedspread, you’ll find that crocheting an afghan is a delightful and satisfying project that can be cherished for years to come.

💡 Did you know

Crochet afghans have a rich history dating back centuries. The term "afghan" is derived from the name of the country Afghanistan, where a similar technique called "Afghani crochet" originated. This style of crochet, also known as Tunisian crochet, involves working stitches onto a hook and then drawing the loops through each other to create a dense, warm fabric. Crochet afghans gained popularity in the United States during the 19th century, with patterns and techniques evolving over time. Today, crochet afghans remain a beloved craft, with countless patterns and styles available for crafters to explore.

Step by Step: How to Crochet Afghan

Step 1: Gather Your Materials

Before you start, gather the necessary supplies:

  • Yarn: Choose a medium-weight yarn (worsted weight) for a balanced texture. You can also opt for bulky yarn for a thicker, warmer afghan.
  • Crochet Hook: Select a hook size that matches your yarn. A size H/8 (5mm) or I/9 (5.5mm) is commonly used for worsted weight yarn.
  • Scissors: For cutting your yarn at the end of the project.
  • Tapestry Needle: To weave in ends once your afghan is complete.
How to crochet afghan

Step 2: Choose Your Stitch Pattern

Decide on the stitch pattern you want to use for your afghan. Some popular options include:

  • Double Crochet (DC): Creates a soft, drapey fabric.
  • Half Double Crochet (HDC): A versatile stitch that works up quickly and creates a dense fabric.
  • Granny Square: A classic pattern made by crocheting squares and joining them together.
How to crochet afghan

Step 3: Create a Foundation Chain

Make a slip knot and place it on your hook. Chain the desired number of stitches for your foundation row. The number of chains will depend on the size of your afghan and the stitch pattern you've chosen. For example, for a throw-sized afghan, you might chain 156 stitches.

Step 4: Work the First Row

For the first row, work your chosen stitch (e.g., double crochet or half double crochet) into the third chain from the hook. Continue working your chosen stitch across the row until you reach the end of the foundation chain.

Step 5: Turn Your Work

Once you reach the end of the row, chain one (if using single crochet) or chain two (if using double crochet) to create a turning chain. Turn your work so you can begin the next row.

Step 6: Continue Crocheting

For the next row, insert your hook into the first stitch of the previous row and work your chosen stitch. Continue this process, repeating the turning chain and working across each row until your afghan reaches the desired length.

Example: Double Crochet Afghan

  1. Row 1: Chain 156, double crochet into the third chain from the hook, and continue across.
  2. Row 2: Chain 2 (turning chain), double crochet into the first stitch, and continue across.
  3. Repeat Row 2 until your afghan reaches the desired length.
How to crochet afghan

Step 7: Add a Border (Optional)

Once your afghan is the desired size, consider adding a border to give it a finished look. A simple single crochet border can be worked around the edges. To do this:

  1. Single Crochet Around: Insert your hook into the side of the afghan, yarn over, and pull through. Yarn over again and pull through both loops.
  2. Corners: In each corner, work three single crochets to maintain the shape.
  3. Continue: Work evenly along the sides until you return to the starting point.
How to crochet afghan

Step 8: Weave in Ends

After completing your afghan, cut the yarn, leaving a 6-inch tail. Pull the tail through the last loop on your hook to secure it. Use a tapestry needle to weave in any loose ends on the wrong side of your work, ensuring a neat finish.

Step 9: Block Your Afghan (Optional)

Blocking your afghan can help even out the stitches and give it a polished look. To block, lay your afghan flat on a clean surface and gently stretch it to the desired dimensions. Pin it in place if necessary and allow it to dry completely.

Tips for Crochet Afghan

Choose the Right Yarn

  • Select a medium-weight yarn (worsted weight) for a balanced texture and easy handling.
  • Bulky yarn can create a thicker, warmer afghan but may be more challenging for beginners.
  • Consider using self-striping yarn to add color without weaving in ends.

Pick a Simple Stitch Pattern

  • Choose a stitch pattern with a short repeat (1-2 rows) for easy memorization.
  • Look for stitches that create a dense, "closed" fabric without large gaps.
  • Some good options for beginners include:
    • Half Double Crochet (HDC)
    • Double Crochet (DC)
    • Granny Square
    • Moss Stitch

Pay Attention to Stitch Multiples

  • When combining stitches, choose patterns with the same stitch multiple to simplify the foundation chain.
  • For example, a pattern that requires chaining a multiple of 3 plus 2 will be easier to work with than one requiring a multiple of 6 plus 2.

Work in Manageable Sections

  • Break your afghan into smaller sections like squares or rows to make the project feel less overwhelming.
  • Use a "join as you go" method to connect the pieces as you work rather than assembling everything at the end.

Add a Simple Border

  • Finish your afghan with a single crochet border around the edges for a clean, polished look.
  • Work evenly around the sides, working 3 sc in each corner to maintain the shape.

Take Your Time and Enjoy the Process

  • Crocheting an afghan is a big project, so don't rush through it.
  • Relax and savor the repetitive motions, focusing on your tension and rhythm.
  • Celebrate your progress and the satisfaction of creating a cozy, handmade blanket.
How to crochet afghan
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