Learn how to make a simple crochet rectangle – a DIY building block for crochet carpets, bed sheets, granny square rectangles, tablecloths, and more! Free pattern, beginner-friendly.
Whether you dream of a cozy crochet carpet, a charming granny square bed sheet, or a handmade tablecloth, the humble crochet rectangle is your starting point! This pattern is incredibly versatile and, best of all, beginner-friendly. If you know a few basic crochet stitches, you’re ready to create something beautiful and useful for your home.
What You’ll Need
- Yarn: I recommend Alize Cotton Gold for its softness and durability, but any yarn you like will work. Consider the project’s purpose when choosing colors and fiber types.
- Crochet hook: A 2.75mm hook is a good starting point, but adjust based on your yarn and tension.
- Scissors
- Needle (optional): For weaving in yarn ends.
Crochet Terms for Beginners
- Chain (ch): The foundation of many crochet patterns.
- Double crochet (dc): A basic, taller stitch.
- Slip stitch (sl st): Used to join stitches or move across your work.
Gauge:
Gauge is not crucial for this project, but a consistent stitch size will affect the final dimensions. Make a small swatch to get a feel for the size and adjust your hook size if needed.
Pattern Notes:
- The starting chain count determines the width of your rectangle. For the size in the video (36.5 cm long, 30 cm wide), you’ll need 19 chains. Adjust accordingly for your desired dimensions.
- The pattern uses multiples of 3 chains + 2 for starting chains.
- You can change colors at any point by cutting the yarn, leaving a tail, and joining a new color in any dc group. Weave in the ends securely.
- To add a decorative border, experiment with different edging techniques after finishing the main body of the rectangle.
Tips
- Practice tension: Keep your stitches even for a neat look.
- Count carefully: Especially in the early rows!
- Don’t be afraid to frog: “Frogging” is undoing stitches – everyone does it!
Written Pattern
Foundation Chain:
- Chain (ch) 19 (or a multiple of 3 chains + 2 for your desired width) loosely, leaving a long tail for weaving in later.
Row 1 (Increasing Row):
- Double crochet (dc) in the 4th chain from the hook.
- Skip 3 chains, dc 3 times in the next chain. Repeat from * to * across the entire row, ending with 3 dc in the last chain. You should have a total of 5 dc groups.
- Chain (ch) 3 (turning chain).
Row 2 and Subsequent Rows (Straight Rows):
- Dc in the same space as the chain you just made (turning chain space).
- Dc 3 times in the first dc group (from the previous row). Repeat from * to * across the entire row, including the corner.
- Corner: In the corner space (where 3 dc were made in the previous row), work 3 dc, ch 3, 3 dc.
- Continue making dc groups across the rest of the row, repeating step 2.
- Repeat from step 1 (Row 2) until your rectangle reaches the desired length.
Finishing:
- Chain (ch) 1, cut the yarn, leaving a tail for weaving in.
- Weave the end of the yarn through the last few stitches to secure it. Weave in all remaining ends securely with a tapestry needle (optional).
Adding Ascents and Descents for Styling
Here are two ways to incorporate visual interest into your rectangle:
Method 1: Staggered Increases and Decreases
- Instead of working 3 dc in each space across the row in Row 2 and subsequent rows, alternate between making 2 dc and 4 dc in each space. This will create a subtle wave pattern.
- You can also experiment with different combinations of increases and decreases to achieve a more dramatic effect.
Method 2: Skipped Stitches
- In Row 2 and subsequent rows, after working the turning chain, skip the first stitch (dc) from the previous row.
- Continue making dc groups across the row, but skip the last dc group from the previous row as well. This will create a scalloped edge.
- Adjust the number of skipped stitches to control the depth of the scallops.
Remember, these are just suggestions! Feel free to get creative and explore different stitch combinations and techniques to personalize your crochet rectangle.
The Magic of the Rectangle
This simple crochet rectangle pattern is your blank canvas. Here are some ideas:
- Crochet Carpet or Rug: Choose thicker yarn and make a large rectangle!
- Granny Square Crochet: Make smaller rectangles in various colors, then stitch them together.
- Crochet Bed Sheet: Use soft yarn and create a rectangle to fit your bed.
- Crochet Tablecloth: Add a decorative border or stitch multiple rectangles together.
Need Visual Help?
I have a complete video tutorial for this pattern on my YouTube channel, Tuba Crochet: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EVxSgsqST04
Share Your Projects
I’d love to see what you create! Share your handmade items on Instagram (@tubacrochet_) or TikTok (@tubacrochet). Let’s inspire each other!
Conclusion
Learning to crochet a rectangle opens up a world of creative possibilities. It’s a small skill with big rewards. So, grab your hook and yarn, and let’s get started! Don’t forget to leave a comment if you have any questions.