Easy Free Crochet Lapghan Pattern
A small crochet blanket can be used as a baby blanket or as a lapghan, a petite afghan that's perfect for laps. This project makes for a beautiful gift or charity donation. The adventurous beginner will enjoy stretching their skills with a simple shell pattern. The more experienced crocheter will find its repetitive nature meditative and relaxing, making it great for mindfulness crochet. If you're planning a gift, consider how much time the recipient will have to clean and care for the blanket. Consider using a washable cotton or superwash wool. New parents will appreciate your thoughtfulness!
Size / Finished Measurements
Width: 32 inches
Length: 42 inches
Gauge
25 sts and 24 rows = 6 inches in shell pattern
Abbreviations
- ch = chain
- ch # = chain # stitch; chain the specified number of stitches
- ch-# sp = chain-# space; the space formed by the specified number of chain stitches in the previous row
- dc = double crochet
- rep = repeat
- sc = single crochet
- sk = skip
- st(s) = stitch(es)
- [ ] = repeat instructions within brackets as directed
Shell Pattern [multiple of 10 plus 3 sts]
Ch 24 for swatch. Sc in back loop of 2nd ch from hook and in each ch across, turn—23 sts.
Foundation row: ch 3 (counts as first dc), dc in each of next 2 sc, *sk 3 sc, [working in back loop, (3 dc, ch 1, 3 dc) in next sc], sk 3 sc, dc in each of next 3 sc; rep from * to end, turn.
Row 1: ch 3 (counts as first dc), dc in each of next 2 dc, *ch 3, sk 3 dc, (working in chain-1 space, work 3 sc), ch 3, sk 3 dc, dc in each of next 3 dc; rep from * to end, turn.
Row 2: ch 3 (counts as first dc), dc in each of next 2 dc, *sk ch-3, skip next sc, [working in back loop, (3 dc, ch 1, 3 dc) in next sc], sk next sc, sk ch-3, dc in each of next 3 dc; rep from * to end.
Rep last two rows for pattern.
Notes
While the stitches in this crochet pattern are simple, pay attention to the placement of those stitches. Some are placed in the back loop only; others are worked through both loops. This gives the correct texture and tension for the blanket, so be careful as you first begin working the pattern.
What You'll Need
Equipment / Tools
- US G/6 (4.25 mm) crochet hook
- Yarn or tapestry needle
- Scissors
Materials
- 600 yard worsted weight yarn
Instructions
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Make Chain Stitches
Ch 134 sts, being careful to keep the size consistent; turn.
-
Working Into the Chain
Sc in back loop of 2nd ch from hook and in each ch across, turn—133 sts.
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Foundation Row
Next row: ch 3 (counts as first dc), dc in each of next 2 sc, *sk 3 sc, [working in back loop, (3 dc, ch 1, 3 dc) in next sc], sk 3 sc, dc in each of next 3 sc; rep from * to end, turn.
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Begin Stitch Pattern
Row 1: ch 3 (counts as first dc), dc in each of next 2 dc, *ch 3, sk 3 dc, (working in chain-1 space, work 3 sc), ch 3, sk 3 dc, dc in each of next 3 dc; rep from * to end, turn.
Row 2: ch 3 (counts as first dc), dc in each of next 2 dc, *sk ch-3, skip next sc, [working in back loop, (3 dc, ch 1, 3 dc) in next sc], sk next sc, sk ch-3, dc in each of next 3 dc; rep from * to end, turn.
Rep last two rows until the piece measures 41 inches, end on a Row 1.
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Final Row
Last Row: ch 1, sc in each of 3 dc, *2 sc in ch-3 space, sc in each of 3 sc sts; repeat from * to last ch-3 space, 2 sc in ch-3 sp and sc in each of last 3 dc.
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Finishing
Fasten off. Weave in ends. If desired, add an edging of your choice.