Light Fantastic Square
Hello, dear reader! Welcome to our lovely blog, Handmade Learning Here. As you know, crochet is an art full of possibilities, and one pattern that truly shines is the Light Fantastic Square. This pattern is known for its elegant geometric shapes and stunning beauty. If you’re looking to add a touch of magic and sophistication to your projects, the Light Fantastic Square might be the perfect choice.
The Light Fantastic Square is a versatile and charming piece that can be used in a variety of projects, from pillows and blankets to accessories like bags. The pattern is characterized by its luminous and detailed design, creating an impressive visual effect. It’s a great option for both beginner crocheters and more experienced ones looking to explore new techniques.
The Light Fantastic Square is made in a series of steps that involve combining basic crochet stitches to create a standout pattern. Although the pattern might seem complex at first glance, with a bit of practice, you’ll find it quite accessible.
To start, you’ll need quality yarn in colors of your choice. Contrasting colors can enhance the pattern, while similar colors create a softer effect.
The crochet hook should be suitable for the yarn you’ve chosen. Generally, a medium size (such as 4mm or 5mm) works well for most square projects.
Stitches Used:
The Light Fantastic Square uses a combination of basic stitches, including chain stitches, single crochet, double crochet, and popcorn stitches. The combination of these stitches creates a rich and detailed pattern.
The pattern assumes you will change yarn at the beginning of each round, but it doesn’t provide specific instructions on how to start or end each time. While it’s not strictly necessary, for a cleaner finish, you can begin each round (except the first) with a standing stitch and finish invisibly using a tapestry needle. You can find many great tutorials for these techniques online, such as this one from Saraphir. Alternatively, you can start each round with the appropriate number of chains (e.g., ch-2 for sc, ch-3 for dc, etc.) and finish by joining with a slip stitch in the second stitch. Remember that any substitute chains should always be counted as a stitch.
- When changing colors mid-round, make sure to add the new color in the final loop of the previous stitch. Keep both colors attached; lay the non-working yarn along the top of the stitches and catch it as you work. Pull it gently to keep it taut before using it again. Alternatively, you can skip these color changes and work all the double crochet (dc) rounds in a single color if you prefer.
- When working the long double crochets (dcs) in this pattern, it’s much easier and just as effective to insert your hook downward from the top of the loop, instead of upward from the bottom.
Abbreviations (US terms):
R: Round
ch: Chain
sc: Single Crochet
dc: Double Crochet
long dc: Long Double Crochet (extend the yarn slightly longer than usual to fit the space)
tr: Treble/Triple Crochet
st: Stitch(es)
blo: Back Loop Only
INSTRUCTIONS
Round 1: Into a magic ring, work 3 double crochets (dc), then 1 treble crochet (tr). Repeat this pattern 4 times. Pull the magic ring tightly to close and finish off. You should have 12 double crochets and 4 treble crochets total. (12dc+4tr)
Round 2: In the treble crochet from the previous round, work 3 single crochets (sc). The middle single crochet will be the corner. Next, work 1 single crochet in each of the next 3 stitches, and place a stitch marker in the front loop of the 2nd single crochet. Repeat this pattern all around. Finish off. You should have 24 single crochets.
Round 3: In the corner stitch, work 5 double crochets (dc) into the back loop only (blo). The middle double crochet will be the corner. Next, work 1 double crochet in the back loop only (blo) in each of the next 5 stitches. Repeat this pattern all around. Finish off. You should have 40 double crochets in the back loop only.
Round 4: In the corner stitch, work 3 single crochets (sc). Next, work 1 single crochet in each of the next 4 stitches, and place a stitch marker in the front loop of the 2nd single crochet. Work a long double crochet (dc) into the front loop of the marked stitch from Round 2 (remove the stitch marker first). Skip the next stitch in Round 3, then work 1 single crochet in each of the next 4 stitches and place a stitch marker in the front loop of the 3rd single crochet. Repeat this pattern all around. Finish off. You should have 44 single crochets and 4 long double crochets.
Round 5: Use two colors, A and B. Start with color A: In the corner stitch, work 5 double crochets (dc) in the back loop only (blo). Next, work 1 double crochet in the back loop only (blo) in each of the next 3 stitches. Change to color B and work 1 double crochet in the back loop only (blo) in each of the next 5 stitches. Change back to color A and work 1 double crochet in the back loop only (blo) in each of the next 3 stitches. Repeat this pattern all around. Finish off. You should have 64 double crochets in the back loop only.
Round 6: In the corner stitch, work 3 single crochets (sc). Next, work 1 single crochet in each of the next 4 stitches and place a stitch marker in the front loop of the 2nd single crochet.
*Work a long double crochet (dc) into the front loop of the marked stitch from Round 4 (remove the stitch marker first). Skip the next stitch in Round 5, then work 1 single crochet in each of the next 5 stitches and place a stitch marker in the front loop of the 3rd single crochet.**
Repeat the instructions from * to **. Then, skip the next stitch in Round 5 and work 1 single crochet in each of the next 4 stitches, placing a stitch marker in the front loop of the 3rd single crochet.
Repeat from the beginning all around. Finish off. You should have 64 single crochets and 8 long double crochets.
Round 7: Use two colors, B and C. Start with color B: In the corner stitch, work 5 double crochets (dc) in the back loop only (blo). Next, work 1 double crochet in the back loop only (blo) in each of the next 3 stitches. Change to color C and work 1 double crochet in the back loop only (blo) in each of the next 11 stitches. Change back to color B and work 1 double crochet in the back loop only (blo) in each of the next 3 stitches. Repeat this pattern all around. Finish off. You should have 88 double crochets in the back loop only.
Round 8: In the corner stitch, work 3 single crochets (sc). Next, work 1 single crochet in each of the next 4 stitches.
*Work a long double crochet (dc) into the front loop of the marked stitch from Round 7 (remove the stitch marker first). Skip the next stitch in Round 7, then work 1 single crochet in each of the next 5 stitches.**
Repeat the instructions from * to **. Then, skip the next stitch in Round 7 and work 1 single crochet in each of the next 5 stitches. Repeat the instructions from * to ** again. Finally, skip the next stitch in Round 7 and work 1 single crochet in each of the next 4 stitches.
Repeat from the beginning all around. Finish off. You should have 84 single crochets and 12 long double crochets. Weave in any loose ends if you haven’t already.
The Light Fantastic Square is a magnificent addition to your crochet repertoire, offering both a challenge and a reward. Its beauty and versatility make it ideal for a wide range of projects. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced crocheter, experimenting with this pattern can bring a new level of satisfaction and creativity to your work.
Some ideas for alternative colour palettes:
Dear reader, we have separated here a beautiful PDF of the Light Fantastic Square crochet pattern developed by CatsWhiskers Crochet and you can access it below:
If you’re ready to try this stunning pattern, remember to be patient and enjoy the creative process. The Light Fantastic Square will surely add a touch of light and wonder to your crochet creations.
It’s wonderful to have you here with us, dear reader! We have various free crochet patterns for you, so be sure to check out our categories. Now, let’s gather our materials, yarn, and hooks, and put what we’ve learned into practice. Have a fantastic day! See you soon. XoXo
