Arrowhead Striped Afghan in Caron United - Downloadable PDF

Arrowhead Striped Afghan in Caron United – Crochet Pattern Summary

This intermediate-level crochet pattern produces a striking Arrowhead Striped Afghan measuring approximately 44" x 66" (112 x 168 cm), excluding fringe. The finished blanket features a bold, geometric arrowhead texture worked in a three-color stripe sequence, making it an eye-catching addition to any home décor or a thoughtful handmade gift. The pattern is available as a free downloadable PDF.

Construction Method

One of the most distinctive aspects of this pattern is that the afghan is worked sideways — meaning you cast on along the long edge and work across the width rather than the length. This approach creates uninterrupted horizontal stripes that run the full width of the blanket and gives the arrowhead stitch its characteristic diagonal, woven appearance. The foundation chain begins with 202 chains loosely (worked as a ch 4+2 formula), establishing the full length of the throw from the very first row.

Stripe Pattern

The color sequence is structured and repeating, forming a 12-row Stripe Pattern:

• Color A – 2 rows
• Color B – 4 rows
• Color A – 2 rows
• Color C – 4 rows

This 12-row repeat continues until the work measures approximately 44" (112 cm), ending with 2 rows of Color A before fastening off. The rhythm of the stripe repeat makes this an excellent project for crocheters who enjoy meditative, pattern-driven work with clear visual progress.

Stitches and Techniques Used

The arrowhead texture is achieved through a clever combination of standard crochet stitches worked in alternating directions:

• Chain (ch) – used for the foundation and turning chains throughout
• Double crochet (dc) – the primary structural stitch; the ch 3 at the beginning of each row counts as a dc
• Treble crochet (tr) – worked into the corresponding treble from the previous row, creating the raised arrowhead point
• Working behind the treble – on odd-numbered rows, double crochets are worked into skipped stitches behind the treble just made, creating a crossover effect that forms one side of the arrowhead
• Working in front of the treble – on even-numbered rows, the same crossover technique is used but worked in front of the treble, completing the mirrored arrowhead shape
• Skip stitches – groups of 3 double crochets are skipped to allow the treble and crossover doubles to form the arrowhead motif

This alternating front-and-back crossover technique is what gives the stitch its dimensional, woven look without requiring any true cables or post stitches. It is a satisfying technique for intermediate crocheters looking to expand beyond basic stitch patterns.

Gauge

The recommended gauge is 13 single crochet stitches and 14 rows = 4" (10 cm). Achieving correct gauge is important for hitting the finished dimensions, particularly given the sideways construction where row count directly determines the length of the afghan.

Finishing – Fringe

The afghan is finished with a decorative knotted fringe along both short ends. To create the fringe, cut 12" (30.5 cm) lengths of yarn and knot groups of 6 strands together evenly along each edge. The fringe colors are matched to the corresponding stripes for a polished, cohesive look. Ends are trimmed evenly after knotting.

Materials Required

The pattern calls for Caron® United™ yarn, an aran-weight (size 4) yarn sold in 4 oz / 113 g skeins with approximately 235 yards / 215 m per skein. Three colorways are used:

• Color A – Dark Grey Heather (06005): 4 skeins