Brilliantine Afghan

Brilliantine Afghan by Julie Yeager

Project Overview

The Brilliantine Afghan is a colorful crocheted throw blanket designed by Julie Yeager. This beginner-friendly crochet project creates a finished throw measuring approximately 60 inches by 70 inches, making it an ideal size for draping over furniture or using as a decorative blanket. The design features a modular construction approach using hexagonal motifs that are joined together and finished with a coordinating border.

Construction Technique and Stitch Work

This afghan employs a motif-based construction method, where individual hexagonal shapes are crocheted separately and then assembled to form the complete throw. This modular approach is particularly appealing for beginners, as it breaks down the project into manageable sections that can be worked on incrementally. The hexagons are the primary design element, with each motif measuring either 14 inches point to point and 12 inches along the flat sides when worked in heavy worsted or aran weight yarn, or 11.5 inches point to point and 10 inches along the flat sides when worked in dk weight yarn. After all hexagons are completed, a border is added around the perimeter to frame the design and create a finished edge.

Yarn and Materials

The Brilliantine Afghan accommodates two yarn weight options, allowing crafters to choose based on preference and availability:

• Heavy Worsted/Aran Weight Version: Uses an H8 hook (5.0 mm) and requires 17 skeins total. One skein of each of 14 different colors is sufficient for completing all hexagon motifs, with an additional 3 skeins reserved for the border. The pattern specifically references Vanna's Choice yarn as a suitable option for this weight.
• DK Weight Version: Uses a G6 hook (4.0 mm) and requires 15 skeins total. One skein of each of 13 different colors is adequate for the hexagon motifs, with 2 additional skeins needed for the border. The pattern notes that Stylecraft Special DK yarn, such as the Attic 24 Cosy Pack, works well for this version.

Color and Design Elements

A defining characteristic of the Brilliantine Afghan is its multi-color construction. The pattern encourages the use of numerous yarn colors—up to 14 colors in the worsted weight version or 13 colors in the dk weight version—with each hexagonal motif typically featuring a single color. This approach creates a vibrant, scrappy aesthetic that celebrates color variety and makes the project an excellent choice for using up yarn stash or coordinating complementary hues. The border provides a unifying element that ties all the individual colored hexagons together into a cohesive finished piece.

Skill Level and Accessibility

Designated as a beginner-level project, the Brilliantine Afghan is accessible to crocheters who are new to the craft or returning after time away. The modular motif structure reduces complexity by allowing crafters to focus on one hexagon at a time rather than managing a large, ongoing project. This format also provides natural stopping points and makes the project portable and manageable for those with limited crafting time.