Diamonds in the Sand Afghan

Diamonds in the Sand Afghan

What is Being Made

The Diamonds in the Sand Afghan is an easy-level crochet blanket designed by Alicia LaFontaine. This finished throw measures 52.5 inches by 65 inches, making it an ideal size for a cozy lap blanket or decorative throw for furniture. The design features a repeating diamond motif pattern that creates visual interest across the entire surface of the piece.

Design and Pattern Structure

This crochet afghan showcases a diamond pattern layout that spans across the width and length of the blanket. The design includes a total of 105 diamonds arranged in a grid formation—15 diamonds across and 7 diamonds down. The pattern is worked in rows with turning chains at the end of each row. The construction method involves working the pattern row by row, with the chain-3 at the start of each row counting as an actual stitch in the pattern.

Although the design is categorized as a filet-style crochet pattern, the instructions are written out in full stitch-by-stitch format rather than relying solely on a chart. A diamond motif chart is included as a visual reference guide to help crafters understand the spacing and placement of diamonds along the right-hand edge of the piece. When reading the chart, stitch numbers should be counted from right to left.

Crochet Techniques and Stitches Used

This beginner-friendly project utilizes fundamental crochet techniques that make it accessible to crafters new to the craft. The primary stitches employed in this pattern include:

• Chain stitch (ch) — used for foundation chains and turning chains throughout the pattern
• Double crochet (dc) — the main stitch that forms the body and structure of the afghan

The pattern works at a gauge of 12 double crochet stitches and 8 rows per 4 inches when measured over the double crochet fabric. This gauge information helps ensure the finished blanket reaches the intended dimensions of 52.5 by 65 inches.

Materials and Tools

The Diamonds in the Sand Afghan requires approximately 2,100 yards of worsted weight or aran weight yarn. The featured yarn in the original pattern is Caron One Pound in a lace colorway, which is a 100% acrylic fiber. Acrylic yarn is a practical choice for afghans as it is durable, easy to care for, and widely available in numerous colors.

Additional materials and tools needed include:

• Size US K10.5 (6.5mm) crochet hook
• Scissors for cutting yarn
• Tapestry needle for weaving in ends

The combination of aran weight yarn with a K10.5 hook creates a fabric with good drape and structure, ideal for a blanket that maintains its shape while remaining soft and comfortable.