Aster - Block Party

Aster – Block Party Crochet Skirt by Caroline Murphy

What is Being Made

The Aster – Block Party is a beginner-friendly crochet skirt designed by Caroline Murphy. This downloadable PDF pattern creates a colorful, modular skirt constructed from crocheted blocks that are assembled together. The skirt features a versatile design available in four sizes, with hip measurements ranging from 81cm (32 inches) to 96.5cm (38 inches), and a consistent length of 42cm (16.5 inches) across all sizes.

Crochet Techniques and Construction

The Aster – Block Party employs a block-based construction method, where individual squares are crocheted separately and then joined together to form the complete skirt. This modular approach is ideal for beginners, as it breaks the project into manageable sections and allows for creative color work using assorted yarn colors. The pattern uses standard US crochet terminology and is designed to be accessible to crafters new to the medium.

The skirt incorporates edge finishing with a 3mm crochet hook, which creates a polished, professional appearance around the openings. The main fabric is worked with a 4mm crochet hook to achieve the specified tension, ensuring proper fit and drape.

Stitches Used

The pattern utilizes fundamental crochet stitches suitable for beginners:

• Chain (ch) – the foundation stitch for creating the base of blocks and transitions
• Single crochet (sc) – a tight, dense stitch that provides structure
• Double crochet (dc) – a taller stitch that creates the primary fabric
• Slip stitch (ss) – used for joining rounds and blocks together seamlessly
• Chain spaces (ch-sp) – openwork areas created by chains that add texture and visual interest

Materials and Yarn Specifications

The Aster – Block Party requires approximately 440 to 610 metres (482 to 668 yards) of DK weight yarn in total, depending on the size being made. The yarn is worked in assorted colors, which allows crafters to use stash yarn or create a multicolored effect. DK yarn is a lightweight, versatile yarn weight that produces a fabric with excellent drape and flexibility—ideal for a skirt garment.

The pattern calls for a 4mm crochet hook as the primary tool for constructing the main skirt fabric, with a 3mm crochet hook reserved for edgings and finishing details. The required tension is 16 stitches and 7 rows over 10cm (4 inches) when working with the 4mm hook. Since crochet fabric is inherently stretchy, the pattern notes that crafters may need to size down from their usual size to achieve a snug, secure fit around the hips.

Sizing and Fit Considerations

The pattern provides four finished hip measurements: 81cm (32"), 86cm (34"), 91cm (36"), and 96.5cm (38"), with all sizes sharing the same 42cm (16.5") length. The consistent length across sizes makes this pattern versatile for various body proportions, while the range of hip measurements accommodates different sizing needs. Crafters are advised to consider the natural stretch of crochet fabric when selecting their size, as a slightly smaller finished measurement may provide the desired fit.