Crazy-Good Mat & Blanket

Crazy-Good Mat & Blanket by Susan Carlson

Project Overview

The Crazy-Good Mat & Blanket is a versatile crochet design by independent designer Susan Carlson that can be worked as either a decorative mat or a customizable blanket. This intermediate-level crochet project features a unique construction method combining a grid backing with raised dimensional flowers, creating visual interest and texture through strategic stitch placement.

What Is Being Made

This pattern produces a rectangular mat or blanket with raised three-dimensional floral embellishments. The standard mat measures approximately 38.5 inches (98 centimeters) wide by 30 inches (76 centimeters) tall, though the design is fully customizable to create blankets of any desired dimensions. The piece functions as both a functional home accessory and a decorative textile art project.

Construction Techniques

The Crazy-Good Mat & Blanket employs a two-stage construction method that distinguishes it from traditional crochet blankets:

• Grid Foundation: The project begins with a foundation chain worked in multiples of 8 plus 3 stitches to establish the desired width. This grid serves as the structural backing and base for all subsequent work.
• Raised Flower Application: Once the grid backing is complete, three-dimensional flowers are worked directly onto the foundation using vertical stitches positioned on the posts and chain spaces of the grid. This technique creates raised, sculptural floral elements that stand away from the base fabric.
• Dimensional Stitch Work: The flowers are constructed using vertical stitches that exploit the posts and chain spaces created during the grid phase, allowing for organic, textured embellishment without additional appliqué work.

Stitches Used

While the complete stitch list is detailed in the pattern document (referenced as "Stitch A" in the materials section), the project utilizes fundamental crochet stitches worked in combination to create both the grid structure and the raised floral elements. The specific stitches are designed to work effectively on posts and within chain spaces to build dimensional texture.

Materials & Yarn Specifications

Yarn: This pattern is designed for worsted weight yarn (weight category 4). The primary color is worked in Lion Brand Pound of Love in white, requiring one full skein for the mat. Additional small amounts of any worsted weight yarns in your choice of colors are used for flower centers and border details, allowing for creative color customization.

Tools: An H (5.0 millimeter) crochet hook and a tapestry or yarn needle for finishing are required to complete the project.

Customization & Sizing Options

The Crazy-Good Mat & Blanket pattern is highly adaptable for different project sizes. To adjust dimensions, modify the foundation chain length in multiples of 8 plus 3 to achieve your desired width. For increased height, repeat pattern rows 2 and 3 an even number of times to ensure the square flowers align properly on the grid. This flexibility makes the pattern suitable for creating mats, throws, blankets, and other rectangular textile projects of any custom size.

Skill Level & Format

Designed as an intermediate-level crochet project, this pattern assumes familiarity with basic crochet techniques and the ability to follow multi-row instructions. The downloadable PDF format includes printable pages (pages 2-4) that can be printed for convenient on-the-go reference while working on your project.