Howard

Howard Crochet Square by Jessica Phillips

Project Overview

Howard is a beginner-friendly crochet square design created by independent designer Jessica Phillips. This downloadable PDF pattern provides instructions for creating a 12-inch finished square, making it an ideal project for crafters new to crochet or those seeking a quick, straightforward make. The design uses a classic circular construction method that expands outward from the center, resulting in a geometric square with open lacework elements.

What Is Being Made

The Howard pattern produces a single 12-inch crochet square. The piece begins with a small circular motif worked from the center outward and concludes with an open, lacy construction. This versatile square can be used as a standalone coaster, appliqué, blanket square, or combined with other squares to create larger projects such as afghans, blankets, or garment panels.

Techniques Used

The Howard pattern employs fundamental crochet techniques suitable for beginners. The piece starts with a magic ring alternative—chaining 2 and working into the second chain from the hook—which creates a tight center without requiring the magic ring technique. Increases are worked by placing multiple stitches into the same stitch, a common method for expanding circular and square motifs. The pattern also incorporates post stitches, specifically front post triple crochet, which adds textural depth by working around the post of stitches from the previous row rather than into the top loops. Decreases are achieved using the triple crochet 3 stitches together (tr3tog) technique, allowing multiple stitches to be consolidated into one. Slip stitches are used to join rounds seamlessly.

Stitches Used

• Chain (ch) – The foundation stitch used to begin the pattern and create decorative spaces
• Single crochet (sc) – A short, tight stitch used in the early rounds to establish the base structure
• Half double crochet (hdc) – A medium-height stitch that bridges single crochet and double crochet
• Double crochet (dc) – A tall stitch used extensively in the lace sections
• Triple crochet (tr) – An extra-tall stitch that creates openness and drape
• Front post triple crochet (fptr) – A textured variation worked around the post of stitches for dimensional effects
• Triple crochet 3 stitches together (tr3tog) – A decrease method combining three stitches into one
• Slip stitch (sl st) – Used to join rounds and finish off sections

Materials and Tools

The Howard pattern requires 1 to 2 ounces of worsted weight yarn in three coordinating colors, labeled as CA (Color A), CB (Color B), and CC (Color C) throughout the pattern. Worsted weight yarn is a medium-thickness yarn that works up quickly and is forgiving for beginners. A 5.5mm (size I) crochet hook is specified for this project. Additionally, a tapestry needle is needed for weaving in yarn ends upon completion. The pattern notes that ch1 does not count as a stitch unless otherwise specified, an important distinction for maintaining accurate stitch counts and understanding pattern instructions.

Pattern Structure and Gauge

The Howard pattern is worked in three rounds. After completing Round 2, the piece measures 1.25 inches wide, providing a useful gauge reference for monitoring progress. Round 1 establishes the center with 8 single crochets worked into a chain base. Round 2 doubles the stitch count to 16 single crochets through strategic increases. Round 3 introduces the lace element with a repeating sequence of double crochets separated by chain-2 spaces, creating an open, airy aesthetic that expands the square to its finished 12-inch dimension.