September Square

September Square Crochet Pattern by Hobbydingen

What Is Being Made

The September Square is a standalone crochet square designed as part of a year-long collection of monthly squares. This particular design creates a finished square measuring 28x28cm (11x11 inches) before blocking, and 30x30cm (12x12 inches) after blocking. The square is suitable for use as a standalone decorative piece, a coaster, or as part of a larger blanket or afghan project when combined with other squares from the collection.

Techniques and Construction Method

The September Square features a distinctive chevron pattern worked using a specialized technique that sets it apart from traditional square designs. The defining characteristic of this pattern is the use of back loop only (BLO) stitching, which creates visual texture and dimension by working exclusively through the back loop of each stitch rather than under both loops as in conventional crochet. This technique produces a ridged, linear appearance that emphasizes the chevron's directional flow.

The pattern requires blocking to achieve its final dimensions, indicating that the square benefits from wet or steam blocking to even out stitches and set the chevron pattern into its intended shape. The gauge changes noticeably after blocking, demonstrating the importance of this finishing step for achieving the correct finished size.

Stitches Used

• Chain (Ch): Foundation and structural stitches used to establish the base of the pattern
• Double Crochet (Dc): The primary stitch used throughout the chevron pattern, providing structure and height
• Double Crochet 3 Together (Dc3tog): A decrease stitch used to create the directional shaping and peaks and valleys of the chevron design
• Double Crochet Back Loop Only (Dc BLO): The signature technique applied to double crochet stitches, worked exclusively through the back loop to create the textured chevron effect

Yarn and Materials

The September Square is designed using Aran weight yarn, a medium-heavy yarn category that works up quickly and creates a substantial, durable finished piece. The pattern calls for approximately 80 yards of yarn, requiring just one ball of yarn for completion.

The pattern sample was created using Scheepjes Chunky Monkey in Mid Grey 1099, a 100% acrylic yarn available in 116-meter (127-yard) balls weighing 100 grams (3.53 ounces). Acrylic yarn is a practical choice for this project, offering durability, easy care, and affordability while maintaining the stitch definition necessary to showcase the chevron and back loop only techniques.

Tools and Notions

Two crochet hooks are required for this project: a 7.0mm (size K) hook and a 5.5mm (size I) hook, allowing for gauge adjustments or technique variations. Additional materials include a darning needle for weaving in ends, scissors for cutting yarn, and blocking materials such as blocking wires, pins, or a blocking board to set the finished square into its proper dimensions.

Skill Level

The September Square is rated as a beginner-friendly pattern, making it accessible to crocheters new to the craft. While the back loop only technique and chevron decreases introduce some structural concepts beyond absolute basics, the straightforward stitch combinations and relatively small finished size make this an excellent project for developing fundamental skills and understanding how different techniques create visual effects in crochet.