Tartan / Plaid Crochet Blanket

Tartan / Plaid Crochet Blanket by Ouma Ralie

What Is Being Made

This is a 90cm x 90cm crochet blanket designed to create the visual effect of a tartan or plaid pattern. The blanket features a sophisticated striped design that mimics the appearance of woven plaid without requiring the assembly of multiple squares. The finished piece measures approximately square, making it an ideal size for a throw blanket suitable for sofas, beds, or decorative display.

Design Approach & Construction Method

The Tartan Blanket uses an innovative single-piece construction technique that eliminates the tedious task of weaving in yarn ends from multiple squares. Instead of crocheting individual motifs and joining them together, the blanket is worked as one continuous piece. The plaid effect is achieved through strategic color changes and vertical stripe work. A particularly clever design feature is that yarn ends from the vertical stripes become decorative tassels that complete the finished look, transforming what would typically be a finishing chore into an integral design element.

Crochet Techniques & Stitches Used

This beginner-friendly pattern employs fundamental crochet techniques suitable for those new to the craft:

• Chain stitches (ch) – used for foundation and creating structure
• Double crochet (dc) – the primary stitch forming the body of the blanket
• Chain-spaces (sp) – openwork elements that contribute to the pattern's visual interest

The combination of these basic stitches creates a fabric with good drape and visual texture while remaining accessible to beginners.

Gauge & Tension

The pattern specifies a gauge of 8 rows and 9 double-crochet-and-chain-spaces measuring 10cm x 10cm (measured before weaving in ends). Maintaining this gauge is essential for achieving the intended finished dimensions of 90cm x 90cm.

Materials Required

The Tartan Blanket is designed to be worked in DK weight yarn, specifically Ouma Ralie Feels Like Cashmere, which provides a soft, luxurious drape suitable for a cozy throw blanket. The yarn palette consists of:

• 3 x 100g White (colorway 208)
• 3 x 100g Mint (colorway 293)
• 3 x 100g Light Purple (colorway 5160)

This totals 900 grams of yarn. A 4.5mm crochet hook is used throughout the project. The designer notes that the color combination is highly versatile—traditional plaid colors like yellow and grey, or red, navy and white work beautifully for a classic look, while pastel combinations like those specified create a softer, more contemporary aesthetic.

Difficulty Level

Rated as Beginner / Easy, this pattern is ideal for crocheters new to the craft or those seeking a straightforward project. The use of basic stitches and single-piece construction makes it accessible while still producing a sophisticated, finished result.