November Square

November Square Crochet Pattern by Hobbydingen

What Is Being Made

The November Square is a textured crochet square designed as part of a year-long series of monthly square patterns. This finished square measures 28x28cm (11x11 inches) before blocking and 30x30cm (12x12 inches) after blocking, making it an ideal size for blanket projects, afghans, or decorative textile applications. The design features a distinctive textured appearance created through strategic stitch placement and post stitch techniques.

Crochet Techniques and Stitch Construction

The November Square employs an alternating stitch pattern that combines fundamental crochet techniques to build visual and tactile texture. The primary construction method involves alternating half double crochet stitches with front and back post double crochet stitches to create distinct textured lines throughout the square.

Half double crochet (hdc) forms the foundational base stitches and serves as the transitional element between textured rows. This medium-height stitch provides structure while remaining relatively quick to work.

Front post double crochet (FPdc) and back post double crochet (BPdc) stitches are worked around the post of stitches from previous rows rather than into the top loops. These post stitches create raised, dimensional lines that give the square its characteristic texture and visual interest. The alternation between front and back post techniques produces a reversible or balanced textured effect.

Yarn and Materials

The November Square is worked in Aran weight yarn, a medium-heavy yarn weight that creates a substantial, durable finished fabric. The pattern calls for 105 yards of Aran weight yarn, which equals approximately 1 ball of Scheepjes Chunky Monkey in Mid Grey 1099 (100% acrylic, 116 meters/100 grams or 127 yards/3.53 ounces).

The specified crochet hook size is 5.5mm (size I), which pairs appropriately with Aran weight yarn to achieve the intended gauge. Additional materials include a darning needle for weaving in ends, scissors, and blocking materials to achieve the final dimensions and even tension.

Gauge and Sizing Information

Accurate gauge is essential for achieving the correct finished dimensions. The pattern specifies the following gauge measurements:

• Before blocking: 11 stitches by 8 rows over 10x10cm (4x4 inches) in half double crochet
• After blocking: 10 stitches by 7 rows over 10x10cm (4x4 inches) in half double crochet

Blocking is an important finishing step for this pattern, as it increases the square size from 28x28cm to 30x30cm and creates more even, professional-looking results. The blocking process relaxes the yarn fibers and evens out tension variations.

Skill Level and Pattern Suitability

This pattern is rated as beginner difficulty, making it accessible to newer crocheters while still offering interesting texture and technique practice. The combination of basic stitches (chain and half double crochet) with post stitch variations provides an excellent introduction to dimensional crochet techniques without overwhelming complexity. The square format allows crafters to complete a satisfying project in a reasonable timeframe.

Pattern Details and Abbreviations

The pattern uses standard United States (US) crochet terminology and abbreviations:

• Ch: Chain
• Hdc: Half double crochet
• St(s): Stitch(es)
• FPdc: Front post double crochet
• BPdc: Back post double crochet

The November Square is part of the Year of Squares collection by Hobbydingen, offering crafters a monthly pattern project to build a coordinated set of squares throughout the year.