Zodiac signs bedspread

Zodiac Signs Bedspread by Frances Powell

Project Overview

This is a large-scale crochet bedspread featuring zodiac sign designs, created by designer Frances Powell. The finished piece measures 82 inches by 96 inches (210 cm x 245 cm), making it suitable for a standard double bed. This downloadable PDF pattern is rated as intermediate difficulty, making it appropriate for crocheters with foundational skills who are ready to tackle more complex projects.

Craft and Technique

The Zodiac Signs Bedspread is created using crochet techniques, specifically employing filet crochet as the primary construction method. Filet crochet is a traditional openwork technique that creates a delicate, lacy fabric through the strategic placement of mesh and solid blocks. This technique is ideal for creating detailed pictorial designs, such as the zodiac sign motifs featured in this bedspread.

The pattern uses chart-based instructions that must be read directionally: right-side rows (odd-numbered rows) are read from right to left, while wrong-side rows (even-numbered rows) are read from left to right. This directional reading is essential for accurately reproducing the zodiac designs throughout the piece.

Stitches Used

The pattern employs several fundamental crochet stitches to create the filet structure:

• Chain stitch (ch) – used for foundation and spacing
• Double crochet (dc) – a basic stitch used in pattern construction
• Treble crochet (tr) – the primary stitch for creating the filet mesh and block structures
• Slip stitch (sl) – used for joining and finishing

Two special filet stitch variations are used throughout:

• Mesh – created by working 2 chain stitches, missing the next 2 stitches or chains, then working 1 treble crochet in the next treble. This creates the open, lacy areas of the design.
• Block – created by working 2 treble crochets in the next chain space followed by 1 treble crochet in the next treble, or when working over a block from the previous row, working 1 treble crochet into each of the next three trebles. Blocks create the solid areas that form the zodiac motifs.
• Turning/starting mesh – uses 5 chain stitches, missing the next 2 chains, then working 1 treble crochet in the next treble to begin rows properly.

Materials Required

This bedspread is worked in fine crochet thread rather than traditional yarn, allowing for intricate detail work. The specific materials needed are:

• 0.75 mm crochet hook – a very fine hook appropriate for delicate thread work
• No. 20 crochet thread – a total of 27 balls, each weighing 50 grams

The use of thread rather than yarn creates a refined, elegant finished piece with excellent stitch definition, perfect for a decorative home décor item.

Gauge and Finished Dimensions

The pattern specifies a gauge of 5 mesh equals 1 inch (2.5 cm) in width, with rows 1 through 2 measuring approximately ½ inch (1.25 cm) in height. These gauge measurements are important for achieving the correct finished size of 82 inches by 96 inches, ensuring the bedspread will properly fit a standard double bed.

Pattern Format

This is a downloadable PDF pattern, making it convenient for digital access and printing. The pattern includes abbreviations, special stitch instructions, and charting guidance. Please note that the pattern uses UK crochet terminology throughout, which differs from US terminology in some stitch names and definitions.