Alternate Alpine Afghan

Alternate Alpine Afghan by Alicia LaFontaine

Project Overview

The Alternate Alpine Afghan is an intermediate-level crochet blanket designed by independent designer Alicia LaFontaine. This finished throw measures 52.5 inches wide by 63 inches long, making it an ideal size for draping over furniture or using as a cozy lap blanket. The project is worked in rows without turning at the end of each row, creating a unique construction method that produces the distinctive alpine stitch pattern.

What Is Being Made

This is a rectangular afghan or throw blanket featuring the Alternate Alpine stitch pattern. The blanket is constructed using a straightforward row-by-row approach, with the pattern repeating to build the full dimensions. The design allows for customization in both width and length, making it adaptable to individual preferences or yarn availability.

Yarn and Materials

The Alternate Alpine Afghan requires approximately 2800 yards of worsted weight yarn in the fiber of your choice. The featured yarn used in the pattern sample is Mainstays Basic in the Teal colorway. A US-J 10/6.00mm crochet hook is required to achieve proper gauge. Additional materials include a tapestry needle for weaving in ends and scissors for cutting yarn.

Crochet Techniques and Construction

This intermediate crochet project employs a non-turning construction method, meaning you work continuously in rows without flipping the blanket at the end of each row. This technique creates a specific fabric texture and drape characteristic of the alpine stitch pattern. The pattern is highly customizable: width adjustments can be made by adding or subtracting multiples of 2 stitches to the initial chain count, and length can be modified by adding or subtracting repeats of Rows 5 and 6 until reaching approximately 1.5 inches short of your desired finished length.

Stitches Used

• Chain stitch (ch) – Used to create the foundation and throughout the pattern
• Double crochet (dc) – A primary stitch in the alpine pattern
• Half-double crochet (hdc) – Used as part of the stitch combination

Stitch Pattern Notes

The pattern includes specific guidelines for stitch counting that are essential for success. Chain-2 does not count as a stitch throughout the entire pattern, while chain-3 does count as a stitch. This distinction is important for maintaining proper stitch counts and pattern alignment across rows. The gauge is established at 2 inches equaling 7 double crochets and 4 rows measuring approximately 1.5 inches in height.

Difficulty Level and Suitability

Rated as intermediate difficulty, this afghan is suitable for crocheters with foundational skills who are ready to work with stitch patterns and row-based construction. The non-turning technique and customizable sizing add complexity beyond beginner projects, while the straightforward stitch guide and repeating pattern structure keep it accessible for those building their skills.