Deco Star

Deco Star Crochet Cushion Pattern by Julie Yeager

What is Being Made

The Deco Star is an 18-inch crochet afghan square designed as a center medallion that can be used for cushions and other home décor projects. This intermediate-level crochet pattern creates a decorative geometric medallion with a classic art deco aesthetic, suitable for crafters with some crochet experience looking to expand their skills with textured stitch techniques.

Craft and Primary Technique

This project uses crochet as the primary construction method. The pattern employs a medallion-style approach, working in continuous rounds from the center outward to build the 18-inch square. This construction technique allows crafters to create a structured, symmetrical design that grows organically from a small center ring.

Stitches and Techniques Used

The Deco Star pattern incorporates a variety of crochet stitches and post-based techniques to create visual texture and dimension:

• Chain stitch (ch) – Used to establish the foundation ring and create turning chains throughout the pattern
• Slip stitch (sl st) – Joins rounds and creates seamless transitions between rows
• Double crochet (dc) – A fundamental stitch that forms the base structure of the medallion
• Treble crochet (tr) – A taller stitch that may be incorporated for varied height and texture
• Front post double crochet (fpdc) – Works around the post of stitches from the previous round to create raised, dimensional effects
• Front post treble crochet (fptr) – A taller post stitch variation for additional textural interest
• Front post half double crochet (fphdc) – A shorter post stitch option used for refined detail work
• Front post single crochet (fpsc) – Creates subtle raised texture with minimal height
• Back post single crochet (bpsc) – Adds dimensional contrast by working behind post stitches

The pattern uses American crochet terminology throughout. Post stitches—both front post and back post variations—are central to achieving the dimensional, textured appearance characteristic of art deco-inspired designs. Stitch markers are optional but recommended for tracking pattern repeats and round beginnings.

Materials and Tools

The Deco Star pattern calls for worsted weight yarn in two coordinating shades of Vanna's Choice yarn:

• Color A: Vanna's Choice Baby Aqua – 2 skeins
• Color B: Vanna's Choice Aqua – 2 skeins

A Size J (6 mm) crochet hook is used to work with the worsted weight yarn, providing appropriate gauge and fabric drape for the finished 18-inch square. An optional stitch marker helps track pattern repeats and round beginnings, particularly useful when working the multiple rounds of this medallion-style design.

Difficulty Level

This pattern is rated as intermediate, making it suitable for crocheters who have mastered basic stitches and are ready to work with post stitches and more complex stitch combinations. The round-by-round construction and the use of front post and back post techniques require attention to detail and familiarity with reading crochet patterns, but the repetitive nature of medallion construction provides opportunities to develop consistency and rhythm.