Aotearoa C2C Bedspread

Aotearoa C2C Bedspread

What Is Being Made

The Aotearoa C2C Bedspread is a large-scale crochet blanket designed by Pukapuka that features a detailed map of New Zealand, including iconic landmarks such as Fiordland and Tongariro. This finished bedspread measures 98" x 98" (250 cm x 250 cm), making it a substantial project suitable for a queen-sized bed. The design celebrates New Zealand's natural beauty and geography, transforming it into a wearable and functional piece of home décor that allows dreamers and travelers to celebrate their connection to this destination.

Craft and Techniques

This is an advanced-level crochet project that employs the C2C (Corner-to-Corner) technique, a popular method for creating graphical, pixel-based designs in crochet. The C2C method involves building the fabric diagonally from one corner to the opposite corner, working in small tiles that form a grid pattern. This technique is particularly well-suited for creating detailed images and maps, as each tile can be worked in different colors to build the overall picture. The C2C approach allows crafters to follow a chart systematically, making complex designs more manageable than they might initially appear.

The border of the bedspread is worked using additional stitches beyond the main C2C tiles, providing a finished edge to the piece. This combination of techniques demonstrates intermediate to advanced crochet skills, as the crafter must maintain consistent tension, manage multiple yarn colors, and execute the C2C method accurately across a large project.

Stitches Used

• Double Crochet (dc) – The primary stitch used throughout the C2C tiles, forming the foundation of the bedspread's structure
• Single Crochet (sc) – Used in the border to create a neat, tight edge finish
• Half Double Crochet (hdc) – Also incorporated in the border for additional texture and shaping
• Chain (ch) – Used to create the foundation and transitions between stitches
• Slip Stitch (sl st) – Used to join rounds and create seamless transitions in the border

Materials and Specifications

This project requires sport weight yarn (5 ply), specifically Drops Safran, which features a yardage of approximately 175 yards (160 meters) per 1.8 oz (50 g) skein. The color palette consists of four carefully selected colors that work together to create the map design:

• Color A: Denim Blue 06 – 41 skeins (the dominant color, representing water and sky)
• Color B: Apple Green 31 – 5 skeins (representing land and vegetation)
• Color C: Black 16 – 2 skeins (for detail and definition)
• Color D: White 17 – 1 skein (for highlights and contrast)

A Size D (3 mm) crochet hook is used throughout the project, paired with the sport weight yarn to achieve the specified gauge. Additional supplies include scissors and a yarn needle for weaving in ends and finishing the piece.

Gauge and Sizing

The pattern specifies a gauge of 7 double crochet tiles in 4 inches (10 cm), which is essential for achieving the finished bedspread dimensions of 98" x 98" (250 cm x 250 cm). Maintaining consistent gauge throughout this large project is critical to ensuring the final piece reaches the intended size and drapes properly on a bed.

This advanced crochet pattern is ideal for experienced crafters looking to undertake a substantial, meaningful project that combines technical skill with artistic design. The finished bedspread serves as both a functional blanket and a decorative statement piece celebrating New Zealand's stunning landscape.