Circle of Friends Square

Circle of Friends Square by Veronika Cromwell

Project Overview

The Circle of Friends Square is a beginner-friendly crochet project designed by Veronika Cromwell. This downloadable PDF pattern creates a finished square measuring 9 x 9 inches (23 x 23 cm), making it an ideal project for crafters new to crochet or those looking for a quick, satisfying make.

What You Will Make

This pattern produces a single decorative crochet square with a circular motif that evolves through structured rounds. The design features textured elements and creates a finished square suitable for use in afghans, blankets, or as a standalone decorative piece.

Crochet Techniques Used

The Circle of Friends Square employs fundamental crochet techniques appropriate for beginners while introducing some textural variety. The pattern uses the magic circle method to start, which creates a neat center without a visible hole. Crafters will work in continuous rounds, using slip stitches to join rounds and create clean transitions between sections.

Stitches Featured

• Magic circle (mc) – the foundation technique for starting the square with a closed center
• Single crochet (sc) – the most basic crochet stitch, used in the first round
• Puff stitch (puff st) – a textured stitch created by repeating yarn overs and loops, then pulling through all loops at once to create a puffy, dimensional effect
• Double crochet (dc) – a taller stitch used for structure and drape
• Treble crochet (tr) – an even taller stitch for creating openwork sections
• Chain stitch (ch) – used to create spacing and chain spaces (ch-sp) between other stitches
• V stitch (V st) – a decorative stitch combination consisting of one double crochet, one chain, and another double crochet worked into the same space
• Slip stitch (sl st) – used to join rounds and move yarn across stitches without adding height

Materials Required

This project uses Paintbox Yarns Simply Aran, a worsted weight (aran) yarn in the colorway Washed Teal (232). This yarn is 100% acrylic with a yardage of 184 meters per 100-gram ball, making it durable and easy-care. A 6 mm crochet hook is required to work with this yarn weight.

Difficulty Level

Rated as a beginner project, the Circle of Friends Square is accessible to crocheters who have basic knowledge of fundamental stitches. The pattern introduces the puff stitch and V stitch, which add visual interest while remaining manageable for newer crafters.

Gauge and Sizing

Tension guidance is provided within the pattern, with the square measuring 8 cm across after completing round 3. This checkpoint helps crafters verify they are on track before completing the full project.