Coggeshall Square

Coggeshall Square by Jacqui Goulbourn

What is Being Made

The Coggeshall Square is a crochet blanket square designed by Jacqui Goulbourn as part of Ravelry's Block a Month (BAM) Community Crochet-Along for May 2020. This is a versatile modular square that can be made individually or combined with other squares to create larger blankets and throws. The finished square measures 12 inches when worked in worsted weight yarn, or 8.5 inches when worked in DK weight yarn, making it adaptable for various project sizes and yarn preferences.

Techniques and Stitches Used

This intermediate-level crochet pattern employs several textured stitch techniques to create visual interest and dimension. The primary techniques include:

• Front post and back post stitches – These directional stitches create raised texture by working around the post of stitches from previous rows rather than into the top loops, adding depth and a three-dimensional quality to the finished square
• Cluster stitches – Abbreviated as CL, these are created by working multiple double crochet stitches (4 dc) in the same stitch while omitting the final yarn over on each stitch until all loops are pulled through together, creating a compact, textured bump
• Popcorn stitches – Abbreviated as PC, these are formed by working 4 double crochet stitches in the same stitch, removing the hook, inserting it through the top of the first double crochet, and pulling the working loop through to create a pronounced, dimensional bobble
• Half double crochet stitches – Standard hdc stitches provide structure and are used throughout the pattern
• Back post half double crochet – Abbreviated as BPhdc, this variation of the half double crochet works around the post of stitches to add textural variation
• Chain stitches – Used for foundation and spacing throughout the pattern

Materials and Yarn Requirements

The Coggeshall Square is designed with flexibility in yarn weight. The pattern accommodates any weight of yarn according to the desired finished size. The sample shown in the pattern was worked in Stylecraft Special DK yarn. When worked in worsted weight yarn, the square finishes at 12 inches; when worked in DK weight yarn, it measures 8.5 inches. The appropriate hook size should be selected to achieve the correct gauge for your chosen yarn weight, ensuring consistent sizing and drape.

Difficulty Level and Skill Requirements

This pattern is rated as intermediate difficulty, making it suitable for crocheters with some experience beyond basic stitches. The skills required include proficiency with front post and back post stitches, as well as the ability to execute cluster and popcorn stitches accurately. These textured stitch techniques require understanding how to manipulate yarn and hook positioning to create the desired dimensional effects, making this pattern an excellent project for developing advanced crochet skills.

Pattern Application

The Coggeshall Square is part of a community crochet-along tradition, inviting makers to participate in creating one square per month. Crafters can make as many or as few squares as desired, offering flexibility for various project goals. The colorwork example shown features a red and grey color scheme, with colors A, C, and E worked in greys and colors B, D, and F in reds, though any color combination can be used according to personal preference.