Open Lacy Throw in Caron Simply Soft - Downloadable PDF

Open Lacy Throw in Caron Simply Soft – Crochet Pattern Summary

The Open Lacy Throw is a free, downloadable crochet pattern designed by Tammy Hildebrand and published by Caron. This beautifully airy blanket features a delicate floral lace motif that gives it an antique, heirloom quality, making it a stunning addition to any living space. Despite its intricate appearance, the pattern is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent project for those who are just starting to explore lace crochet techniques.

What Is Being Made

This project produces a large rectangular throw blanket with finished dimensions of approximately 47 inches wide by 56 inches long (119.5 cm x 142 cm). The design combines a solid double crochet foundation with rows of repeating floral lace, creating a light and open fabric with a graceful, vintage aesthetic. A two-color approach adds subtle visual interest, with a crisp white body complemented by soft blue lace detailing.

Materials Used

The pattern calls for Caron Simply Soft yarn, an aran-weight yarn available in 170 g / 6 oz skeins with approximately 288 m / 315 yards per skein. Two colorways are used:

• Contrast A – White (9701): 3 skeins, used for the foundation and border sections
• Contrast B – Soft Blue (9712): 2 skeins, used for the floral lace rows

Caron Simply Soft is a smooth, lightweight acrylic yarn known for its soft drape and easy care, making it well-suited to open lace structures where stitch definition and flexibility are important. A US I-9 (5.5 mm) crochet hook is used for the main body of the throw to achieve the correct gauge, while a US F-5 (4 mm) crochet hook is referenced for gauge comparison purposes. A yarn needle is also required for finishing.

Gauge

Achieving the correct gauge is important for reaching the intended finished dimensions. The pattern specifies:

• 10 stitches = 4 inches (10 cm) in double crochet using the US I-9 (5.5 mm) hook
• 6 rows = 4 inches (10 cm) in the floral lace pattern using the US I-9 (5.5 mm) hook
• 3 chain-5 spaces and 2 flowers = 8 inches (20.5 cm) in the floral lace pattern

Techniques Used

This throw employs a range of crochet techniques that, while accessible to beginners, introduce some foundational skills in lace construction and texture work:

• Foundation chain and double crochet base row: The throw begins with a loosely worked chain of 153 stitches, followed by a full row of double crochet to create a stable, even base fabric.
• Mesh or lattice construction: A half double crochet and chain-2 space row creates an open grid structure that sets up the floral lace pattern in subsequent rows.
• Floral lace pattern: The signature design element of this throw, worked in Contrast B, involves clusters and chains arranged to form repeating petal motifs. Each flower is built from two petals worked into adjacent half double crochet stitches, separated by chain-5 spaces to create the airy, open feel.
• Color changes and yarn joining: The pattern alternates between the two yarn colors across rows, requiring confident fastening off and rejoining of yarn, a useful skill for any crocheter to develop.
• Reverse single crochet (crab stitch): This technique, worked in the opposite direction from standard single crochet, is used in the edging or finishing to create a neat, corded border with a polished, professional appearance.
• Two-together decreases: The sc2tog (single crochet two together) stitch is used to shape or close sections of the lace pattern, maintaining the integrity of the floral motifs.

Stitches Used

The following stitches and special terms appear throughout the pattern: