South America Hanging Map

South America Hanging Map Crochet Wall Decoration

Project Overview

The South America Hanging Map is a decorative wall hanging crochet pattern designed by Pukapuka that features a continent map of South America rendered in Montessori colors. This intermediate-level crochet project creates a functional and educational decoration suitable for classrooms, nurseries, or any space celebrating geography and world cultures. The finished piece measures approximately 35 x 35 cm (14" x 14") as a square, with additional dimensions from fringes and hanging loops.

What is Being Made

This pattern creates a continent catcher—a decorative wall hanging that displays the South America map using color-coded regions following the Montessori educational color system. The design combines functional home décor with educational value, making it an ideal project for those interested in geography-themed crafts or Montessori-inspired interiors.

Crochet Techniques Used

The South America Hanging Map employs fundamental crochet techniques appropriate for intermediate crafters. The wall hanging is worked from the top down, allowing for structured shaping and the integration of the hanging mechanism. The piece incorporates fringe detailing at the bottom edge and decorative loops at the top for wall mounting on a wooden stick.

Crochet Stitches

• Single crochet (sc) — the primary stitch used throughout the project for creating dense, structured fabric
• Chain stitch (ch) — used for foundation chains and stitch construction
• Slip stitch (sl st) — employed for joining rounds and finishing edges
• Yarn over (yo) — fundamental technique used in conjunction with other stitches

Materials and Yarn Specifications

This pattern calls for a US D-3 (3 mm) crochet hook and 100% cotton yarn in sport weight and 5 ply weights, which provide structure and durability for a wall hanging. The gauge is 10 cm/4" = 22 single crochet stitches x 23 rows, which is essential for achieving the correct finished dimensions.

Yarn Color A (Blue): Originally specified as Katia Funny Rainbow 104 in sport weight (630 m/688 yds per 150 g skein), though this yarn has been discontinued. The pattern recommends substituting any sport weight yarn in blue shades that matches the gauge. Approximately 40 g (1.5 oz) of Color A is needed for the project.

Yarn Color B (Pink): Drops Safran in pink 02, a 5 ply/sport weight 100% cotton yarn (160 m/175 yds per 50 g skein). Approximately 30 g (1 oz) of Color B is required. The cotton fiber content ensures the finished hanging maintains its shape and color vibrancy over time.

Additional Supplies

• Wooden stick approximately 50 cm (20") long for mounting the wall hanging
• Tapestry needle for weaving in ends and finishing
• Scissors for cutting yarn

Finished Dimensions

The completed South America Hanging Map measures approximately 35 x 35 cm (14" x 14") as the main square body, with an additional 10 cm (4") from the fringe detail at the bottom and 4 cm (1.5") from the hanging loops at the top, creating a total vertical span of approximately 49 cm (19.5") when mounted.

Difficulty Level

Rated as intermediate, this pattern is suitable for crocheters with foundational skills who are comfortable working with color changes, following stitch abbreviations, and managing multiple yarn colors. The top-down construction method provides built-in shaping that helps intermediate crafters achieve professional results.