If you’re looking for a crochet afghan that’s both simple to make and visually striking, the Woven Afghan is a wonderful project to try. This unique design uses basic double crochet strips that are woven together to create a bold basket-weave effect. It’s an excellent stash-busting pattern and a fun way to experiment with color combinations.
The beauty of the Woven Afghan lies in its simplicity. By crocheting straightforward strips and then joining and weaving them together, you can achieve a textured look that feels intricate without being complicated. This makes the pattern suitable for confident beginners as well as experienced crocheters who want a relaxing and creative project.
Another great feature of this afghan is its versatility. You can easily adjust the size, mix and match colors, or choose different border styles to truly make it your own. It’s perfect for using leftover yarn or showcasing bold contrasts. This tutorial will guide you step by step—from crocheting the individual strips to assembling, weaving, and finishing your blanket with a beautiful border.
TUTORIAL VIDEO BELOW
Woven Afghan Free Pattern
🧶 Materials
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Yarn (two contrasting colors work best)
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3.5 mm crochet hook
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Darning needle
🧵 Step 1: Crochet the Strips
You will need 12 strips total:
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6 strips in Color A
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6 strips in Color B
To begin each strip:
Start with 30 chainless foundation double crochet (dc).
If you prefer a traditional foundation:
Chain 32, dc in the 3rd chain from the hook, then dc in each chain across (30 dc).
Row 2:
Ch 3, turn. Dc in each stitch across (30 dc).
Note: The ch-3 does not count as a stitch. Make your first dc in the last dc from the previous row.
Fasten off and weave in the ends.
🔁 Repeat until you have 12 strips—6 in each color.
🧩 Step 2: Join the Strips
Now it’s time to assemble the afghan.
1. Prepare the strip ends
Work 5 single crochets (sc) evenly across the short end of each strip.
2. Start the first corner
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Take one strip of Color A and one strip of Color B.
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Position them perpendicular to each other, crossing at the corner.
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Single crochet through both layers at the corner.
3. Continue joining
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Working across the Color A strip, make 5 sc to attach the Color B strip, matching the 5 sc to the first 5 dc of Color A.
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Attach the next Color B strip from the back side of Color A.
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Continue alternating Color B strips from the front and back.
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At each corner, place 3 sc into the corner stitch.
4. Turn the corner
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Begin adding Color A strips perpendicular to the Color B row.
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Continue alternating front and back attachments.
At this stage, focus on securing the strips in place—don’t worry about weaving yet.
🧵 Step 3: Weave the Strips
Once all strips are attached and aligned, it’s time for the most satisfying part.
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Weave the long strips in an over-under pattern, alternating each strip.
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This step creates the signature basket-weave texture and locks the design into place.
🎀 Step 4: Add the Border
After weaving, finish your afghan with a border that complements the woven texture.
Border ideas:
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Simple: hdc, ch 1, skip 1 for a structured, boxy edge
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Classic: Shell stitch for a soft, decorative finish
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Clean: One or two rows of single crochet for a minimalist look
At the final corner, place 2 extra sc into the same stitch where you began, then slip stitch to the first sc to join.
📏 Customize the Size
To make a larger afghan, simply crochet and weave additional strips until your blanket reaches the desired size. This modular construction makes resizing easy and stress-free.
TUTORIAL VIDEO
this tutorial video from channel The Reclaimed Heirloom
The Woven Afghan is a fun, eye-catching project suitable for all skill levels. With basic stitches and a creative assembly process, it’s a fantastic way to explore color, texture, and design. Whether you’re making it for your home or as a thoughtful handmade gift, this afghan is sure to impress.
