How to Crochet Motif Square for Beginners
Learn how to crochet a challenging and intricate motif square, the final design in her 18-square Motif Challenge. This 3D-inspired square uses medium-weight yarn in different colors and a 4mm crochet hook to create dynamic effects. The process involves detailed rounds, beginning with regular crochet and transitioning to partial-side crocheting for added texture. Clear instructions guide through puff stitches, corners, and color changes, culminating in a beautifully textured piece.
Perfect for those looking to enhance their crochet skills, this tutorial blends creativity with technical expertise for a stunning final result. So, follow through with us for the complete tutorial.
Crochet Easy Motif Square
This tutorial by Cleopa from the Crocheting Shed provides a step-by-step guide for creating Square #18, the final and most challenging motif in her Motif Square Challenge series. The square features a unique 3D design made using multiple yarn colors and intricate stitch patterns. The following steps and techniques are explained in detail.
Introduction to the Project
- This square is part of Cleopa’s personal compilation of 18 motif tutorials, shared to inspire others.
- Square #18 is the most challenging in the series and involves a combination of regular rounds and partial-side crocheting to create a dynamic 3D effect.
- Materials used include size 4 medium-weight yarn in various colors, a size G (4mm) crochet hook, scissors, and a blunt needle.
Rounds 1–3: Setting Up the Base
- Round 1: Creating the Circle Base
- The square starts with a circular base of double crochet stitches, forming a sturdy foundation.
- The round is closed with a slip stitch to form a neat edge.
- Round 2: Puff Stitches and Spacing
- Puff stitches, a defining feature of the design, are worked in this round. These stitches create texture and depth in the 3D effect.
- Chain spaces are introduced between the puff stitches to prepare for corners in the subsequent rounds.
- Puff stitches, a defining feature of the design, are worked in this round. These stitches create texture and depth in the 3D effect.
- Round 3: Establishing the Corners
- A new yarn color is used to create corner sections for the motif, transitioning the piece from a circular base into a square.
- Each corner consists of three double crochets, chain-two spaces, and additional clusters that outline the square’s four sides
Rounds 4–7: Partial-Side Crocheting for 3D Effect
- Round 4: Creating Two Sides of the Square
- This round introduces the partial-side crocheting technique. Only two sides of the square are worked before turning the piece to crochet back toward the starting corner.
- The pattern alternates between clusters of double crochets and chain-one spaces, maintaining clean edges.
- Rounds 5–7: Adding Height and Texture
- The same partial-side crocheting pattern is repeated, with color changes every two rounds to create a layered, textured effect.
- Corners are maintained using the same stitch pattern, ensuring the square retains its shape as it grows.
Round 8: Completing the Final Edging
- After the partial-side rounds, the final round is crocheted on all four sides of the square using another new yarn color.
- The pattern alternates between clusters of three double crochets and chain-one spaces, with corners worked using the established corner design.
- The round is completed with a slip stitch, and the ends are woven in for a clean finish.
Final Touches
- After completing the motif, all yarn tails are trimmed and woven in with a blunt needle to tidy up the piece.
- The resulting design is a textured and colorful 3D square, ideal for including in a larger crochet project like a blanket or wall hanging.
Conclusion
In this tutorial, Cleopa demonstrates how to create a visually striking 3D crochet square with detailed instructions and techniques. The use of puff stitches, color changes, and partial-side crocheting highlights how to add complexity to a motif while maintaining its structure. This square provides a creative challenge for intermediate and advanced crocheters, offering a rewarding experience and a stunning final product.







