The Celtic Knot Square is a stunning and intricate crochet pattern that adds an elegant, woven design to any project. Although it may appear complicated at first glance, this pattern is achievable for beginners who are willing to take their time and enjoy the process.
It’s perfect for adding a touch of sophistication to blankets, pillows, bags, or even as individual motifs in various crochet projects.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the process of creating a Celtic Knot Square, explaining the steps in detail and providing tips for success.
What is the Celtic Knot Square?
The Celtic Knot Square is a crochet motif inspired by the timeless beauty of Celtic knotwork. These knots are characterized by their intertwined loops that seem to have no beginning or end, symbolizing eternity and interconnectedness. The crochet version mimics this look by creating a square frame with intertwined loops in the center.
This pattern involves crocheting a square base and then weaving strands of crochet through the frame to form the knot. While the weaving aspect might seem intimidating, the rest of the pattern consists of basic crochet stitches, making it an excellent project for beginners who want to experiment with something new and visually striking.
Materials Needed
For your Celtic Knot Square, you’ll need the following materials:
- Yarn: Use any yarn weight of your choice, but for beginners, a worsted-weight yarn is a great option. This weight is easy to work with, and the stitches are clear to see. Choose two contrasting colors to highlight the knotwork design.
- Crochet Hook: Select a hook size that matches the yarn you’ve chosen. For worsted-weight yarn, a 5mm (H/8) hook works well.
- Scissors: To cut your yarn as needed.
- Tapestry Needle: For weaving in ends and connecting parts of the square.
- Stitch Markers (optional): These can help keep track of corners and rounds as you work.
Gauge
Gauge is not critical for this project, especially if you’re using the squares for a decorative item like a blanket or a pillow. However, if you want your squares to be a specific size, follow the recommended gauge on your yarn’s label and adjust your hook size accordingly.
Abbreviations (US Terms)
- ch: Chain
- sc: Single crochet
- dc: Double crochet
- sl st: Slip stitch
- sp: Space
- st: Stitch
Basic Pattern Outline
The Celtic Knot Square consists of two main components:
- The Square Base: This is the foundation of the pattern, made up of a traditional crochet square using simple stitches like double crochets.
- The Knot Strands: These are the woven elements that create the Celtic knot design. These strands are made separately and then woven through the square frame.
Step 1: Creating the Square Base
Round 1:
- Begin with a magic ring. (Alternatively, you can ch 4 and join with a sl st to form a ring.)
- Ch 3 (counts as the first dc), then work 11 dc into the ring.
- Join with a sl st to the top of the ch-3. You should now have 12 stitches in total.
Round 2:
- Ch 3 (counts as the first dc), dc in the same st, then 2 dc in each st around.
- Join with a sl st to the top of the ch-3. (24 stitches)
Round 3:
- Ch 3 (counts as the first dc), dc in the same st, dc in the next st, 2 dc in the next st, repeat from * to * around.
- Join with a sl st to the top of the ch-3. (36 stitches)
Round 4:
- Ch 3 (counts as the first dc), dc in the next 2 stitches, 2 dc in the next stitch.
- Dc in the next 3 stitches, 2 dc in the next stitch, repeat from * to * around.
- Join with a sl st to the top of the ch-3. (48 stitches)
Round 5 (Forming Corners):
- Ch 3 (counts as the first dc), dc in the next 3 stitches, 2 dc in the next stitch, ch 2 (forms a corner), dc in the next 4 stitches, 2 dc in the next stitch, repeat from * to * around.
- Join with a sl st to the top of the ch-3. Fasten off your yarn.
At this point, you have a simple square with 4 corners and a solid center. This will serve as the frame for your Celtic knot.
Step 2: Creating the Knot Strands
To create the Celtic knot effect, you will now make long strips (or “strands”) that will be woven through the frame you just made. These strands will simulate the interwoven loops of a traditional Celtic knot.
First Strand:
- Using a contrasting yarn color, ch 60 (or enough chains to comfortably weave through your square without pulling too tightly).
- Fasten off and set aside.
Second Strand:
- In the same contrasting color, ch 60 (or match the length of the first strand).
- Fasten off.
You should now have two long strands of yarn that will be woven into the square to create the Celtic knot pattern.
Step 3: Weaving the Knot Strands
Now comes the fun part: weaving the strands to form the knot.
- Place the Square: Lay your square flat on a surface with the front side facing up.
- Start Weaving: Begin with the first strand. Weave it over and under the spaces formed by the crochet stitches, working diagonally from one corner to the opposite corner. Make sure the strand is not too tight or too loose.
- Weave the Second Strand: Take the second strand and weave it in the opposite diagonal direction, over and under the spaces to intersect with the first strand. This will create the knot-like appearance.
- Adjust the Strands: After weaving both strands, adjust them to ensure that the tension is even and the loops are evenly spaced. The strands should lay flat against the square and should appear as if they are intertwined with one another.
- Secure the Strands: Once you’re happy with the weaving, use your tapestry needle to sew the ends of the strands to the back of the square. This will secure the knot in place and prevent it from unraveling.
Step 4: Finishing the Square
After weaving and securing the knot strands, you can add a decorative border to your square if you like. A simple round of single crochet or picot stitches around the edge can give it a finished look. Once complete, weave in all your loose ends with your tapestry needle.
Step 5: Blocking (Optional)
Blocking is optional but recommended for this pattern. By blocking your square, you can ensure that the knot design lays flat and that the square itself has clean, crisp edges. To block, dampen your square with water or a fabric steamer, then pin it to a blocking mat and allow it to dry completely.
Variations and Uses for the Celtic Knot Square
Once you’ve mastered the basic Celtic Knot Square, you can get creative with how you use it in your projects. Here are some ideas:
- Blanket or Throw: Make multiple Celtic Knot Squares in different colors and join them together to create a stunning blanket or throw. The interlocking knot design will give your project a sophisticated and timeless look.
- Pillow Cover: Use a single Celtic Knot Square or a few smaller squares to make a decorative pillow cover. The knot pattern adds an eye-catching detail to your home decor.
- Bag or Tote: Incorporate the Celtic Knot Square into a crocheted bag or tote. The knot motif makes for a stylish and unique design.
- Wall Hanging: Crochet a large Celtic Knot Square and turn it into a wall hanging. This is a great way to showcase the intricate knot design as a piece of art.
Conclusion
The Celtic Knot Square Crochet Pattern is a beautiful way to explore the art of crochet while adding a touch of Celtic flair to your projects. Although the knot design may seem intricate, the pattern is beginner-friendly and relies on basic stitches and simple weaving techniques.
Whether you use this pattern to create blankets, pillows, bags, or even as a decorative wall hanging, the Celtic Knot Square is sure to impress with its timeless elegance and creativity. Happy crocheting!
