Free Crochet Instructions for a Ripple Afghan

Ripple patterns are among the most popular crochet stitch patterns for afghans worked in one piece. Repeated increases and decreases in each row create patterns that range from ocean waves to zigzags, depending on how and where you make them. If you work the pattern in one color, the geometric pattern is the dominant feature of the afghan. Add a second or third color and the waves emphasize the stripes. Once you've made a ripple baby afghan, you'll understand how to construct them so that you can create your own patterns in any size.

Things You'll Need

• 6 skeins worsted weight yarn
• Crochet hook, size I

Instructions

1. Make a chain 123 stitches long.

2. Double crochet in the third chain from the hook. This counts as one double crochet. Double crochet in each of next four double crochet stitches.

3. Make two double crochet stitches in each of next two double crochet stitches. Double crochet in each of next five stitches. Skip two chain stitches. Make one double crochet in each of next five stitches. Repeat until you reach the last three stitches. Skip two chain stitches. Double crochet in last stitch.

4. Chain three and turn to work back across the row. Skip first two double crochet.

5. Double crochet in the next five stitches. Make two double crochet stitches in each of the next two double crochet. Double crochet in each of next five stitches. Skip two double crochet stitches. Repeat until you reach the last three stitches. Skip two stitches. Double crochet in the third chain stitch of the turning chain on the last row.

6. Repeat Steps 4 and 5 until your afghan is the desired length. Break the yarn and pull the end through the loop on the hook to fasten off your work.

Tips & Warnings

• Change the color of the yarn every six rows for a simple stripe pattern.

• Increase the number of double crochet stitches between peaks and valleys to make longer ripples.

References

• Crochet Cabana: Ripple Patterns