Crochet

Patterns, projects and techniques

Chunky Crochet Rugs

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cro chunky rug 1013

I wanted to show you the lovely stitch definition I’m getting with this rather humble chunky yarn.  I’m working only in half double crochets with cotton yarn that is on a huge wheel, probably designed for use with a knitting machine.   Wish I had taken a picture of it before I started these rugs.  The first rug is under the beginnings of the second, matching rug.  I flipped up an edge so you can see how this makes a completely reversible rug.

The hook is wood, which I don’t normally use, in a size I can’t determine.  I think it’s an M or N and it’s a plain jane hook from maybe Hobby Lobby.  It looks sorta like a Brittany, but it’s not that brand.  Whatever it is, it’s working well with this particular yarn.  Sadly, my favorite Tulip Etimo hooks aren’t made in a size large enough for this 4.5 mm yarn.

Should you be inspired by this to try this out for yourself, the ridges are obtained by crocheting into the back loop only.  The finished rug is approximately 36 X 20 inches.  I started with a chain of 38 then worked a hdc into the 3rd chain from the hook, resulting in 36 stitches across.  Then chain 2, turn, and repeat.  To get the crisp, straight edge, I find it works best for me to crochet into the same space as the turning chain.  The rug is 35 rows of hdc with the last row finished off with a slip stitch across to match the starting chain.

Normally, I won’t work with chunky yarn or cotton yarn because I find it taxing on my wrists.  But, while this is a bit of a challenge for me to make this rug, it is not hurting my wrists.  The stress is far greater on my hand, but I swear I’m building up hand muscles making this!  Are there things called ‘hand muscles’?  I’m sure there are great specific Latin names for the probably dozens of ‘hand muscles’ – but mine are getting a workout with this project, but not hurting when I put it down, so I’m happy.

Now, I’m wondering what I’ll do with the yardage that remains once I complete the second rug.  Hmm…. Maybe a potholder or two.  Any suggestions?

Comments

  1. Kinda nice having rugs to warm the footsies! L©©King Good, Jd! Leftover yardage, you say? How about a matching toilet seat cover or tissue box? Your rug would make a nice bathmat. Draped over the tub… That’s another project on my to-do list! More bathmats. I quit using the mats around the toilet. The dirt from outside… Your rug looks Super!!! Thanks for the Eye-candy! Hugs!

Have you read?

How to Crochet the Suzette Stitch: An Easy Textured Crochet Stitch for Beginners

Learning a crochet stitch is much more satisfying when you have an actual project waiting at the end of it. The Suzette stitch is especially versatile because its dense, softly textured fabric works for everything from practical cotton washcloths to cosy scarves, hats and blankets.

Here are some Suzette stitch crochet patterns worth adding to your project list.

Suzette Stitch Baby Blanket

The free Suzette Stitch Baby Blanket pattern from Premier Yarns uses the stitch to create a softly textured crochet blanket with a subtle tweed-like appearance.

This would make a lovely handmade baby shower gift, particularly when worked in a washable baby yarn. The stitch creates more visual interest than plain single crochet without introducing large holes that may catch tiny fingers.

Easy Suzette Stitch Blanket

The Suzette Stitch Blanket pattern by Stitching Together is another approachable blanket project for crocheters who enjoy a relaxing stitch repeat.

This is the sort of project you can keep beside the sofa and work on a few rows at a time. Just keep an eye on those skipped stitches—television crochet is wonderful until an extra stitch quietly sneaks in three episodes earlier.

Casey Suzette Stitch Scarf

The free Casey Scarf crochet pattern uses the Suzette stitch through most of the design, producing a cosy scarf with a softly scalloped, zigzag-like texture.

It is a good first wearable project for beginners because scarves do not require complicated shaping. You can also adjust the length fairly easily or use a self-striping yarn and let the colour changes do the decorative work for you.

Quick Suzette Crochet Scarf

For another scarf option, try this free Suzette Stitch Scarf pattern from Hooked by Robin.

The designer includes written instructions and a video tutorial, making it helpful for visual learners who prefer watching the stitch placement before beginning. It is designed as a quick project and would make a practical last-minute handmade gift.

Suzette Colour Block Scarf

The free Suzette Colour Block Scarf pattern is a cheerful option for using several coordinating yarn colours.

Colour blocking also makes this a handy stash-busting crochet project. You can use leftover yarn from other makes, although it is worth choosing yarns of the same weight and similar fibre content so the sections behave themselves after washing.

Chunky Suzette Stitch Beanie

The free Chunky Suzette Stitch Beanie crochet pattern turns the textured stitch into a warm winter hat.

Chunky yarn helps the pattern work up quickly and makes the raised texture especially noticeable. This would be a useful project for craft stalls, charity donations or quick handmade Christmas gifts.

Hazel Textured Crochet Beanie

The free Hazel Beanie crochet pattern combines simple ribbing with the Suzette stitch.

The ribbed brim gives the hat a neat, finished appearance while the Suzette stitch adds texture to the main body. It looks more complicated than a basic crochet beanie but is still built from familiar beginner stitches.

Suzette Stitch Washcloth

For a small practice project, try the free Suzette Stitch Wash Cloth pattern from The Purple Poncho.

A washcloth is one of the best ways to practise a new crochet stitch because it is small, useful and not terribly demanding. Even if the first one is slightly wonky, it will still wash perfectly well.

Use a smooth cotton yarn so the cloth is absorbent and the stitch texture remains clearly visible.

Suzette Ridge Crochet Washcloth

The free Suzette Ridge Crochet Washcloth pattern adds another layer of texture to this familiar stitch combination.

Make several in coordinating colours and pair them with handmade soap for an easy spa-style gift. They are also useful little projects for testing unfamiliar cotton yarn before committing to a larger set.

Corner-to-Corner Suzette Stitch Washcloth

The free C2C Suzette Stitch Washcloth pattern gives the stitch a slightly different construction by working it from corner to corner.

This is a good next project after you have mastered ordinary flat rows. It lets you explore increasing and decreasing while still using the familiar Suzette stitch combination.

Suzette Stitch Afghan Square

The Suzette Stitch Afghan Square pattern turns the textured stitch into a smaller crochet block.

Afghan squares are useful for charity blankets, sampler blankets and portable crochet projects. You can make the squares individually, use up leftover yarn and join everything together once you have enough—although “enough” has been known to become a surprisingly flexible number in my craft room.

More Suzette Stitch Crochet Pattern Ideas

Once you are comfortable with the basic stitch, you can also use it to make:

  • Crochet mug cosies
  • Ear warmers and headbands
  • Fingerless gloves
  • Cushion covers
  • Tote bags
  • Baby rompers
  • Crochet cardigans
  • Lap blankets
  • Double-thick potholders

You can browse additional Suzette stitch crochet patterns on Etsy, including sweaters, baby blankets, beanies, mug cosies and accessories from independent crochet designers.

When choosing a pattern, check whether it uses US or UK crochet terminology. Also check whether it uses the traditional Suzette stitch—one single crochet and one double crochet worked into the same stitch—or a designer’s variation of it. That quick check can prevent a great deal of confused unraveling later.