Creating an openwork square motif in crochet is a fun and versatile project. These motifs can be used individually as coasters or joined together to create larger projects like blankets, tablecloths, or garments. Here’s a step-by-step guide to crocheting a simple openwork square motif.

Materials Needed: Crochet hook (size G/4mm recommended for beginners) Yarn (medium weight, any color) Scissors Yarn needle Basic Stitches Used: Chain (ch) Slip Stitch (sl st) Single Crochet (sc) Double Crochet (dc)

Instructions: Step 1: Start with a Slip Knot and Chain 6 Make a slip knot and place it on your crochet hook. Chain 6 (ch 6). Step 2: Form a Ring Join the chain into a ring by making a slip stitch (sl st) into the first chain. Step 3: First Round Chain 3 (counts as the first double crochet). Make 2 double crochets (dc) into the ring. Chain 3, make 3 double crochets into the ring. Repeat from * to * two more times. Chain 3, join with a slip stitch to the top of the starting chain 3. You should now have four groups of three double crochets separated by chain 3 spaces.

Step 4: Second Round Slip stitch to the first chain-3 space. Chain 3 (counts as the first double crochet), make 2 double crochets into the same chain-3 space. Chain 3, make 3 double crochets into the same chain-3 space (corner made). Chain 1, in the next chain-3 space, make 3 double crochets, chain 3, and 3 double crochets. Repeat from * to * around. Chain 1, join with a slip stitch to the top of the starting chain 3.

Step 5: Third Round Slip stitch to the first chain-3 space. Chain 3 (counts as the first double crochet), make 2 double crochets into the same chain-3 space. Chain 3, make 3 double crochets into the same chain-3 space. Chain 1, in the next chain-1 space, make 3 double crochets. Chain 1, in the next chain-3 space, make 3 double crochets, chain 3, and 3 double crochets. Repeat from * to * around. Chain 1, join with a slip stitch to the top of the starting chain 3.

Step 6: Continue Rounds Continue adding rounds in the same manner, increasing the number of chain-1 spaces between the corners as your square grows. Step 7: Finish Off Once your motif reaches the desired size, cut the yarn, leaving a small tail. Pull the yarn through the last stitch and tighten it to secure. Weave in the ends using the yarn needle.

Visual Aid: For more visual guidance, consider searching for "crochet openwork square motif" on YouTube, where you can find video tutorials to follow along. Joining Motifs: To create larger projects, you can join multiple square motifs together. You can sew them together using a yarn needle or join them as you crochet by slip stitching through the corresponding corners and chain spaces of two motifs. Now you have a beautiful openwork square motif! These can be combined in various ways to create stunning crochet projects. Enjoy your crocheting!