Retro Checkered Mood: Free Vintage Afghan Pattern

Introduction

Dive into the nostalgic charm of the 70s with this Retro Checkered Mood Afghan. Featuring moody dark colors and a vintage gingham pattern, this blanket is the perfect blend of past and present. Whether you're snuggling up on the couch or adding a touch of retro flair to your home decor, this afghan is sure to become a cherished piece.

Materials Needed

• Yarn: Worsted weight yarn in dark moody colors such as deep burgundy, forest green, charcoal gray, and midnight blue.
• Hook or Needles: Size 8 (5mm) knitting needles or a size H (5mm) crochet hook.
• Gauge: 18 stitches and 24 rows = 4 inches in stockinette stitch.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Knitting Instructions

1. Cast on 180 stitches using the long-tail cast-on method.
2. Work the first 6 rows in garter stitch (knit all stitches).
3. For Row 7, begin the checkered pattern: *K10 in color A (deep burgundy), K10 in color B (forest green)*, repeat from * to * across the row.
4. For Row 8, continue the checkered pattern: *P10 in color A, P10 in color B*, repeat from * to * across the row.
5. Repeat Rows 7 and 8 for a total of 20 rows, maintaining the checkered pattern.
6. To create a gingham effect, switch colors every 20 rows: alternate between color A and color B, and then color C (charcoal gray) and color D (midnight blue).
7. Continue knitting until the afghan measures approximately 60 inches in length.
8. Finish with 6 rows of garter stitch to create a nice border.
9. Finally, bind off all stitches loosely to ensure the edge is not too tight.

Crochet Instructions

1. Chain 180 with color A.
2. For the first 6 rows, work a single crochet in each chain across (this creates a border).
3. For Row 7, start the checkered pattern: *Sc 10 in color A, sc 10 in color B*, repeat from * to * across the row.
4. For Row 8, continue the checkered pattern: *Sc 10 in color A, sc 10 in color B*, repeat from * to * across the row.
5. Repeat Rows 7 and 8 for a total of 20 rows, maintaining the checkered pattern.
6. To create a gingham effect, switch colors every 20 rows: alternate between color A and color B, and then color C (charcoal gray) and color D (midnight blue).
7. Continue crocheting until the afghan measures approximately 60 inches in length.
8. Finish with 6 rows of single crochet to create a neat border.
9. Fasten off and weave in all ends to complete your project.