How to Mosaic Crochet

Mosaic crochet is a unique and visually appealing crochet technique that adds stunning design and detail - a lot of pizzazz - to everyday crochet projects. Overlay mosaic crochet fabrics tend to be slightly thicker and have more tactile levels of texture too.

So, if you know how to crochet and are interested in stepping it up a notch or two, then this answer has you covered!

We will walk you through the basic steps and techniques involved in mosaic crochet using the overlay technique in US terms. From here on in this answer, the term “mosaic crochet” will refer to using the overlay mosaic crochet technique.

Now let’s move on to talk about the stitches commonly used in mosaic crochet: chains, single crochets, and extended (long) double crochets. This answer assumes the reader knows how to crochet and is able to identify the front loop and back loop of each stitch.

When starting a mosaic crochet project, it is important to note that the work is done from the bottom up and from right to left, row by row.

Unlike traditional crochet where you turn your work at the end of each row, in mosaic crochet, you will always work on the right side. By not turning your work, your fabric will tend to pull or slant to one side, but as long as you continue to work the same number of stitches in each row, the slanting can be eased through blocking when you’re finished.

It is worthwhile to consider using FF Yarnworks’ Build-a-Blanket squares to help maintain consistency of the pattern and ensure that the finished piece is symmetrical and professional looking. 

Seriously! You will get tons of compliments on your work, and people will always ask you, “How did you do that?!” It’s so great! Do you have a pattern ? :)

EXAMPLE KEY:

• CH = chain/chains
• ST = stitch/stitches
• SC = single crochet(s)
• DC = extended double crochet (in this pattern)
• BLO = back loop only
• FLO = front loop only
• Color A = white
• Color B = black
• X = extended double crochet

LEARNING EXAMPLE

ROW 1: With color A, CH the desired number of pattern ST + 2 CH for the border stitches, and 1 CH for turning our work. Into the back bump of second ST from the hook and each ST across, work 1 SC. Cut a 6-8″ tail and finish off the row. (52)

ROW 2: Without twisting or turning your work, slide your hand back to the beginning of the row you just crocheted (not the tail end), and insert your hook under both loops of the very first ST. Place color B on your hook, pull through both loops, and SC. Insert your hook under both loops of the same ST, making sure to grab the tail that was created by attaching color B, and work another SC. This helps prevent unraveling. (Beginning BS complete.)

Into the next ST and each ST across, work 1 SC BLO. When you get to the last ST of the row, place a SC under both loops and bind off leaving a 6–8″ tail. (Ending BS complete.)

Border stitches are always worked under both loops of the very first and very last stitches of the row.

Switch to color B for row 3 and, following your pattern, begin working either a SC BLO into the ST on the same row, or a DC into the FLO of the ST directly two rows below the working row’s ST. Don’t worry; the pattern will tell you into what ST to work.

Continue alternating between color A and color B, working up row by row, until you've completed the desired number of rows for your project. Remember to always work from right to left and maintain the pattern as indicated.

When you are finished, you will be left with lots of those 6–8″ ends to deal with. You can create an envelope border to hide them; leave the fringe as-is; or twist the ends together, two strands at a time.

It's worth mentioning that there is also a technique called inset mosaic crochet, which involves turning your work at specific points to create intricate patterns within your design. This technique requires a bit more advanced knowledge and practice, so I recommend mastering the basics of overlay mosaic crochet before attempting inset mosaic crochet.

In conclusion, mosaic crocheting is a beautiful technique that can elevate your crochet projects to a whole new level. By using chains, single crochets, and extended double crochets, you can create stunning patterns and designs. Just remember to work from the bottom up, right to left, and always on the same side unless you're using inset mosaic crochet. Happy crocheting!