If you’re new to crochet or simply looking for a fun and colorful motif to add to your project list, the African Flower Square is a must-try! Known for its beautiful floral center and geometric square edges, this motif blends creativity with structure making it a great pattern for beginners and experienced crocheters alike.

The African Flower Square is incredibly versatile. You can use it to create stunning blankets, bags, pillow covers, table runners, or even clothing items like cardigans or skirts. One of the best parts of this design is the opportunity to play with color. Each round can be done in a different shade, giving you endless options to personalize your square.

Whether you’re just picking up a hook for the first time or you’ve already mastered a few basic stitches, this tutorial will guide you step-by-step through the process. We’ll also explain special stitches like the spike single crochet, and how to shape the flower into a perfect square. So grab your yarn, choose your favorite color palette, and let’s get started!

African Flower Square Crochet

Materials Needed:

  • Yarn: Use a variety of colors to add vibrancy and personality to your square.

  • Crochet Hook: 3.5 mm

  • Scissors: To cut yarn cleanly after each color change.

  • Yarn Needle: For weaving in ends and tidying up your work.

Abbreviations:

  • ch – chain

  • sl st – slip stitch

  • sc – single crochet

  • hdc – half double crochet

  • dc – double crochet

  • tr – treble crochet

Diagram

African Flower Square Crochet Pattern

Round 1:

Start with a magic ring. Inside the ring, repeat (2 double crochets, chain 1) eight times. You’ll end with 8 sets and 16 double crochets.
Optional: You can also use double crochet-2-together stitches for a puffier look.

Round 1

Round 2:

Join a new color. In each chain-1 space, work 3 double crochets, chain 1. You should have 24 dc stitches total.

Round 2

Round 3:

Change to another color. In each ch-1 space, work 2 dc, ch 2, 2 dc to form a shell. This creates 8 petal shapes.

Round 3

Round 4:

In each ch-2 space, work 7 dc. You’ll have 56 double crochets when the round is complete.
Design tip: Using the same color for Rounds 3 and 4 gives a more defined petal look.

Round 4

Round 5:

With a new color, sc in each dc. Add a spike single crochet between each petal from Round 3.
Spike SC: Insert hook into space between Round 3 shells, pull up a loop to the height of the current round, yarn over, pull through both loops.

Round 5

Round 6:

Time to square it! Join a new color with a standing hdc (or ch 2) in any spike sc. Then:

  • Sc in next 4 sts

  • Hdc in next st

  • Dc in next 2 sts

  • (Tr, ch 3, tr) in the next spike sc (forms a corner)

  • Dc in next 2 sts

  • Hdc in next st

  • Sc in next 4 sts

  • Hdc in next spike sc
    Repeat this sequence around the flower to shape it into a square.

Round 6

Round 7:

Work dc in each stitch. In each corner ch-3 space, work 2 dc, ch 2, 2 dc. Fasten off and weave in all ends.

Round 7

📹 Watch Our Step-by-Step Video Tutorial

Learning visually? We’ve created a beginner-friendly video tutorial that walks you through each round of the pattern, from the magic ring to squaring off the flower. Just scroll down to find the video and follow along at your own pace—pause, rewind, and stitch with confidence!

Your African Flower Square is now complete! 🌸
This is a beginner-friendly project that you can easily turn into something larger by making more squares and joining them together. Play with colors, use up your scrap yarn, and let your creativity shine!