The art of crochet has evolved over the years, incorporating elements of contemporary and artistic design.
A notable example is the Vasarely blanket, inspired by the works of Hungarian-French artist Victor Vasarely, known as the father of Op Art.
This article provides a free pattern to create a Vasarely crochet blanket, detailing the necessary materials, step-by-step instructions, tips for customization, and finishing techniques.
![](https://craftsforlove.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/3d4e42b13f6108ea6396908068f25bea-225x300.jpg)
Necessary Materials
Before starting the project, it is essential to gather all the necessary materials. The following list includes the items you will need to create your Vasarely blanket:
Yarn and Colors
For a vibrant and geometric visual effect, choose high-quality yarn in various colors. You will need:
- Medium weight (4) cotton or acrylic yarn
- Recommended colors: black, white, and three contrasting tones (e.g., blue, red, and yellow)
- Quantity: approximately 300g of each main color and 500g of black for edges and connections
Hooks and Tools
- 4.5 mm crochet hook (or suitable for chosen yarn)
- Sewing scissors
- Tapestry needle for weaving in ends
- Stitch markers (optional but helpful)
Other Materials
- Measuring tape
- Notepad for progress notes
- Blocking mat and pins (optional, for final blocking)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now that you have all the materials, let’s move on to the pattern. The Vasarely blanket consists of small hexagonal motifs that, when joined, create a 3D effect inspired by Op Art.
Basic Hexagonal Motif
- Magic Ring and First Round:
- Start with a magic ring.
- Round 1: Make 6 single crochets (sc) into the magic ring. Pull the ring to close. (6 sc)
- Close with a slip stitch (sl st).
- Second Round:
- Round 2: Make 2 sc in each stitch of the previous round. (12 sc)
- Close with a sl st.
- Third Round:
- Round 3: (1 sc, 2 sc in next stitch) repeat around. (18 sc)
- Close with a sl st.
- Fourth Round:
- Round 4: (1 sc in each of next 2 stitches, 2 sc in next stitch) repeat around. (24 sc)
- Close with a sl st.
![](https://craftsforlove.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/425e3b53b2f752dfde6af6b065123ef0-300x300.jpg)
Creating the 3D Effect
To create the three-dimensional effect, you will alternate colors in specific ways on the hexagons:
- Main Hexagon (Color A):
- Follow the basic hexagonal motif, using Color A for all rounds.
- Shadow Hexagon (Color B and Black):
- First 3 rounds in Color B.
- Last round in black.
- Light Hexagon (Color C and White):
- First 3 rounds in Color C.
- Last round in white.
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- Image From Pinterest
Joining the Hexagons
- Initial Layout:
- Lay out the hexagons on a flat surface to form the desired pattern. You can use a photograph of Vasarely’s work as a guide.
- For a medium-sized blanket, you will need approximately 8 rows of 12 hexagons each.
- Joining the Hexagons:
- Use black yarn to join the hexagons.
- Align two adjacent hexagons, and with the crochet hook, make slip stitches along the edges to connect them.
- Continue adding and connecting hexagons until all are joined
 Customization Tips
Customizing your Vasarely blanket can make it unique and better suited to your style. Here are some suggestions:
Color Choices
- Pastel Shades: For a softer and subtler look, choose pastel shades.
- High Contrast: For a more dramatic effect, use highly contrasting colors.
- Gradients: Use a gradient of colors for a smooth transition effect.
Blanket Size
- Baby Blanket: Use fewer hexagons and softer yarn.
- Couch Blanket: Adjust the number of hexagons to create a size that comfortably covers a couch.
- Rug: Make a smaller size but with thicker and sturdier yarn for a decorative rug.
Texture and Yarns
- Mixed Yarns: Mix different yarn textures for an interesting tactile effect.
- Metallic Yarns: Add a touch of sparkle with metallic yarns in the last rounds of the hexagons.
Finishing Techniques
After joining all the hexagons, it’s time to add the finishing touches to your blanket.
Blocking
Blocking your work will help ensure it lays flat and maintains the desired shape:
- Preparation:
- Lightly spray the blanket with water.
- Place it on a blocking mat or yoga mat.
- Pinning:
- Use pins to secure each corner and edge of the blanket in the desired position.
- Let it dry completely.
Weaving in Ends
Use the tapestry needle to weave in all loose ends. This will ensure your blanket has a clean and professional finish.
Final Border
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Adding a border around the blanket can give it an elegant finishing touch:
- Simple Border:
- Make a round of single crochets around the entire blanket with black yarn.
- Decorative Border:
- After the round of single crochets, make a round of double crochets, followed by another round of single crochets.
![](https://craftsforlove.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/6fac66642d678721c70f36dc59dadea8-300x300.jpg)
Maintenance and Care
To keep your blanket looking beautiful and in good condition:
- Washing: Hand wash with cold water and a mild detergent.
- Drying: Air dry, avoiding direct sunlight to prevent colors from fading.
- Storage: Store in a dry, airy place, preferably folded carefully.
The Vasarely crochet blanket is a piece of textile art that combines the tradition of crochet with the modern design of Op Art. With this free pattern, you can create a stunning blanket that will not only bring warmth but also a touch of sophistication to your home.
Customize it with your favorite colors and finishing techniques for a truly unique project. Enjoy the creative process and the impressive final result of this crochet project.
This pattern is ideal for both beginner crocheters, who can learn basic joining and finishing techniques, and more experienced ones, who can explore color and texture variations for a striking visual effect. Good luck and happy crocheting!