Harlequin Stitch Crochet Pattern

The Harlequin Stitch is a timeless crochet pattern known for its elegant diamond-shaped design and beautiful texture. This stitch creates a visually striking fabric that looks intricate but becomes surprisingly rhythmic once you understand the repeating sequence. It’s a wonderful choice for blankets, throws, baby afghans, and even decorative home pieces.

One of the most appealing features of the Harlequin Stitch is that it is reversible, meaning both sides of the fabric look equally attractive. This makes it especially popular for blankets where both sides are visible. The stitch also offers endless creative possibilities with color changes, allowing you to create bold contrasts or soft gradients depending on your style. In this tutorial, you’ll learn how to make a gorgeous Harlequin Stitch blanket using clear step-by-step instructions written in US crochet terminology.

Another reason crocheters love the Harlequin Stitch is its versatility. This stitch works beautifully with both solid colors and multicolor yarn combinations, making it perfect for creating unique handmade gifts or heirloom-quality blankets. Whether you’re crafting a cozy throw for your living room or a charming baby blanket, the Harlequin Stitch offers a balanced mix of elegance and texture that stands out in any crochet collection.

Harlequin Stitch Crochet Pattern

Abbreviations (US Terms)
Approx = Approximately
Ch = Chain(s)
Dc = Double Crochet
Dc3tog = Double Crochet 3 together
Dc6tog = Double Crochet 6 together
Hdc = Half Double Crochet
Rep = Repeat
Rnd(s) = Round
Sc = Single Crochet
Sk = Skip
Sl st = Slip Stitch
Sp = Space
St(s) = Stitch(es)
Yo = Yarn Over

Measurements
Approximate Dimensions: 42” / 106 cm long
Width: 29” / 73 cm wide
This size makes a lovely lap blanket or baby blanket, but you can easily adjust the width by changing the starting chain using the stitch multiple.

gauge
15 stitches and 7 rows = 4” (10 cm) in Harlequin Stitch
Checking your gauge helps ensure your finished blanket matches the intended size.

Harlequin Stitch Tutorial

Pattern Notes

• Pattern is written using American crochet terms
• For the foundation chain, make a chain length in a multiple of 8 + 1
• Stitch pattern is reversible; there is no right or wrong side
• Harlequin stitch is a 4-row repeat
• Change yarn colors at the ends of Row 3 and Row 5
• Weave in ends and block the blanket (if necessary) before completing the border
• There are 3 rounds of border, with the last round forming a decorative ruffle stitch

Special Stitches

DC3tog (Double Crochet 3 Together)
Yarn over, insert hook in stitch, yarn over and pull up a loop, yarn over and pull through 2 loops.
Repeat the following sequence two more times in the next stitches: yarn over, insert hook, yarn over and pull up a loop, yarn over and pull through 2 loops.
Finally, yarn over and pull through all loops remaining on the hook.

DC6tog (Double Crochet 6 Together)
Yarn over, insert hook in stitch, yarn over and pull up a loop, yarn over and pull through 2 loops.
Repeat the sequence in the next five stitches, partially completing each double crochet.
Finish by yarn over and pulling through all loops on the hook.

Pattern Instructions

Foundation Row
With Color A, chain 121.

Row 1
In the 5th chain from hook, work:
[3 double crochets, chain 1, 3 double crochets],
skip 3 chains,
work 1 single crochet in the next chain.
Repeat from * across the row.
Turn.
(120 stitches)

Row 2
Chain 3.
Skip the first single crochet.
Work Dc3tog over the next 3 double crochets.
Chain 7, skip 1 chain, work Dc6tog over the next 6 double crochets (skipping the single crochet in the center).
Repeat from * across the row.

End with:
Dc3tog in the last 3 double crochets
1 double crochet in the top of the last chain
Turn.
(120 stitches)

Row 3
Chain 3.
Skip the first double crochet.
Work 3 double crochets in the top of the Dc3tog.

Work 1 single crochet in the chain-1 space two rows below (enclosing the chain-7).
Work [3 double crochets, chain 1, 3 double crochets] in the top of the Dc6tog.
Repeat from * across the row.

End with:
3 double crochets in the top of the Dc3tog
1 double crochet in the top of the turning chain
Change to Color B in the last stitch
Turn.
(120 stitches)

Row 4
Chain 4.
Skip the first double crochet.
Work Dc6tog over the next 6 double crochets (skipping the single crochet in the center),
Chain 7,
Skip 1 chain.
Repeat from * across the row.

End with:
Chain 3
1 single crochet in the top of the turning chain
Turn.
(120 stitches)

Row 5
Chain 1.
Skip the first single crochet and the chain-3.
Work [3 double crochets, chain 1, 3 double crochets] in the top of the Dc6tog (center space),
Work 1 single crochet in the chain-1 space two rows below enclosing the chain-7.
Repeat from * across the row.

End with:
1 single crochet in the first stitch of chain-4
Change to Color C in the last stitch
Turn.
(120 stitches)

Rows 6–73
Repeat Rows 2 through 5, ending after completing Row 5.

Row 74
Chain 3 and turn (counts as 1 double crochet).
In the top of the next 2 double crochets, work half double crochet.
In the top of the next double crochet, work double crochet.
Skip the chain space.
Work double crochet in the next double crochet.
In the next 2 double crochets, work half double crochet.
Work single crochet in the single crochet.
Repeat from * across the row.
End with the final single crochet in the turning chain.
Fasten off.
(120 stitches)

Finishing
Weave in all yarn ends neatly
Block the blanket if needed to shape and smooth the stitches

Harlequin Stitch Crochet Pattern

Border Instructions

Round 1: Join Color B in any stitch.
Chain 1.
Work 1 single crochet in each stitch around the blanket, placing:
3 single crochets in each corner
Slip stitch into the first single crochet to complete the round.
Change to Color C.

Round 2: Chain 1.
Work 1 single crochet in each stitch around the blanket, placing:
3 single crochets in each corner
Slip stitch into the first single crochet to complete the round.
Change to Color A.

Round 3 (Ruffle Border)
Chain 3 (counts as first double crochet).
Work 2 double crochets in the same stitch.
Work 3 double crochets in each stitch around the blanket.

In each corner stitch:
Work 6 double crochets
Slip stitch into the first chain-3 of the round.
Fasten off.

The Harlequin Stitch is a beautiful and rewarding pattern that combines texture, colorwork, and rhythm into one stunning design. Whether you choose bold contrasting colors or soft pastel shades, this stitch always produces an eye-catching result. It’s a fantastic project for crocheters who want to expand their skills while creating something truly special.