Traveling Afghan Crochet Square #6

Traveling Afghan Crochet Square #6: Gladstone Square

What Is Being Made

The Gladstone Square is a single crochet square designed by Lee Sartori (CoCo Crochet Lee) as part of the Traveling Afghan collection. This square serves as a modular component for constructing larger blankets and throws through the assembly of multiple squares. The finished square creates a decorative motif suitable for afghans, lap blankets, or decorative throws.

Techniques Used

This intermediate-level crochet project employs several key techniques to create texture and visual interest. The primary technique featured is front post double crochet (fpdc), which involves inserting the hook around the post of stitches from previous rounds rather than into the top loops. This creates a raised, dimensional effect that gives the square its distinctive appearance. The pattern also incorporates a specialized stitch called fpdc3tog (front post double crochet 3 together), which decreases stitches by working three front post double crochets together into a single stitch. This technique requires yarn over, inserting the hook around the post, drawing up loops, and drawing through multiple loops in sequence to complete the decrease.

Stitches Used

The Gladstone Square utilizes the following crochet stitches:

• Chain stitch (ch) – Used for the foundation and turning chains throughout the pattern
• Double crochet (dc) – Forms the base of the square in the opening round
• Half double crochet (hdc) – Used in rounds 10-13 as connecting stitches between existing stitches
• Front post double crochet (fpdc) – The signature stitch that creates raised texture by working around post stitches
• Front post double crochet 3 together (fpdc3tog) – A decrease technique combining three front post double crochets into one stitch

Materials and Tools

The Gladstone Square is designed to be worked with Aran weight yarn, specifically Lion Brand Yarn Wool Ease. One square requires 128 yards of yarn from a 197-yard/85-gram skein, meaning one full skein will produce approximately one complete square with yardage remaining. The project calls for a US Size G/6 (4mm) crochet hook, along with basic finishing tools including a yarn needle and scissors. The Aran weight classification provides a medium-weight yarn suitable for creating defined stitch definition while maintaining reasonable working speed.

Pattern Notes and Construction Details

The pattern begins with a magic ring or chain-4 foundation, starting with 8 double crochets in the opening round. Subsequent rounds increase the stitch count through strategic placement of additional stitches, building outward to create the square's dimensions. Important construction notes include the clarification that the beginning chain does not count as a stitch unless explicitly stated in the instructions. Additionally, rounds 10-13 require careful attention to placement, as half double crochet stitches must be worked between existing stitches rather than skipping any stitches, including the connection between the starting chain and the next stitch. This precision ensures even distribution and proper square formation.