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Rainbow Afghan Pattern

Rainbow Afghan Pattern
4.6★ Rating
5-7 Hours Time Needed
1.3K Made This
✂️

Intermediate Level

Ideal for those with basic crochet experience, featuring slightly more advanced stitches and techniques to expand your skills.

⏱️

Weekend Treat

Takes 5-7 hours, making it an enjoyable project to finish over a couple of days.

🤗

Soft Hug

Gentle, plush, and full of warmth, creating a sense of comfort and coziness wherever they find a home.

About This Rainbow Afghan Pattern

This pattern creates a 32" x 32" Rainbow Afghan featuring arch-shaped stripes and textured bobble rows for visual interest. It uses medium weight yarn in five complementary colors and finishes with triangle accents and a simple border. The row-by-row format guides you through increases and placement so the shaping stays consistent.

Rainbow Afghan Pattern crochet pattern - detailed view of completed project

Youll work alternating bobble rows and double crochet increases to build each arch. The pattern includes instructions for top triangles and a clear border finish to give a polished look.

Why You'll Love This Rainbow Afghan Pattern

I absolutely love this pattern because it combines simple stitch repetition with textured bobble rows that keep the work interesting and tactile. I enjoy how the arch shape builds quickly with predictable increases, yet gives a grown-up, modern look. The color changes are satisfying and allow for lots of personalization, which I find inspiring. Making this blanket feels rewarding in a single weekend, and the finished piece is both functional and beautiful.

Rainbow Afghan Pattern step 1 - construction progress Rainbow Afghan Pattern step 2 - assembly progress Rainbow Afghan Pattern step 3 - details and accessories Rainbow Afghan Pattern step 4 - final assembly and finishing

Switch Things Up

I love experimenting with color placement in this pattern; try swapping the color order for a completely different mood, such as cool blues or pastel tones.

If you want a larger blanket, I often change to a heavier yarn and larger hook to create a chunkier, cozier version, keeping the same increase pattern.

For a smaller playmat, use lighter sport yarn and a smaller hook to shrink the finished dimensions while keeping the same stitch sequence.

I sometimes replace the bobble rows with clusters or popcorn stitches to change the texture and make the pattern more subtle or more pronounced.

Add fringe or tassels to the short edges for a boho finish, spacing them evenly across the border for a polished look.

Try making the top triangles in a contrasting color to create a framed look, or use the same color as the border for a seamless finish.

I also recommend trying an ombre yarn for one or more color sections to give a gradient effect without multiple skeins.

For a modern minimalist look, make the arches in tonal shades of the same color; this keeps texture but simplifies the palette.

You can embroider small motifs into the center of some arches if youd like to personalize the blanket with initials or tiny shapes.

Dont be afraid to switch up the border: a single row of reverse single crochet can create a neat rope edge, while extra double crochet rows make a cushioned frame.

If blocking is new to you, try wet blocking to even out the arches and encourage a square shape before adding the border and finishing.

Common Mistakes & How to Fix Them

✗ Not using stitch markers through the increase section can make counting very difficult; place markers at the beginning and end of the increase section so you can easily track where to add increases. ✗ Changing colors without securing tails can create loose ends and gaps at joins; weave in ends as you go or use a small knot and weave to hide transitions neatly. ✗ Skipping bobble stitch tension adjustments will make bobbles uneven; keep the bobble part slightly tighter than the rest as instructed to help bobbles sit snugly and uniformly. ✗ Forgetting to maintain even stitch counts across the top and bottom causes border mismatch; count and adjust so the top and bottom have the same even stitch count before adding the border.

Rainbow Afghan Pattern

Create a cozy, arch-striped Rainbow Afghan with textured bobble rows and a neat triangle top. This pattern walks you through each row so you can follow along color by color. Perfect for a thoughtful handmade gift or a warm addition to your nursery or living room. Youll enjoy the rhythm of doubles and bobbles as the blanket grows.

Intermediate 5-7 Hours

Materials Needed for Rainbow Afghan Pattern

— Main Fabric

  • 01
    Yarn Bee Soft and Sleek - Ivory - 2 skeins (whichever color you choose for the border will need 2 skeins)
  • 02
    Yarn Bee Soft and Sleek - Linen - 1 skein
  • 03
    Yarn Bee Soft and Sleek - Clay - 1 skein
  • 04
    Yarn Bee Soft and Sleek - Tobacco - 1 skein
  • 05
    Yarn Bee Soft and Sleek - Brownie - 1 skein
  • 06
    Any similar medium weight yarn (#4) can be used instead of this brand

— Tools Required

  • 01
    Crochet hook H (5.0 mm)
  • 02
    Yarn needle for weaving in ends
  • 03
    Stitch markers (recommended for increase sections)
  • 04
    Scissors
  • 05
    Tape measure (optional for checking size)
  • 06
    Pins for blocking (optional)

Progress Tracker

0% Complete

— Pattern :

Info :

Color 1

Row 1 :

Ch 56, dc in the 2nd chain from hook, dc 53, dc 6 in the last st, turn your work so that you are working on the back side of the ch, dc 54. Ch 2, turn.

Row 2 :

Dc 54, (if using stitch markers, place one here) dc 2 in each of the next 6 st, (If using stitch markers, place one here as well) dc 54. Ch 1, turn.

Row 3 :

Bobble row. Sc 2, [bobble, sc 3] around, replacing stitch markers as you come to them. Ch 2, turn.

Row 4 :

Dc 54 or to stitch marker, dc 2 in the next 3 st, dc 6, dc 2 in the next 3 st, replace stitch marker when you come to it, dc 54. Ch 2, turn.

Row 5 :

Dc 54 or to stitch marker, [dc 2 in the next st, dc 1] 3x, dc 6, [dc 1, dc 2 in the next st] 3x, replace stitch marker when you come to it, dc 54. Ch 2, turn.

Row 6 :

Dc 54 or to stitch marker, [dc 2 in the next st, dc 2] 3x, dc 6, [dc 2, dc 2 in the next st] 3x, replace stitch marker when you come to it, dc 54. Ch 1, turn.

Info :

Color 2

Row 7 :

Bobble row. Sc 2, [bobble, sc 3] around to last 2 st, bobble, sc 1.

Row 8 :

Dc 54 or to stitch marker, [dc 2 in the next st, dc 3] 3x, dc 6, [dc 3, dc 2 in the next st] 3x, replace stitch marker when you come to it, dc 54. Ch 2, turn.

Row 9 :

Dc 54 or to stitch marker, [dc 2 in the next st, dc 4] 3x, dc 6, [dc 4, dc 2 in the next st] 3x, replace stitch marker when you come to it, dc 54. Ch 2, turn.

Row 10 :

Dc 54 or to stitch marker, [dc 2 in the next st, dc 5] 3x, dc 6, [dc 5, dc 2 in the next st] 3x, replace stitch marker when you come to it, dc 54. Ch 1, turn.

Row 11 :

Bobble row. Sc 2 [bobble, sc 3] around. Ch 2, turn.

Row 12 :

Dc 54 or to stitch marker, [dc 2 in the next st, dc 6] 3x, dc 6, [dc 6, dc 2 in the next st] 3x, replace stitch marker when you come to it, dc 54. Ch 2, turn.

Row 13 :

Dc 54 or to stitch marker, [dc 2 in the next st, dc 7] 3x, dc 6, [dc 7, dc 2 in the next st] 3x, replace stitch marker when you come to it, dc 54. Ch 2, turn.

Info :

Color 3

Row 14 :

Dc 54 or to stitch marker, [dc 2 in the next st, dc 8] 3x, dc ,6 [dc 8, dc 2 in the next st] 3x, replace stitch marker when you come to it, dc 54. Ch 1, turn.

Row 15 :

Bobble row. Sc 2 [bobble, sc 3] around. Ch 2, turn.

Row 16 :

Dc 54 or to stitch marker, [dc 2 in the next st, dc 9] 3x, dc 6, [dc 9, dc 2 in the next st] 3x, replace stitch marker when you come to it, dc 54. Ch 2, turn.

Row 17 :

Dc 54 or to stitch marker, [dc 2 in the next st, dc 10] 3x, dc 6, [dc 10, dc 2 in the next st] 3x, replace stitch marker when you come to it, dc 54. Ch 2, turn.

Row 18 :

Dc 54 or to stitch marker, [dc 2 in the next st, dc 11] 3x, dc 6, [dc11, dc 2 in the next st] 3x, replace stitch marker when you come to it, dc 54. Ch 1, turn.

Row 19 :

Bobble row. Sc 2 [bobble, sc 3] around. Ch 2, turn.

Row 20 :

Dc 54 or to stitch marker, [dc 2 in the next st, dc 12] 3x, dc 6, [dc 12, dc 2 in the next st] 3x, replace stitch marker when you come to it, dc 54. Ch 2, turn.

Info :

Color 4

Row 21 :

Dc 54 or to stitch marker, [dc 2 in the next st, dc 13] 3x, dc 6, [dc 13, dc 2 in the next st] 3x, replace stitch marker when you come to it, dc 54. Ch 2, turn.

Row 22 :

Dc 54 or to stitch marker, [dc 2 in the next st, dc 14] 3x, dc 6, [dc 14, dc 2 in the next st] 3x, replace stitch marker when you come to it, dc 54. Ch 1, turn.

Row 23 :

Bobble row. Sc 2 [bobble, sc 3] around. Ch 2, turn.

Row 24 :

Dc 54 or to stitch marker, [dc 2 in the next st, dc 15] 3x, dc 6, [dc 15, dc 2 in the next st] 3x, replace stitch marker when you come to it, dc 54. Ch 2, turn.

Row 25 :

Dc 54 or to stitch marker, [dc 2 in the next st, dc 16] 3x, dc 6, [dc 16, dc 2 in the next st] 3x, replace stitch marker when you come to it, dc 54. Ch 2, turn.

Row 26 :

Dc 54 or to stitch marker, [dc 2 in the next st, dc 17] 3x, dc 6, [dc 17, dc 2 in the next st] 3x, replace stitch marker when you come to it, dc 54. Ch 1, turn.

Row 27 :

Bobble row. Sc 2 [bobble, sc 3] around. Ch 2, turn.

Info :

Color 5

Row 28 :

Dc 54 or to stitch marker, [dc 2 in the next st, dc 18] 3x, dc 6, [dc 18, dc 2 in the next st] 3x, replace stitch marker when you come to it, dc 54. Ch 2, turn.

Row 29 :

Dc 54 or to stitch marker, [dc 2 in the next st, dc 19] 3x, dc 6, [dc 19, dc 2 in the next st] 3x, replace stitch marker when you come to it, dc 54. Ch 2, turn.

Row 30 :

Dc 54 or to stitch marker, [dc 2 in the next st, dc 20] 3x, dc 6, [dc 20, dc 2 in the next st] 3x, replace stitch marker when you come to it, dc 54. Ch 1, turn.

Row 31 :

Bobble row. Sc 2 [bobble, sc 3] around. Ch 2, turn.

Row 32 :

Dc 54 or to stitch marker, [dc 2 in the next st, dc 21] 3x, dc 6, [dc 21, dc 2 in the next st] 3x, replace stitch marker when you come to it, dc 54. Ch 2, turn.

Row 33 :

Dc 77, [dc 2 in the next st, dc 22] 2x, dc 6, [dc 22, dc 2 in the next st] 2x, dc 77. Finish off.

— Top Triangles :

Info :

I like to do the triangles in either the 5th color selection or in the border color. Choose what you like best!

Row 1 :

Skip 77 st, slp st in the next st, sc 3, hdc 4, dc 11, hdc 4, sc 3, slp st. ch 1, turn.

Row 2 :

Skp the slp st, sc2tog, sc 1, hdc 4, dc 11, hdc 4, sc 1, sc 2tog. Ch 1, turn.

Row 3 :

Sc 2 tog 2x, hdc 2, dc 11, hdc 2, sc2tog 2x. Ch 2, turn.

Row 4 :

Dc2tog 2x, dc 11, dc2tog 2x. Ch 2, turn.

Row 5 :

Dc2tog 2x, dc 7, dc2tog 2x. Ch 2, turn.

Row 6 :

dc2tog 2x, dc 3, dc2tog 2x. Ch 2, turn.

Row 7 :

Dc2tog, dc 3, dc2tog. Ch 2, turn.

Row 8 :

Dc2tog, dc 1, dc2tog. Ch2, turn.

Row 9 :

Dc3tog. Finish off.

Info :

Repeat this on the second top corner, counting 77 stitches up from the opposite side.

Info :

Hdc an even number across the top and bottom of the afghan. I generally go for around 80 st, but the most important thing is for the top and bottom to be the same stitch count.

— Border :

Info :

Join on one of the afghan sides with a slp st, ch2, dc in each stitch around, placing 5 dc in each corner st. Crochet 2 or 3 rows in the border color before finishing off and weaving in the ends. Here are some border color ideas for you!

Assembly Instructions

  • Repeat the top triangle section on the second top corner, counting 77 stitches up from the opposite side so both triangles mirror each other.
  • Make sure the top and bottom have the same even stitch count before adding the border; I generally aim for around 80 stitches across.
  • Join one side of the afghan with a slip stitch, ch2 and work double crochet in each stitch around, placing 5 double crochets in each corner stitch for neat corners.
  • Crochet 2 or 3 rows in the border color to finish; fasten off and weave in all ends securely with a yarn needle.
  • Block the afghan gently if desired: pin to shape, focusing on straightening the arch and ensuring the border lays flat before drying.

Important Notes

  • 💡Use stitch markers at the beginning and end of the increase section if you want to avoid constantly counting stitches.
  • 💡Similar medium weight yarn (#4) can be used instead of the specified brand if you match gauge and color weights.
  • 💡Place 5 double crochets in each corner when adding the border to maintain square corners and an even finish.
  • 💡Work bobble stitches slightly tighter as instructed to ensure consistent texture and shape across bobble rows.

This Rainbow Afghan pattern is designed to be a cozy, modern staple in your handmade collection. It blends arches, bobbles, and simple borders for a timeless look. Make one for a baby, a gift, or your favorite snuggle spot — happy crocheting! 🧶🧵

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FAQs

What size will the finished piece be?

The finished afghan measures approximately 32" x 32" when made with the recommended yarn and hook size.

Can I use different yarn weights for this pattern?

Yes, you can use different yarn weights, but your finished size will change; adjust hook size accordingly and check stitch counts across the top and bottom.

Do I need stitch markers for this pattern?

Stitch markers are recommended at the beginning and end of the increase section to help track increases and avoid miscounting, but they are not strictly required.

How long does this project typically take to complete?

Most crocheters complete this project in about 5-7 hours, though the time may vary based on experience, color changes, and finishing choices.