15 Free Crochet Afghan Patterns To Make In 2026

What is a good size for a crocheted afghan?    

A good size for a crocheted afghan depends on its intended use, whether it’s for a baby, lap, couch, bed, or decorative throw. 

Here’s a quick guide to various sizes to help you choose the right dimensions for your project:

• Baby Blanket – 30″ x 36″ – Newborns, baby showers, stroller covers
• Lapghan – 36″ x 48″ – Wheelchair users, elderly, couch throw
• Throw Blanket – 50″ x 60″ – Living room decor, casual use
• Twin Size Afghan – 66″ x 90″ – Twin beds, dorm rooms
• Full/Double – 80″ x 90″ – Bed cover or large sofa throw
• Queen Size Afgha – 90″ x 100″ – Large beds, generous drape
• King Size Afghan 108″ x 100″+ Oversized comfort, luxury throws

Tips for choosing the right size

• For beginners: Start with a baby blanket or lapghan—they’re faster and easier to manage.
• As gifts: Throws and lapghans are universally loved and versatile.
• For beds: Add a few inches beyond mattress dimensions if you want extra drape on the sides.

No matter the size, afghans make wonderful heirlooms and personalized gifts.

Be sure to check your pattern’s gauge and adjust your hook or stitch count to match the size you want!

Related Post: Crochet Blanket Sizes And How Much Yarn (+ Chart)

What is the best crochet stitch to make an afghan?    

The best crochet stitch to make an afghan depends on your style, skill level, and the kind of texture or look you want. 

However, several tried-and-true stitches are perfect for crafting cozy, durable, and beautiful afghans:

1. Granny stitch
   • Why it’s great: Classic, timeless, and perfect for colorful, geometric afghans.
   • Skill level: Beginner-friendly.
   • Perfect for: Scrap yarn and modular designs like granny squares.

2. Chevron (ripple) stitch
   • Why it’s great: Creates a beautiful zigzag pattern with lots of visual movement.
   • Skill level: Intermediate.
   • Perfect for: Bold, striped afghans with modern or vintage flair.

3. V-stitch
   • Why it’s great: Open, lacy texture that works up quickly.
   • Skill level: Easy.
   • Perfect for: Lightweight afghans or summer throws.

4. Shell stitch
   • Why it’s great: Elegant and soft with a scalloped texture.
   • Skill level: Easy to intermediate.
   • Perfect for: Baby blankets and decorative throws.

5. Moss stitch (a.k.a. linen or granite stitch)
   • Why it’s great: Dense, flat fabric with subtle texture.
   • Skill level: Beginner.
   • Perfect for: Modern, gender-neutral afghans.
   • Check it out here. – How To Crochet: Linen Stitch (Free Printable)

6. Corner-to-corner (C2C)
   • Why it’s great: Diagonal construction allows for unique shapes and pixel designs.
   • Skill level: Intermediate to advanced.
   • Perfect for: Graphgans, personalized gifts, or statement pieces.
   • Check it out here. – How To C2C Crochet For Beginners (Free Printable) 

7. Waffle stitch
   • Why it’s great: Deep texture and warmth.
   • Skill level: Intermediate.
   • Perfect for: Cozy winter afghans and throws.
   • Check it out here. – How To Crochet The Waffle Stitch (Free Tutorial)

Tip: Choose a stitch that suits your yarn weight and drape preference. 

Open stitches work well with lightweight yarns, while dense stitches pair beautifully with thicker yarns for warmth.

No matter the stitch you choose, afghans are perfect long-term projects that can be both functional and deeply creative.

Related Post: 50 Best Crochet Stitches For Blankets And Afghans 

What is the best yarn for a crochet afghan?

Choosing the right yarn for your crochet afghan can make a big difference in softness, durability, and ease of care. Here are the top yarn options to consider:

Best overall: worsted weight acrylic yarn

• Soft and beginner-friendly
• Budget-conscious and widely available
• Machine-washable and durable — perfect for everyday use
• Ideal for: Family throws, beginner projects, and colorful designs

For lightweight Blankets: cotton or cotton blends

• Cool, soft, and breathable — great for warmer climates.
• Holds the stitch definition very well
• May feel heavier than acrylic or wool when finished
• Ideal for: Summer blankets, baby afghans, and modern designs

For quick projects: bulky or chunky yarn

• Crochets up super fast
• Thick and warm with a cozy texture
• Great for modern, oversized throws
• Ideal for: Last-minute gifts or weekend afghan projects

Helpful resources

• Yarn Weight Guide {+Conversion Chart}
• Yarn Types Explained: A Guide To Different Fibers 
• How To Read A Yarn Label (Step By Step)

Crochet Lessons

If you are new to the craft and need help with the crochet basics, check out more free how-to resources here: Crochet Lessons (With Video Tutorials).

This includes crochet abbreviations, UK and US terms, how to make a slip knot, foundation chain (ch), crocheting the single crochet stitch, the half double crochet stitch (hdc), crocheting through the front loop, and more. 

If you need more video tutorials, check out my YouTube channel here – Handy Little Me – YouTube.

For extra help and to connect with more makers from the crafting community, check out the Handylittleme Knitting and Crochet Community Facebook group.

You can also find us on social media: Ravelry, Pinterest, Instagram, Twitter, Etsy, and TikTok.