Introduction
Crochet blankets and crochet ripple afghan patterns are some of the easiest and most fun projects to make. You can enjoy hours of crocheting and then have a cozy blanket to wrap around yourself or give as a gift to family or friends.
There are tons of afghan designs that you can choose from, but one of the most popular motifs is the crochet ripple afghan. These are exciting, challenging, and popular blanket projects that make a zigzag or wavy pattern. It’s a classic design your grandma might have stitched, but it’s also a perennially popular design.
The ripple pattern is made with the crochet chevron stitch. With just knowing the basic crochet stitches like single crochet, half double crochet, double crochet, and some techniques like increasing and decreasing you can finish a Ripple Afghan. The pattern may seem intimidating at first but with just a few rows, you’ll get the hang of it.
There are several ways to experiment with ripple afghans. You can make a whole blanket in one solid color, or you can use alternating color changes for more interesting zig-zag stripes.
Some patterns also involve special crochet stitches for variation and texture. Some common stitches used include puff stitch, bobble stitch, v-stitch, and granny stitch. There are countless patterns that can be made with the ripple stitch technique.
We’ve collected more than 30 free crochet ripple afghan patterns for you to try. There are simple and minimalist easy ripple crochet patterns that are great for beginners. There are lacy and textured Afghan patterns that are suitable for any level of crocheter.
Let’s get started!
Ripple Stitch vs. Chevron Stitch
Before we get started, you might have a question when looking at or reading patterns as to what the difference is between the ripple and chevron. The answer is there is no difference.
These two terms are used interchangeably. As you will see, the chevron stitch has a ripple effect that could consist of sharp peaks (where you make increases) and valleys (where you skip stitches or make decreases), or wavy curves.
It doesn’t matter what you call it; you will definitely love making it!
Blanket Sizes
When reading a pattern, the dimension for the finished crochet project is usually stated. But if it is not, or if you want to adjust your pattern, you can refer to the measurements below for the sizing of different kinds of blankets.
- Baby Blanket: 14 x 16 in or 36 x 42 cm
- Receiving Blanket: 40 x 40 in or 100 x 100 cm
- Lapghan: 36 x 48 in or 92 x 122 cm
- Throw/Afghan: 60 x 72 in or 152 x 182 cm
- Bed Blanket: 84 x 90 in or 214 x 228 cm
How to Crochet a Ripple Stitch Afghan?
In this section, I will briefly explain how to crochet the chevron or ripple stitch. Though there are different methods how to make the crochet stitches ripple, what I’ll share here is the simplest way to do it.
First, you need to crochet a number of chains as required for your pattern. Chevron patterns have multiples of stitches that need to be worked evenly to make the pattern work so your pattern might give you a number but also a multiple (such as 14 plus 3, for example) so you can adjust the pattern to make it bigger or smaller.
For this example you could chain 17, or 31, or 45, and so on.
Working decreases to make the “valley” portion of the stitch, while increasing makes the “peaks.” Doing both consistently in the pattern makes the zig-zag or chevron design.
For instance, if you look at our Little Ripple Baby Blanket pattern, you’ll see that there are places where you double crochet 2 together and other places where you work 2 dc stitches in the same stitch.
If you aren’t familiar with how to increase and decrease in crochet, that’s just one of the many things you can learn in our Crochet Fundamentals workshop. It covers all the basic stitches, shaping, finishing, and so much more to help you crochet with confidence.
If it helps as you are learning how to make this stitch, you can place a stitch marker in the row where the shaping happens so you remember where to do it.
This should give you a good general idea of how chevron stitches work, but of course, there’s nothing like stitching a pattern yourself to really understand how it works!
Materials Needed to Crochet Ripple Afghans
Yarn
The ideal yarn to be used for crochet ripple afghan patterns is made of material that is soft and squishy.
If the blanket is for chilly days, choose yarns that can keep you cozy and warm like Lion Brand Wool-Ease and Knit Picks Brava Worsted. If the blanket is intended for use in warmer weather, use yarns that are light and can keep you comfortable, like Lion Brand Coboo, Knit Picks CotLin, and DMC Natura XL.
For a quick blanket project, it’s best to use thicker yarns so that the crochet stitches will have a larger size and build up quickly. You can try bulky and super bulky yarns like Knit Picks Mighty Stitch Super Bulky, Ewe Ewe Baa Baa Bulky Merino, or Lion Brand Chunky Chill.
Some crochet blankets have intricate patterns and textures that call for a lighter weight yarn. A couple of good options are Malabrigo Dos Tierras and Ewe Ewe Fluffy Fingering Merino.
When making your own blanket or one for a gift, consider whether the yarn needs to be washable, and make sure you like the feel of it before you commit to using it for a big project.
Check the patterns below for more yarns recommended to use for crochet blankets.
Crochet Hook
For an enjoyable crochet experience, never hesitate to use quality crochet hooks. Crochet blankets take more time to make than other projects so make sure that you use a hook that is suitable for your crocheting style.
The Amour Crochet Hook is practical and easy to use especially for beginners. It has a soft rubber handle and an aluminum hook. Have a relaxing time while crocheting for hours with this hook.
Enjoy fancy hours of crocheting with the Candy Shop Crochet Hooks. These are made of polyresin plastic, which is lighter than wood. The shape of these hooks is so beautiful and elegant. You will always be looking forward to your crocheting time if you know you’ll be using these hooks.
Whatever the crochet hook you use, always remember the main factor for a beautiful and perfect afghan is your skill. Having numerous sets and fancy crochet hooks is just a bonus indulgence this hobby can give us.
Other Notions
- Stitch markers
- Scissors
- Yarn needle
- Blocking mats and pins
Easy Ripple Afghan Patterns for Beginners
This first collection of easy crochet ripple afghan patterns is suitable for beginners who want to try the chevron pattern. Each of these patterns is written well so that you'll get the hang of the ripple pattern in no time.
Easy Crochet Chevron Blanket
Designer: Repeat Crafter Me
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested yarn: Bernat Super Value
This is a very straightforward chevron pattern that uses the Single Crochet stitch. It’s perfect for people totally new to chevron stitching and will make a nice warm blanket.
Crochet Ripple Blanket Free Pattern
Designer: Melanie Ham
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested yarn: Caron Simply Soft
Beginner crocheters should try this pattern for a beautiful ripple blanket. The pictures are great and helpful in understanding the ripple stitch pattern.
Wonders Chevron Crochet Blanket Pattern
Designer: Easy Crochet
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested yarn: Lion Brand Vanna’s Choice
Make lots of cozy crochet afghans with this simple pattern. The ribbed texture is rich and can keep you warm whenever you wrap it around yourself.
Gentle Gradient Ripple Blanket
Designer: Underground Crafter
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested yarn: Red Heart Super Saver
This pattern is for you if you love the elegant look of the half double crochet stitch. The color choice used in the sample gives it an ombre look but you can use any combination of colors you like for your ripple blanket pattern.
How to Crochet a Ripple Blanket
Designer: Daisy Farm Crafts
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested yarn: Knit Picks Brava Worsted
Make a smooth and wavy blanket that looks like water in pretty shades of blue. This pattern uses the double crochet ripple stitch pattern.
Easy Chevron Afghan Crochet Pattern
Designer: Crafty Kitty Crochet
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested yarn: Red Heart Super Saver
Enjoy every peak and valley of your chevron afghan with this pattern. The explanation of the steps is easy to follow as there are pictures to show you the correct placement of stitches.
Lacy Ripple Afghan Patterns for Beginners
You can make a lovely and lacey afghan with the following crochet ripple afghan patterns. These stitches are a little more open, which makes the projects faster and is good for people who don’t like a blanket that’s too heavy.
Quick Lacy Ripple Afghan
Designer: Teresa Chorzepa, via Lion Brand
Yarn weight: (6) Super bulky
Suggested yarn: Lion Brand Hometown
Wrap yourself with this cozy ripple afghan while lounging on your bed or couch. The super bulky yarn used means you can stitch this up in no time!
Dragonfly Chevron Baby Blanket
Designer: Pattern Paradise
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested yarn: Red Heart Soft
Aren't these dragonflies on the blanket so lovely? Add this mesmerizing chevron blanket to your collection of baby blanket crochet patterns for more variation.
Woodland Ripple
Designer: Attic24
Yarn weight: (3) DK
Suggested yarn: Premier Yarn Dottie
The ripple in this Afghan has a smooth wavy pattern. They’re not in zigzag form but more like curves. Still, this blanket has a rich texture that can make you feel cozy.
Fall Ripple Afghan
Designer: FaveCrafts
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested yarn: Red Heart Super Saver
Anywhere in your home is a perfect place to keep and use this Afghan. It adds a warm ambiance to any room. The pattern is enjoyable and easy to follow.
Naptime Ripple Baby Afghan
Designer: FaveCrafts
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested yarn: Red Heart Super Saver
This blanket would make a great baby shower gift. It's an easy pattern of double crochets and shell stitches that makes a quick baby blanket pattern.
Textured Ripple Afghan Patterns for Beginners
Do you love and enjoy making textured crochet projects? Here are some amazing crochet ripple afghan patterns you can try.
Red Heart Ripple Afghan
Designer: Mary Jane Protus, via Yarnspirations
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested yarn: Red Heart Super Saver
What a cozy rich-in-texture ripple Afghan this is! The colors are also chosen well, though you can pick whatever colors match your decor. You’ll always want to snug in it every time you see it.
Bobble Ripple Baby Blanket
Designer: Truly Crochet
Yarn weight: (3) DK
Suggested yarn: Premier Yarns Dottie
This colorful blanket is perfect for baby! The textured bobbles will be a fun sensory experience during tummy time or when strolling around the neighborhood.
Eldoris Chevron Crochet Blanket
Designer: Knitting with Chopsticks
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested yarn: Sirdar Snuggly Supersoft Aran
This is a nice minimalist ripple blanket. It looks neat and interesting with its rows of bobble stitches worked in contrasting colors to the main body of the blanket.
Chunky Chevron Crochet Blanket Pattern
Designer: A More Crafty Life
Yarn weight: (6) Super bulky
Suggested yarn: Bernat Baby Blanket
Here’s a chunky chevron blanket that adds bobbles along the ripples for even more texture. This is one ripple Afghan crochet pattern that looks great in a solid color, but of course you can add stripes, too.
Chevron with a Twist Blanket
Designer: This Pixie Creates
Yarn weight: (5) Bulky
Suggested yarn: Lion Brand Scarfie
This lovely chevron blanket is a great way to enjoy the puff crochet stitch. And the tassels at the edges add a cozy look that emphasizes the chevrons even more.
Easy Peephole Chevron Crochet Blanket
Designer: Sigoni Macaroni
Yarn weight: (3) DK
Suggested yarn: Brava Sport
The interesting thing about this chevron blanket is that there’s no decreasing of stitches to form the design. The texture is made by making the double crochets in the back loop of the stitches.
Intermediate Ripple Afghan Patterns
The following patterns are for intermediate crocheters, but nothing is too difficult, no matter your experience, with a little patience and practice!
Heartbeat Ripple
Designer: By Mimzan
Yarn weight: (1) Super fine
Suggested yarn: Scheepjes Catona
Feel your heartbeat with excitement with this adorable ripple blanket. The ripples look livelier because they’re formed with spike single crochets and spike double crochets.
Crochet Ripple Afghan Pattern
Designer: Petals to Picots
Yarn weight: (5) Bulky
Suggested yarn: Knit Picks Brava Bulky
Have fun integrating the v-stitch to create the ripple pattern in this pretty Afghan. The result is a great blanket you can display in your bed or living room.
6-Day Kid Blanket
Designer: Betty McKnit
Yarn weight: (5) Bulky
Suggested yarn: Knit Picks Brava Bulky
This is a famous ripple blanket because of its eye-catching and rich texture. It creatively combines double crochets and groups of double crochet. And it’s quick to stitch, too!
Berry Cobbler Ripple Blanket
Designer: Underground Crafter
Yarn weight: (3) DK
Suggested yarn: Cascade 220
Give this textured ripple blanket as a warm gesture to a mom of a newborn baby. As written the pattern is throw sized but it includes the pattern multiple so you can make a larger (or smaller) version if you like.
Mae’s Chevron Crochet Blanket Pattern
Designer: Heart Hook Home
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested yarn: Knit Picks Brava Worsted
Are you up for an adventurous pattern? Have fun and be challenged by the methods used to crochet this chevron blanket. The result is worth it for this gorgeous Afghan.
Diagonal Chevron Lapghan
Designer: A Crocheted Simplicity
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested yarn: Lion Brand Vanna’s Choice
This diagonal blanket provides a fun challenge as it’s worked in a corner-to-corner style with chevron designs. There’s a link in the pattern to a practice block if you want to try that out before you commit to the full blanket.
Crochet Hugs & Kisses Baby Blanket
Designer: The Crochet Crowd
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested yarn: Caron Cakes
Play with crochet stitches and yarn colors as you enjoy this charming ripple blanket. You can use here some of your scrap yarns as long as they match the yarn weight or use a cake to make color changes simple.
Lullaby Ripple Afghan
Designer: FaveCrafts
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested yarn: Red Heart Super Saver
The fun look to this pattern is made by working what it calls long front post treble crochet stitches, which are worked into the row below. This emphasizes the chevron design and mixes up the colors a bit.
Granny Ripple Afghan Patterns
Yes, the granny stitch is not just for granny squares. It's a versatile crochet stitch that can be used in all kinds of patterns. One example where it can be used is in ripple or chevron blankets, as illustrated in the following free patterns.
Sun Room Afghan
Designer: Crochet Dreamz
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested yarn: Bernat Super Value
In this tutorial, you'll start with a simple granny ripple stitch, then add puff-stitch granny squares and tassels. It has a sweet boho look that would be perfect for your next picnic.
Granny Ripple Afghan
Designer: Mary Garrow, via Ravelry
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested yarn: Red Heart Super Saver
Feel the joy and warmth of this ripple Afghan as you place it around yourself. The granny stitch will keep you cozy and comfortable and it’s easy to stitch.
Healing Granny Ripple Crochet Blanket Pattern
Designer: Oombawka Design Crochet
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested yarn: Caron Big Cakes
The story behind the name of this pattern is inspiring. As its title suggests, let the meditative nature of crocheting help you to heal from whatever troubles you have in life. Even without that story, it’s a pretty pattern in stripes of granny stitch.
Video Tutorials for the Ripple or Chevron Stitch
Looking for video tutorials for the ripple or chevron stitch? I've selected a few short tutorials for some of the basic ripple techniques. When you learn how to crochet the ripple or chevron stitch, you will have more confidence in using crochet ripple afghan patterns designed by other crocheters, or you can write your pattern.
Crochet Chevron Blanket
Designer: Daisy Farm Crafts
Yarn weight: (5) Bulky
Suggested yarn: Bernat Roving
This seven-minute video tutorial explains how to crochet a chevron pattern using the single crochet stitch. There’s a link to the written pattern for the full blanket as well.
Crochet Chevron Blanket Stitch
Designer: Hook, Yarn, and Needle
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested yarn: Premier Anti-Pilling Everyday Worsted
The elegant half double crochet stitch is used for teaching how to make a ripple in this quick video tutorial. You can use this tutorial to make an Afghan, scarf, and more.
Easy Chevron Pattern
Designer: Daisy Cottage Design
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested yarn: Lion Brand Wool-Ease
The traditional chevron stitch made of double crochet stitches is demonstrated in this video tutorial that goes with a full blanket pattern. You can also find here how to make a straight border for the zigzag edges of the blanket.
Granny Ripple Tutorial
Designer: Bela Coco
Yarn weight: (3) DK
Suggested yarn: Knit Picks Brava Sport
This video shows you how to make a ripple pattern in granny stitch. It goes along with a written tutorial and uses UK terms with US references.
Looking for More Fun Stitches for Blanket Patterns?
I hope you enjoy this article and found some great patterns to use for your next crochet project. If you’re interested to learn more about crochet stitches, check out The Ultimate Crochet Stitch Library.
It has 45 crochet stitches that you can learn and master. You’ll never run out of ideas on what crochet stitches to use for your patterns or projects after this.