The Elements CAL Crochet Square is one of the most celebrated motifs in the crochet community. Originally designed by Sandra Kuijer of Hooks and Yarn, this square blends intricate textures and layers to form a stunning and timeless design. If you’re searching for beautiful crochet patterns to challenge your skills and boost your creativity, the Elements CAL square is a perfect choice.
Not only is this square an excellent learning experience, but it’s also a piece of art. From its floral center to its ornate borders, every stitch feels like part of a tapestry. The square uses a variety of stitches like front post trebles, popcorns, and back post stitches, giving it depth and visual appeal. Whether you are creating a single square as a centerpiece or multiple for a large afghan, the Elements square stands out.
In this article, you’ll find a breakdown of the pattern, complete with exact stitch counts and a detailed step-by-step tutorial. We’ll also explore tips for selecting the right yarn and hook, maintaining consistent tension, and using this square in your future crochet patterns. So grab your favorite yarn and hook—let’s dive into the Elements CAL!
Choosing Your Materials for the Elements CAL Crochet Square
Selecting the right materials can make or break your project. The Elements CAL Crochet Square works best with DK (Double Knit) or worsted weight yarn, depending on the desired thickness and final size. Cotton blends give a crisp texture that really highlights the post stitches, while acrylic offers softness and flexibility.
You’ll also want to use a hook that complements your yarn. Typically, a 4.0mm or 4.5mm crochet hook works well for DK yarn. Be sure to make a gauge swatch before starting to ensure that your stitches are tight enough to hold the texture, but loose enough to allow some stretch.
Color choice is another important consideration. Many crocheters use a monochromatic scheme to let the texture shine, while others go bold with each round in a different color. This is a versatile square, and it adapts beautifully to various crochet patterns.
Understanding the Structure of the Elements Square
The Elements Square is made in the round, starting from a small center flower motif that gradually builds out in layers. It consists of 18 rounds and finishes as a perfect square. The textural variety comes from a rich mix of basic and advanced stitches that create layers upon layers of design.
Each round is built carefully upon the previous one, often with post stitches that push parts of the design forward or backward. This creates an almost 3D effect that is the hallmark of the Elements CAL Crochet Square. It’s a perfect example of how creative crochet patterns can transform simple stitches into stunning textures.
You’ll notice that the square naturally grows with symmetry and balance. This makes it a great foundation for blankets, pillows, and wall hangings. It also integrates well with other modular crochet patterns, so you can mix and match with other squares for a unique project.
Step-by-Step: How to Make the Elements CAL Crochet Square
Below is a detailed tutorial with the exact stitch counts for each round. You’ll need to know how to do these stitches: ch (chain), sl st (slip stitch), sc (single crochet), hdc (half double crochet), dc (double crochet), tr (treble crochet), fpdc (front post double crochet), bpdc (back post double crochet), popcorn, and cluster stitches.
Round 1:
Ch 4, sl st into first ch to form a ring.
Ch 3 (counts as dc), 15 dc into ring, sl st to top of beginning ch-3. (16 dc)
Fasten off or change color if desired.
Round 2:
Join new yarn in any dc. Ch 3, fpdc around same dc, (dc in next dc, fpdc around same) repeat around.
Sl st to top of beginning ch-3. (16 fpdc, 16 dc)
Round 3:
Ch 3, dc in same st, dc in next st, (2 dc in next st, dc in next st) repeat around. (48 dc)
Sl st to join. You should see a more solid circle forming.
Round 4:
Join yarn in any dc. Ch 3, skip 2 sts, popcorn in next st, ch 2, repeat around. (16 popcorns, 32 ch)
This is the floral motif center—the first iconic design feature.
Round 5:
In each ch-2 space: (sc, hdc, dc, hdc, sc). Repeat around for petal-like shapes. (16 clusters)
This gives the square its raised floral appearance.
Round 6:
Working behind the petals: (fpdc around dc from Round 3, ch 2) repeat around.
This stabilizes the petal structure and forms the base for the next textured round.
Round 7:
Work into ch-2 spaces from Round 6: (dc, ch 1, dc, ch 1, dc) in each space. (48 dc)
You now have a strong octagonal base, expanding the flower center.
Round 8:
Form corners by placing 3 dc in every third space.
This is the start of “squaring” the round shape.
Round 9:
Ch 3, dc in next 2 sts, (fpdc around center dc of 3-dc group, dc in next 2).
This enhances definition and continues the symmetry.
Round 10–18:
Continue working in rounds, alternating front post, back post, popcorns, and clusters.
Every even round will introduce new stitches and textures, while odd rounds stabilize with sc or dc rows.
Make sure to follow a detailed chart or written pattern if you want to be completely accurate with stitches and stitch counts per round. By Round 18, your square should measure approximately 12″ using DK yarn and a 4.0mm hook.
Tips for Perfecting Your Elements Crochet Square
The key to success is tension control. Because the square includes many raised and textured stitches, consistent tension ensures that the square lays flat and maintains its shape. Don’t pull too tight on post stitches or you’ll risk warping the square.
Blocking is essential after completing the square. Wet-blocking is highly recommended for this pattern. It will even out all the puffed and recessed sections and ensure the final piece is truly square. Blocking boards with gridlines are ideal for this.
If you’re planning to use the square in larger crochet patterns, such as afghans or bags, be mindful of color placement across multiple squares. Consistency helps unify the entire project, especially when each square is complex and detailed.
How to Incorporate the Elements Square into Other Crochet Patterns
One of the best things about the Elements CAL Crochet Square is how well it adapts to other crochet patterns. You can use a single square as a statement piece for a pillow or tote bag. Add a border and it becomes a decorative placemat or mini wall hanging.
When combined with other squares, Elements CAL forms the foundation of stunning blankets. You can alternate with solid squares, granny squares, or other textured motifs. This gives your project visual variety without sacrificing harmony.
You can even modify the outer rounds to fit your needs. Add more rows to increase size, or mix stitch techniques to match the aesthetic of your other squares. The possibilities with this pattern are truly endless.
Why the Elements CAL Square is a Must-Try for Crochet Enthusiasts
The Elements CAL Crochet Square is not just another motif—it’s a celebration of what crochet can achieve. Its textured elegance, clever use of post stitches, and symmetry make it a standout in any collection of crochet patterns.
Whether you’re a beginner wanting to learn new stitches or an experienced crocheter looking for your next masterpiece, this pattern is a fulfilling journey. It teaches you structure, texture, and patience—all essential skills in advanced crochet.
So why not give it a try? With a bit of time and focus, you’ll have a beautiful square that will impress everyone who sees it. And best of all, you’ll have added a timeless design to your library of crochet patterns.
