purlJam

# Simple Flower Motif

A charming beginner-friendly flower that can be used as an appliqué, coaster, embellishment, or small decorative element. This flat flower features six petals and works up quickly in worsted weight yarn.

## MATERIALS

**Yarn:** Worsted weight (#4) yarn
- Main Color (MC): approximately 30-40 yards
- Contrast Color (CC) for center (optional): approximately 5-10 yards

**Suggested yarn:** Any worsted weight acrylic, cotton, or cotton blend

**Hook:** US Size H/8 (5.0 mm) or size needed to obtain gauge

**Notions:**
- Yarn needle for weaving in ends
- Scissors
- Stitch markers (optional, but helpful)

## GAUGE

16 dc and 8 rounds = 4" (10 cm) in double crochet worked in the round

*Gauge is not critical for this project, but will affect finished size.*

## FINISHED MEASUREMENTS

Approximately 4.5-5" (11.5-12.5 cm) diameter

## ABBREVIATIONS

- ch = chain
- dc = double crochet
- hdc = half double crochet
- rep = repeat
- rnd = round
- sc = single crochet
- sl st = slip stitch
- st(s) = stitch(es)
- tr = treble crochet
- [ ] = work instructions within brackets as a group
- ( ) = stitch count at end of round

## PATTERN NOTES

- Flower is worked in joined rounds from the center outward.
- Turning chain at beginning of rounds does NOT count as a stitch.
- Stitch count is provided at the end of each round.
- If using two colors, work Rnd 1 in CC, then change to MC for Rnd 2.
- For a one-color flower, use MC throughout.

## SPECIAL STITCHES

**Magic Ring:** Wrap yarn around fingers to form a ring, insert hook through ring, yarn over and pull up a loop, ch 1 (does not count as a st), work stitches into ring as directed, pull tail to close ring.

*Alternative if magic ring is difficult:* Ch 4, sl st in first ch to form a ring, then work Round 1 into the ring.

## INSTRUCTIONS

**Rnd 1 (Center):** Using MC (or CC if making two-toned flower), make a magic ring, ch 2 (does not count as st), work 12 dc in ring, pull tail to tighten ring, sl st in first dc to join. (12 dc)

*If you made a ch-4 ring instead: work 12 dc into the center of the ring, sl st in first dc to join.*

**Color change (optional):** If using CC for center, change to MC in last sl st of Rnd 1.

**Rnd 2:** Ch 2 (does not count as st), 2 dc in each st around, sl st in first dc to join. (24 dc)

*Math check: 12 sts × 2 = 24 sts ✓*

**Rnd 3:** Ch 2 (does not count as st), *dc in next st, 2 dc in next st; rep from * around, sl st in first dc to join. (36 dc)

*Math check: (1 dc + 1 increase) × 12 times = 36 sts ✓*

**Rnd 4:** Ch 1 (does not count as st), sc in each st around, sl st in first sc to join. (36 sc)

*This round creates a stable base for the petals.*

**Rnd 5 (Petals):** *[Sl st in next st, ch 2, hdc in next st, dc in next st, tr in next st, dc in next st, hdc in next st, ch 2, sl st in next st]; rep from * 5 more times to create 6 petals total. Fasten off. (6 petals)

*Math check: Each petal uses 8 sts (including 2 sl sts). 8 sts × 6 petals = 48, but we're working into 36 sts. Let me recalculate for accuracy:*

**Rnd 5 (Petals) - CORRECTED:** *[Sl st in next st, ch 2, hdc in next st, dc in next 2 sts, hdc in next st, ch 2, sl st in next st]; rep from * 5 more times to create 6 petals total. Fasten off. (6 petals)

*Math check: Each petal uses 6 sts. 6 sts × 6 petals = 36 sts ✓*

## FINISHING

1. Weave in all ends securely using yarn needle.

2. Block flower by pinning petals flat on a blocking mat or towel. Lightly mist with water or use steam, then allow to dry completely.

3. For a flatter, crisper finish, you may lightly starch the flower after blocking (optional).

## USES & VARIATIONS

**This flower can be used for:**
- Appliqué on hats, bags, or garments
- Coaster (works well with cotton yarn)
- Hair accessory (attach to bobby pin or clip)
- Embellishment for headbands or scarves
- Gift topper
- Bunting or garland (make multiples)

**Variations:**
- Make flowers in different colors for a bouquet
- Add a button or bead to the center for extra detail
- Omit Rnd 4 and work petals directly into Rnd 3 for a lacier look
- Work Rnds 1-3 in CC and Rnds 4-5 in MC for two-toned petals
- Make a smaller flower by stopping after Rnd 4 and working shorter petals

## TIPS FOR SUCCESS

- Keep tension consistent throughout for even petals
- Count your stitches at the end of each round to avoid errors
- When working petals, be sure to work loosely to avoid puckering
- Block the finished flower for the most professional appearance
- If petals curl, try using a smaller hook or blocking more firmly

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*Pattern designed for beginner crocheters. If you have questions about any techniques, please refer to online video tutorials for visual guidance on the magic ring, double crochet, and treble crochet stitches.*