Mosaic crochet is a beautiful and versatile crochet technique that can be used to create a variety of projects and I’ve chosen the mosaic crochet patterns in this roundup for accessories and garments that are eye-catching and fun to make.
The patterns start with an easy level so that if you’re totally new to mosaic crochet, you can give these a go first. Once you’ve gained confidence, or you’ve already tried this technique, you’ll want to browse the larger projects.
Although it looks intricate, mosaic crochet is much easier than it looks!
Jera’s Jamboree receives payments for affiliate advertising. This is at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. As a Cratejoy affiliate I earn if you click on a link and shop from my link. Please see my disclosure policy for more information.
If you can double crochet (US single crochet) and treble (US double crochet) then you will be able to work with this technique in your crochet projects.
It is a great technique for creating intricate designs that would be difficult to achieve with other crochet techniques!
What is Mosaic Crochet?
Mosaic crochet uses colourwork to create intricate designs.
There are two mosaic techniques that are popular:
- overlay
- inset (also known as waterfall crochet)
Overlay Mosaic Crochet
Overlay mosaic crochet is created by working with two contrasting colours in alternating rows. Both rows are worked on the right side of the project.
Double crochet (US single crochet) stitches are worked into the back loops of the row while treble crochet (US double crochet) stitches are worked into the front loops of stitches from rows below.
The treble crochet stitches are covering up the double crochet stitches from the previous row.
If the mosaic crochet pattern is worked across one row and instructs you to cut the yarn and re-join (often with a border stitch) without turning, this is the overlay technique.
It’s the overlaying of different colours that creates the very complex looking patterns.
An example of overlay can be found in my tablet cover.
As much as I love to crochet, I detest sewing (and will procrastinate doing absolutely anything else) so keep in mind that if the mosaic crochet pattern is worked across one row (overlay mosaic), you will have quite a few ends.
- The border stitch does secure your work but if you’re like me, you’ll want to sew or weave in those ends! Although if the ends will not be seen (inside a cushion cover for example) you could leave them.
- Another technique (instead of weaving in your ends) is the enclosed border. If you haven’t worked the enclosed border before, follow the instructions on this easy to understand video.
Inset Mosaic Crochet
Inset mosaic crochet is worked across four rows. Two rows are worked with the same colour before changing colour to work the next two rows.
The work is turned at the end of each row.
The crochet mosaic stitch is worked by double crochet (US single crochet) stitches and chains/skipped stitches in the first two rows with a colour change at the end of the second row.
The third row is worked by double crochet into previous double crochet stitches and where the chains are, treble crochet in the double crochet from 3 rows below.
The chains are hidden at the back of the work.
The fourth row is worked by double crochet in each stitch of the row with a colour change at the end of the row.
In both mosaic crochet techniques, the treble is worked into stitches from rows below. This crochet stitch is called a mosaic treble (Mtr) or in US crochet terms, mosaic double (Mdc).
An example of inset mosaic crochet patterns can be found in my infinity scarf and tote bag.
My advice is to test both overlay and insert mosaic to see what works best for you.
How to Read a Mosaic Chart
Mosaic patterns are typically written in chart form showing the colours that should be used for each row, as well as the stitches that should be worked. The charts can be easy to follow, even for beginners. I find that once I’ve seen the mosaic pattern emerging, I’m able to continue the pattern without losing where I am on the chart.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to read a mosaic crochet chart:
- Understand the Chart Symbols:
- Each square on the chart represents a crochet stitch.
- There are two different colours used in the chart. Typically, one colour is for the background (usually the main colour), and the other colour is for the overlay or inset pattern.
- The symbols used may vary depending on the pattern, but commonly, “X” or “/” is used to represent a crochet stitch in the background colour, and “O” or “#” might be used to represent a crochet stitch in the overlay or pattern colour.
- Always read the key to understand the chart for the specific pattern you are working on
- Know the Starting Point:
- Charts usually have arrows or numbers to indicate where you should begin. It’s crucial to start at the correct point to maintain the pattern’s symmetry.
- Read the Rows:
- Read the chart from right to left for right-handed crocheters and from left to right for left-handed crocheters.
- The odd-numbered rows (1, 3, 5, etc.) are typically read right to left.
- The even-numbered rows (2, 4, 6, etc.) are usually read left to right.
- Repeat Rows:
- Mosaic crochet patterns often repeat rows of the chart to create the full design. Pay attention to any repeat instructions provided in the pattern.
- Changing Colours:
- Change colours as indicated in the chart. To do this, complete the final yarn over of the stitch with the new colour.
- Tension and Gauge:
- Maintain even tension while working to ensure that the fabric lays flat and the pattern is clear.
- Check your gauge to make sure your stitches match the pattern’s intended size.
- Keep Count:
- It’s essential to count your stitches and rows as you go to maintain the pattern’s integrity.
- my top tip to keep from losing your place in a detailed crochet chart is to place a sticky note directly on your printed pattern to keep track of where you are. If you stick the sticky-note along the top of the row you are working, covering up the rows above, you can keep track of the row you are working while also seeing the rows below so you know what stitches you will be working into.
If you are looking for a new and exciting crochet technique to try, mosaic crochet is a great option!
Mosaic Crochet Patterns
In this collection of mosaic crochet patterns, I have included both overlay and inset mosaic techniques.
Here are some of the patterns you will find:
- A simple mosaic crochet blanket that is perfect for beginners
- A beautiful mosaic crochet scarf that is perfect for the winter months
- A stylish mosaic crochet bag that is perfect for everyday use
- A cozy mosaic crochet hat that is perfect for keeping your head warm in the cold weather
Have fun creating!
Clicking on the numbered pattern will take you to the free pattern.
The majority of these mosaic crochet patterns free are written in US Crochet Terms.
For my UK crocheters, the table below is a conversion of basic crochet stitches from US to UK.
| US Crochet Terms | UK Crochet Terms |
|---|---|
| single crochet (sc) | double crochet (dc) |
| half double crochet (hdc) | half treble crochet (htr) |
| double crochet (dc) | treble crochet (tr) |
| treble (tr) | double treble (dtr) |
| double treble (dtr) | triple treble (trtr) |
1. Mosaic Crochet Coasters
If this is your first time working with mosaic crochet patterns, a good place to begin is with this free tutorial from LoveCrafts.
This mosaic crochet guide will show you all you need to know.
I recommend you take time to watch the 17-minute video tutorial for ‘How to crochet mosaic stitch coasters.’
If you need to slow down the video, I have a tip that will help on my crochet tips article.
- Suggested yarn: Paintbox Cotton DK
If you prefer to work from a written pattern, you can also download for free this mosaic crochet pattern PDF. Why not print it off and use it to follow along with the video!
2. Diamond Drift Dishcloth and Tea Towel Set
The dishcloth and tea towel uses a diamond mosaic pattern and looks stylish. A fab addition to anyone’s kitchen!
This crochet pattern adds a double border – no weaving in ends. Music to my ears!
Scroll down the page and you’ll find a video tutorial (37 minutes) for the dishcloth.
To crochet the set (which includes the tea towel) you can purchase this mosaic crochet pattern on Etsy.
- Suggested Yarn: WeCrochet Dishie Cotton Worsted
3. Mosaic Crochet Scarf
This mosaic scarf will take your skills one step further by giving you the experience of working on a bigger project.
No increasing or decreasing.
The inset mosaic crochet creates a bold and beautiful scarf using any 2 shades you like!
- Recommended yarn: Caron Simply Soft Tweeds (2 balls of each colour)
- Measurements: 8½ ” [21.5 cm] wide x 90 “[228.5 cm] long, excluding fringe.
This is a free printable mosaic crochet pattern.
4. Easy Mosaic Crochet Infinity Scarf
Keep practising those mosaic crochet skills with my infinity scarf.
This is a quick and easy project that only uses 200g of chunky yarn.
The free mosaic crochet pattern includes written instructions and a chart.
- Recommended yarn: Emu Classic Chunky
- Measurements: 15cm/6” wide x 140cm/55” length – Finished length (once seam is sewn to create the loop) 70cm/27.5”
Now you’ve had some practice, the following two patterns combine mosaic crochet with other crochet stitches.
5. Mosaic Crochet Tote Bag
This Mosaic Crochet Tote Bag is perfect for trying a larger project that includes mosaic crochet but isn’t entirely worked in the technique.
The body of the tote bag uses double crochet (UK)/single crochet (US) with the mosaic crochet from about halfway. Not so overwhelming!
This free mosaic crochet pattern also includes information on how to read a mosaic chart.
You’ll gain practice of reading a mosaic crochet chart and with your newly found confidence, be able to apply this technique to future projects.
- Recommended yarn: Aran/Worsted in cotton
- Measurements: 17.5″ wide x 11.75″ high; handles 22″ long
6. Noughts and Crosses Crochet Blanket
This crochet blanket uses a blend of inset mosaic crochet and Alpine stitch.
Alpine Stitch and Mosaic Crochet have similar techniques and compliment each other.
If you’re a confident beginner ready for a challenge, this could just be the project for you.
Crocheting for a while but not sure about mosaic crochet? This will give you an introduction to this technique.
One of the following pillow/cushion cover patterns uses inset mosaic crochet and the other, overlay. I wanted to give you a choice so that you could try both to give you an idea of which technique suits you best! If you’re looking for inspiration for pillows, have a browse of these modern crochet pillow patterns.
7. Mosaic Crochet Throw Pillow Pattern
Inspired by the geometric mosaic tiles of Morocco, this free inset mosaic crochet pattern creates a stylish accent that fits with most contemporary décor styles.
The pillow cover is made by crocheting two square panels which are then sewn together on 3 sides. The pillow insert is put in place next. Finally, the last seam is sewn.
I like the very clear pattern notes, the mosaic chart and access to a video tutorial to help you.
Give yourself a challenge. You’ll be glad you did!
- Recommended yarn: Alpaca Aran
- Measurements: Each square panel measures 19.5” X 19.5” unstretched, for a 20” X 20” cushion
8. Mosaic Crochet Cushion Pattern
This paid pattern uses overlay mosaic crochet to achieve this stunning effect.
The pattern includes an optional zipper closure.
You’ll also receive instructions for ways to use the pattern to make other projects like blankets, placemats or a table runner.
- Recommended yarn: DK/8ply yarn
- Measurements: fits a 36 x 36cm (14 x 14”) insert
Suitable for mosaic crochet beginners.
Tote bags: one of the following three free mosaic crochet patterns is worked in two flat panels that are then seamed together, two are worked in the round. All totes are worked in overlay mosaic. This gives you different experiences of working with similar projects.
9. Easy Crochet Mosaic Tote Bag
My mosaic crochet tote bag is any easy project.
In the cushion cover above you crocheted two panels. This pattern is also two panels but with the addition of handles on each panel.
The handles are crocheted as part of the tote bag, not sewn on separately which I think gives added strength.
The pattern gives a retro look so you’ll be right on trend!
- Recommended yarn: Emu Classic DK in Navy and Stylecraft Special DK in Bright Green
- Measurements: Body of bag : 15 inches / 38 cm (w) X 13.5 inches / 34cm (h) – Handles: 11 inches / 28 cm
10. Mosaic Summer Tote
This would make an awesome crochet beach bag wouldn’t it! You would be able to pack all your essentials for a day at the beach and look stylish as you walk the prom or stop for refreshments in the café.
Worked in the round, the base is made by working both sides of the foundation chain followed by mosaic crochet for the body of the bag.
The free pattern includes a mosaic chart (with detailed instructions on how to use the chart) and a video tutorial.
Perfect for beginners.
- Recommended yarn: CotLin (DK)
- Measurements: 15 inches wide and 13 inches tall (not including the handles)
If you don’t want a large tote, there are suggestions to change the size of the bag too.
This pattern can be purchased as a PDF on Etsy.
11. Mosaic Diamond Bag
This bucket-style tote uses mosaic crochet to create subtle diamond patterning for a trendy look.
A drawstring closure keeps contents safe, while the backpack-style straps make for easy tote-ability and everyday use
This is an intermediate project.
- Recommended yarn: Bernat Softee Cotton
- Measurements: Approx 9″ [23 cm] diameter x 12″ [30.5 cm] tall
This is a free printable mosaic crochet pattern.
The two patterns below is rated intermediate by the designers but if you can crochet basic stitches, give yourself a challenge!
12. Mosaic Beanie Crochet Pattern
With just a 3 row repeat, without any colour changes within a round, this mosaic pattern is another good project to get to grips with this technique.
This beanie is made from the bottom up starting with the ribbing along the bottom. The main portion of the hat is made with joined rounds.
- Recommended yarn: Brava Worsted
- Measurements: 20″ x 7.5″
This pattern is available (ad-free) to buy on Etsy.
13. Tunisian Mosaic Shawl
I couldn’t resist sharing this one! If you’ve already tried Tunisian crochet and enjoyed it, you’ll find this intermediate mosaic pattern a joy to work up.
If you’ve been crocheting for a while and are ready for a challenge, give it a go!
If you’re just starting out, this pattern has information on a beginners course where you can learn the basics of Tunisian crochet.
You might find the information on this collection of Tunisian patterns for beginners useful.
This pattern uses the overlay Tunisian mosaic crochet technique.
- Recommended yarn: Chroma Fingering
- Measurements: wingspan of 66” (168 cms) and a depth of 33” (84 cms)
A PDF version with charts for each section and written instructions is available for purchase on Etsy.
Enjoy crocheting shawls? Have a browse of the different patterns in this roundup of free shawl patterns.
This final section has mosaic crochet blanket patterns that use both the overlay and inset technique.
14. The Everleigh Blanket
This mosaic crochet blanket uses the Inset mosaic technique.
The video tutorial (for left and right-handed crocheters) will take you through a couple of pattern repeats and alongside the mosaic chart, this is all you’ll need to master this gorgeous pattern.
This is a free mosaic crochet pattern. You can buy the pattern on the Bella Coco Crochet website.
- Recommended yarn: Stylecraft Special DK and West Yorkshire Spinners Bo Peep DK
- Measurements: W 57.5 cm (22.7 inch) X H 65 cm (25.5 inch).
15. Wanderers Blanket Free Mosaic Crochet Blanket Pattern
This stunning mosaic crochet blanket celebrates colour, texture and geometry.
It has a clean crisp border and you have the option of adding huge tassels which emphasise the beautiful drape.
The pattern is an intermediate level but the tutorials and videos in the paid pattern mean that a confident beginner could also enjoy and create this pattern.
The free pattern includes the mosaic chart with instructions on how to read it.
You’ll still be changing colours at the end of every 2nd row, the only difference being more colours! This definitely gives this mosaic crochet project something different doesn’t it.
- Recommended yarn: Wander Yarn by Furls Crochet
- Measurements: 107cm by 104cm without tassels
The printable PDF of this pattern is available on Etsy. The PDF includes the mosaic crochet chart, technique information and resizing guide.
16. Nya Infinity Mosaic Blanket
This free mosaic crochet pattern is written in US terms and is worked in rows.
You can follow the chart or written instructions.
I love that the written instructions also have photos to guide you. Both of these are fabulous for visual learners!
You will need yarn in two contrasting colours. Use the recommended yarn, Scheepjes Whirl, and you’ll have 54 colourways to choose from.
You will need 3.5-3.75mm crochet hook, scissors and tapestry needle.
The pattern repeats can be used on different sized crochet projects. Use this mosaic crochet pattern to create 3 different sizes:
- baby blanket
- wrap
- larger blanket
17. Mosaic Crochet Blanket
Originally a four-week CAL, this mosaic blanket pattern is available as a free printable PDF with all sections in one pattern.
- Recommended yarn: Caron One Pound and Caron Jumbo
- Measurements:
- Approx 50″ [127 cm] x 61″ [155 cm], excluding fringe.
With written tutorials and photos for each stitch as well as stitch diagrams as a guide, you’ll crack this intermediate project no problem.
Didn’t find the pattern for you? You’ll find lots of paid mosaic crochet patterns on Etsy (and it’s great to support makers in our community).
Have fun on your mosaic crochet adventure.
Happy crocheting!