20+ Free Tapestry Crochet Patterns

Tapestry crochet patterns look difficult … but they’re not as hard as they look!

I’m sharing my favourite tapestry crochet patterns, starting with those suitable for beginners and then increasing to intermediate difficulty level.

I’m sure you’ll find something that’s just right for you.

Are you a confident beginner at crocheting and ready to move on to learning a new technique?  Have you been crocheting for a while but thought tapestry crochet looked too hard? These free crochet tapestry patterns are for you!

This technique is exciting – it opens up endless possibilities for colour variations that can be used on many different crochet patterns.

Blending with other crochet stitches works well too.

What is tapestry crochet?

Tapestry crochet is a technique where at least two contrasting colour yarns are used together for colourwork in the same row or round.

The yarn that is being used to work the stitches is called the active colour, the yarn that is being carried along the back of the stitches is called the inactive colour.

My crochet checkered bag uses the tapestry technique:

There are different types of tapestry crochet:

• tapestry in the round – worked in a spiral on the right side of the work
• one-directional flat tapestry crochet – worked in rows in one direction only on the right side of the work
• two-directional flat tapestry crochet – worked in rows, turning the work where the odd numbered rows are the right side and even numbered rows the wrong side; the crochet pattern graph will be read from right to left for odd numbered rows and left to right for even numbered rows.

I’ve used the two-directional tapestry crochet on my hot water bottle cover and numbered the rows on the graph (see tapestry chart below).

Colour changes take place on the last pull through of the stitch immediately before the colour change.

ready to work with the new colour

Tapestry crochet looks similar to mosaic crochet, however, it is a different technique. I’ve written about the differences in this table.

You can use any yarn you want for tapestry crochet but because the yarn is carried along the row or round, it is better to use thinner yarn such as fingering, sport or DK yarn.

The best stitch to use for tapestry crochet is double crochet (US single crochet) although some of the patterns in the collection also use half treble (US half double) and treble (US double) crochet.

Tapestry Crochet Patterns

In this collection of tapestry crochet patterns free you will find the following projects:

• Mug Rugs
• Washcloths
• Hot Water Bottle Cover
• Coin Purse
• Clutch Bag
• Cross Body Bag
• Tote Bags
• Toiletry Bag
• Basket
• Cushion/Pillow Covers
• Wall Hangings
• Rug
• Blankets
• Beanie
• Cardigan

Tapestry crochet patterns for beginners

These easy tapestry crochet patterns are the perfect place to begin if you’re just starting out learning this technique.

1. Polka Dot Mug Rugs

This is the perfect free crochet pattern for you to learn this technique.

If you’ve worked with this technique before, these mug rugs would be a fabulous way to use up your yarn stash! 

This crochet project uses the one-directional flat tapestry crochet technique.

If you’re a visual learner, follow the tapestry chart.  Written instructions are also available.

You will need:

• 3.0 mm (C USA, 11 UK) Crochet Hook
• DK (3, Light) Weight Yarn
• Tapestry Needle

These would make a fabulous crochet gift as well crocheting a set for yourself.

The Polka Dot Mug Rug crochet pattern is also available to buy on Etsy.

Tip: If you haven’t changed colour before, use the photos on my checkered crochet bag pattern to help you.

2. Heart Washcloth

This beginner project will have you learning in no time.

You will need:

• 3.75mm/  F crochet hook
• 2 contrasting colors of Aran/Worsted
• Scissors
• Yarn needle (to weave in ends)

The crochet tapestry pattern free includes clear photos and instructions on how to carry the yarn for colour changes.

3. Multi Chevron Washcloth

This free basic pattern uses We Crochet’s Dishie Multi Yarn. 

You will need:

• 380 yards of Aran/Worsted Cotton
• Crochet hook I/9 (5.5mm)

If you have Aran/Worsted cotton yarn in your stash, you can substitute and you’ll get the same effect.

4. Crochet Winter Blanket

My tapestry blanket is a great project for beginners.

I’ve used a triangle motif to represent trees and rows in a contrasting colour for the snow laden paths.

Substitute any colours to suit your décor.

You’ll need 650g for your main colour and 150g contrasting colour in aran/worsted yarn.

This pattern uses two-directional flat tapestry crochet.

It’s lovely to snuggle up under 🙂

You’ll find blankets using this technique in the baby blanket roundup.

5. Bunny Baby Blanket

This baby blanket is worked in rows.

The bunny tapestry uses double crochet (US single crochet) while the rest of the blanket uses panels of treble crochet (US double crochet) and dividing rows of crossed treble stitches.

The tapestry crochet chart is available as a free PDF download as well as written instructions for you to follow.

Materials you need:

• 300g Aran/Worsted main colour
• 200g Aran/Worsted contrasting colour
• 100g Aran/Worsted accent
• 5mm crochet hook
• Tapestry needle for weaving in ends

A great first project for using the tapestry technique.

6. Chevron Tapestry Clutch Bag

This fold-over clutch has a really simple colourwork pattern repeat.

It’s a great first pattern to try out.

You’ll be working tapestry in the round.

This crochet tapestry pattern includes a full photo tutorial on how to line the clutch, and add a zipper.

The instructions use DK weight yarn but the pattern will work just as well with a Aran/Worsted yarn.  Just be aware that your finished bag will just end up a little larger.

You will need:

• 250 – 350 yards DK and 3.5mm crochet hook

OR

• 250 – 350 yards Aran/Worsted and 4mm crochet hook
• zipper approx. 9 – 10” / 23 – 25cm
• fabric approx. 9” x 18.5” / 23 cm x 50 cm depending on the size of your finished clutch 
• Optional D-ring/split ring and clasp

If you prefer working from a PDF, the chevron tapestry clutch pattern is also available to purchase on Etsy.

7. Hot Water Bottle Cover

My hot water bottle crochet cover can be adapted to any size and is a quick and easy crochet project for beginners and experienced crocheters alike.

Worked in two separate pieces – front and back – and then sewn together, this pattern would also make a lovely pyjama case.

Materials you need:

• DK x 100g Colour A
• DK x 50g Colour B
• 4mm Crochet Hook
• Scissors
• Tapestry needle (for weaving in ends)
• To make the pom poms you will need:
• Pom pom template
• Yarn A and B
• Cardboard
• Glue stick

This is a great stash busting crochet project.  Use yarn from your stash!

My tapestry crochet pattern is a free PDF download. Just click on the print friendly image.

8. Crochet Heart Tote Bag

One side of this tote bag is a larger heart and the other is stripes with a heart bag charm to carry the theme through.

You’ll be working the tapestry technique on the heart side of the bag.

This is a great introduction to this technique!

Use up yarn from your stash for this project.

Materials needed:

• Aran/Worsted yarn in 4 different colours (small amounts – 50g for each colour)
• 5mm crochet hook
• Stitch Marker
• Scissors
• Yarn needle

This tote bag measures 28cm / 11inches (W) X 23cm  /  9inches (L)

Download this pattern as a PDF for free. Just click on the print friendly image.

You’ll find tote bags using this technique in the tote bag roundup.

9. Coin purse

This crochet tapestry pattern has clear photos for the base and the sides.  There is a tapestry crochet chart you can work from too. 

Use the hints before you start crocheting. You’ll find them before the tapestry chart.

This is a fabulous crochet project for beginners.

You’ll be hand stitching a zip – another technique to add to your skills.

10. Crochet Tapestry Bag

This free tapestry bag pattern is worked in rounds with Aran/Worsted yarn.

It has two rows of triangles all the way around, made in basic single crochet stitches (UK double crochet).

If you’re a beginner crocheter, there are 3 stitches (with instructions) to add to your skills:

• single crochet 2 together (UK double crochet)
• thermal single crochet (UK double crochet)
• reverse single crochet (UK double crochet). 

There are links to videos for the thermal and reverse.

11. Cushion/Pillow Cover

All stitches for the tapestry panel in this pattern are worked in treble crochet (US double crochet).

There is a tapestry crochet chart you can download or you can follow the written instructions. 

I find it works best for me using both the written instructions and the chart together.

Suitable for confident beginners, the pattern uses a light colour with two contrasting colours. 

This cushion cover uses two-directional flat tapestry crochet.

You’ll find pillow patterns using this technique in the pillow pattern roundup.

12. Herringbone Cushion Cover

There are very clear images for changing colour with this free crochet pattern.

Worked in HoookedXL (a lightweight chunky recycled yarn), if you haven’t worked with tape yarn before, this would be a great project for you to try it out!

Instruction for 2 rows of tapestry crochet give you the basics to be able to go on and read the tapestry chart to complete the cushion cover.

13. Mod Trellis Pillow

This crochet pillow cover uses a simple two-colour, 22-stitch motif repeat to create interlocking squares.

If you like your cushions a bit larger than 40cm squared, this free crochet pattern is for 46cm.

Add a new crochet stitch to your library of stitches – this pattern uses the crab stitch (instructions with the pattern).

This free pillow pattern finishes off by sewing three seams, inserting the cushion pad and then closing off the final seam.

Tip: The tapestry crochet chart is on the right hand below the images of the finished pillow.

14. Tapestry Squares Blanket

This crochet tapestry pattern is made up by crocheting squares which are then joined together to make a throw.

This can be made in any weight yarn using any colours to create your desired size of project.

You will require a main colour (MC) and a contrasting colour (CC).

This tapestry square is so versatile – you can make any number of squares you like and join to create a a number of projects – cushions, dishclothes, placemats, shawls, bed runners, wall hanging or even clothing if you are feeling more adventurous!

Stitches used:

• For the tapestry square: double crochet, chain stitch, slip stitch,
• For the border: double crochet, single crochet, back post double crochet, slip stitch

This crochet project is rated at a skill level for a confident beginner/intermediate.

15. Beginner Tapestry Crochet Cowl Pattern

Worked using tapestry crochet in the round, this cowl is super easy to make.

Using worsted weight #4 yarn means it works up really quickly in only 12 rounds. Ideal if you’re running out of time looking for a gift!

The checkered trend is still going strong so you’ll be staying snuggly this winter AND looking fabulous.

Intermediate Tapestry Crochet Patterns

These crochet projects are rated at intermediate skill level.

Try these crochet tapestry patterns if you’re a confident beginner ready for a challenge.

16. Day at the Beach Crochet Blanket

The beach huts in this novelty crochet project are worked using the two-directional flat tapestry crochet technique.

Different stitches are used to create the different elements in this fun blanket: 

• Double crochet  /  US single crochet
• Treble crochet  /  US double crochet
• Ripple stitch
• Cable stitch
• Wavy chevrons

I’ve left the ‘canvas’ blank for you to add your own motifs to make it unique to you.

17. Orchid Blaze Blanket

The perfect size for a lap blanket, my pattern uses tapestry crochet for the middle panel and is then worked in rounds in double crochet. A border of filet flowers gives a lovely finish.

Materials:

• 600g DROPS Muscat in the following:  300g #18;   200g #29;   100g #39
• 4mm crochet hook
• Scissors
• Tapestry needle (for sewing in ends)

Crocheted in 100% cotton, it’s hardwearing and washable and can be used any time of year. 

18. Vivo Throw – Crochet Tapestry Pattern

Inspired by the colourful ethnic textiles from around the world, this stunning throw is created uses textured stitches to create the designs.

This pattern includes:

• 11 pages of clear written instructions
• colourwork charts
• photo tutorials and special stitches used
• complete materials list including yarn brand and colours used

Finished size: 105 x 130 cm

19. Olympus Blanket Tapestry Pattern

This bold geometric blanket design uses the tapestry technique to create a stunning blanket. It uses bulky yarn to create the cosiest texture.

The yarn itself is very soft and warm but not heavy.

This free crochet pattern is worked using a single stitch throughout and it’s just a matter of when to change colours and when not to. 

With 114 rows of instructions, you might find it easier to work from a PDF. This pattern is also available to purchase from Etsy.

20. Tapestry Heart Crochet Blanket Pattern

The crochet heart motif and stripes of block colour are really effective in this blanket.

The pattern uses double crochet (US single crochet) throughout.

As well as written instructions, the pattern comes with a colour chart for you to follow.

You will need:

• crochet hooks 4.5 and 4.00 mm
• 14 x 100g Stylecraft Special DK yarn

The finished size is approx 70×45 inches, although it would be easy to adapt to any size blanket.

This blanket would look fabulous with my crochet heart pillow! Match the colours to crochet a complete bedtime set.

21. Tapestry Crochet Diamond Beanie

Four different colours are used to work up the diamond pattern in this free beanie crochet pattern.

A fabulous project for using up your yarn stash!

Beanie pattern is for one size:  circumference 19 – 20″ Hat height 8.5″ without pompom

You could easily adapt it by adding multiples of 6 with the circumference and adding an extra diamond pattern for height.

This free pattern is worked from the bottom up.  My preference is to work hats from the bottom up and then with the long tail, weave in the yarn and pull to close.  I think it gives a much nicer finish!

22. Crochet Toiletry Bag Tapestry Cube Pattern and Tutorial

This free tapestry crochet pattern is more intricate as not only will you be creating a cube shape (and sewing) but you will also be adding a zip.

The pattern uses 5 different colours but you can also crochet the same pattern with 3.

The tapestry chart is clear and the step-by-step instructions will guide you to crochet this fabulous toiletry bag.

Fill your completed crocheted toiletry bag with goodies to make a fabulous gift!

23. T-Shirt Yarn Tapestry Basket

This is a fabulous crochet project to recycle your old and unwanted T-Shirts.

Have you worked with T-Shirt yarn before?  Here’s some great tips from The Spruce Crafts which includes a link to how to make your own.

This pattern uses Paintbox Yarns recycled T-Shirt yarn.

The PDF contains a step-by-step tutorial guide (photo and written instruction) to make your basket and the chart for the base.  You’ll also have instructions for how to change the size of your basket.

This is quick to make, give it a go.

24. Cool Waves Wall Hanging

This wall hanging is worked from the free tapestry chart. 

Instructions are given for how to read the chart.

You will need:

• 7 different colours in Aran/Worsted yarn
• 4mm crochet hook
• wooden dowel

25. Be Kind Wall Hanging

This crochet tapestry motif can be used to create scarves, cushions, jumpers, blankets, bags – as well as the wall hanging.

The free pattern includes a tapestry chart and instructions on how to make the wall hanging in the photo.

Rows can be added before and after those shown on the chart to make the piece longer.  Stitches can be added before and after those shown on the chart to make the piece wider.

Stitches used: half treble crochet (US half double crochet)

For the crochet tapestry wall hanging you’ll need 7 different colours in Aran/Worsted yarn and a 5mm crochet hook. 

The finished wall hanging measures approx. 31cm x 25cm.

You’ll need a wooden dowel that fits if you’re going to hang your crocheted piece of work.

You’ll find more patterns using tapestry crochet in this wall hanging roundup.

26. Moroccan Tapestry Tote Bag

Doesn’t this tapestry tote bag looks stunning!

Worked in multiples of 12, you can adapt this free tote bag tapestry crochet pattern to any size.

You’ll need:

• Cascade Ultra Pima DK = 2 skeins in Gold, 1 skein in Natural
• 2.5mm crochet hook
• leather handles
• magnetic clasp
• thread to match the colour of your handles
• fabric for lining
• stitch marker or yarn in contrasting colour

To find link for the tapestry chart, click on Follow chart from right to left for each round.

To find the link for creating a lining, click on tutorial from FutureGirl.

27. Crochet Diamond Tote Bag

Instructions are included for making the smaller crochet diamond tote bag and the larger one in this free crochet pattern.

Both have written instructions as well as a tapestry crochet chart.

The rectangular base is worked in rows before continuing with the body of the bag in tapestry in the round.  The bag handles are added in the last few rounds.

You’ll need 3 different colours in bulky weight yarn and a 6mm crochet hook.

The bulky weight yarn means it won’t take long to finish this crochet project.

This free crochet pattern also includes links to video tutorials for:

• How to crochet a rectangular base
• Bag body and how to change colours
• How to add a strap to a crochet bag using D Rings

If you prefer a PDF, you can also purchase the Diamond Tote Crochet Bag pattern on Etsy.

28. Diamond Lattice Tapestry Crochet Rug Pattern

Crochet up this eye-catching tapestry rug and show off your skills.

This free crochet pattern uses ribbon yarn and a 6.5mm crochet hook.

There are instructions to make two different sized rugs.

The pattern notes are clear and the tapestry chart easy to find.

You’ll soon get into the rhythm of this tapestry pattern.

29. Tapestry Crochet Cardigan

This pattern of repeating hearts makes it easy to learn the basics of tapestry crochet.

A cardigan may be a new project for you which is why I’ve added it to this section.

Fully customizable to any measurements you want, just work with the stitch multiples for this cardigan to fit any size!

Recommended yarn: Provincial Tweed

Sizes: XS/S, M/L, 1X/2X, 3X/4X

Finally, give your crochet project that showstopper edge by following the tips on Craftsy.

Happy Crocheting!

Related Tapestry Crochet Patterns:

If you enjoy working this technique, have a browse of these patterns:

• Heart and Stripes Tote Bag
• Day at the Beach Blanket
• Peek-a-Boo Blanket
• Orchid Blaze Blanket
• Dog Sweater
• Owl Hot Water Bottle Cover
• Crochet/Pillow Cover
• 20 Free Tapestry Crochet Patterns

Master the tapestry technique with these free tapestry crochet patterns and apply your skills to new projects.

What is the difference between mosaic crochet and tapestry crochet?

After browsing these patterns you might be wondering how is tapestry crochet different from mosaic?

I’ve created the table below which should help.