If there’s one thing that comes close to my love of crochet, it’s reading. A cosy corner, a warm blanket, a gripping book and a tasty snack is my ultimate definition of bliss! This year, I’ve decided to merge these passions by challenging myself to create a book-related afghan!

I’ve seen these incredible book blankets popping up online, and I’ve always admired the creativity behind them. Usually it’s something like each square, strip, or motif which is used to reflect the books someone’s read throughout the year. It’s such a meaningful way to blend two hobbies, and I couldn’t resist joining in. I also couldn’t resist designing something a little special for it which I’m delighted to share with you today.

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Why a Book Blanket?

For me, this project is more than just a way to document my reading—it’s a tangible reflection of the moments spent diving into stories and crafting between chapters. Plus, I wanted to tackle something that felt manageable and personal. A book afghan seemed like the perfect fit.

I’ve always wanted to do something like a temperature blanket, but knew it wouldn’t be something I could realistically keep up with, however I knew I could commit to this project. The flexibility to decide how to represent each book, in my case through coloured motifs, makes this challenge feel less daunting and more exciting.

Stashbusting Bonus!

Another reason I’m so excited about this challenge is that it’s the perfect opportunity for a much-needed stash busting session! My yarn stash has grown considerably (okay, maybe a little out of control – maybe you saw my ‘cupboard of doom’ reel on Instagram), and this project will help me whittle it down while creating something beautiful and meaningful. It will feel great to breathe new life into leftover yarns I’ve been holding onto for far too long.

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My Plan

Here’s how I’ll approach the challenge:

1. Book Selection: For every book I read, I’ll crochet two blocks. The number of blocks will depend on how many books I finish (hopefully, plenty!). I’ll be using Good Reads to track the books I do read this year so I can always catch up if I get a little behind.
2. Physical: For my challenge I’m just going to use physical books I’ve read. This is not because I’m a book snob, I personally think it’s ‘reading’ however you consume a book, but as I listen to A LOT of audiobooks it could make my blanket HUGE and unmanageable to keep up with.
3. Block Design: To keep things cohesive, I’ll use the same block pattern throughout the blanket. Scroll down for the free pattern I’ll be using—it’s perfect for this project if you’d like to join in!
4. Stash Prioritisation: I’ll use yarn from my stash as much as possible, choosing colours that align (as close as possible) with the book’s cover design. I’ll be using this image picker tool to help me select the main colours from the book covers. I’m also going to be using DK (8ply / Light Worsted) for my squares – but the pattern will work with any yarn weight. I’ll be using a maximum of 4 colours for each block.
5. Synopsis Sharing: With each block, I’ll share a little synopsis of the book I’ve read. So, if you’re looking for some new reading material, you might find inspiration here too!
6. Coherence: I’ve decided I’m going to keep the centre of each of my blocks ‘white’ to represent the pages of the book, and use 3 other colours picked out from the front cover.
7. Consistency: I’ll set aside a little time to stay on track! I’m determined to keep up with this challenge! But I feel that making one square after each book shouldn’t be too hard to keep up with?!
8. Sharing: I’ll share my finished squares and the books I’ve read at the end of each month. For those that love a community crochet-along if you want to join in too then I’ll be using the hashtag #KCACOUKBookCAL2025. I can’t wait to see your squares and what you’ve been reading!

Paperback Patch Granny Square Pattern

Want to take on this challenge with me? The block I’ll be using is simple yet versatile, making it ideal for customisation. Here’s the pattern for you to try:

The pattern below is written just in UK terms but you can view a handy conversion chart here on the blog.

Skill Level: Beginner / Easy

Scroll down for the free version or pick up the ad-free PDF Pattern is available from my pattern platforms below.

Size: 11cm x 11cm (4.3in x 4.3in)

Hook: 3.5mm (US size E)

Yarn Amounts (for two blocks):

• White Middle (2 rounds) – 3.6G
• Rnd 2 – 2.5G
• Rnd 3 – 3.2G
• Rnd 4 – 4G

Total approx 14g total for two blocks

STITCH GUIDANCE

• Chain (ch): Bring yarn over hook from back to front and grab it with hook. Draw hooked yarn through slip knot and onto hook. 
• Slip Stitch (sl st): Insert hook in st indicated, yarn over and draw through all loops.
• Half Treble (htr): Yarn over, insert hook in indicated st and pull up a loop (three loops on hook), yarn over, pull through all three loops on hook.
• Treble (tr): Yarn over, insert hook in  indicated st and pull up a loop (three loops on hook), yarn over, pull through two loops, yarn over, pull through remaining two loops on hook

PATTERN NOTES

You will be working in between the stitches (3tr or 3htr) on as you increase on each round

PATTERN

Make 2.

Rnd 1: With YARN A; 4 ch, sl st to join to form a ring, 6 ch (counts as first tr + 3ch here and throughout),[ 3 tr, ch 3 ] 3 times, 2 tr, sl st to 3rd ch of beg. 6 ch to join. 12 sts, 4 x ch3-sp

Rnd 2: Sl st to the nearest ch3-sp; 1 ch, 1 htr in the ch3-sp, miss next tr,[ (3 tr, ch 3, 3 tr) in the next st, miss next tr, 1 htr in the next ch3-sp] 3 times, miss next tr,[ (3 tr, ch 3, 3 tr) in the next st, miss next tr, sl st to the top of the beginning htr to join. Fasten off YARN A and weave in ends. 24 tr, 4 htr, 4 x 3 ch sps

Rnd 3: Sl st YARN B to any ch3-sp; 2 ch (counts as htr), 2 htr in the same sp, [ miss 3 tr, then in the top of the next htr from the previous round work (3 tr, ch 3, 3 tr), miss 3 tr, 3 htr in the next ch3-sp ] 3 times, miss 3 tr, 3 htr in the next ch3-sp sl st to the top of the beginning htr to join. Fasten off YARN B and weave in ends. 24 tr, 12 htr, 4 x 3 ch sps

Rnd 4: Sl st YARN C to any ch3-sp; 6 ch, 3tr in the same sp [ 3tr in the 2 sps between the htr/tr groups of the previous rnd, (3tr, ch3, 3tr) ] 3 times, 3tr in the 2 sps between the htr/tr groups of the previous rnd, 2 tr in the next ch3-sp, sl st to 3rd ch of beg. 6 ch to join. Fasten off YARN C and weave in ends. 48 sts, 4 x 3 ch-sps

Rnd 5: Sl st YARN D to any ch3-sp; 6 ch, 3tr in the same sp [ 3tr in the 3 sps between the tr’s of the previous rnd, (3tr, ch3, 3tr) ] 3 times, 2 tr in the next ch3-sp, 2 tr in the next ch3-sp, 3tr in the 3 sps between the tr’s of the previous rnd, sl st to 3rd ch of beg. 6 ch to join. Fasten off YARN D and weave in ends.  60 sts, 4 x 3 ch-sps

This is going to be such a fun and meaningful project, and I can’t wait to see how it evolves. Whether you’re a reader, a crocheter, or both, I’d love for you to join me. Let’s crochet our love of books into something beautiful while using up those long-neglected yarns in our stashes!

Let me know in the comments if you’re planning to make a book afghan this year—or if you’ve made one before. Share your tips, tricks, or favourite books! 📚

Happy crocheting and reading, until next time; keep calm and crochet on my friends xx

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