If there’s one thing that sits right at the heart of my creative life, it’s the cosy intersection between a good book and a warm crochet blanket project. Last year I kicked off my very first Book Blanket Challenge, combining my love of reading with my passion for crochet – and what a joy that journey was! I’m still putting together the blanket for 2025, but that hasn’t stopped me from starting this years plans.

This year I’m taking things in a new direction — not just for a new blanket project, but expanding my reading horizons more intentionally. My aim for 2026 is to read books by at least 50 NEW authors – authors whose voices, stories and styles I haven’t encountered before. And just like last year, each book will be represented with crochet blocks in my book blanket!

Pin this for later:

Why a Book Blanket?

For me, this project is more than a list of titles or a stack of yarn squares, it’s a creative celebration of time spent curled up in vivid worlds, learning from new voices, and connecting stories with stitch. It gives every book a place in history… and every stitch a story.

This challenge also gives purpose to my yarn stash, turning leftovers into colourful memories that mark everything I’ve read. Last years blanket caused a nice dent in the stash, but as you can imagine I have SOOOOO much more to use.

My 2026 Plan

Here’s how I’m approaching this year’s challenge:

📚 1. New Authors, New Adventures – 50 to Discover
My core intention for 2026 is to read books by 50 different authors I haven’t read before – stretching my reading palette with fresh perspectives and styles. When I find a book by an author I’ve already read, it’s still welcome and it will be included but I’m excited to include intentionally new authors to me.

🧶 2. Two Squares for Every Book
For every book finished, I’ll crochet two blocks that reflect its cover colours. The blanket will continue to grow in colour as the stories stack up. This time however I’ll be adding the border colour as I go to make the task of joining them all together easier at the end – something I’ve learnt from not doing that last year.

📘 3. Track on Goodreads (and Here!)
Just like last year, I’ll use Goodreads to track my reading progress and link back my monthly lists here on the blog so you can follow along – I’ll also start a new Amazon book list so you can see all the 2026 books together easily in one place as I read them.

🎨 4. Yarn from the Stash
I’ll prioritise using stash yarn where I can, matching colours to book covers (as best I can stash dependent) using my trusty colour‑picker tool (https://coolors.co/image-picker) – and hopefully bust a bit more stash along the way! Last year I used all stash, though I did have to buy some more white for the borders of my squares.

📸 5. Share the Stories
At the end of each subsequent month (so January squares will be posted in February, February squares in March etc):

• I’ll share which books I read,
• the authors behind them,
• my thoughts on each book,
• and the crochet squares I’ve made inspired by each book here on the blog.

Finding new authors and new palettes in parallel – what could be better? If you want to join in too you can add your favourite book recommendations as comments here on the blog or on social media. You can also use the hashtag #KCACOUKBookCAL2026 – I can’t wait to see your book blankets grow.

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.

📚 Save Reader’s Row Square Pattern as a favourite on Ravelry 📚

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

Reader’s Row Square Pattern

Skill Level: Beginner / Easy

Size: 11cm x 11cm (4.3in x 4.3in)

Hook: 3.5mm (US size E)

Yarn Amounts (for one block):

• 2.3g / 6.3m of YARN A
• 2.3g / 6.3m of YARN B
• 2.3g / 6.3m of YARN C
• 2.3g / 6.3m of YARN D

Each square uses approx. 9.2g / 25.2m of Double Knit yarn (Light Worsted)

STITCH GUIDANCE – UK Terminology

• Stitches (st): Stitch abbreviations st or sts stand for “stitch” or “stitches”
• Slip Stitch (sl st): Insert hook in st indicated, yarn over and draw through all loops.
• Chain (ch): Bring yarn over the hook from back to front and draw it through the slip knot (or previous chain) to form a new loop on the hook.
• Chain Space (ch-sp): A chain space is an empty area, gap, or hole in the fabric created by making a specific number of chain stitches and often skipping stitches in the previous row.
• 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.
• Cluster (Cl): 3tr in one st
• Post of the stitch: In crochet, the “post of a stitch” is the vertical, stem-like body of a stitch from the row below.

PATTERN NOTES

• Gauge: 12tr = 6cm / 2.4inchs. Obtaining the correct gauge is not critical for this project.
• [ … ] Repeat section in square brackets until specified
• ( … ) Work all stitches in round brackets in single st or sp

PATTERN

Make 2.

PATTERN

• The first part of this pattern is worked in rows.
• The ch3 at the beginning of a row or round counts as the first tr.

Row 1: With YARN A; Ch19, Cl in the 5th ch from hook [miss 2ch, Cl in next st] 3 times, miss 2ch, Cl in next st, miss 1ch, 1tr in the last st, turn. 17sts

Row 2: Ch3, 1tr in the top of the same st, [miss Cl from previous row, Cl in between the next two Cl of the previous row] 4 times, miss Cl, 2tr in the last st, turn. 16sts

Row 3: Ch3, miss 2sts, Cl in between the next two Cl of the previous row, [miss next Cl, Cl in between the next two Cl of the previous row] 4 times, miss 1 st, 1tr in the top of the last st, turn. 17sts

Fasten off YARN A, attach YARN B to the top of the last st worked;

Row 4: Repeat row 2

Row 5: Repeat row 3

Row 6: Repeat row 2.

Fasten off YARN B, attach YARN C to the top of the last st worked;

Row 7: Repeat row 3

Row 8: Repeat row 2

Row 9: Repeat row 3.

Fasten off YARN C and weave in all ends.

The following part of this pattern is worked in the round (rnd).

Border:

• Turn your square upside down. Attach Yarn D to the post of the stitch at the right-hand corner, ready to work along the bottom of Row 1 from right to left.
• Ch 3, 2tr in the same sp, ch 3, 3tr in the same sp (first corner made).
• [Miss next Cl, Cl in next ch-2 sp] across 4 times.(3tr, ch 3, 3tr) around the post of the stitch at the right-hand corner. Turn your work anticlockwise to work along the row ends.
• Work Cl at the top of the stitch of Row 2, around the post of the stitches of Rows 4 and 6, then at the top of the stitch of Row 7.(3tr, ch 3, 3tr) around the post of the stitch of Row 9.
• Turn your work anticlockwise to work along the top of Row 9 from right to left.[Miss Cl, Cl between sts of Row 9] 4 times, miss Cl, then work (3tr, ch 3, 3tr) around the post of the remaining stitch of Row 9.
• Turn your work anticlockwise to work along the row ends. Work Cl at the top of the stitch of Row 7, around the post of the stitches of Rows 6 and 4, then at the top of the stitch of Row 2. Sl st to the top of the first ch-3 to join. 72sts

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

P.S. I’d love to stay connected with you so please do sign up to blog (below) and / or my mailing list to get a reminder when new blog posts, giveaways, special offers or new pattern releases are available.

Subscribe to the blog:

Please note that some of the links in my blog are affiliate links. I may earn a small commission if you purchase via these links, but the price you pay is not affected. You can read more about my affiliate links here.

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.

Pin this for later:

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.

📚 Save as a favourite on Ravelry 📚

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

P.S. I’d love to stay connected with you so please do sign up to blog (below) and / or my mailing list to get a reminder when new blog posts, giveaways, special offers or new pattern releases are available.

Subscribe to the blog:

Please note that some of the links in my blog are affiliate links. I may earn a small commission if you purchase via these links, but the price you pay is not affected. You can read more about my affiliate links here.