Have you ever wanted to join a community of fellow crafters, all working on the same project, sharing tips, and cheering each other on? That's the magic of a Crochet-Along (CAL)! And today, I'm thrilled to guide you through creating a gorgeous square for the Bloomscape CAL 2023. This project is perfect for adding a splash of handmade charm to your home. Best of all, the free pattern is available now!

I'm Christa from The Secret Yarnery, and I'm so excited to share this step-by-step guide with you. Whether you're a seasoned crocheter or just picking up a hook for the first time, this tutorial will walk you through each stitch with clear, easy-to-follow instructions. Let's get started!

What's so special about the Bloomscape CAL square? Well, each month features a different flower center, making every square unique. But here's the clever part: the edges are all designed the same way. This means that when you're ready to join your squares, they'll fit together perfectly, no matter which flower is in the middle.

Imagine the possibilities! You could create a stunning cowl, a cozy blanket, or even a vibrant wall hanging. The Bloomscape CAL square is a versatile building block for all sorts of creative projects.

Before we dive into the stitches, let's gather everything we need. Here's your shopping list:

• Center flower: You'll need one for each month of the CAL.
• Green yarn: About 25 grams of worsted weight acrylic yarn.
• Cream yarn: About 10 grams of cream-colored yarn (or any color you want for the edge).
• Scissors: For snipping yarn.
• Stitch markers: These little helpers will mark important spots.
• Yarn needle: For weaving in those pesky ends.
• 5 mm crochet hook: Or whatever size is recommended for your yarn.

It's important to use the same yarn weight and hook size for all your squares. This ensures consistent results and prevents wonky edges. If you're not sure what hook size to use, check the yarn label. It usually has a recommendation.

Don't be afraid to experiment with colors! While I'm using green and cream, you could choose any combination that speaks to you.

Ready to start crocheting? Great! Grab your green yarn and your center flower. We're going to begin the first row of the square by attaching the yarn to any corner space on the front of the flower.

Make a loop with your green yarn, put your hook down into a corner space on the front of your flower, loop the yarn on your hook and bring it through. Slip stitch with both strands to join. Make sure to leave a long enough tail for sewing in ends later.

Now, let's build the foundation of our square. Here's how to work Round 1:

1. Chain 2 (or chain 3 if you join your yarn differently). This counts as your first double crochet.
2. Work 2 double crochets into the same corner space.
3. Work 3 double crochets into each of the next three spaces along the side.
4. In the corner space, work 3 double crochets, chain 2, and 3 double crochets. This is your corner!
5. Repeat steps 3 and 4 along each side of the flower center.

Each corner consists of 3 double crochets, a chain 2, and 3 more double crochets. And each side space gets 3 double crochets. Remember to drop your tail as you'll need to sew that in later.

Let's talk more about those corners. The corner stitch pattern (3 double crochets, chain 2, 3 double crochets) is what gives our square its defined shape. It's the key to creating those crisp, clean corners that make a granny square so satisfying.

If you find your stitches getting a little crowded, try sliding them back to create more space in the corners. This will help you keep your stitches neat and even.

Almost there! To finish Round 1, work 3 double crochets into the same corner space where you started.

Now, we need to join the round. Chain 1 and then join with a single crochet to the top of the chain 3 (or chain 2 if you joined differently). To find the correct chain for joining, count your "v's." You want to go into that third chain.

Make sure you catch two strands of the stitch when you join. This will create a secure and invisible join.

Time for Round 2! This round is all about creating spaces that will add texture and visual interest to our square.

1. Chain 3 and turn your work.
2. Place a stitch marker in the corner space. This will help you keep track of your corners.
3. Into the next space, work 1 single crochet, chain 2.
4. Repeat the single crochet and chain 2 pattern into each space along the side.
5. In the corner space, work 1 single crochet, chain 3, and 1 single crochet.

Now, the corners consist of 1 single crochet, a chain 3, and 1 single crochet.

The sides in Round 2 follow a simple pattern: 1 single crochet, chain 2 into each space. It is a good idea to maintain consistent tension in the chain 2 spaces. You'll be creating "nice little spaces" for the following round.

To join at the end of Round 2, chain 2 and work 1 single crochet into the same space as the stitch marker.

Remove the stitch marker and join with a single crochet to the first chain 3. It is important to identify the correct stitch for joining.

It's time to switch back to double crochets in Round 3!

1. Chain 3 and turn your work.
2. Replace the stitch marker in the corner space.
3. Work 2 double crochets into the same space.
4. Work 3 double crochets into each space along the side.
5. In the corner space, work 3 double crochets, chain 2, and 3 double crochets.

Corners remain the same as in Round 1. Try to keep the double crochets neat and even for a polished look.

Let's hammer this point home: The corner pattern for Round 3 is 3 double crochets, chain 2, 3 double crochets. This consistent corner construction is what maintains the square shape.

To join at the end of Round 3, work 3 double crochets into the same space as the stitch marker. Remove the stitch marker and chain 1. Join with a single crochet to the top of the chain 3.

Round 4 mirrors Round 2, creating spaces with single crochets and chains.

1. Chain 3 and turn your work.
2. Replace the stitch marker in the corner space.
3. Into the next space, work 1 single crochet, chain 2.
4. Repeat the single crochet and chain 2 pattern into each space along the side.
5. In the corner space, work 1 single crochet, chain 3, 1 single crochet.

The sides of Round 4 follow the familiar pattern: 1 single crochet, chain 2 into each space. Maintain consistent tension in the chain 2 spaces.

To join at the end of Round 4, chain 2 and work 1 single crochet into the same space as the stitch marker. Remove the stitch marker and join with a single crochet to the first chain 3.

Round 5 echoes Round 3, working double crochets into the spaces.

1. Chain 3 and turn your work.
2. Replace the stitch marker in the corner space.
3. Work 2 double crochets into the same space.
4. Work 3 double crochets into each space along the side.
5. In the corner space, work 3 double crochets, chain 2, 3 double crochets.

The corner pattern for Round 5 remains the same: 3 double crochets, chain 2, 3 double crochets.

To join at the end of Round 5, work 3 double crochets into the same space as the stitch marker. Remove the stitch marker and chain 1. Join with a single crochet to the top of the chain 3.

Round 6 is the last round with the green yarn. It creates spaces with single crochets and chains, setting the stage for our final border.

1. Chain 3 and turn your work.
2. Replace the stitch marker in the corner space.
3. Into the next space, work 1 single crochet, chain 2.
4. Repeat the single crochet and chain 2 pattern into each space along the side.
5. In the corner space, work 1 single crochet, chain 3, 1 single crochet.

Maintain even spacing and consistent tension for a polished look.

To join at the end of Round 6, work 1 single crochet into the corner space. Chain 3. Slip stitch to join in between the "legs" of the very first stitch you made. Chain 1 to secure.

Cut the yarn, leaving a long tail for weaving in ends. Pull the hook up and yarn through, then snug it down.

Time to bring in the cream (or whatever color you've chosen for your edge)!

Turn your work and find a fresh corner. Pop your hook into the corner space. Loop the new yarn onto your hook and bring it through. Slip stitch with both strands to join. Drop the tail and hold it along the back of your work. Chain 2 (or chain 3 if you joined your yarn differently).

Work over the tail for the next two stitches to secure it. Then, work 2 double crochets into the same corner space. Work 3 double crochets into each space along each side. In the corner space: 3 double crochets, chain 2, 3 double crochets.

The corner pattern for Round 7: 3 double crochets, chain 2, 3 double crochets. Keep building that consistent framework!

To join at the end of Round 7, work 3 double crochets into the corner space. Chain 2. Slip stitch to join to the top of the chain 3. Chain 1 to secure. Cut the yarn, leaving a long tail for weaving in ends. Pull the hook up and yarn through, then snug it down.

For the final round, grab your green yarn again.

Turn your work and find a fresh corner. Pop your hook into the corner space. Loop the green yarn onto your hook and bring it through. Slip stitch with both strands to join. Drop the tail and hold it along the back of your work. Chain 2.

Into the first space: 1 single crochet, chain 2. Repeat the single crochet and chain 2 pattern into each space along the side. In the corner space: 1 single crochet, chain 3, 1 single crochet.

The corner pattern for Round 8 is 1 single crochet, chain 3, 1 single crochet. These final corners complete the square's edge with that perfect touch.

To join at the end of Round 8, work 1 single crochet into the corner space. Chain 3. Slip stitch to join right in between the legs of that very first stitch you made. Chain 1 to secure.

Cut the yarn, leaving a long tail for weaving in ends. Pull the hook up and yarn through, then snug it down.

Don't skip this step! Weaving in your ends is essential for a clean and durable finish.

Thread your yarn needle with one of the yarn tails. Weave the needle through several stitches on the back of your work, following the path of the yarn. Snip off any excess yarn. Repeat with all the yarn tails.

Here are a few extra tips to help you create consistent, beautiful squares:

• Maintain consistent tension: This is the most important factor in creating even squares.
• Use the same yarn weight and hook size: As we've mentioned before, this is crucial for consistent results.
• Double-check your stitch count: Count your stitches at the end of each round to make sure you haven't missed any.

The Bloomscape CAL square is a blank canvas, ready for your personal touch.

• Experiment with color combinations: Try different shades of green, or use a completely different color palette.
• Add embellishments: Beads, buttons, or even embroidery can add a unique flair.
• Explore alternative edging techniques: There are countless ways to create a different finish around the edges of your square.

I can't wait to see what you create! Share your finished Bloomscape CAL squares on social media using #BloomscapeCAL2023. I'd love to see your unique creations.

Join the Bloomscape CAL community online to connect with other crocheters, share tips, and ask questions. There are several groups and forums dedicated to the CAL, so you're sure to find a supportive and inspiring community.

For those who prefer video tutorials, I've created both right-handed and left-handed versions of this guide. You can find them here:

• Right Handed Tutorial
• Left Handed Tutorial

Here at The Secret Yarnery, my mission is to provide crochet enthusiasts with patterns, tutorials, and inspiration. I want to invite you to explore the range of resources available on The Secret Yarnery website and YouTube channel.

I'm always creating new patterns and tutorials, so be sure to subscribe to The Secret Yarnery's newsletter or YouTube channel for updates. And don't forget to leave a comment or question below. I love hearing from you!

Thank you for joining me on this crochet adventure. Happy crocheting!