New Patterns NOW Available in Ad-Free PDF! Check out The Pattern Shop

51 Free Crochet Corner-to-Corner Patterns

By 1 Comment

Most patterns are crocheted side to side, with horizontal rows. But some patterns are made on the diagonal! Two ways to make projects like this in crochet are corner-to-corner (C2C) blocks and regular rows crocheted on the bias.

A small block usually consists of 4 half-double or double crochet stitches in C2C blocks. (The pattern will tell you the details.) Turn the fabric and additional blocks are built on top of it. The finished fabric has lots of little squares and is ideal for making projects with words or pictures.

Corner to Corner Blocks Method - Free Digital Pattern - Marly Bird
Here's a close-up of the fabric showing the C2C blocks method.

Crochet projects can also be crocheted on the bias, like knitting projects. In this project, regular single crochet, half double crochet, or double crochet stitches are used in back-and-forth rows, but there are consistent increases and decreases at the ends of rows that create a square, rectangle, or triangle shape.

Crochet on the Bias Method - Free Digital Pattern - Marly Bird
Here's a close-up of the fabric showing the crocheting on the bias method.

Whichever method you use, crocheting from one corner to the opposite adds interest to your projects and teaches you a new skill!

51 Free Crochet Corner-to-Corner Patterns- Free Digital Pattern - Marly Bird

Free Crochet C2C Patterns

Learn this crochet technique in this BiCrafty Bootcamp lesson!

C2C Crochet Blankets

Crochet C2C Afghan Free Crochet Pattern- Free Digital Pattern - Marly Bird

Other C2C Crochet Patterns

Pump Up the Volume Crochet Scarf Free Crochet Pattern - Free Digital Pattern - Marly Bird

Free Crochet on the Bias Patterns

Corner Dip Striped Afghan Free Pattern- Free Digital Pattern - Marly Bird

More Crochet C2C Blogs

🌸 Looking for a handmade Mother's Day gift? These patterns are perfect — check out our complete Mother's Day Knit & Crochet Gift Guide 2026 for ideas Mom will actually love.

Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly is corner-to-corner crochet?

So instead of crocheting in horizontal rows like you normally would, corner-to-corner (C2C) crochet works on the diagonal. You start in one corner with a tiny block, increase until you hit the widest point, then decrease back down to the opposite corner. Each “block” is usually a small cluster of double crochet stitches… and when they all come together, you get this cool pixelated look. It's amazing for making pictures, words, and graphic designs in your projects.

What's the difference between C2C blocks and crocheting on the bias?

They both create diagonal fabric, but they look totally different! C2C uses little clusters (usually 4 double crochets per block) that stack on top of each other… giving you that signature “pixel” texture. Crocheting on the bias uses regular stitches (single crochet, half double, or double crochet) worked in rows with increases and decreases at the edges to create the diagonal shape. The bias method gives you a smoother fabric. Both are fun… it just depends on the look you're going for.

Is corner-to-corner crochet good for beginners?

Yes! Once you understand the basic block structure, it's honestly really repetitive in the best way. You're doing the same stitch cluster over and over… the magic is in how you increase and decrease to shape the piece. If you can double crochet and chain, you can do C2C. Marly even has a BiCrafty Bootcamp lesson that walks you through the whole thing from scratch. Don't be intimidated by how impressive the finished projects look… the technique itself is very approachable.

What kind of projects can I make with C2C crochet?

So many things! Blankets are the most popular… especially graphghan blankets where you follow a pixel chart to create pictures (think dinosaurs, flowers, snowflakes, even school buses!). But C2C also works beautifully for throws, baby blankets, pillow covers, scarves, and wall hangings. Basically, if it's flat and rectangular or square, you can probably make it with C2C. The technique is especially fun for personalized gifts because you can chart out names, images, or team logos.

How do I read a C2C crochet chart?

Here's the thing that trips people up… C2C charts are read diagonally, not left to right! Each square on the chart represents one block of stitches. You start in the bottom corner and work your way up diagonally. On increase rows, you're adding blocks. On decrease rows, you're dropping them. The color of each square tells you which yarn to use for that block. It feels weird at first but once you do a few rows, it clicks. Stitch markers between color sections are a lifesaver while you're learning.

Marly Bird’s Most Popular Knitting Video Tutorial

By Leave a Comment

Yesterday, I shared my most popular YouTube tutorial with you. It's a crochet video tutorial. However, as you know, we're BiCrafty around here. We love knitting and crochet equally. And I celebrate both of them over on YouTube. So, you might wonder, what is Marly Bird's most popular knitting video tutorial? I'll tell you today!

Marly Bird's Most Popular Knitting Video Tutorial

A Little Bit About Marly Bird on YouTube

I hope you've already subscribed to my YouTube channel. I really love sharing video content with you there. So, if you're not, head on over and hit subscribe. On the fence? Here are some things you might want to know about the Marly Bird YouTube Channel:

  • I launched the channel in 2014, starting with a series of lessons on crochet basics.
  • When I became a Red Heart Ambassador and then a Yarnspirations Ambassador, my video content really began to soar. I started offering lots of crochet and knitting tutorials, including many for their free patterns. These remain some of my most popular videos to date.
  • I launched the Yarn Thing podcast as an audio podcast. However, it eventually moved to YouTube. That way, you could see the people I was talking to and the yarn, books, and patterns we were discussing.
  • I have 291K subscribers on YouTube to date. I'd love for you to join me if don't already. Help me hit this year's goal of 300K!
  • My most popular video ever is a crochet video, as I said. It's for a beginner throw pattern. It has over 1 million views.
  • The Marly Bird YouTube Channel has 21,536,609 views across all of my videos. Thanks to each and every one of you who watches my videos there.

Marly Bird's Most Popular Knitting Video Tutorial

Okay, we know that the most popular crochet video is for a beginner crochet blanket. But what about the knitters? What do they love most? What is Marly Bird's most popular knitting video tutorial? Here it is:

That's right; it's my video tutorial for My First Big Comfy Sweater. People have really enjoyed the “My First” and “Absolute Beginner” knit and crochet video tutorials that I've done over the years. It's a great way to get step-by-step visual instruction to complete a pattern for something you'd like to create, even if you're new to the crafts. In this case, you can start as a beginner knitter and end up with your first sweater!

This sweater pattern uses garter stitch, stockinette stitch, and a rib at the hem. You create two same-shaped (T-shaped) knit panels and stitch them together. Therefore, you don't need to learn increasing and decreasing, yet, to complete this oversized sweater pattern. It's an easy design that you'll be super proud of when it's done!

My Most Popular Knitting Video By The Numbers

I first published this video on Oct 5, 2016. It's received almost 450K views since that time. So it's not as popular as my most popular crochet tutorial, but it's still gotten lots of love. 10,000 people have hit that thumbs-up button. If you like this video, you can do the same to support me in a simple way! It's even received over 500 comments.

You Might Also Like:

Frequently Asked Questions

What's your most popular knitting tutorial on YouTube?

So here's the thing… my most popular knitting video tutorial is for “My First Big Comfy Sweater”! It's a great one for beginners who want to make their first sweater.

Is the “My First Big Comfy Sweater” video tutorial good for absolute beginners?

Honestly… yes! It's designed to be super approachable. You don't even need to know increasing and decreasing yet, and you end up with a fabulous oversized sweater!

How many views does the “My First Big Comfy Sweater” video have?

Wow… it's gotten almost 450K views since I first published it back in October 2016! It's gotten a lot of love from knitters all over.

Do I need to know advanced stitches for the “My First Big Comfy Sweater” tutorial?

Nope! You'll work with garter stitch, stockinette stitch, and a rib at the hem. The sweater is made from two simple T-shaped panels stitched together, so it's perfect for moving beyond the absolute basics.

How can I support your videos if I enjoy them?

That's so sweet of you to ask! The easiest way is to hit the thumbs-up button on the videos you love… it really helps me out!

Marly Bird’s Most Popular Crochet Video Tutorial

By Leave a Comment

Do you follow me on YouTube? I hope you do! I go live there to teach you things while directly interacting with you. Whenever we have make-alongs, the crochet and knit videos are on YouTube. It's home to the old episodes of the YarnThing Podcast. And, over the years, I've made loads of crochet and knit video tutorials for stitches, techniques, and full patterns. Do you know which is my most popular crochet video tutorial ever?

Marly Bird's Most Popular Crochet Tutorial

Marly Bird's YouTube Channel

I launched the Marly Bird YouTube channel way back in 2014! My oldest video is a tutorial about how to make a slip knot and work the chain stitch. In other words, I started off the channel by teaching you crochet basics. Although my knit and crochet videos are popular, my most popular video tutorial is a crochet project.

Marly Bird YouTube By The Numbers

I have 291K subscribers on YouTube. I appreciate each and every one of you. If you're not one yet, hit that subscribe button. I'd love to reach 300K by the end of the year! Since I launched the channel in 2014, I've received 21,536,609 views! Wow!

Marly Bird's Most Popular Crochet Video Tutorial

So, which one is the most popular crochet video of all time? It's this one:

My Absolute Beginner knit and crochet video tutorials have historically been pretty popular. I show you step by step, basics by basics, exactly how to work on a beginner pattern. This lets you learn to knit or crochet and finish your first project.

Absolute Beginner Crochet Throw

This video for How to Crochet the Absolute Beginner Throw is the most popular. People often want to learn how to crochet blankets when they're learning how to crochet. After all, they've seen many crochet blankets throughout their lifetimes. Moreover, the square or rectangular shape is simple, yet it's a big project allowing you to practice those new skills.

The Absolute Beginner Throw crochet pattern uses a chunky yarn, which works quickly, even for newbies. You use double crochet stitches to complete most of this project. It's easy-peasy, and yet it's a terrific blanket. You can easily gift this to people with pride, especially if you're looking for a present for a new baby.

Absolute Beginner Crochet Throw Video by the Numbers

I released this video on May 16, 2018. Four years later, it's received 1,295,611 views! 21,000 people have hit that thumbs-up button on this one. If you like the video, please hit it as well! And there are more than 700 comments on this video!

You Might Also Like:

Frequently Asked Questions

What's your most popular crochet video tutorial?

Honestly… it's my “Absolute Beginner Crochet Throw” video! People love learning to crochet blankets, and this one is super easy to follow. It's a big project that really lets you practice your new skills.

When did you start your YouTube channel?

So here's the thing… I launched my Marly Bird YouTube channel way back in 2014! My very first video was all about how to make a slip knot and work the chain stitch… teaching those crochet basics right from the start!

How many subscribers do you have on YouTube?

Yes! I have 291K subscribers right now… thank you all so much! I'm really hoping to hit 300K by the end of the year, so if you haven't already, hit that subscribe button!

What yarn is used for the Absolute Beginner Crochet Throw?

Honestly… for the Absolute Beginner Throw, I recommend using a chunky yarn. It works up so quickly, which is perfect when you're just starting out and want to see your project grow!

What stitches are used in the Absolute Beginner Crochet Throw?

So here's the thing… you'll mainly be using double crochet stitches to make the Absolute Beginner Throw. It's a straightforward stitch that makes for a really lovely and easy blanket!

Best Ever Beach Crochet Cover Up Patterns

By Leave a Comment

Getting ready for the beach or pool usually means getting out a cover-up of some sort for the trip there and back. A cover-up is a great way to add a light layer to keep the sun off without making you too hot. Plus, you add some style to your summer outfit without much effort. There are so many great beach crochet cover-up patterns. I pulled some together so you can start on yours for the summer. Which is your favorite?

crochet beach cover up patterns - Marly Bird

The Shore Thing Crochet Cover-Up Dress

This is one of the best crochet cover-up patterns ever. The Shore Thing is a free Yarnspirations pattern that uses a super fine #1 yarn weight to create a perfect lightweight coverup.

The pattern consists of simple rectangles and triangles that you piece together into unique, but easy, construction. I've created a video tutorial for this crochet pattern to help you along.

Throw it over any swimsuit but know that you can also line it or wear it over a slip and it serves as a sophisticated casual summer dress. 

Fun In The Sun Crochet Beach Cover-Up

Fun in The Sun convertible blanket cover up

Although The Shore Thing is one of the most popular crochet cover-up patterns, I'm partial to this one. Admittedly, I designed it. But I think it holds up as a great design. You work it in cotton, the perfect yarn for crafting and wearing during the warm summer months.

I think this design has a really flattering fit. I love that you can wear it over a swimsuit or over a tank and jeans. But guess what's really cool about this design? It's a convertible blanket. That's right; when you hit the beach, you take it off, unfold it, and have a beach blanket!

Aunt Lydia's Beach Time Crochet Cover Up

Aunt Lydia's cotton crochet cover up pattern

Aunt Lydia's is one of the most popular brands of cotton yarn, so this is another of the most popular crochet cover-up patterns to hit the beach. It's an easy crochet pattern. Work it in two panels and close it with a simple crochet belt at the waist. This one works over any swimsuit.

V-Neck Fringed Cover-Up

BERNAT V-NECK Fringed poncho pattern

This was designed as a poncho-style cover-up. Not necessarily intended for the beach, but it actually works great for the beach. It's got that Coachella-style fringe and bell sleeves. The openwork lace shows off your swimsuit without showing off too much.

South Beach Cover-Up Crochet Dress

South beach cover up dress pattern

I list this crochet pattern among roundups of crochet dresses. However, it's actually a beach cover-up. Of course, it definitely works as a cute summer dress with the right lining. But it also stands out as a striking cover-up for your swimsuit. Pieces that do double duty in the closet are extra perfect for summer packing!

North Shore Crochet Beach Cover-Up

maxi dress beach cover up crochet pattern

Many beach crochet cover-up patterns are designed as short dresses, about the size of an oversized tee thrown on atop your swimsuit. This one, however, is an openwork lace maxi dress style. Wowza!

Kids' Rainbow Beach Cover Up

kids' beach wear pattern

Crochet cover-up patterns aren't just for grown-ups. Kids need something easy to pull on over their swimsuits for an extra layer. And this is the perfect design. Intended for toddlers, this rainbow beach cover-up is fun, fun, fun.

You Might Also Like:

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between a beach cover-up and a regular top?

Beach cover-ups are designed for the in-between zones… from pool to restaurant, from beach chair to ice cream stand. They're typically lighter weight, more open in construction, and often deliberately transparent or breezy so they're comfortable over a swimsuit. They're styled for layering specifically over swimwear. A regular top is designed for everyday wear without a swimsuit underneath. Cover-ups tend toward flowy, oversized, or open silhouettes that work beautifully for the beach aesthetic but would feel underdressed in other contexts.

What yarn should I use for a crochet beach cover-up?

Cotton is the absolute top choice for beach wear! It handles moisture well (sand, saltwater, pool water), dries relatively quickly, is breathable in heat, and machine washes easily. DK or sport weight cotton creates a lighter, airier fabric ideal for a cover-up. Bamboo blends have beautiful drape and a natural sheen that looks gorgeous in beach contexts. Avoid wool entirely for beach items. Acrylic can work but cotton is more comfortable and appropriate for the intended use.

Will a crochet beach cover-up get ruined by saltwater or chlorine?

If you're careful about care, not necessarily! Rinse promptly in fresh water after saltwater or pool exposure. Machine wash on gentle in cool water after beach days. Lay flat to dry rather than hanging (wet cotton can stretch). Salt and chlorine do break down fibers over time with repeated exposure… cover-ups that get regular ocean/pool contact will wear faster than ones used just for walking to lunch. Making beach cover-ups from affordable cotton means you can make a new one when needed without heartbreak.

What style of cover-up is easiest for beginners to make?

A simple rectangular poncho or tunic-length top made from one or two large rectangular panels is the most beginner-accessible. No shaping, no garment math, just a rectangle crocheted to the right dimensions and finished with an edging. A kimono-style cover-up where two rectangles are joined with simple seaming is also achievable. For a complete beginner's first beach cover-up, a single large rectangle that wraps and ties is the simplest possible version. Save the fitted, shaped cover-ups with armhole shaping for after you're comfortable with garment construction.

Can I make a matching beach bag and cover-up set?

Yes! And it's a gorgeous coordinated project! Using the same cotton yarn in complementary or matching colors for a beach bag and cover-up creates a beautiful, intentional vacation accessory set. The bag uses the same stitch pattern or a complementary one that coordinates visually. Some designers have created matching sets where the stitch pattern appears in both pieces for a cohesive look. A handmade beach set… cover-up, bag, maybe a matching sun hat… is the ultimate summer craft project goal.

12 Free Bee Patterns to Crochet and Knit

By Leave a Comment

Bees are an important part of our ecosystem and a perennial favorite for nursery decor and toys. With their bright yellow and black stripes, youngsters love them. So we found you several bee patterns to crochet and knit. Have fun making these bee toys and clothing, especially for babies and little kids. Or maybe you want one for yourself? I'll take two!

12 Free Bee Patterns to Crochet and Knit

Bumble Bee Yarn

We even found some bumble bee yarn! Red Heart Amigurumi yarn has a Bumble Bee color that lets you make 2 bumblebees with a single cake of yarn! All the perfect colors you need in one cake. This saves buying larger balls of yarn in colors you may not always need.

Red Heart Amigurumi Yarn Bumble Bee

Bee Toys

These stuffed bumblebees are the perfect size for baby photo shoots or indoor play. Pop one or two in a bag on the go so your little ones always have something to play with. Look at that cute crochet baby bee! What an adorable little face!

NOTE: Don't forget to be careful about the eyes you use. For babies and toddlers, make sure you always make the eyes and sew them on securely. Don't use buttons or anything that could come off easily and become a choking hazard.

Crochet Baby Bee Free Crochet Pattern

Other Bee Patterns To Crochet And Knit

Here we collected patterns for hats, snuggie sacks, dishcloths, and more bee-themed items! Make something for your kitchen that makes you smile when washing the dishes! Or, what's cuter than a dog dressed as a bee?

Busy Bee Backpack Free Crochet Pattern

More Animal Patterns

Frequently Asked Questions

What kinds of bee-themed yarn projects can I make?

Bee projects are buzzing with possibilities! Amigurumi bees are incredibly popular… those yellow and black striped fuzzy little creatures are irresistible as stuffed toys. Bee-themed dishcloths and kitchen items are fun for anyone who keeps bees or just loves the aesthetic. Baby items with bee motifs are precious. Bee hive shaped bags and baskets are creative and functional. Bee appliques for hats, sweaters, and bags. Honeycomb stitch patterns are technically “bee-inspired” and create beautiful hexagonal textures. And of course, little crocheted bees to embellish bouquets, boutonnieres, or floral arrangements.

What yarn creates the best striped bee effect?

For the classic bee body, you need yellow and black yarn for the stripes. Self-striping yarn that alternates black and yellow automatically makes bee-like stripes, which is fun for scarves and smaller projects. For amigurumi bees, you'll work the body in rounds changing colors every few rounds for the stripes. Smooth worsted weight in bright yellow (not gold, not mustard… proper bright yellow!) and black is the most recognizable bee combination. A tiny bit of white for the wings creates the perfect finishing touch.

How do I make bee wings for an amigurumi?

Bee wings can be made in a few ways! Simple oval shapes in white or clear monofilament-style yarn are the classic approach. Some crocheters use white organza ribbon cut to wing shape and stitched on. Very fine white thread crocheted in a small oval is delicate and beautiful. Tulle or stiff white organza fabric cut and hand-stitched to the body creates wings that hold their shape and have a nice translucent quality. Wire covered with white thread wrapped in tight loops can also create more dimensional, poseable wings. Choose based on how much realism you want!

Are bee patterns appropriate for gifts?

They're wonderful gifts! Bees are beloved by gardeners, nature lovers, environmentalists, teachers, and basically anyone who appreciates handmade things. A little crocheted bee is a sweet addition to a floral arrangement or plant pot. A set of bee dishcloths for someone who keeps bees is thoughtful and practical. A bee amigurumi for a child who's curious about nature… delightful. And the “bee” puns write themselves for gift tags: “Bee happy,” “Thanks a bunch, honey!” etc.

What colors beyond yellow and black work for bee projects?

Yellow and black is classic for a reason, but don't feel constrained! Bumblebees in cream/off-white and fuzzy brown are realistic and adorable. Mason bees and blue orchard bees are beautiful iridescent blue-black… metallic or shimmery dark yarn works for this. Golden yellow and dark brown for a more muted, earthy palette. And honestly… a pastel pink and purple bee or a rainbow bee is absolutely a valid creative choice. They're yarn bees, not real bees. Make them however you like!

“`html

Pro Tips for Crocheting and Knitting Bee Patterns

Whether you're making your first amigurumi bee or stitching up a whole bee-themed wardrobe, a few smart choices upfront will make your project so much more enjoyable.

Yarn Weight Matters

Most of these bee patterns work best with worsted weight yarn and appropriate hook or needle sizes (usually 5.5mm to 6mm crochet hooks or size 7-8 needles). Stick to the pattern's recommendations… this keeps your tension consistent and your finished bees proportioned perfectly. If you're using that gorgeous Red Heart Amigurumi yarn, you're already set with the ideal weight for stuffed toys!

Safety First with Baby Bees

Since so many of these patterns are designed for littles, always secure eyes with embroidery thread rather than relying on safety eyes alone. Backstitch multiple times and weave your thread through several stitches to anchor them properly. Your peace of mind (and the babies') is worth those extra minutes!

Color Blocking for Impact

The classic yellow and black stripes are iconic, but don't be afraid to get creative! Try working in pastels for spring gifts or metallics if you want to make your bee patterns sparkle. Need more color inspiration? Check out our guide on choosing the perfect yarn colors for your projects.

Happy bee-making, bestie!

“`

C2C Crochet Cables Cross Pillow (Cables CAL)

By Leave a Comment

Welcome to week 3 of the Classic Cable Collection CAL! This week it's Hannah's turn to share her unique crochet cables pattern with us. In this one, we'll make her C2C Crochet Cables Cross Pillow. That's right, we'll combine corner-to-corner crochet with crochet cables! Join us today.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. Your price doesn’t change when you make purchases from those links. However, I receive a percentage of the sale. Thank you for your support.

c2c crochet cables pillow

What is the Classic Cable Collection CAL?

If you've missed out on the fun so far, don't wait any longer! We're already in week three of this four-week CAL. However, you can still get all the crochet patterns, so it's not too late. In this CAL, four crochet designers bring you a unique approach to crochet cables with new patterns and video tutorials. You get to join many other great crocheters who are learning/practicing these techniques together in each of our four respective Facebook groups.

Crochet cable collection Set featured image

We already worked crochet cables in the round with MJ's Off the Hook to make her nesting baskets. And last week we learned Briana K Design's unique Infinity Cables crochet technique to make a floor pouf. Next week, we'll wrap up with my Bulky Crochet Cables Blanket. But first, we'll join Hannah to learn C2C Crochet Cables.

C2C Crochet Cables Cross Pillow

corner to corner crochet cables pillow

We didn't want to bring you basic crochet cables. Instead, we wanted to allow you to take those skills to the next level. This week that means combining corner-to-corner crochet with cables. We'll use 3 intricate cables per panel to make four matching panels that we seam together to create a crochet pillow. You'll insert a cushion pad to create the pillow. Then you'll add a zipper to close it up.

You can adapt this pattern to basically any size. In fact, you can use the panels to make other projects, including crochet blankets and wall hangings. So, this is a very versatile design that you really don't want to miss out on learning!

Materials for C2C Crochet Cables Pillow

The full pattern has all of the details, of course, but you're going to need:

  • 9 skeins of Billow Yarn (see pattern for color info)
  • Size 5.5mm/I crochet hook
  • Scissors
  • Tapestry needle
  • Cushion pad: 20 x 20in (50 x 50cm)
  • 18″ zipper (optional)

Join the Cable CAL

Get All Four Crochet Cable Patterns

Get the ebook linked above for all four ad-free PDF patterns. Or, find them all online:

Frequently Asked Questions

What is this CAL all about?

Honestly… this is week three of the Classic Cable Collection CAL! We're combining corner-to-corner crochet with some super cool crochet cables. You can still totally jump in and get all the patterns though!

So, what exactly are we making this week?

So here's the thing… this week we're making Hannah's C2C Crochet Cables Cross Pillow! It uses three intricate cables per panel to make four panels that you'll seam together. Then just pop in a cushion pad to make your pillow.

Do I need any special yarn for this project?

Yes! The pattern calls for 9 skeins of Billow Yarn. You'll want to check the pattern for the specific color info though.

Can I really make this pillow any size I want?

You can totally adapt this pattern to basically any size you want… it's super versatile! You could even use the panels to make blankets or wall hangings too.

What crochet hook size do I need?

Grab your size 5.5mm/I crochet hook… and maybe some scissors, a tapestry needle, and if you want a zipper closure, an 18″ zipper.