Hi Everyone! Welcome to the Fairchild Square, the thirteenth block in the Riverwood Square CAL 2025 – Modern Version! This 9-inch crochet square brings together simple stitches and thoughtful placement to create a balanced, textured design. Using single crochet, half double crochet, double crochet, back and front loop only stitches, and 3rd loop stitches, this square is the perfect combination of structure and flow.
As part of the Riverwood Square CAL, this block introduces a fresh approach to stitch texture. The combination of loop variations and raised details gives this square depth while maintaining a smooth finish. Whether you’re following the full crochet-along or using this square as a standalone piece, it’s sure to add an elegant touch to your handmade project.
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📌 Stitch Placement & Textured Elements
One of the highlights of the Fairchild Square is its subtle play with texture. The use of 3rd loop stitches creates a clean, defined look, while front and back loop stitches bring contrast and movement to the design. This variation gives the square a modern aesthetic, making it a standout piece whether used in blankets, pillows, or other projects.
The Fairchild Square also reinforces stitch control and placement, helping crocheters refine their technique while keeping the process enjoyable. The transition between raised and recessed stitches adds depth without overwhelming the pattern, making it an ideal block for both experienced crocheters and those looking to expand their skills.
Don’t miss out—start your Riverwood Square CAL journey with us today!
Fairchild Square ~ Crochet Pattern
Requirements
- US Terminology
Level of Difficulty
- Beginner/Intermediate
Yarn
- #4 worsted weight
- These images display Red Heart Super Saver in Sage. 20 yards (roughly)
- Yarn brands I recommend for this project include Red Heart Super Saver, Red Heart with Love, Hobby Lobby’s “I Love this Yarn”, and Vanna’s Choice.
Hook and Notions
- Size Hook: I/9 (5.5 mm)
- Scissors
- Stitch Markers (optional, for marking the beginning of rounds)
- Blunt Needle
Measurement
- 9 inches (roughly)
Gauge
- 4″ = 17 dc on Round 7 (Using Red Heart Super Saver yarn)
Abbreviations
- Sl st = slip stitch
- Ch/chs = chain/chains
- st(s) = stitch(s)
- sp(s) = space(s)
- sc = single crochet
- hdc = half double crochet
- dc = double crochet
- BLO = back loop only
- FLO = front loop only
- 3rd Loop
Stitch Explanation
- Sc 3rd Loop: With the front of the stitch facing you, look at the top of the stitch, and find the sideways “V”. Next, bend the stitch to look at the back, and you should see another “V”. You’ll be working into the back loop of that “V”, this is called the 3rd loop. When working in across, like you are in the square the 3rd loop should be facing you.
- BLO: Work all stitches in the back loop for the specified round.
Pattern Notes
- Ch 1 at beginning of the round does not count as a stitch.
- 1st Corner – work (3dc, ch 2, 3 dc)
- 2nd Corner – work (2dc, ch 2, 2dc)
Get the Fairchild Square Crochet Pattern
You can grab the pattern from my online shops below: perfect for blankets, cushions, or other crochet projects!
- 🛒 Grab from the American Crochet Shop
- 🛒 Shop on ETSY
Tips for Crocheting the Fairchild Square
- This Fairchild Square is perfect for customizing! You can experiment with color changes, to give it your own unique touch.
Fairchild Square Instructions
Make a Magic Ring
Round 1: Ch 1, *[dc, chain 1] 12 times; join with a sl st into 1st dc. (12 dc, 12 ch-1 sps)
Round 2: Ch 1, hdc in each st and ch-1 sp around; join with a sl st in 1st hdc. (24 sts)
Round 3: (Working in the 3rd Loop) ch 1, sc in each st around; join with a sl st in 1st sc. (24 sts)
Round 4: Ch 1, work 2 dc in same st and in each st around; join with a sl st in 1st dc. (48 sts)
Round 5: Ch 1, FLO hdc in same st as join, *hdc in the 3rd loop in the next two sts, FLO hdc,* repeat from *to* around; join with a sl st in 1st FLO hdc. (48 sts)
Round 6: Ch 1, work (3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc) into same st as join, (FIRST CORNER), *[ch 3, sk 3 sts, sc in next st] 2 times, ch 3, sk 3 sts, (FIRST CORNER) in next st*, repeat from *to* around 2 more times; join with sl st into 1st dc. (4 corners, 8 sc, 12 ch-3 sp)
Round 7: Ch 1, dc in next 3 dc, (SECOND CORNER), *dc into next 3 dc, work 4 dc into next ch 3 sp, dc in next sc, work 5 dc into the next ch 3 sp, dc in the next sc, work 4 dc into next ch 3 sp, dc into next 3 dc, work (SECOND CORNER),* repeat from *to* 2 more times; join with a sl st into 1st dc. (100 dc, 4 ch-2 sps)
Round 8: Ch 1, dc in same dc, BLO dc in next 4 dc, *(SECOND CORNER), BLO dc in each dc across,* repeat from *to* 3 more times; join with a sl st in 1st dc. (116 dc, 4 ch-2 sps)
Round 9: Ch 1, hdc in same st, hdc in next 6 sts, *work 3 hdc in ch-2 sp, hdc in each st across,* repeat from *to* around; join with a sl st in top of 1st hdc. (128 hdc) Fasten off and weave in ends.
What’s Next?
📌 Finishing & Blocking
To achieve a professional finish, gently block your square:
✔ Pin to a blocking mat, shaping the edges evenly.
✔ Lightly mist with water or steam block for a polished look.
✔ Allow to dry completely before joining with other squares.
📌 Engage with Us!
We’d love to see how your Fairchild Square is coming along! Let us know in the comments:
💬 Do you prefer working with back loop stitches or front post stitches for adding texture? Drop your answer below!
📌 Join the CAL and share your progress:
✔ Instagram & TikTok: Tag @AmericanCrochet and use #RiverwoodSquareCAL
✔ Pinterest: Save and share your progress!
✔ Facebook Group: Connect with fellow crocheters!
Looking for previous squares? View all Riverwood Square CAL blocks here!
Get the Fairchild Square Crochet Pattern
- 🛒 Grab from the American Crochet Shop
- 🛒 Shop on ETSY
Looking Ahead
Congratulations on completing the Fairchild Square – the thirteenth square in our Crochet Along! Stay tuned for Monday’s pattern, where we’ll be adding even more exciting designs to your crochet project. The fun has just begun, and we’re thrilled to crochet along with you every step of the way.
Happy Hookin!
XO, Mistie
