If you’re searching for a crochet project that’s bursting with color and retro flair, look no further than the Lightning Bolt Crocheted Afghan. This stunning zig-zag design, a variation of an “old time favorite,” adds vibrant energy to any room and is the perfect statement piece for your sofa, armchair, or bed.
The lightning bolt afghan is as fun to make as it is to look at. With its sharp chevron-style angles and vivid stripes, it captures the essence of vintage 70s crochet while offering a modern twist through your choice of colors. Whether you stick with the original bold palette or customize it with your own scheme, the result is guaranteed to be striking.
Finished Size:
Approximately 97″ x 70″ – perfect for cuddling up or draping elegantly over furniture.
Supplies Needed:
- 3 skeins (4 oz each) of 4-ply yarn in black (or brown, or another dark neutral for the background)
- 11 skeins (4 oz each) of 4-ply yarn in assorted bright colors
- Crochet Hook: Size G, H, or I (depending on your tension)
Skill Level:
This pattern is ideal for intermediate crocheters who are comfortable working with single crochet (sc) and double crochet (dc), color changes, and counting stitches. All rows are worked separately, which makes it a great project to pick up and put down at your own pace.
Pattern Highlights:
- Rows are constructed individually, then fastened off to create the jagged lightning effect.
- The back loop sc and front loop dc techniques create textured ridges that enhance the design.
- Includes 33 unique rows, which are then repeated 7–8 times for the desired length.
- Yarn tails are left long to form the dramatic fringe that borders the afghan naturally—no extra finishing required!
A Note on Color Planning:
This is the kind of project where you can truly let your creativity shine. Whether you follow the original color chart or create your own custom combination, the jagged bolt design works beautifully with a wide range of hues—from jewel tones to pastels to bold primaries.
Seen Here:
In the photo above, the afghan is shown in a palette of red, pink, lilac, green, orange, and black, draped over a cozy armchair with a matching crochet basket—an inspiring pairing that showcases the pattern’s retro charm.
Ready to Get Started?
This pattern is now available for free on The Pattern Palace blog. Scroll up to view the complete row-by-row instructions and start crocheting your very own lightning bolt afghan today!
MATERIALS NEEDED:
- 3 – 4 oz. 4-ply yarn in black (brown or desired color)
- 11 – 4 oz. 4-ply yarns in assorted bright colors
- No. G, H or I crochet hook
NOTES:
Please keep in mind, this is a vintage pattern and some of the materials may no longer be available. Please be sure to check your gauge to ensure your piece turns out.
Each row is worked separately, do not turn work.
Leave 5″ of yarn at beginning and end of every row for fringe.
All single crochet (sc) made in back loop of stitch.
All double crochet (dc) made in front loop of stitch in second row down from one being worked.
Looking for the pattern without the ads? You can find it available for purchase through our Etsy store.
INSTRUCTIONS:
Foundation:
Black – Chain 245 stitches, fasten off, leaving 5” at both ends.
Rows 1 – 3:
Sc in each stitch across. (Work in back loops every row.)
Row 4:
Red yarn – Sc in each stitch across.
Row 5:
White – Sc across row.
Row 6:
Black – Sc in 2 stitches 1 dc, 10 sc repeat between * end 3 sc.
Row 7:
Yellow – Sc in 3 stitches 1 dc, 10 sc repeat between * end 2 sc.
Row 8:
Lavender – Sc in 4 stitches 1 dc, 10 sc repeat between * end 12 sc.
Row 9:
Kelly Green – Sc in 5 stitches 1 dc, 10 sc repeat between * end 11 sc.
Row 10:
Brown – Sc in 6 stitches 1 dc, 10 sc repeat between * end 10 sc.
Row 11:
Orange – Sc in 7 stitches 1 dc, 10 sc repeat between * end 9 sc.
Row 12:
Purple – Sc in 8 stitches 1 dc, 10 sc repeat between * end 8 sc.
Row 13:
Pale Pink – Sc in 9 stitches 1 dc, 10 sc repeat between * end 7 sc.
Row 14:
Avocado Green – Sc in 10 stitches 1 dc, 10 sc repeat between * end 6 sc.
Row 15:
Red – Sc in 11 stitches 1 dc, 10 sc repeat between * end 5 sc.
Row 16:
Lilac – Sc in 12 stitches 1 dc, 10 sc repeat between * end 4 sc.
Now Pattern Switches To Right Hand Side
Row 17:
Black – Sc in 11 stitches 1 dc (in red dc), 10 sc repeat between * end 5 sc.
Row 18:
Red – Sc in 10 stitches 1 dc, 10 sc repeat between * end 6 sc.
Row 19:
White – Sc in 9 stitches 1 dc, 10 sc repeat between * end 7 sc.
Row 20:
Black – Sc in 8 stitches 1 dc, 10 sc repeat between * end 8 sc.
Row 21:
Yellow – Sc in 7 stitches 1 dc, 10 sc repeat between * end 9 sc.
Row 22:
Lavender – Sc in 6 stitches 1 dc, 10 sc repeat between * end 10 sc.
Row 23:
Kelly Green – Sc in 5 stitches 1 dc, 10 sc repeat between * end 11 sc.
Row 24:
Brown – Sc in 4 stitches 1 dc, 10 sc repeat between * end 12 sc.
Repeats:
Row 25:
Orange – Follow Row 7.
Row 26:
Purple – Follow Row 6.
Row 27:
Pale Pink – Follow Row 16.
Row 28:
Avocado Green – Follow Row 15.
Row 29:
Red – Follow Row 18.
Row 30:
Lilac – Follow Row 19.
Row 31:
Black – Follow Row 18.
Row 32:
Red – Follow Row 17.
Row 33:
White – Follow Row 16.
Final Instructions:
Repeat from Row 6 to Row 33 (7 or 8 times) for desired length.
We hope you enjoyed the lightning bolt crochet blanket. Check out our entire pattern library for more free patterns.
