Afghan Knitting Patterns

Dark Academia Checkered Afghan Free Pattern

Anonymous June 30, 2026
Dark Academia Checkered Afghan Free Pattern

Dark Academia Checkered Afghan Free Pattern

Introduction

Embrace the moody allure of Dark Academia with this stunning checkered afghan. Perfect for adding a touch of intellectual elegance to any space, this pattern combines classic motifs with a modern twist. Whether you're snuggling up with a book or adding a statement piece to your decor, this afghan is sure to impress.

Materials Needed

  • 4 skeins of worsted weight yarn in each color:
    • Deep burgundy
    • Charcoal gray
    • Midnight blue
    • Black
  • US Size 8 (5mm) knitting needles
  • Tapestry needle for weaving in ends

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Cast On: Using the long-tail cast-on method, cast on 180 stitches with the deep burgundy yarn.
  2. Row 1 (Right Side): Knit all stitches across the row.
  3. Row 2 (Wrong Side): Purl all stitches across the row.
  4. Rows 3-10: Repeat Rows 1 and 2 to create a garter stitch border. This will give your afghan a neat edge.
  5. Begin Checkered Pattern:
    1. Row 11: *Knit 20 stitches with charcoal gray, then knit 20 stitches with midnight blue; repeat from * across the row.
    2. Row 12: *Purl 20 stitches with charcoal gray, then purl 20 stitches with midnight blue; repeat from * across the row.
    3. Rows 13-20: Repeat Rows 11 and 12 to continue the checkered pattern.
    4. Row 21: *Knit 20 stitches with midnight blue, then knit 20 stitches with black; repeat from * across the row.
    5. Row 22: *Purl 20 stitches with midnight blue, then purl 20 stitches with black; repeat from * across the row.
    6. Rows 23-30: Repeat Rows 21 and 22.
    7. Continue alternating the color blocks every 10 rows, following this sequence:
      • Burgundy/Charcoal Gray
      • Charcoal Gray/Midnight Blue
      • Midnight Blue/Black
      • Black/Burgundy
  6. Continue in pattern until the afghan measures approximately 60 inches in length.
  7. Final Border: Repeat Rows 1 and 2 for 10 rows using the deep burgundy yarn to frame your afghan.
  8. Bind Off: Bind off all stitches loosely in pattern to maintain the elasticity of the edge.
  9. Finishing: Weave in all ends using a tapestry needle. Block the afghan to measurements to ensure the checkered pattern lies flat and looks polished.

The finished afghan will be a large, rectangular blanket measuring approximately 60 inches by 48 inches. It features a striking checkered pattern composed of alternating squares in deep burgundy, charcoal gray, midnight blue, and black. The texture is primarily stockinette stitch, with a garter stitch border framing the entire piece. Enjoy your cozy creation that perfectly captures the essence of Dark Academia!


Also Check Out: We think you'd love this beautiful pattern on our sister site: Enchanted Fairycore Gradient Afghan with Tassels - Free Pattern