Sometimes you run across a pattern and just know you have to make it.

That's exactly what happened with this little square from Bucilla Cotton Creations, Volume 143, circa 1942. It's the Nosegay Bedspread, No. 3649, and I stumbled across it while uploading the booklet to archive.org. The moment I saw it, I knew I needed to get it started immediately.


Not every pattern has that effect on me, but this one definitely did. It was just too pretty to pass by.

Even though it's only a small square, it has so much charm. I love the delicate floral feel in the center, the graceful shaping throughout, and the way it all grows into such a tidy little square. It's one of those vintage designs that feels both dainty and structured at the same time, and I think that's a big part of its appeal.

The original pattern calls for Bucilla Wondersheen, Super Mercerized Cotton and a No. 9 crochet hook, which I believe would be about 1.4 mm. For mine, I used Cebelia No. 30 thread with a US 11/12 (1.0 mm) hook.

I really enjoyed making this square, and after finishing it, I can honestly say I think the pattern is extremely well written. That is always a nice surprise with vintage patterns. Some of them take a bit of deciphering, but this one was a pleasure to work through. The instructions are clear, the construction makes sense, and the finished result feels just right. I honestly do not think I would change very much about it at all. Perhaps adjusting some of the tall stitches to give the piece more structure.

Now, as much as I like it, I should also say that I will not be making the full bedspread.

To make the whole thing would take more than 250 squares, and with each one measuring only about 4.5 inches, that is simply more than I have in me. It would be beautiful, no question about that, but this little square is going to remain a finished sample rather than the start of a full-size project.

Honestly, I am perfectly happy with that. Sometimes it's enough just to enjoy making one motif, appreciate the design, and move on. Not every lovely vintage pattern has to become a major undertaking.

This was also a nice little break from the 1916 centerpiece I have been working on. That larger project has my attention again now, but this square was a fun detour and exactly the kind of small finish I needed along the way.

And now, back to the 1916 centerpiece.