Valley Yarns C Papilio (Crochet) Pattern Pattern

Valley Yarns C Papilio Crochet Soft Blocks

What Is Being Made

The Valley Yarns C Papilio is a set of colorful soft blocks designed by Sarah Teague, intended as educational toys for babies and young children. Each finished block measures 2¼" on all sides, making them ideal for small hands to grasp and explore. The blocks are machine-washable, making them practical for nursery use and easy to maintain. This project is customizable, allowing crafters to select from a wide range of Valley Yarns Haydenville DK colors to match any nursery décor. The blocks make excellent gifts for babies and can be personalized with cross-stitched letters or numbers.

Techniques Used

The Papilio blocks are constructed using seamed assembly and worked flat construction methods. Each block is made from two strips, with each strip containing three sides of the cube. The sides are worked individually in rows, then joined together through seaming. Color changes are incorporated directly into the crochet work by switching yarn colors within the final stitch of designated rows. Cross-stitching is an optional embellishment technique that can be applied either before assembly or after the blocks are stuffed and sewn together, allowing flexibility in the finishing process.

Stitches Used

This intermediate-level project relies primarily on single crochet as the foundational stitch throughout the entire pattern. Single crochet creates a dense, sturdy fabric ideal for stuffed toys that will withstand regular handling and washing. The pattern also incorporates back loop only (blo) single crochet stitches at specific transition points between sides, which creates defined edges where color changes occur. Chain stitches are used to create the foundation and turning chains between rows.

Materials and Yarn

The pattern calls for Valley Yarns Haydenville DK, a durable blend of 60% Superwash Merino Wool and 40% Acrylic Microfiber. Each block requires one 50-gram skein per color, with each skein providing 136 yards. The yarn composition makes the finished blocks both soft and practical—the superwash merino provides comfort and breathability, while the acrylic microfiber adds durability and machine-washability. The pattern specifies three colors per block set: Red (Color A), Black (Color B), and Silver (Color C), though crafters can customize colors as desired.

Tools and Notions

• Crochet Hook: US size F (3.75 mm) crochet hook, or the size needed to achieve proper gauge in single crochet
• Gauge: 22 stitches and 24 rows = 4" in single crochet
• Additional Materials: Bent-tip tapestry needle for seaming and weaving in ends, and polyfill stuffing to fill the completed blocks

Construction Overview

The project demonstrates intermediate crochet skills through its multi-part assembly and color work integration. Each block is constructed in two separate strips, with each strip containing three sides worked consecutively. Sides are created by working 11 stitches across for 11 rows, then transitioning to the next side using back loop only stitches to create clean edges. The two completed strips are then seamed together using the long yarn tails left from fastening off, and the resulting cube is stuffed with polyfill before final closure. This construction method ensures sturdy, three-dimensional blocks suitable for infant play.