The Apache Tears crochet pattern is a striking and popular design that creates a textured, zigzagging ripple effect. It’s usually worked in multiple colors to emphasize the tear-like drops in the pattern. Here’s a free pattern description to help you get started:

Materials Needed:

  1. Worsted weight yarn in multiple colors (you can choose as many or as few colors as you like).
  2. Appropriate crochet hook for your chosen yarn (check the yarn label for recommended hook size).
  3. Yarn needle for weaving in ends.

Instructions:

Note: This pattern is typically worked in multiples of 6 stitches plus an additional 3 stitches to create the desired width. You can make your project as wide or narrow as you’d like by adjusting the starting chain accordingly.

Step 1: Foundation Chain

Start by making a foundation chain with the desired number of stitches. Remember to add 3 extra chains to your desired width. For example, if you want a 36-stitch wide project, chain 39.

Step 2: Row 1

  1. Skip the first 3 chains (these count as your first double crochet), and work 1 double crochet (dc) into the 4th chain from the hook.
  2. Work 1 dc into each of the next 2 chains.
  3. Now comes the “tear” part of the pattern.
  4. Chain 3, skip 3 chains on your foundation chain, and work 1 dc into each of the next 3 chains.
  5. Repeat from * to * across the row.
  6. End the row with 1 dc into each of the last 3 chains.
  7. Turn your work.

Step 3: Row 2

  1. Chain 3 (this counts as your first dc), and work 1 dc into each of the next 2 stitches.
  2. For the next “tear,” work 1 dc into the first dc of the chain-3 space from the previous row, chain 3, and work 1 dc into each of the next 2 dc from the same chain-3 space.
  3. Repeat from * to * across the row.
  4. End the row with 1 dc into each of the last 3 stitches.
  5. Turn your work.

Step 4: Repeat Row 2

Continue to repeat Row 2 until your project reaches the desired length, alternating colors as you like to create the tear-like effect. You can change colors every row, every other row, or use your own color pattern to create a unique design.

Step 5: Finishing

To finish your project, fasten off the yarn, leaving a tail for weaving in the ends. Weave in all loose ends with a yarn needle.

Remember that the number of tears (chain-3 spaces) you make in each row will create the ripple effect. The more tears you make, the more pronounced the ripple will be. Experiment with colors and spacing to achieve your desired look.

Feel free to adjust the pattern to your preferences, and don’t be afraid to get creative with your color choices. Happy crocheting!