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Crocheting My Summer Reading List: Guest Post by Kristen from Kristen Crochets

A Creative Year-Long Challenge

Hi friends! I’m Kristen, and I’m so excited to share a creative project that combines two of my favorite things: reading and crochet. If you love curling up with a good book and working on a cozy project at the same time, this idea might inspire your next blanket or bookshelf!

A New Twist on a Reading Challenge

This year, I’ve decided to crochet a granny square for every book I read in 2025. It’s a fresh take on the classic reading challenge, and unlike a daily temperature blanket (which can be a bit intense at 365 rows), this one is manageable and meaningful. My reading goal is 25 books, but even if I fall short, the project will still turn into a lovely lap blanket or throw for my reading chair.

The best part? There’s no pressure. One square per book means I can actually enjoy the process, and the stories, without falling behind.

The Plan: Squares for Stories

I’ll be making one granny square per book, using a specific yarn color for each genre I read. I chose variegated yarns for the visual interest they bring, and I’m reusing some leftovers from a previous project, which gives it a nice sustainable touch. I’m aiming for a 5x5 layout (25 squares), but if I end up with fewer books, I can adapt the layout or fill in with solid-colored squares.

Each square is 8x8 inches and made using a modified pattern by TL Yarn Crafts, which alternates traditional granny stitch rows with V-stitch rows. I love how the texture changes depending on the yarn and stitch pattern. CLICK HERE to watch the video!

Genres & Yarn Choices

Here’s how I’m assigning yarn colors to different book genres:

  • Dystopian – "Sunset" (a rich, warm variegated yarn that I used in my temperature blanket)

  • Thrillers – "Moody Mosaic" (perfect for the dark, mysterious vibes)

  • Historical Fiction – "Cinnamon Cedar" (vintage tones that match the era-inspired storytelling)

  • Nonfiction – "Paint Party" (bright, cheerful, and eye-catching)

I’m still deciding on my joining method. Whether I’ll join as I go or wait until all the squares are made. Either way, I’ll use black for the joining color to unify the whole design.

Why This Project Works

If you’re a fiber artist who also loves to read, this is a fun and achievable way to track your reading journey and get a unique handmade keepsake out of it. Each square becomes a memory of a book, and watching the blanket grow will be like seeing your personal library in yarn form.

This project also gives me something creative and relaxing to work on throughout the year without the stress of daily progress. Plus, it’s a great way to use stash yarn and reflect on the themes and emotions of each book. Want to use up some of your yarn stash but not a reader? Check out THIS VIDEO where I show you how to make a quick and easy stashbusting blanket!

Watch my video here!



If you’d like to follow along, I’ll be posting updates as the year progresses. You can check out my first update VIDEO HERE. I hope this inspires you to create your own version, whether it’s based on books, movies, or another passion you love. If you'd like to check out my reading list on Amazon, CLICK HERE.

Happy stitching and happy reading!
—Kristen

About the Author
Kristen is the creator behind Kristen Crochets on YouTube, where she shares her love of yarn, crochet projects, and cozy creative living. She enjoys combining her hobbies like reading and crocheting into fun, intentional projects that build community and spark inspiration. When she’s not working on a granny square or exploring yarn shops, she’s likely curled up with a good thriller or historical fiction novel. You can also find her on Instagram @kristencrochets.

Kristen and Shannon sat down and had a blast recording a livestream on the topic of temperature blankets. 

Watch the VIDEO HERE!

or read THIS BLOG POST to find out why they will not be attempting another temperature blankets! 


*some links in this blog post may be affiliate links

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