🧶 31 Days of Squares – Day 9: Last Dance on the Beach
This post was originally part of my 2023 series 365: A Year of Crochet Squares—but spoiler alert, life got lifey and I only made it to 33. So here we are, reworking and reviving it as a cozy, realistic 31-day series instead. Welcome to Day 9!
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Day 9 kicks off a new twist in the square-a-day journey! One of my big 2023 goals was to make a blanket a month, and this one started strong. I planned on crocheting 5 squares a day—four for the blanket, and one extra for my future stash. Because let’s be honest, there’s always a future project waiting. 😅 (spoiler alert: I didn't crochet 5 squares a day)
✨ This blanket was a gift for a beautiful soul who had just finished chemo and has a cozy patio with a fireplace. I wanted something meaningful, warm, and full of comfort. Enter: the Last Dance on the Beach.
🩵 Last Dance on the Beach
Before I even picked up my hook, I knew this was the one. The Last Dance on the Beach blanket has a backstory that will absolutely break and warm your heart at the same time. It was created in memory of designer Marinke Slump (Wink), and the love stitched into it is undeniable.
It took me forever to relocate the pattern link in my Pinterest mess of boards, but the moment I found it, I knew. This was the only blanket that made sense for such a heartfelt gift.
🧵 On To Crocheting Today’s Square
Today’s square is from Week 1 of the original CAL, designed by Esther of Happy in Red. I didn’t see a specific name for it, so we’ll just call it “Week 1 Popcorn Square.” 🧈
And y’all know how I feel about a good popcorn stitch. It’s got texture. It’s got charm. It’s got that squish factor. I’ll be doing a tutorial for this stitch soon because it deserves its own moment in the spotlight. 🫶

🔁 Double Check Your Ends
I like to try to weave in the ends as I go, but there’s usually a few I miss—or I get lazy and think “I’ll do it later.” If you’re anything like me, this is your reminder: go ahead and tuck them in now. Your future self will thank you. 💪
📸 Did You Crochet This?
Are you crocheting along with me? Tag me on TikTok or IG, or use the hashtag #AnnsDailyCrochetSquares. I’d love to see your squares! ✨
📚 Resources Used
- Pattern: Last Dance on the Beach CAL – Week 1
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