“Sophie’s Universe” is a well-known square crochet blanket by South African designer Dedri Uys, who is currently living in the United Kingdom with her husband and three sons. It was first introduced in January 2015 on Dedri’s website as a 20-week mystery crochet-along (CAL), and it instantly exploded in popularity. The pattern, background story, suggested photo tasks, and more were published at the end of 2016 in a book by the same name, which is still sought after today. What makes this blanket so unique? Paraphrasing some of the words published to describe it: “It starts with a simple granny square with a beautiful crochet flower in the center and gradually unfolds into a stunning, hypnotizing design.” Dedri describes the creative journey in the introduction to her book, “Sophie [started as a square], quickly grew into a mandala and then into a 24” Garden. Six months down the line, she had grown into a full-sized blanket – Sophie’s Universe.”
A quick look using one’s search engine of choice will bring about countless images of Sophie’s Universe, a burst of colors and settings, one more beautiful than the other. The original square blanket is crocheted by following the 18 parts described in the book (or available free online on Dedri’s blog “Look at What I Made” – yet the book is a nice-should-must-have). Available online only are Part 19 (where Sophie’s Universe expands from a square into a rectangle) and Part 20 (adding a border to finish the extension). Over time, Sophie’s Universe has inspired numerous crocheters to expand the original pattern, using different techniques and ways. Eight years later, this design is still popular and talked about.
A sample blanket of Sophie’s Universe, commissioned by original CAL sponsor Scheepjes and made by UK crocheter Lynnette Wilkie, has traveled far and wide through many trade fairs, workshops, and yarn shows. It continues to be a “look at what you can make” invitation that is hard to resist. The YouTube video instruction series made by Dutch crochet instructor and designer Esther Dijkstra of “It’s All in a Nutshell” for Sophie’s Universe was, and continues to be, almost essential for many give-it-a-go crocheters. Esther’s soothing, calm, gentle voice guides through the entire making process, part by part, in a reassuring manner – dotted with humorous and unedited amusing daily-life moments: relatable to anyone crocheting along.
So why am I writing about Sophie’s Universe today? My crochet mojo was on hiatus when Sophie’s Universe CAL began, and I did not crochet the blanket until five years later. I loved making it when I finally did. I had made Ubuntu before Sophie’s Universe and Charlotte’s Universe after. And many more of Dedri’s patterns in between. Her creative work and ensuing patterns are addictive and inspiring. Crocheting Dedri’s patterns encouraged me to broaden my skills and gain confidence. Though intimidated by the designs, I believed in the “adventurous beginner” skill level she indicated. It is true—a worthwhile adventure whenever one starts it with patience, enjoyment, and determination, resulting in a proud sense of accomplishment. I also availed myself of Esther’s videos, and though I did not need to watch them save for some tricky parts, they kept me good company as I continued crocheting.
Sophie’s Universe created connections and continues to generate them in many ways. In one of my first posts last year, I wrote about having had the opportunity to test for Dedri Uys for “Charlotte’s Universe.” During the CAL for that blanket, I connected with Lynnette Wilkie, a fellow admin in the Facebook group created for that design. Almost two years later, she mentioned acquiring, in June 2015, the sample blanket Esther made for the video series.
When I saw the photo of Esther’s sample, I could not stop thinking about how much history that blanket had and how it created seamless connections throughout time and, directly and indirectly, connected us all. I was asked if I would like the blanket, and I said yes. I felt, still feel, honored to be the provisional guardian of this well-loved piece; it has a history, one more story to tell, and a place to do so – deserving appreciation and respectful, affectionate custody. It draws “dot to dot” the path of bond, appreciation, friendship, and “crochet family” care Esther Dijkstra’s Sophie’s Universe blanket charted. It is a welcome extended family member in our house.
So good to hear that you have my video blanket for Sophie. Enjoy!
Thank you, Esther 🙂 This blanket is joie de vivre, tranquility, inspiration, and well-loved. This Sophie is a very welcome guest.
It was indeed a privilege to hold this Sophie’s Universe made by Esther which has been viewed by and inspired so many. I’m glad her journey continues and she found a good appreciative home with you Sabi ❤️
Wow! I’m so jealous! I’m a huge fan of Esther’s videos, they help me when I get stuck. You’re right, she’s awesome! I would love to see this very special blanket up close. I’m in Houston, would be worth the trip 😊
I’ve been wanting to make this blanket for a long time. This story made me get my yarn sorted and watch Esther’s videos. I completed the first two parts today. Thank you for the inspiration 🙏 Sheila
I loved reading this story! I made three Sophie’s Universe and gifted them to my mother, brother, and niece. I like the idea of “crochet family.” The one you told about is really special. What a blessing! ❤️
I absolutely love this story. All the hours of love that have gone into the making of that blanket and all of the travels it’s been on. Amazing that you can add more love and history to its journey. Wonderfully written as always. Crochet brings so much joy to so many.
Yes, indeed, Sophie’s Universe created, & still does to this day, many intriguing, unexpected connections globally. The awe of crochet! 🧶 Sophie’s Universe is surely part of many a crocheter’s dream, it opened up my world & gave me the courage to hope & try. Thank you, Sabi, for recognizing this unique blanket’s history & love. 😊