Breaking away from strictly-squares, here’s an intermediate-level afghan pattern using octagons, squares, and hexagons to evoke a look reminiscent of a wall/floor tile pattern. I used earthtones in 4 colors for my color scheme, but it can be done nicely in 3 - 6 colors (depending on how many colors you use for the octagons).

At the stated gauge, using the stitch pattern described, the afghan will be quite warm, which is a nice change from many lacy afghan designs that are pretty but don’t keep the chill off.

Two optional variations:

• You can add floral motifs for accent
• Even-out the border with half-motifs (half-hexagons & half-squares)