Memento Mori is worked in the normal overlay mosaic row-by-row technique.

This pattern is free to download as a wee present to all my lovely customers.

Derived from Latin, “Memento Mori” translates to “Remember you will die,” serving as a powerful reminder of the inevitability of mortality and the preciousness of life. This poignant expression has a rich history, finding its way onto Scottish gravestones, among other cultural artifacts, as a symbol of contemplation and reflection on the brief nature of existence.

The origins of Memento Mori trace back to ancient Rome. Over the centuries, this phrase evolved into a widespread artistic motif during the medieval and Renaissance periods. In Scotland, this theme found a unique place on gravestones, reflecting the country’s distinctive cultural and artistic heritage.

Scottish gravestones, decorated with intricate carvings and symbols, often featured Memento Mori as a central theme, and I regularly see these when out walking the local cemetery – called Auld Aisle Cemetery in Kirkintilloch.

These markers, with their skull and crossbones motifs, hourglasses, flowers, and other symbols of mortality, served as a thoughtful visual representation of the inevitable cycle of life and death.

The main pattern PDF has one easy-to-read chart (with X’s for DCs) and corresponding written instructions.

Three PDFs are available - one using US terms and one using UK terms, and a full chart that is Knit Companion compatible.

Please do share your creations online and tag #getyerhookon and #mementomorimosaic

Happy Crocheting
Abi