Chapter Seven
Little Blankets & Sacks
Zucchini Sleep Sack and Cap
Designed by Reyna Thera Lorele, YIYO Designs
Sleep sacks are all the rage, and this one will keep your little one cozy and warm while napping. It also will make for some precious photo ops.
Size and Finished Measurements
- For newborn: 211⁄2"/54.5 cm sack circumference and 23"/58.5 cm sack length; 14"/35.5 cm cap circumference and 6"/15 cm cap height
Yarn
- James C. Brett Marble Chunky, 100% acrylic, 341 yds (312 m)/7 oz (200 g), Color 0033 Lemon/Lime
Crochet Hook
- US I/9 (5.5 mm) or size needed to obtain correct gauge
Gauge
- 10 stitches and 5 rounds = 4"/10 cm in back loop double crochet
Other Supplies
Pattern Essentials
FPtr2tog (front post treble 2 together) *(Yo) twice, insert hook from front to back to front around post of FPtr below dc just made and pull up a loop, (yo and pull through 2 loops on hook) twice, skip 1 dc; insert hook from front to back to front around post of next FPtr and pull up a loop (yo and pull through 2 loops on hook), yo and pull through all 3 loops on hook.
Crocheting the Sack
- Rnd 1: Ch 4, 11 dc in 4th ch from hook, join with slip st to top of beginning ch-4. You now have 12 dc.
- Rnd 2: Ch 3 (counts as dc here and throughout), dc in same st, 2 dc in each st around, join with slip st to top of ch-3. You now have 24 dc.
- Rnd 3: Ch 3, 2 dc in next st, *dc in next st, 2 dc in next st; repeat from * around, join with slip st to back loop only in top of ch-3. You now have 36 dc.
The Body
- Rnd 1: Ch 3, 2 BLdc in next st, *BLdc in next st, 2 BLdc in next st; repeat from * around, join with slip st to back loop only in top of ch-3. You now have 54 sts.
- Rnds 2–24: Ch 3, BLdc in next 4 sts, *FPtr in next st, BLdc in next 5 sts, repeat from * around to last st, FPtr in last st, join with slip st to back loop only in top of ch-3.
- Rnd 25 (increase rnd): Ch 3, BLdc in next 4 sts, (FPtr, BLdc, FPtr) in next st, *BLdc in next 5 sts, (FPtr, BLdc, FPtr) in next st; repeat from * around, join with slip st to back loop only in top of ch-3. You now have 72 sts.
- Rnd 26: Ch 3, BLdc in each BLdc and FPtr around each FPtr around, join with slip st to back loop only in top of ch-3.
- Rnd 27: Ch 3, dc in next 5 sts, FPtr2tog, *BLdc in same FPtr and in next 6 sts, FPtr2tog; rep from * around, ending BLdc in same FPtr, join with slip st to both loops at top of ch-3.
The Edging
- Ch 3 (counts as hdc and ch 1), skip next st to the right (left for left-handed crocheters), *reverse hdc in next st, ch 1, skip 1 st, repeat from * around, join with slip st to 2nd ch of ch-2. Fasten off.
The Ruffle
- Working in free loops from Rnd 3, join yarn with FLdc in any st, FLdc in same st, 3 FLdc in next st, *2 FLdc in next st, 3 FLdc in next st; repeat from * around, join with slip st to top of first FLdc. You now have 90 dc. Fasten off.
Crocheting The Curlicues
- Large (make 2): Ch 21, 2 sc in 2nd ch from hook and in each ch across to last 2 sts, 3 sc in last 2 sts. Fasten off.
- Small (make 1): Ch 16, work as for large curlicue. Set aside to use on cap.
- Use yarn ends to attach large curlicues to any FPtr on sack body. (On sample shown, they are attached at 7th and 10th rows from top edge.)
Crocheting the Cap
- Rnds 1–3: Work as for Rnds 1–3 of sack. You now have 36 dc.
- Rnd 4: Ch 3, dc in each st around, join with slip st to top of ch-3.
- Rnds 5–8: Ch 3, BLdc in next 4 sts, *FPtr in next st, BLdc in next 5 sts, repeat from * around to last st, FPtr in last st, join with slip st to back loop only at top of ch-3.
- Rnd 9: Ch 3 (counts as hdc, ch 1), skip next st to the right (left for left-handed crocheters), *reverse hdc in next st, ch 1, skip 1 st, repeat from * around, join with slip st to 2nd ch of ch-2. Fasten off.
- Attach small curlicue to top of cap. Weave in ends.
Snuggly Wave Cocoon
Designed by Gwen Steege
Whether you call it a cocoon or a baby sack or bunting, this welcome cover-up is an especially useful gift for a newborn. Crocheted in Madlinetosh’s Pashmina, it’s luxuriously warm, and machine washable, as well.
Size and Finished Measurements
- For newborn: 18"/45.5 cm circumference and 17"/43 cm length
Yarn
- Madelinetosh Pashmina, 75% merino wool/15% silk/10% cashmere, 360 yds (329 m)/4 oz (113 g), Fragrant
Crochet Hook
- US E/4 (3.5 mm) crochet hook or size needed to obtain correct gauge
Gauge
- First 4 rounds = 4"/10 cm in diameter
- 2 pattern repeats and 20 rounds = 5"/12.5 cm in Wave Stitch pattern
Other Supplies
Pattern Essentials
Wave Stitch Pattern (multiple of 14 stitches)
Rnd 1: Ch 1, sc in each st around, join with slip st to first sc.
Rnd 2: Ch 3 (counts as dc here and throughout), 3 dc in first st, *skip next 3 sc, sc in next 7 sc, skip next 3 sc**, 7 dc in next sc; repeat from * around, ending last repeat at **, 3 dc in same st as beginning ch-3, join with slip st to top of ch-3.
Rnd 3: Ch 1, sc in each st around, join with slip st to first sc.
Rnd 4: Ch 1, sc in first 4 dc, *skip next 3 sc, 7 dc in next sc, skip next 3 sc**, sc in next 7 sc; repeat from * around, ending last repeat at **, sc in next 3 sc, join with slip st to first sc.
Repeat Rnds 1–4 for pattern.
Crocheting the Cocoon
The Bottom
- Begin with an adjustable ring.
- Rnd 1: Ch 1, 12 sc in ring, join with slip st to first sc. You now have 12 sc.
- Rnd 2: Ch 3 (counts as dc here and throughout), dc in same st, 2 dc in each sc around, join with slip st to top of ch-3. You now have 24 dc.
- Rnd 3: Ch 3, dc in same st, dc in next dc, *2 dc in next dc, dc in next dc; repeat from * around, join with slip st to top of ch-3. You now have 36 dc.
- Rnd 4: Ch 3, dc in same st, dc in next 2 dc, *2 dc in next dc, dc in next 2 dc; repeat from * around, join with slip st to top of ch-3. You now have 48 dc.
- Rnd 5: Ch 3, dc in same st, dc in next 3 dc, *2 dc in next dc, dc in next 3 dc; repeat from * around, join with slip st to top of ch-3. You now have 60 dc.
- Rnd 6: Ch 3, dc in same st, dc in next 4 dc, *2 dc in next dc, dc in next 4 dc; repeat from * around, join with slip st to top of ch-3. You now have 72 dc.
- Rnd 7: Ch 3, dc in same st, dc in next 5 dc, *2 dc in next dc, dc in next 5 dc; repeat from * around, join with slip st to top of ch-3. You now have 84 dc.
- Rnd 8: Ch 3, dc in same st, dc in next 6 dc, *2 dc in next dc, dc in next 6 dc; repeat from * around, join with slip st to top of ch-3. You now have 96 dc.
- Rnd 9: Ch 1, 2 sc in same st, sc in next 48 dc, 2 sc in next dc, sc in each dc around join with slip st to first sc. You now have 98 sc.
The Body
- Work Rnds 1–4 of Wave Stitch pattern 14 times.
- Next Rnd: Ch 1, sc in each st around, join with slip st to first sc, turn.
- Final Rnd (WS): Ch 1, sc in each st around, join with slip st to first sc.
- Weave in ends. Block.
Cotton Play Mat
Designed by Elizabeth Garcia Kalka
This large cotton square is perfect for laying down on the floor as a surface for baby’s tummy time. It can also be used as a stroller or car-seat blanket.
Finished Measurements
- 30"/76 cm square, including edging
Yarn
- Bernat Handicrafter Cotton, 100% cotton, 603 yds (551 m)/12 oz (340 g), Color 90510 Strawberry Cream
Crochet Hook
- US I/9 (5.5 mm) or size needed to obtain correct gauge
Gauge
- 13 stitches and 6 rows = 4"/10 cm in pattern
- First 2 rounds = 3"/7.5 cm square
Other Supplies
Pattern Essentials
Exch (extended chain) Chain st pulled longer than usual, up to level of first st of round.
V-st (Dc, ch 1, dc) in 1 stitch or space.
Crocheting the Blanket
See chart below.
- Ch 5, slip st in first ch to form a ring.
- Rnd 1: Exch (does not count as st), (3 dc, ch 2) three times in ring, 3 dc in ring, join with hdc to first dc.
- Rnd 2: Exch, 2 dc in space formed by joining hdc, dc in each dc to next corner space, *(2 dc, ch 2, 2 dc) in corner space, dc in each dc to next corner space; repeat from * around, ending with 2 dc in beginning space, join with hdc to first dc. You now have 7 dc per side and 4 ch-2 spaces.
- Rnds 3 and 4: Repeat Rnd 2. You now have 15 dc per side and 4 ch-2 spaces.
- Rnd 5: Exch, 2 dc in space formed by joining hdc, *dc in next dc, (ch 1, skip 1 dc, dc in next 3 dc) three times, ch 1, skip 1 dc, dc in next dc**, (2 dc, ch 2, 2 dc) in corner space; repeat from * around, ending last repeat at **, 2 dc in beginning space, join with hdc to first dc. You now have five 3-dc groups per side.
- Rnd 6: Exch, 2 dc in space formed by joining hdc, *dc in each st and ch-1 space across to corner**, (2 dc, ch 2, 2 dc) in corner space; repeat from * around, ending last repeat at **, 2 dc in beginning space, join with hdc to first dc. You now have 23 dc per side.
- Rnds 7–18: Repeat Rnds 3–6 three times. You now have 71 dc per side.
- Rnds 19–21: Repeat Rnds 3–5. You now have twenty-one 3-dc groups per side.
- Rnd 22: Exch, dc in space formed by joining hdc, *ch 1, dc in next dc, (ch 1, V-st in next ch-1 space) across to corner, dc in last dc before corner space, ch 1**, (dc, ch 2, dc) in corner space; repeat from * around, ending last repeat at **, dc in beginning space, join with hdc to first dc.
- Rnd 23: Ch 1, sc in space formed by joining hdc, (ch 5, sc in next ch-1 space) around, ch 3, join with hdc to first sc.
- Rnd 24: Ch 1, sc in space formed by joining hdc, *ch 2, picot, ch 2, sc in next ch-5 space; repeat from * around, omitting last sc, join with slip st to first sc.
- Fasten off. Weave in ends.
Babies and Lace
In general, when knitting lace for babywear or blankets, choose patterns that have holes on the small side. Tiny fingers and toes can easily get tangled in fabric with a large openwork pattern.
Christening Cloud
Designed by Reyna Thera Lorele, YIYO Designs
An openwork body pattern and flouncy border are worked in laceweight yarn for a truly ethereal effect. This lovely blanket should be passed down through generations.
Finished Measurements
- 24"/61 cm wide and 29"/73.5 cm long
Yarn
- Madelinetosh Tosh Lace, 100% superwash merino wool, 950 yds (868 m)/4 oz (113 g), Silver Fox
Crochet Hook
- US D/3 (3.25 mm) or size needed to obtain correct gauge
Gauge
- 4 pattern repeats and 12 rows = 31⁄2"/9 cm in pattern before blocking
Other Supplies
- Yarn needle, pins for blocking
Pattern Essentials
Corner shell [Dc, (ch 1, dc) twice] in 1 stitch.
Lacy shell (Dc, ch 3, dc) in 1 stitch.
Shell 5 dc in 1 stitch.
Crocheting the Body
See charts below.
- Chain 122.
- Row 1: Sc in 2nd ch from hook, *skip 2 ch, shell in next ch, skip 2 ch, sc in next ch; repeat from * across, turn. You now have 20 shells.
- Row 2: Ch 5 (counts as dc, ch 2 here and throughout), *sc in center dc of next shell, ch 2, dc in next sc, ch 2; repeat from * across, omitting last ch 2, turn.
- Row 3: Ch 1, sc in same st, *lacy shell in next sc, sc in next dc; repeat from *, ending with sc in 3rd ch of beginning ch-5 of previous row, turn.
- Row 4: Ch 5, *sc in next ch-3 space, ch 2, dc in next sc, ch 2; repeat from * to last ch-3 space, sc in last ch-3 space, ch 2, dc in last sc, turn.
- Row 5: Ch 1, sc in first st, *shell in next sc, sc in next dc, repeat from *, ending with sc in 3rd ch of beginning ch-5, turn.
- Rows 6–81: Repeat Rows 2–5 nineteen times, or until piece measures 19"/48.5 cm from beginning.
- Row 82: Repeat Row 2 once more.
Crocheting the Border
- Rnd 1: Ch 1, 2 sc in each ch-2 space and sc in each sc and dc across top of blanket, sc in corner, sc in each row-end sc and 2 sc in each row-end dc across side of blanket, sc in corner, sc in each ch across bottom edge of blanket, sc in corner, sc in each row-end sc and 2 sc in each row-end dc across side of blanket, sc in corner, join with slip st to first sc.
- Rnd 2: Ch 5, skip next 2 sc, dc in next sc, *(ch 2, skip 2 sc, dc in next sc), to corner, corner shell in corner st; repeat from * around, [(dc, ch 1) twice] in same st as beginning ch-5, join with slip st to 3rd ch of beginning ch-5.
- Rnd 3: Ch 1, 2 sc in each ch-2 space and sc in each dc around, placing 3 sc in center dc of each corner shell.
- Rnd 4: Ch 4 (counts as dc, ch 1), dc in first st, ch 2, skip 2 sc, *[(dc, ch 1, dc) in next sc, ch 2, skip 2 sc] to corner sc, corner shell in corner sc, ch 2, skip 2 sc; repeat from *, join with slip st to 3rd ch of ch-4.
- Rnd 5: Ch 3 (counts as dc here and throughout), dc in same st, dc in next ch-1 space, 2 dc in next dc, ch 2, *(2 dc in next dc, dc in next ch-1 space, 2 dc in next dc, ch 2) to corner shell, 5 dc in first dc of corner shell, ch 2, skip next ch-1 space, 5 dc in center dc of corner shell, ch 2, skip next ch-1 space, 5 dc in 3rd dc of corner shell, ch 2; repeat from * around, join with slip st to top of ch-3.
- Rnd 6: Ch 3, dc in each of next 4 dc, ch 2, *dc in next 5 dc, ch 2; repeat from * around; join with slip st to top of ch-3.
- Rnd 7: Ch 3, dc in first st, dc in next 3 dc, 2 dc in next dc, ch 2, dc2tog over next 2 dc, dc in next dc, dc2tog over next 2 dc, ch 2, *2 dc in next dc, dc in next 3 dc, 2 dc in next dc, ch 2, dc2tog over next 2 dc, dc in next dc, dc2tog over next 2 dc, ch 2; repeat from * around, join with slip st to top of beginning ch-3.
- Rnd 8: Ch 3, dc in first st, dc in next 5 dc, 2 dc in next dc, ch 2, dc3tog over next 3 dc, ch 2, *2 dc in next dc, dc in next 5 dc, 2 dc in next dc, ch 2, dc3tog over next 3 dc, ch 2; repeat from * around, join with slip st to top of beginning ch-3.
- Rnd 9: Ch 2, dc in next dc (counts as dc2tog), dc in next 5 dc, dc2tog over next 2 dc, ch 3, sc in top of next dc3tog, ch 3, *dc2tog over next 2 dc, dc in next 5 dc, dc2tog over next 2 dc, ch 3, sc in top of next dc3tog, ch 3; repeat from * around, join with slip st to top of beginning ch-2.
- Rnd 10: Ch 2, dc in next dc (counts as dc2tog), dc in next dc, picot, skip 1 dc, dc in next dc, dc2tog over next 2 dc, (ch 3, sc in next space) twice, ch 3, *dc2tog over next 2 dc, dc in next dc, picot, skip 1 dc, dc in next dc, dc2tog over next 2 dc, (ch 3, sc in next space) twice, ch 3; repeat from * around, join with slip st to top of beginning ch-2.
- Fasten off. Weave in ends.
Finishing
- Block center section to measure 181⁄2"/47 cm wide and 24"/61 cm long, then block the ruffle, pinning the picots to lie a little farther out than the ch-3 sections.
Ivory Dreams Blanket
Designed by Carrie Carpenter
The aptly named “Pound of Love” yarn works up quickly into a generously sized blanket. Worked in a simple stitch, the pattern is easy to memorize, and the blanket will delight a boy or a girl.
Finished Measurements
- Approximately 35"/89 cm square
Yarn
- Lion Brand Pound of Love, 100% premium acrylic, 1,020 yds (932 m)/16 oz (454 g), Color 099 Antique White
Crochet Hook
- US J/10 (6 mm) or size needed to obtain correct gauge
Gauge
- 4 pattern repeats and 8 rows = 4"/10 cm
- Note: Each (2 dc, ch 2, sc) counts as a pattern repeat.
Other Supplies
Pattern Essentials
Pattern Stitch (multiple of 3 stitches + 1)
Chain a multiple of 3 sts plus 1.
Set-Up Row: (Dc, ch 2, sc) in 4th ch from hook, *skip next 2 chs, (2 dc, ch 2, sc) in next ch; repeat from * across, turn.
Row 1: Ch 3 (counts as dc), (dc, ch 2, in first ch-2 space, (2 dc, ch 2, sc) in each ch-2 space across, turn.
Repeat Row 1 for pattern.
Crocheting the Blanket
- Chain 109. Work in Pattern Stitch (36 repeats per row) until piece is 35"/89 cm or desired length. Fasten off.
Finishing
- Weave in ends. Block lightly, if desired.
Flouncy Edged Blanket
Designed by Judith Durant
First crochet the body, then pick up around the edges, double the stitch count, and voilà, you’ve got a ruffle. Worked in V-stitch, the flouncy edge is finished with another little edging.
Finished Measurements
- Approximately 22"/56 cm by 29"/73.5 cm
Yarn
- Maple Creek Farm Sport Weight, 100% superwash merino wool, 770 yds (704 m)/8 oz (225 g), Periwinkle
Crochet Hook
- US H/8 (5 mm) or size needed to obtain correct gauge
Gauge
- 18 stitches and 18 rows = 4"/10 cm in body pattern before blocking
Other Supplies
- Stitch markers, yarn needle
Pattern Essentials
V-st (Dc, ch 1, dc) in 1 stitch or space.
Crocheting the Body
- Chain 72.
- Row 1 (WS): Skip 3 ch (counts as dc), sc in next ch, *dc in next ch, sc in next ch; repeat from * across. You now have 70 sts.
- Row 2: Ch 3 (counts as dc here and throughout), skip first sc, *sc in next dc, dc in next sc; repeat from * across, sc in top of turning ch.
- Repeat Row 2 ninety-two more times (94 rows total); piece measures approximately 21"/53.5 cm long.
Setting up for the Ruffle
- Turn to work down long edge of blanket.
- Rnd 1: Ch 1 (does not count as st), *2 sc in first row edge st, 1 sc in each row edge along side to last st on this side, 2 sc in last row edge st (you now have 96 sts along side 1); ch 2, 2 sc in next st, 1 sc in each st to last st on this edge, 2 sc in last st (you now have 72 sts along side 2 and a ch-2 space in corner), ch 2; repeat from * to end of side 4, join with slip st to first sc. You now have 336 sc plus ch-2 spaces in each corner.
- Rnd 2: *Ch 3, dc in each sc to corner, 3 dc in corner ch-2 space, pm in center st of these 3 dc to mark corner and move marker as you work the rnds; repeat from * to end of rnd, join with slip st to beginning ch. You now have 348 dc.
- Rnd 3: *Ch 3, dc in same space, 2 dc in each dc to corner st, 3 dc in corner st; repeat from * around, join with slip st to top of ch-3. You now have 704 dc.
Crocheting the Ruffle
Note: To work the corners, do not skip the sts before and after the corner st — V-st into 3 sts, then continue in pattern. The result is that you’ll have 5 V-sts together with no slipped sts between.
- Rnd 1: Ch 4 (counts as dc and ch-1 throughout), dc in same space (counts as V-st), *(skip 1 dc, V-st in next dc) to corner st, V-st in next 3 dc; repeat from * around, ending skip 1 dc, join with slip st to 3rd ch of ch-4.
- Rnd 2: Slip st in first ch-space, ch 4, dc in same space, V-st in each ch-1 space around, join with slip st to 3rd ch of ch-4.
- Rnd 3: Slip st in first ch-space, ch 4, dc in same space, *V-st in each ch-1 space to corner, V-st in space before corner V-st, V-st in corner V-st, V-st in space before next V-st, repeat from * around, V-st in each V-st to beginning of rnd, join with slip st to 3rd ch of ch-4.
- Rnd 4–7: Repeat Rnds 2 and 3 twice more.
- Rnd 8: Ch 1, (sc, ch 2, dc, ch 2, sc) in each ch-space around, join with slip st to first sc. Fasten off.
Finishing
- Weave in ends. Wet block to finished measurements.
Vaya con Dios Stroller Blanket
Designed by Robin Nickerson
Beginning with a square motif, this stroller or car-seat blanket is worked outward in bands of texture and lace until the skein is finished. This is a great project for baby yarns with long color changes.
Finished Measurements
- Approximately 20"/51 cm square
Yarn
- James C. Brett Magi-Knit Baby DK, 90% acrylic/10% nylon, 328 yds (300 m)/3.5 oz (100 g), Color 3047 Tans & Blues
Crochet Hook
- US I/9 (5.5 mm) or size needed to obtain correct gauge
Gauge
- Rounds 1–5 = 41⁄2"/11.5 cm square
Other Supplies
Pattern Essentials
Corner V-st (corner V-st) (Dc, ch 2, dc) in 1 stitch or space.
V-st (V-stitch) (Dc, ch 1, dc) in 1 stitch or space.
Crocheting the Blanket
See the chart below.
- Ch 4, join with slip st to first ch to form a ring.
- Rnd 1: Ch 3 (counts as dc here and throughout), 15 dc in ring, join with slip st to top of ch-3. You now have 16 dc.
- Rnd 2: Ch 3, dc in same st, dc in next dc, *2 dc in next dc, dc in next dc; repeat from * around, join with slip st to top of ch-3. You now have 24 dc.
- Rnd 3: Repeat Rnd 2. You now have 36 dc.
- Rnd 4: Ch 3, dc in same st, dc in next 2 dc, *2 dc in next dc, dc in next 2 dc; repeat from * around, join with slip st to top of ch-3. You now have 48 dc.
- Rnd 5: Ch 5 (counts as dc and ch-2 here and throughout), dc in same st, skip next st, *(V-st in next st, skip 1 st) five times, corner V-st in next st; repeat from * around, omitting last corner V-st, join with slip st to 3rd ch of ch-5. You now have 20 V-sts and 4 corner V-sts.
- Rnd 6: Slip st in next ch-2 space, ch 4 (counts as dc and ch-1 here and throughout), (dc, ch 1, corner V-st, ch 1, V-st) in same space, *dc in next ch-1 space, (ch 1, sc in next space) three times, ch 1, dc in next space**, (V-st, ch 1, corner V-st, ch 1, V-st) in next corner ch-2 space; repeat from * around, ending last repeat at **, join with slip st to 3rd ch of ch-4.
- Rnd 7: Ch 3 (counts as dc here and throughout), (dc in next space, dc in next dc) twice, *(2 dc, ch 2, 2 dc) in next corner space**, dc in each dc and ch-1 space to corner space; repeat from * around, ending last repeat at **, dc in each dc and ch-1 space to end, join with slip st to top of ch-3. You now have 23 dc per side and 4 ch-2 corner spaces.
- Rnd 8: Slip st in next st, ch 4 (counts as dc and ch-1), dc in same st (counts as V-st throughout), skip 2 dc, V-st in next dc, *skip 2 dc, (V-st, ch 2, V-st) in next corner space**, (skip 2 dc, V-st in next dc) to 2 sts before corner space; repeat from * around, ending last repeat at **, (skip 2 dc, V-st in next dc) five times, skip 2 dc, join with slip st to 3rd ch of ch-4.
- Rnd 9: Ch 1, sc in each ch-1 space and each dc around, placing (2 sc, ch 2, 2 sc) in each ch-2 corner space, join with slip st to first sc. You now have 31 sc per side and 4 ch-2 corner spaces.
- Rnd 10: Ch 4 (counts as tr here and throughout), tr in each sc and (tr, ch 3, tr) in each corner space around, join with slip st to top of ch-4. You now have 33 tr per side and 4 ch-3 corner spaces.
- Rnd 11: Ch 4, tr in next tr, *(ch 2, skip 2 tr, tr in next 3 tr) to corner space, ch 2, 3 tr in corner space, ch 2, tr in next 3 tr; repeat from * around, ending last repeat (ch 3, skip 2 tr, tr in next 3 tr) to last 3 sts, ch 2, skip 2 tr, tr in last tr, join with slip st to top of ch-4.
- Rnd 12: Slip st to next space, ch 4, 2 tr in same space, *(ch 2, 3 tr in next space) to corner, *ch 1, skip 1 tr, 2 tr in next corner tr, ch 3, 2 tr in next tr, ch 1, 3 tr in next space; repeat from * around, ending last repeat (ch 2, 3 tr in next space) to end, ch 2, join with slip st to top of ch-4.
- Rnd 13: Ch 4, tr in each tr and space around, placing (2 tr, ch 3, 2 tr) in each corner space, join with slip st to top of ch-4. You now have 41 tr per side.
- Rnd 14: Ch 1, sc in each tr and (2 sc, ch 3, 2 sc) in each corner space around, join with slip to first sc. You now have 45 sc per side.
- Rnd 15: Slip st in next st, ch 4, dc in same st, *(skip 2 sc, V-st in next sc) to 1 st before corner space, *skip 1 sc, corner V-st in corner space, skip 1 sc, V-st in next sc; repeat from * around, ending (skip 2 sc, V-st in next sc) to last 2 sc, skip 2 sc, join with slip st to 3rd ch of ch-4.
- Rnd 16: Slip st in next ch-1 space, ch 3, 2 dc in each space between V-sts and 1 dc in each ch-1 space at center of V-sts around, placing (dc, ch 3, dc) in each corner space, join with slip st to top of ch-3. You now have 49 dc per side.
- Rnds 17–18: Ch 3 (counts as dc), dc in each st, placing (2 dc, ch 3, 2 dc) in each corner space around, join with slip st to top of ch-3. You now have 57 dc per side.
- Rnd 19: Ch 4, dc in same st, *(skip 2 dc, V-st in next dc) to 1 st before corner space, *skip 1 dc, (dc, ch 3, dc) in corner space, skip 1 dc, V-st in next dc; repeat from * around, ending (skip 2 dc, V-st in next dc) to last 2 dc, skip 2 dc, join with slip st to 3rd ch of ch-4.
- Rnds 20–21: Slip st in next ch-1 space, ch 4, dc in same st, V-st in center of each V-st and (dc, ch 3, dc) in each corner space around, join with slip st to 3rd ch of ch-4.
- Rnd 22: Slip st in next ch-1 space, ch 3, 2 dc in each space between V-sts and 1 dc in each ch-1 space at center of V-sts around, placing (2 dc, ch 3, 2 dc) in each corner space, join with slip st to top of ch-3.
- Rnd 23: Ch 2 (counts as hdc), hdc in each st and 4 hdc in each corner space around, join with slip st to top of ch-2.
- Rnd 24: Ch 1, sc in each st around, placing 2 sc between 2 center hdc’s of each 4-hdc corner, join with slip st to first sc.
- Fasten off. Weave in ends.
Sweet Baby James
Designed by Sharon Ballsmith
This sweet little blanket is worked from the center out, turning after each round, in an easy-to-memorize stitch pattern. A border of playful circle fringes adds the finishing touch.
Finished Measurements
- Approximately 31"/79 cm square
Yarn
- Lion Brand Pound of Love, 100% premium acrylic, 1,020 yds (932 m)/16 oz (454 g), Color 106 Light Baby Blue
Crochet Hook
- US H/8 (5 mm) or size needed to obtain correct gauge
Gauge
- Rounds 1–5 = 4"/10 cm square
Other Supplies
Pattern Essentials
Beg cluster (beginning cluster) FLsc in st indicated, (ch 1, dc) in same st.
Circle-fringe Ch 2, work 7 sc in back bump (see Working in back bump of chain) of 2nd ch from hook.
First corner (2-dc cluster, dc, hdc) in st indicated.
Hdc shell (worked over 2 sts) Hdc in first st, 2 BLhdc in next st.
Second corner (Hdc, dc, 2-dc cluster) in st indicated.
Crocheting the Blanket
Note: Do not ch 1 at beginning of the following rnds.
- Rnd 2 (WS): (Beg cluster, dc, hdc) in first cluster (counts as first corner), *second corner in next cluster**, first corner in next cluster; repeat from * around, ending last repeat at **, join with slip st to top of dc of beg cluster, turn. You now have 4 first corners and 4 second corners.
- Rnd 3: (Beg cluster, dc, hdc) in first cluster, *skip next st, hdc shell over next 2 sts, skip next st, second corner in next cluster**, first corner in next cluster; repeat from * around, ending last repeat at **, join with slip st to top of dc of beg cluster, turn. You now have 4 first corners, 4 second corners, and 4 hdc shells.
- Rnd 4: (Beg cluster, dc, hdc) in first cluster, *skip next st, (hdc shell, skip next st) to next cluster, second corner in next cluster**, first corner in next cluster; repeat from * around, ending last repeat at **, join with slip st in top of dc of beg cluster, turn. You now have 4 first corners, 4 second corners, and 8 hdc shells.
- Rnds 5–40: Repeat Rnd 4. Do not fasten off. You now have 4 first corners, 4 second corners, and 152 hdc shells.
Crocheting the Edging
- With RS facing, (sc, work circle-fringe, sc) in next cluster, skip next st, *[(sc, circle-fringe, sc) in next st, skip next st] across to next cluster, (sc, circle-fringe, sc) in next 2 clusters; repeat from * around, ending last repeat (sc, circle-fringe, sc) in last cluster, join with slip st to first sc. You now have 164 circle-fringes. Fasten off.
Finishing
Grey Coverlet
Designed by Julie Blagojevich
Laceweight yarn, a reversible stitch pattern, and an easy-as-pie border combine to make an heirloom-quality, summer-weight blanket.
Finished Measurements
- 26"/66 cm wide and 36"/91 cm long, blocked
Yarn
- Tanis Fiber Arts Pink Label Lace Weight, 100% superwash merino wool, 1,000 yds (914 m)/4 oz (113 g), Chris Grey
Crochet Hook
- US G/6 (4 mm) or size needed to obtain correct gauge
Gauge
- 20 stitches and 20 rows = 4"/10 cm in Openwork pattern
Other Supplies
- Yarn needle, blocking tools
Pattern Essentials
Openwork Pattern (multiple of 2 stitches + 1)
Row 1: Ch 1, sc in first sc, *dc in next dc, sc in next sc; repeat from * across, turn.
Row 2: Ch 1, sc in first sc, *ch 1, skip 1 dc, sc in next sc; repeat from * across, turn.
Row 3: Ch 1, sc in first sc, *dc in ch-1 space, sc in next sc; repeat from * across, turn.
Repeat Rows 1–3 for pattern.
Crocheting the Body
- Chain 100.
- Set-Up Row 1: Sc in 2nd ch from hook and in each remaining ch across. You now have 99 sc.
- Set-Up Row 2: Ch 1, sc in first sc, *dc in next sc, sc in next sc; repeat from * across, turn.
- Rows 1–126: Work Rows 1–3 of Openwork pattern 42 times. Do not turn at end of last row.
Crocheting the Edging
Notes: The edging will be worked in rounds around the outer edge of the blanket. On the two sides containing row ends, work stitches into spaces by wrapping the stitch around the last stitch in the row. When working into the foundation edge, work clusters over the foundation ch into the sc spaces.
Proceed around blanket as follows.
- Rnd 1: Ch 3, dc in the side of the last sc in the previous row (counts as first 2-dc cluster); continuing down side of blanket, 2-dc cluster in each row end until to first corner (you now have 128 clusters), ch 2, 2-dc cluster in same space (corner made); working along opposite side of foundation ch, 2-dc cluster in each remaining sc space across (you now have 99 clusters along this edge), ch 2, 2-dc cluster in same space (corner made); 2-dc cluster in each remaining row end along side of blanket, ch 2, 2-dc cluster in same space (corner made); 2-dc cluster in each remaining st along final side, placing last cluster in same st as first cluster of rnd, ch 2, join with slip st to top of ch-3. You now have 454 clusters and 4 ch-2 corners.
- Rnd 2: Ch 3, dc in first cluster (counts as first 2-dc cluster), 2-dc cluster in each cluster and (2-dc cluster) three times each corner space around, join with slip st to top of ch 3. You now have 466 clusters.
- Rnd 3: Ch 2 (counts as hdc), picot, skip next cluster, *hdc in next cluster, picot, skip next cluster; repeat from * around, join with slip st in top of beginning ch-2.
- Rnd 4: Slip st in next space just before the picot, ch 1, sc in same space, ch 3, sc in space just after same picot (the sc are on either side of the picot, and the 3 chains float over the picot), *sc in next space just before the next picot, ch 3, sc in space just after same picot; repeat from * around, join with slip st to first sc.
- Rnd 5: Ch 1, sc in same st, picot, sc in next sc, *sc in next sc, picot, sc in next sc; repeat from * around, join with slip st to first sc.
- Fasten off. Weave in ends.
- Block.
Baptism Blanket
Designed by Judith Durant
A winter baptism may call for a little extra warmth, and this blanket will provide that as well as beauty. The pattern works up quickly and is enlarged through blocking.
Finished Measurements
- 16"/40.5 cm wide and 18"/45.5 cm long without border, unblocked
- 22"/56 cm by 24"/61 cm without border, blocked
Yarn
- Valley Yarns Charlemont, 60% superwash merino wool/20% mulberry silk/20% nylon, 439 yds (401 m)/3.75 oz (100 g), Natural
- Note: Blanket used all but 3 yds/3 m of the skein.
Crochet Hook
- US G/6 (4 mm) or size needed to obtain correct gauge
Gauge
- 20 stitches and 11 rows = 4"/10 cm in pattern, unblocked
Other Supplies
- Yarn needle, blocking tools
Pattern Essentials
Blanket Pattern (multiple of 3 stitches + 2, add 2 for base chain)
Row 1: 3 dc in 5th chain from hook, *skip 2 ch, 3 dc in next ch; repeat from * to last 2 ch, skip 1 ch, dc in last ch, turn.
Row 2: Ch 3 (counts as dc), skip next dc, 3 dc in next dc, *skip next 2 dc, 3 dc in next dc; repeat from * across, ending with skip 1 dc, dc in top of turning ch, turn.
Repeat Row 2 for pattern.
Tr2tog (treble crochet 2 together) *Yo (twice), insert hook in st or space indicated and pull up a loop, (yo and pull through 2 loops on hook) twice, repeat from * once, yo, draw yarn through 3 loops on hook.
Crocheting the Blanket
- Chain 82.
- Work Blanket pattern over 80 sts for 50 rows total.
The Border
- Rnd 1: Ch 1, sc in next st and each st across to corner (80 sts); turn 90°, work 2 sc in each row-end st across to next corner (100 sts); turn 90°, sc in each st across (80 sts), turn 90°, work 2 sc in each row-end st across to next corner (100 sts), join with slip st to first sc. You now have 360 sts.
- Rnd 2: Ch 4 (counts as first leg of first tr2tog, skip next 3 sts, tr in next st, ch 5, *tr2tog working first leg in same st as previous tr, skip next 3 sts, work next leg in next st, ch 5; repeat from * around, working ch-7 loops at corners instead of ch-5 loops; join with slip st to top of beginning ch-4, slip st in next ch-5 space.
- Rnd 3: Ch 1, 5 sc in each ch-5 space and 7 sc in each ch-7 loop around, join with slip st to first sc. Fasten off.
Finishing
- Weave in ends. Block to finished measurements.
