Monday 7 November 2016

The Enormous, Squishy Blanket

It's that time of year when scarves, gloves, boots and warm coats come out of hiding.
And inside the house, there's a need to find the winter duvets, hot water bottles and of course, the blankets.

Ah, yes. The blankets.


Regular readers will know that my success with blankets is very limited. I make a good start, but that's all it ever is - a start.
The problem for me is that I get bored, I lose interest.
And it goes into the WIP pile of stuff and never re-surfaces.


Until now.
You see, I've discovered that if you choose really big squishy yarn, you get a really big squishy blanket in no time at all.
And using this principle, I've already made 2 (yes, 2!!) blankets for my next book.

This is my 3rd:

 

Isn't it a beauty?  I found this yarn from B&M homestores, but you could use any yarn you like.


And you can make this any size you like, too. Simply adjust the number of chains in your foundation and alter the number of rows you complete.


Enormous, Squishy Blanket Pattern (US pattern below)
 Finished size : 140 x 180 cm

UK pattern:

Stitches used:
Chain = ch
Double crochet = dc
Half-treble crochet = htr
Treble crochet = tr
Skip stitch = sk st

I used 27 x 150g balls of Cable Knit super-chunky yarn and a 15mm hook. (4 x blue, 5 x cream, 9 x coral, 9 x grey)

Chain 69 (any odd number of stitches will work)
Row 1- 64: ch1, (1htr, 1tr) in 2nd stitch from hook, sk st, *(1dc, 1tr) in next st, sk st; repeat from *. 1dc in last st. Turn.
Fasten off, weave in ends.

Colour changes:
Rows 1-2: Cream
Rows 3-4: Blue
Rows 5-6: Cream
Rows 7-8: Blue
Rows 9-10: Cream
Rows 11-21: Coral
Rows 22-43: Grey
Rows 44-54: Coral
Rows 55-56: Cream
Rows 57-58: Blue
Rows 59-60: Cream
Rows 61-62: Blue
Rows 63-64: Cream


US pattern:
Stitches used:
Chain = ch
Single crochet = sc
Double crochet = dc
Half-double crochet = hdc
Skip stitch = sk st

I used 27 x 150g balls of Cable Knit super-chunky yarn and a 15mm hook. (4 x blue, 5 x cream, 9 x coral, 9 x grey)

Chain 69 (any odd number of stitches will work)

Row 1- 64: ch1, (1hdc, 1dc) in 2nd stitch from hook, sk st, *(1sc, 1dc) in next st, sk st; repeat from *. 1sc in last st. Turn.
Fasten off, weave in ends.


Colour changes:
Rows 1-2: Cream
Rows 3-4: Blue
Rows 5-6: Cream
Rows 7-8: Blue
Rows 9-10: Cream
Rows 11-21: Coral
Rows 22-43: Grey
Rows 44-54: Coral
Rows 55-56: Cream
Rows 57-58: Blue
Rows 59-60: Cream
Rows 61-62: Blue
Rows 63-64: Cream



The Mister despairs. Where on earth are all these big blankets going to live, he wonders?

I ignore him, of course and plan to make more ginormous blankets in every colour of the rainbow.

Enjoy your week!
Sarah xx   

87 comments:

  1. Wowza! What a blanket. It certainly looks smooshy and warm to cuddle up in. I haven't made a blanket for ages. After 2 ft, I get anxious.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you!
      It most certainly is a snuggly one.
      Have a great week,
      Sarah x

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    2. Did you use grey yarn for this one? I don’t see it in the list of color changes.

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    3. Hi!
      Yes I do use grey - it’s right there, listed in rows 22 - 43.
      Sarah

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  2. That is genius! I have a lot of ahem..."scarves" around the place, blankets that I started and lost the will to finish. Chunky is the way! :)

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    Replies
    1. Yesssss! I should actually make my fledgling blankets into scarves- that is a GENIUS idea!!!

      Delete
  3. Fabulous! Ordering yarn now. Thank you so much for sharing the pattern Sarah. Have a lovely weekend. Jane x

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    Replies
    1. Wow! Sounds like you're going to be very busy!
      Enjoy making,
      Sarah xx

      Delete
  4. Wow, your blanket looks so squishy and inviting! I love the colours you've chosen too. Very homely yet modern.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks, Bekki,
      It is absolutely squishy and lovely! Although I have to keep moaning at the dog to get off it!!!
      Have a great week,
      Sarah x

      Delete
  5. Utterly beautiful and amazing - well done you! It weighs 4kg??

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks so much!
      And yes, it is a heavy beast, but so squishy!!
      Enjoy your weekend,
      Sarah x

      Delete
  6. Love this! I am the queen ofor unfinished projects too! I've already started this and it is going super fast! Faster than my attention span, which means I may finish a project for once!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Oh I'm so pleased to hear that it's not just me who never finishes things- glad you're enjoying your blanket!
      Have a great week,
      Sarah xx

      Delete
  7. Is there a site online that you can buy that kind of yarn from? I am unable to find it around here. :( Thanks

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. This particular yarn is only available in store, but you'll be able to find similar online. Look for super-bulky yarn and have fun!!
      Sarah x

      Delete
  8. This is Awesome!!! May I ask where you get your yarn from? I can't seem to find this brand or type of yarn at any of the local stores here.
    Thank you

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Gloria,
      This yarn came from B&M Home stores - you could try Drops Polaris or Stylecraft XL for something similar. I often buy my yarn online.
      Sarah x

      Delete
  9. Any recommendations on the US equivalent of this yarn?

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    Replies
    1. Hi Angie,
      When substituting yarn, look for something which recommends a similar hook size- this yarn recommends a 12mm. I've had a quick look at Hobby Lobby (oh my goodness- some GORGEOUS stuff there!!) and I've found Yarn Bee Astounding yarn or Bernat Mega Bulky or Bernat Blanket yarn. They all suggest different sized hooks, so just make sure you adjust your foundation chain and the number of rows you complete to suit you.
      Enjoy making,
      Sarah x
      Delete

      Delete
    2. I use Lion Brand Homespun (2 strands at a time) or Bernat Blanket yarn...both super soft and wash well in the machine. I also use a N-Q hooks. The yarns can be found at Michael's, Joanna, Wal-Mart, and at Hobby Lobby.

      Delete
  10. I would love to make this blanket the yarn looks so comfy!! I don't believe I can get this yarn in the states is there another brand that you think would be comparable?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi there,
      When substituting yarn, look for something which recommends a similar hook size- this yarn recommends a 12mm. I've had a quick look at Hobby Lobby (oh my goodness- some GORGEOUS stuff there!!) and I've found Yarn Bee Astounding yarn or Bernat Mega Bulky or Bernat Blanket yarn. They all suggest different sized hooks, so just make sure you adjust your foundation chain and the number of rows you complete to suit you.
      Enjoy making,
      Sarah x

      Delete
  11. Beautiful work do you chain 1 at end of each row? It says ch 1 after chaining 69 then says to proceed to do the pattern stitches in second chain from hook confused. LOL :) or does that ch 1 refer to end of each row?. Thank you for sharing such a beautiful pattern.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Oh you're very welcome!
      The ch1 at the beginning of rows 1-64 is just the turning chain, so yes all stitches begin in the 2nd st from your hook.
      Hope that helps!
      Sarah x

      Delete
  12. You gave me a courage, I think I should start one like your's now thankyou very much, don't tell anyone, but about 3 blanket I started very long time ago and that is it.. lol...

    ReplyDelete
  13. Love this! Is that a toddler or twin size mattress?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Jamie- it's a U.K. single sized bed- is that the same as a twin mattress?? Basically I can fit on the bed, so it's bigger than a toddler.
      Hope that helps!!!!
      Sarah x

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  14. Thanks it sure does. I'm so excited, I'm making my first blanket with this! Thank you for sharing!

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  15. Yes it did, thank you! Also, are did you sk st in the same hole as the (sc dc) or in the next?

    ReplyDelete
  16. Ahhh nvm I was misreading your abbreviations. Lol! Frogging my first row;) woohoo!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Oooops! Sounds like you're on track now!
      Good luck x

      Delete
  17. How many yard of yaén are on each skein please

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    Replies
    1. Hi - I don't think any yardage was given on the label. Sorry.
      Sarah x

      Delete
  18. Oh man I love this. Hubby won't be happy. I've been looking for blankets to crochet to use up my humungoid pile of stash yarn and I've just found an excuse to buy more lololol.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hehe! Ignore the hubby - I find it's the best way when it comes to crochet! Enjoy making your blanket.
      Sarah x

      Delete
  19. Any chance they have the yarn anywhere else? Or a number or manufacturer info to contact! I would love to get my hands on that yarn but I only see it in UK

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Julie,
      So glad you like the blanket. I've had a look, but it seems that this yarn is exclusive to one shop in the UK - the pattern works with any weight yarn, so I hope you find something similar elsewhere!
      Kind regards,
      Sarah

      Delete
  20. Wow ! That's really pretty. How many ch st and how many rows would you recommend for baby blanket? I'm a retired grandma wannabe who hasn't crocheted in almost 45 years but I would love to get back to it and several friends are about to have grandchildren.

    Thanks!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Kathy!
      So pleased you like the blanket.
      If you want to make a baby blanket using this yarn, or similar, then I'd recommend around 29 foundation chain and 35 rows. The great thing about this pattern is that you can adjust it to suit the yarn of your choice. If you want to make the blanket in DK or Aran weight yarn, then you'll probably find the original pattern will work!
      Hope that helps.
      Kind regards
      Sarah xx

      Delete
  21. Can you tell me the name of the stitch used here? I'm new at crochet and would like to find a video tutorial of this stitch. Thanks!

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    Replies
    1. Hi! I think it might be a seed stitch.
      Hope that helps!
      Sarah x

      Delete
  22. Hi...I am currently constructing this blanket and think there is a typo in the pattern. The number of cream stitches just before the coral is 11 but visually it is 2. The following coral is row 21 to 45....a total of 24 rows...then the grey only has 10 rows given. This error is going to mix up any beginnerrors and perhaps the row colour changes can be altered to match the pictures included. I just thought you might like to know. My blanket is beautiful in navy, Burgundy and gold.... Y

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Suzy,
      Thanks so much for your comment.
      I've checked the pattern and there isn't an error, but I've changed the layout of the colour changes to make them easier to read.
      Your blanket colours sound wonderful!
      Enjoy making,
      Sarah xx

      Delete
  23. Michaels in the US and in Canada sell a similar yarn in Bernat

    ReplyDelete
  24. Good morning! I'm a bit of a beginner with crochet, but am going to try this blanket! I have a twin bed, as well as a queen bed, I'd like to try this on!

    In searching for yarn substitutes, I did some digging and found Michael's has a similar one, which is 76% Acrylic 20% Alpaca & 4% Rayon. The name is Yarn Bee Effortless Super Bulky Yarn. Because of the alpaca in it, it can shed at first. I made hats for my co-workers for the holidays out of this same yarn and they loved them!

    I will also look at the other substitutes, but like the idea of using the yarn I mention. Can't wait to see how this turns out! Thanks for sharing!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Nancy!
      That's fabulous!! Thanks for sharing the yarn alternatives- so kind of you.
      I really hope you enjoy making your own enormous blanket!!
      Sarah xxx

      Delete
  25. Sarah,
    I too just love your blanket!!! Kudos to you!!! Would you ever consider attaching a quick video demostrating the pattern? I know how to crochet, but only basic stuff for the most part. Visuals are super helpful. Can't wait to start mine, yarn is in the mail!!!
    Thank so much in advance for considering!!
    Emily

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks, Emily.
      Yes, I absolutely must find time to make a video for this!!
      Thanks, Sarah x

      Delete
  26. Sarah,
    I too just love your blanket!!! Kudos to you!!! Would you ever consider attaching a quick video demostrating the pattern? I know how to crochet, but only basic stuff for the most part. Visuals are super helpful. Can't wait to start mine, yarn is in the mail!!!
    Thank so much in advance for considering!!
    Emily

    ReplyDelete
  27. I adore this! I saw on pinterest and immediately it caught my eye. About how long would you say it took you to make? I'm wondering if I have time to make as a gift for my cousin's wedding. Shower is in a few weeks. The color combination is perfect! <3

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    Replies
    1. Hi Kerri!
      Choose the biggest yarn you can get your hands on and I promise you this is the quickest project to complete!! I think it took me a couple of days !!

      Delete
  28. I was looking for another pattern and this is it! I'm making "chunky" blankets for each granddaughter for Christmas...one down, two to go! I call them "boyfriend" blankets and I'm going to insert a note that tells them to cuddle up with this blanket instead of their boyfriend! HAHAHA! Off to Michael's today with a 50% off coupon to buy some Bernat Blanket yarn...and a 40% off coupon from Joann's Fabrics! Thank you for sharing this one!

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    Replies
    1. Hi Mona,
      Glad you like the blanket! I love your idea of boyfriend blankets, too 😂 Enjoy crocheting them!
      Wishing you a happy weekend
      Sarah xx

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  29. ohhhhhh, looks so fun. Nice, warn and snugly. I love blankets. I also hoard pillows. But my one true love [besides my dear hubby] is blankets.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Yes, I'm a bit of a pillow hoarder, too!!!!
      Have a great week,
      Sarah

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  30. I love this. And with this plan I might manage to make blankets for my 3 very young grandchildren (4, 2, & 1 yo) before they hit college. Thank you.

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  31. This might have already been asked but is this one stand at a time of a super bulky yarn or 2.

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    Replies
    1. Hi Laurie - This was one strand (it was MEGA bulky) but you could easily use two 👌👌
      Sarah x

      Delete
  32. Hi, I absolutely love this blanket! I noticed that the pattern states above it "UK'. At
    e these written for there or the US? Thank you

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    Replies
    1. Hi! I’ve written the pattern in UK terms and below it, US terms. Crochet stitches are known slightly differently, depending on which version you have learned.
      Hope that helps,
      Sarah

      Delete
  33. I love this patter. Thank yoi for sharing. I am.a new crocheter and have a silly question. When you are working the same colour do you fasten off at the end of each row or do you just turn and continue?

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    Replies
    1. Hi Denise
      How exciting that you’re learning to crochet! And don’t worry it’s not a silly question at all. When you’re working in the same colour just keep going – you only need to fasten off when you’re changing colour.
      Hope that helps,
      Enjoy crocheting!
      Sarah

      Delete
  34. Hi. I absolutely love this but i am rubbish at following patterns. Is there a name for this stitch so i could maybe find a video? Many thanks

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  35. I store my blankets in an old wooden trunk that we use for a coffee table. I have 6 in there now.

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    Replies
    1. That’s a great idea! I must get one of those. So practical 👌👌

      Delete
  36. Hi sarah, my blanket is getting wider with each row. Do u have any tips on how I can fix this. For example on 1 row I count 63 stitches then the following row I count 65 stitches.

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    Replies
    1. Hi Milonda,
      Hmmmm, that’s a tricky question. Often, I find people encounter problems at the beginnings and ends of each row - so this might be where your problem lies? Don’t forget that there should only be one stitch in your final stitch of each row - and perhaps check that you are skipping a stitch after every dc/tr - it might be that you’ve missed one out.
      I hope that helps!
      Enjoy your blanket,
      Sarah x

      Delete
  37. Hi!love this pattern. Quick question. Each row are you stitching into the sc or the dc from the last row?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks, Maegen
      Your first stitch is in the sc from the previous row.
      Enjoy making
      Sarah xx

      Delete
  38. Thinking of doing this for my daughters birthday! What do the * indicate in the US pattern?

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    Replies
    1. Hi Misty,
      The * indicates from where the repeats are made.
      Enjoy making!

      Sarah x

      Delete
  39. I love the colours you've chosen too. Very homely yet modern.

    ReplyDelete
  40. Hi
    So third times a charm. I have no idea if this is posting or not but do you have a YouTube video showing how to make this blanket? I’m new to crochet and I want to learn how to make this blanket, I think it’s perfect! Thank you!

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    Replies
    1. Hi Mercedes - sorry but I don’t have a video for this.
      Kindest regards, sarah

      Delete
  41. How many balls of yarn are used?

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    Replies
    1. Hi - as it says at the top of the pattern- 27. Details of the colours are there too.

      Delete
  42. Hi Sarah, Happy New Year! So happy to have found you easy, fun, quick and pretty pattern! In the States, Bernat Blanket Yarn or Lion Brand Hometown, which is what I'm using- its coming out so pretty! And of course, will be a gift, as they all are! I may have to make one for myself this time! Thanks again!

    ReplyDelete
  43. Is this a US pattern or a UK pattern? A TR and a HTR are different for US. This is confusing me. Thanks!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Both versions are given : U.K. at the top and as it says in the pattern, US below.

      Enjoy making!

      Delete
  44. Thanks for responding to my previous question. I just finished it! Did you use a border? If so, what type of border did you choose? Thanks!

    ReplyDelete

I'd love to hear from you, so leave a comment or ask a question and l'll reply to you right here.
Have a fab day.
Sarah Xx