Learn how to knit a big blanket: Easy step-by-step guide

If you’ve ever wanted to cozy up in a warm, handmade blanket, knitting your own is a rewarding and fulfilling experience. Knitting a big blanket may seem intimidating, but with the right guidance, it can be a fun and relaxing project.

In this step-by-step guide, we’ll walk you through the process of knitting a big blanket from start to finish. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced knitter, you’ll find useful tips and techniques to help you create a beautiful and soft blanket that will keep you warm for years to come.

First, we’ll cover the materials you’ll need for this project, including the right yarn and knitting needles. Then, we’ll guide you through casting on, creating the foundation for your blanket. We’ll teach you basic knitting stitches, such as the knit and purl stitches, and show you how to knit rows and rows of cozy fabric.

As you progress, we’ll also discuss how to change colors, add patterns, and create texture in your blanket. We’ll provide detailed instructions and clear illustrations to make it easy for you to follow along. By the end of this guide, you’ll have a beautiful, handmade blanket that you can be proud of.

Learn knitting techniques for a big blanket

If you want to learn how to knit a big blanket, there are several key knitting techniques that you should familiarize yourself with. These techniques will help you create a beautiful and cozy blanket that you’ll be proud to show off.

Casting on: Before you start knitting, you’ll need to cast on your stitches. There are different methods for casting on, but the long tail cast-on method is commonly used for blankets. It creates a neat and stretchy edge.
Knit stitch: The knit stitch is the most basic knitting stitch and is used in almost every knitting project. It creates a smooth and flat fabric. To knit a stitch, insert the right needle into the first stitch on the left needle from left to right, wrap the yarn around the right needle, and pull the loop through the stitch.
Purl stitch: The purl stitch is another basic knitting stitch that is often used in combination with the knit stitch. It creates a bumpy texture on the fabric. To purl a stitch, insert the right needle into the first stitch on the left needle from right to left, wrap the yarn around the right needle, and pull the loop through the stitch.
Ribbing: Ribbing is a knitting technique that creates a stretchy and textured fabric. It is often used for the borders of blankets. Ribbing is created by alternating knit and purl stitches in a specific pattern, such as K1, P1 or K2, P2.
Decreasing: Decreasing is a technique used to shape your knitting project. It involves reducing the number of stitches on your needles. There are different methods of decreasing, such as knitting two stitches together (K2tog) or slipping a stitch and passing it over (SSK).
Binding off: Once you have completed your blanket, you’ll need to bind off your stitches to secure the final row. This prevents the stitches from unraveling. To bind off, knit the first two stitches, then insert the left needle into the first stitch on the right needle, lift it up and over the second stitch, and let it drop off the needle.

By mastering these knitting techniques, you’ll have all the skills you need to create a big blanket. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced knitter, practicing these techniques will help you improve your knitting skills and create beautiful blankets.

Get started: Basic knitting skills

Knitting is a versatile and enjoyable craft that allows you to create beautiful and functional pieces. Whether you want to knit a big blanket or start small with a scarf, it’s important to start with the basics. Here are some essential knitting skills to get you started:

Casting on: The first step in knitting is casting on, which is how you get your initial stitches on the needle. There are different methods for casting on, such as the long-tail cast on or the knitted cast on. Choose a method that you find comfortable and follow a tutorial to learn the steps.
Knit stitch: The knit stitch is the most basic stitch in knitting. It creates a smooth and flat surface and is commonly used in many knitting patterns. To knit a stitch, insert the right-hand needle into the front of the first stitch on the left-hand needle, wrap the yarn around the right-hand needle, and pull it through the stitch.
Purl stitch: The purl stitch is the opposite of the knit stitch and creates a bumpy texture on the fabric. To purl a stitch, insert the right-hand needle into the front of the first stitch on the left-hand needle from right to left, wrap the yarn around the right-hand needle, and pull it through the stitch.
Knitting in the round: When knitting a big blanket, you may want to knit in the round to create a seamless piece. This is done using circular knitting needles or double-pointed needles. The technique is similar to knitting flat, but you join the ends of the knitted fabric to form a circle.
Increasing and decreasing: To shape your knitted piece, you will need to know how to increase and decrease stitches. There are different methods for increasing and decreasing, such as yarn overs, knit2gether, or knit2tog. These techniques are used to add or subtract stitches and create shaping in your knitting.
Binding off: When you are finished knitting your project, you will need to bind off or cast off the stitches. This is how you secure the stitches and create a finished edge. To bind off, knit the first two stitches, and then use the left-hand needle to lift the first stitch over the second stitch and off the needle. Repeat this process until you have one stitch remaining, and then cut the yarn and pull it through the last stitch.

Remember, practice makes perfect when it comes to knitting. Start with small projects and gradually work your way up to bigger projects like a blanket. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes and learn from them. With time and patience, you’ll be able to knit beautiful and cozy pieces to enjoy or give as gifts.

Choose the right yarn and needles

Before you start knitting your big blanket, it’s important to choose the right yarn and needles. Here are some tips to help you make the best choices:

Consider the yarn weight: The weight of the yarn refers to its thickness. For a big blanket, you’ll want to choose a bulky or super bulky weight yarn. These thicker yarns will create a cozy and warm blanket.
Check the yarn composition: Different yarns are made from different types of fibers, such as wool, acrylic, cotton, or a blend. Consider the properties of the fiber, such as softness, warmth, and washability, to choose the yarn that suits your needs.
Select the right needles: The size of the needles you choose will depend on the yarn weight you’ve selected. For bulky or super bulky yarns, larger needles, such as size 10 or 15, are typically used. Make sure to check the yarn label for recommended needle sizes.

When choosing your yarn and needles, it’s also a good idea to take into account your own knitting style and preferences. Some knitters prefer wooden or bamboo needles for their warmth and flexibility, while others prefer metal needles for their speed and smoothness.

Remember, the type of yarn and needles you choose can greatly impact the look and feel of your finished blanket, so take your time to find the perfect match for your project. Happy knitting!

Prepare for your project: Casting on

Before you start knitting your big blanket, you need to cast on your first row of stitches. This process creates the foundation for your blanket and determines the width of your project.

To cast on, you will need a pair of knitting needles and your yarn of choice. Follow these step-by-step instructions to cast on your stitches:

Hold one knitting needle in your right hand and the other in your left hand.
Make a slipknot by creating a loop with your yarn and pulling the end through. Place the slipknot on your left needle.
Hold the slipknot in your left hand and the other end of the yarn in your right hand.
Insert the right needle into the slipknot from front to back.
Wrap the yarn around your right needle counterclockwise. This creates a new loop around the needle.
Use the right needle to pull the new loop through the slipknot.
Transfer the new loop from the right needle to the left needle.
Repeat steps 4-7 until you have cast on the desired number of stitches for your blanket. Keep the stitches loose, but not too loose.

Once you’ve finished casting on, you’re ready to start knitting your big blanket. Remember to take your time and practice until you feel comfortable with the casting on process. Happy knitting!

Knit your first rows: Garter stitch

One of the easiest and most versatile stitch patterns for beginners is the garter stitch. It creates a fabric with a bumpy texture that is reversible and lies flat. Follow these simple steps to knit your first rows using the garter stitch:

Hold the knitting needles: Start by holding one knitting needle in each hand. The needle with the stitches on it is called the left needle, while the empty needle is called the right needle.
Cast on stitches: Using your preferred method, cast on the desired number of stitches onto the left needle. This will be the foundation of your garter stitch.
Begin the first row: With the right needle, insert it into the first stitch on the left needle from left to right, crossing over the left needle.
Wrap the yarn: Take the yarn attached to the ball and wrap it around the right needle counterclockwise, using your right hand.
Pull through the stitch: Using the right needle, pull the wrapped yarn through the stitch, creating a new loop on the right needle. Slip the original stitch off the left needle and onto the right needle.
Repeat: Continue steps 3-5 until all stitches have been transferred from the left needle to the right needle.
Switch hands: Once you have knit the first row, switch hands so that the left needle is now in your right hand and the right needle is in your left hand.
Continue knitting: Repeat steps 3-7 until you have completed the desired number of rows in garter stitch.

Congratulations! You have successfully knit your first rows using the garter stitch. This stitch pattern is great for creating scarves, blankets, and other projects that require a simple yet charming texture.

Try out exciting patterns: Cable knitting

Once you have mastered the basic knitting techniques, you can start exploring more complex patterns to create unique and textured blankets. Cable knitting is a popular technique that adds a twist to traditional knitting stitches.

Cables are created by crossing stitches over one another, creating a braided or twisted effect. This technique can be used to create various cable patterns, such as ropes, diamonds, or honeycombs. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you started with cable knitting:

Start by casting on the required number of stitches for your blanket. Make sure to leave a few extra stitches on either side for the cable borders.
Knit the first few rows in your desired stitch pattern. This could be garter stitch, stockinette stitch, or any other stitch pattern that you prefer.
Begin the cable pattern by switching to a cable needle or double-pointed needle. These extra needles hold the stitches while you work on the crossed stitches.
Take the first set of stitches that you want to cross and slip them onto the cable needle, either in front or behind the work, depending on the desired effect.
Hold the cable needle to the front or back of the work, depending on the desired effect.
Knit the next set of stitches from the left-hand needle.
Place the stitches from the cable needle back onto the left-hand needle.
Knit the stitches from the cable needle.
Repeat steps 3-8 for each cable in the pattern, following the chart or written instructions provided.
Continue knitting the remaining rows of your blanket in the cable pattern, making sure to maintain the correct stitch count and follow any shaping instructions if necessary.
Finish your blanket by binding off the stitches and weaving in any loose ends.

Cable knitting can be challenging at first, but with practice, you will be able to create beautiful and intricate patterns. Experiment with different cable designs to add dimension and texture to your blanket.

Tips:

Use a cable needle or double-pointed needle that is the same size or slightly smaller than your main needles for easier manipulation.
Check your tension regularly to ensure that the cable pattern is not too tight or too loose compared to the rest of the blanket.
Consider using a stitch marker to help keep track of the beginning and end of each cable repeat.

With cable knitting, you can take your blanket-making skills to the next level. Have fun exploring different cable patterns and creating blankets that are not only warm but also visually stunning!

Stay motivated: Fixing mistakes

When learning how to knit, it’s inevitable that you’ll make mistakes along the way. It’s important to remember that making mistakes is a natural part of the learning process, and it’s how you handle those mistakes that will help you grow as a knitter.

Here are some tips for fixing common mistakes:

Tinking: Tinking is the process of undoing your stitches one by one to fix a mistake. This can be time-consuming but is often the best way to fix minor errors. Simply insert your needle into the stitch below the one you want to fix, and carefully unravel the yarn to that point.
Frogging: Frogging is a term used to describe ripping out several rows or even the entire project to fix a mistake. This can be a drastic measure, but sometimes it’s the best option for major mistakes. Once you’ve unraveled the stitches, you can then re-knit them correctly.
Lifelines: Lifelines are a great way to prevent major mistakes from becoming disasters. Every few rows, thread a contrasting color of yarn through the stitches as a placeholder. If you make a mistake, you can simply rip back to the last lifeline and start again.
Dropped stitches: Dropped stitches are a common mistake in knitting. If you notice a dropped stitch, use a crochet hook or your knitting needle to pick up the dropped stitch and work it back up to the correct row.

A positive attitude is key when fixing mistakes. Remember:

Don’t panic: Mistakes happen to everyone, and it’s not the end of the world. Take a deep breath and approach the mistake methodically.
Take your time: Rushing to fix a mistake can often lead to more mistakes. Slow down, carefully assess the issue, and work through it step by step.
Ask for help: If you’re struggling to fix a mistake, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. Knitting communities and online forums are great resources for getting advice and support.
Learn from your mistakes: Each mistake is an opportunity to learn and improve your knitting skills. Take note of what went wrong, and use that knowledge to avoid making the same mistake in the future.

Remember that knitting is supposed to be enjoyable, so don’t let mistakes discourage you. Stay motivated and keep practicing, and soon you’ll be creating beautiful blankets with confidence!

Finishing touches: Bind off and weave in ends

Once you have finished knitting your big blanket, it’s time to add the finishing touches to give it a polished look. The final steps involve binding off your stitches and weaving in any loose ends.

Bind off:

Knit the first two stitches of the row.
Insert the left needle into the first stitch you knitted.
Lift this stitch up and over the second stitch and off the right needle.
Knit the next stitch.
Repeat steps 2-4 until you reach the end of the row.
Trim the yarn, leaving a long tail.
Thread the tail through the last stitch and pull tight to secure.

Weave in ends:

Use a tapestry needle to thread the loose ends of yarn.
Insert the needle under several stitches on the wrong side of the blanket.
Pull the yarn through, leaving a short tail.
Repeat steps 1-3 with all the loose ends.
To ensure the ends are secure, weave the tail in different directions.

By following these steps, you can neatly finish your big blanket and ensure that it will withstand use and washing without any unraveling or loose ends. Take your time and pay attention to detail to achieve a professional-looking final product.

Show off your masterpiece: Tips for blocking and care

After you have finished knitting your big blanket, it’s time to show off your hard work! But before you do, it’s important to block and care for your blanket to keep it looking its best. Here are some tips to help you with the blocking process and to ensure your blanket lasts for years to come.

Blocking:

Start by soaking your blanket in lukewarm water.
Gently squeeze out the excess water, being careful not to wring or twist the blanket.
Lay the blanket out on a clean flat surface, such as a foam blocking mat or a towel.
Shape the blanket to the desired dimensions, gently stretching it if needed.
Pin the edges of the blanket to the surface using rust-proof T-pins or blocking wires.
Leave the blanket to dry completely. This may take several days, depending on the thickness of the yarn.
Once the blanket is dry, unpin it and admire your beautifully blocked masterpiece!

Care:

When it comes to washing your blanket, always follow the care instructions provided by the yarn manufacturer.
If possible, hand wash your blanket in lukewarm water using a gentle detergent.
Gently squeeze out excess water and roll the blanket in a towel to remove even more moisture.
Lay the blanket flat to dry, away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
Avoid hanging the blanket, as this can cause it to stretch and lose its shape.
Once dry, store your blanket in a cool, dry place to prevent any potential damage.

Remember, taking the time to block and care for your blanket will help maintain its shape, texture, and overall appearance. So go ahead and enjoy showing off your beautiful creation!

FAQ:

Can beginners learn how to knit a big blanket?

Absolutely! This step-by-step guide is designed for beginners and will teach you everything you need to know to knit a big blanket.

What materials do I need to knit a big blanket?

To knit a big blanket, you will need chunky yarn and large knitting needles. The exact sizes will depend on the pattern you choose.

Where can I find a pattern for a big blanket?

There are many websites and books that offer patterns for big blankets. You can also find free patterns online or create your own design.

How long does it take to knit a big blanket?

The time it takes to knit a big blanket will depend on your knitting speed and the size of the blanket. It can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks.

Can I wash my knitted blanket?

Yes, you can wash your knitted blanket. However, it’s important to follow the care instructions for the specific type of yarn you used.

Are there any special techniques I need to learn to knit a big blanket?

While knitting a big blanket is a simple process, there are a few techniques you may need to learn, such as casting on, knitting, and binding off. These techniques are easy to pick up with practice.

Can I customize the size of my blanket?

Yes, you can customize the size of your blanket by adjusting the number of stitches and rows in your pattern. This allows you to create a blanket that is the perfect size for your needs.

Learn How to Knit a Big Blanket