Learn How to Make a Knitted Blanket: Step-by-Step Guide

Have you always wanted to make a knitted blanket but didn’t know where to start? Look no further! In this step-by-step guide, we will walk you through the process of creating your very own cozy and beautiful knitted blanket.

First, gather all the necessary materials. You will need a pair of knitting needles, preferably in a size suitable for knitting a blanket. You will also need a few skeins of your chosen yarn, in any color or texture you desire. Make sure to choose a yarn that is soft and warm, as it will make your blanket extra cozy.

Next, start by casting on stitches. This is the foundation of your blanket, so take your time to ensure that your stitches are even and secure. You can start with any number of stitches, depending on the desired width of your blanket. If you’re unsure, a good starting point is to cast on about 100 stitches.

Once you have cast on your stitches, it’s time to start knitting. For a basic garter stitch blanket, simply knit every row. This will create a beautiful and textured pattern that is perfect for beginners. As you gain more confidence, you can experiment with different stitch patterns and designs to create a truly unique blanket.

Remember to keep an even tension as you knit and to regularly check your work for any mistakes. Mistakes are a natural part of the learning process, so don’t be discouraged if you need to unravel a row or two and start again. Practice makes perfect, and soon enough, you’ll be knitting your very own cozy masterpiece.

Once you have reached your desired length, it’s time to bind off. This is the process of securing your stitches and finishing your blanket. Simply knit the first two stitches, then pass the first stitch over the second stitch and off the needle. Knit the next stitch, then pass the previous stitch over the newly knitted stitch and off the needle. Repeat this process until you have one stitch left, then cut the yarn and pull it through the last stitch to secure it.

And there you have it! Your very own knitted blanket. Whether you choose to keep it for yourself or give it as a gift, this cozy creation is sure to bring warmth and comfort to whomever it wraps around. So grab your knitting needles and yarn, and let’s get started on this wonderful and fulfilling journey of knitting.

Choosing the Right Yarn for Your Knitted Blanket

When it comes to knitting a blanket, choosing the right yarn is essential for achieving the desired outcome. The type of yarn you select will affect the softness, warmth, and durability of your blanket. Here are some factors to consider when choosing yarn for your knitted blanket:

Weight: The weight of the yarn determines how thick or thin the strands are. For a cozy and warm blanket, consider using a bulky or super bulky weight yarn. If you prefer a lighter blanket, opt for a DK or worsted weight yarn.
Fiber: Yarns come in a variety of natural and synthetic fibers, each with its own characteristics. Popular choices for blankets include wool, acrylic, and cotton. Wool is warm and breathable, acrylic is easy to care for and budget-friendly, and cotton is lightweight and hypoallergenic.
Softness: Depending on your personal preference, you may want to choose a yarn that feels soft against the skin. Merino wool, alpaca, and cashmere are known for their luxurious softness, while acrylic blends can provide a more affordable option.
Color: Consider the color scheme and aesthetic you want for your blanket. Yarns come in a wide range of colors, from bold and vibrant to soft and neutral. You can choose a single color for your blanket or experiment with different shades and color combinations for a unique look.
Durability: If you plan on using your knitted blanket regularly, it’s important to choose a yarn that can withstand the wear and tear. Look for yarns that are labeled as durable or suitable for blankets to ensure your project will last.

When selecting yarn for your knitted blanket, it’s always a good idea to go to a yarn store and feel the different options in person. You can also check online reviews and recommendations from other knitters to get an idea of the yarn’s quality and suitability for a blanket project.

Remember, the yarn you choose will greatly impact the final outcome of your knitted blanket, so take your time and consider all the factors before making your decision. Happy knitting!

Selecting the Perfect Knitting Needles for Your Blanket

When it comes to knitting a blanket, choosing the right knitting needles is essential. The size and material of the needles can greatly affect the overall look and feel of your finished blanket. Here are some factors to consider when selecting the perfect knitting needles for your project:

Size: The size of your knitting needles will determine the gauge and tension of your stitches. For a blanket, you’ll want to choose larger-sized needles to create a looser fabric and ensure that your blanket is nice and cozy. Size US 8 (5.0 mm) or larger needles are generally recommended for blanket projects.
Material: Knitting needles come in various materials, each with its own properties. Some common materials include metal, wood, and plastic. Metal needles are durable and have a smooth finish, making them great for fast knitting. Wood needles provide a natural feel and can be easier on the hands. Plastic needles are lightweight and affordable. Consider your personal preferences and knitting style when choosing the material.
Length: The length of your knitting needles will depend on the size of your blanket and your knitting technique. For smaller blanket projects or tight stitches, shorter needles may be more comfortable. Longer needles are better for larger blankets or if you prefer to spread the weight of your work across the needles. Circular needles are a versatile option that can accommodate a variety of blanket sizes.
Comfort: Knitting a blanket can be a time-consuming project, so it’s important to choose needles that are comfortable to work with. Look for needles with smooth joins and comfortable grips. Ergonomic needles with soft handles can help reduce hand fatigue during long knitting sessions.

Remember, the perfect knitting needles for your blanket project may vary depending on your personal preferences and the specific yarn you’re working with. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find the needles that feel right for you. Happy knitting!

Estimating the Amount of Yarn Needed for Your Blanket

When planning to make a knitted blanket, it’s important to estimate the amount of yarn you will need. This estimation will help you purchase the right amount of yarn and avoid running out or having excessive leftovers. Here are some steps to help you estimate how much yarn you will need for your blanket:

Determine the size of your blanket: Measure the desired length and width of your blanket in inches or centimeters. Keep in mind that the size of your blanket will directly impact the amount of yarn needed.
Choose the yarn weight: Yarn comes in various weights, such as lace, fingering, sport, worsted, bulky, and super bulky. The weight of the yarn will affect the yardage needed for your blanket.
Check the yarn label: Look at the yarn label for the recommended yardage per skein. This information will help you calculate the total yardage needed for your blanket.
Calculate the yardage: Multiply the length of your blanket by the width to get the total square inches. Then, divide the total square inches by the recommended gauge listed on the yarn label. This will give you the total number of square inches needed for your blanket.
Convert square inches to square yards: Divide the total number of square inches needed by 1,296 (the number of square inches in a square yard) to determine the total number of square yards needed.
Adjust for additional factors: Consider any additional factors that may affect the yardage needed, such as stitch pattern, edging, or fringe. Add extra yardage for these elements, keeping in mind the estimated yarn usage.
Purchase the yarn: With the calculated yardage in hand, purchase the appropriate amount of yarn for your blanket. It’s a good idea to buy a little extra just to be safe.

By following these steps, you can estimate the amount of yarn needed for your knitted blanket and ensure that you have enough to complete your project. Remember, it’s always better to have a bit more yarn than to run out in the middle of knitting your blanket!

Casting on Stitches for Your Knitted Blanket

Before you can begin knitting your blanket, you’ll need to cast on stitches. Casting on is the process of creating the foundation row of stitches that will be used to knit the rest of your blanket. Follow these steps to cast on stitches for your knitted blanket:

Gather your materials: You’ll need your knitting needles and your yarn. Choose a yarn that is suitable for the size and feel you want for your blanket.
Make a slipknot: Start by making a slipknot in the yarn. To do this, create a loop with the yarn, leaving a tail on the end. Insert the working end of the yarn through the loop and pull tight to create a knot.
Hold the needle: Hold one knitting needle in your dominant hand and the slipknot in your non-dominant hand. The needle should be held with the point facing away from you.
Insert the needle into the loop: Insert the needle into the slipknot from left to right, going under the yarn and over the needle.
Secure the yarn: Hold the working end of the yarn with your non-dominant hand, using your thumb and index finger. This will help keep tension on the yarn as you cast on stitches.
Make a new loop: With the needle, scoop the yarn under and over the point of the needle, creating a new loop. This loop will be your first cast on stitch.
Repeat the loop: Continue making loops in the same way, scooping the yarn under and over the needle, until you have the desired number of stitches cast on. You can consult the pattern or your own preference to determine how many stitches you need.
Count your stitches: Once you have cast on all the stitches, count them to ensure you have the correct number. This will help you keep track of your progress as you knit.
Continue knitting: Now that you have cast on your stitches, you’re ready to start knitting your blanket! Follow the pattern or your own design to create the desired texture and size.

Casting on stitches is an essential step in starting any knitting project, including a knitted blanket. Once you have mastered this technique, you can explore different stitch patterns and designs to create a unique and cozy blanket.

Knitting the Body of Your Blanket with the Basic Stitch

To start knitting the body of your blanket with the basic stitch, follow these step-by-step instructions:

Gather the necessary materials, including your knitting needles and yarn of choice.
Cast on the desired number of stitches on one of the needles. This will be the foundation row of your blanket.
Hold the knitting needle with the cast-on stitches in your right hand and the empty needle in your left hand.
Insert the tip of the left needle into the first stitch on the right needle, from left to right.
Wrap the yarn around the right needle, counterclockwise, using your right hand.
Guide the right needle through the stitch, from the front to the back, while keeping the wrapped yarn in place.
With the new stitch on the right needle, slide the old stitch off the left needle.
Repeat steps 4 to 7 for each stitch until you reach the end of the row.
Once you reach the end of the row, switch the needles in your hands.
Continue knitting row after row of the basic stitch until your blanket reaches the desired length.

Remember to keep your tension consistent and to take breaks to rest your hands if needed. The basic stitch, also known as the knit stitch, creates a smooth and textured pattern that is perfect for a cozy knitted blanket.

Adding Color and Texture to Your Knitted Blanket

One of the best things about knitting is the ability to add color and texture to your projects. This holds true when making a knitted blanket as well. Adding color and texture to your blanket can make it more visually interesting and unique. Here are some ways you can incorporate color and texture into your knitted blanket:

Stripes: Knitting stripes is a popular way to add color to your blanket. You can choose two or more contrasting colors and alternate them to create stripes. This technique adds a vibrant and playful touch to your blanket.
Color Blocks: Instead of using stripes, you can create color blocks in your blanket. Choose different colors and knit separate sections in each color. This creates a bold and modern look.
Variegated Yarn: If you prefer a more subtle approach, you can use variegated yarn. Variegated yarn has multiple colors in the same skein, creating a beautiful blend of colors as you knit. This adds a touch of complexity and depth to your blanket.
Texture Stitches: To add texture to your blanket, you can incorporate different knitting stitches. For example, you can use seed stitch, cable stitch, or lace stitch patterns to create a unique texture. This adds visual interest and makes your blanket more tactile.
Colorwork: Colorwork involves knitting with multiple colors in the same row or round to create a pattern or image. Fair Isle and intarsia are two common colorwork techniques. These techniques can take more practice and time but produce stunning results.

When adding color and texture to your knitted blanket, it’s important to consider the overall design and aesthetic you want to achieve. Experiment with different color combinations, yarn types, and stitch patterns to create a blanket that reflects your personal style and creativity.

Remember, knitting is a versatile art form, and adding color and texture is just one way to make your blanket stand out. Feel free to mix and match techniques, play with different yarn weights, or even add embellishments like buttons or pom-poms to create a truly unique knitted blanket.

Creating a Beautiful Border for Your Handmade Blanket

Adding a border to your knitted blanket not only adds a finishing touch but also helps to stabilize the edges and prevent them from stretching. Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating a beautiful border for your handmade blanket:

Select the yarn: Choose a yarn that complements the colors and texture of your blanket. Opt for a thicker yarn if you want to make a bold statement or a thinner yarn for a more delicate look.
Measure the dimensions: Measure the length and width of your blanket to determine how much yarn you will need for the border. Make sure to account for extra yarn for the corners and any desired pattern repeat.
Choose a border pattern: Decide on the type of border you want for your blanket. Some popular options include ribbing, garter stitch, seed stitch, or a combination of different stitch patterns. Consider the overall style of your blanket and choose a border pattern that complements it.
Prepare your needles: Select appropriate knitting needles for your chosen yarn and border pattern. It’s important to use a needle size that provides a nice tension and complements the thickness of your yarn. Consider using circular needles if your blanket is large.
Begin the border: Start by picking up stitches along one edge of your blanket. Use a crochet hook or knitting needle to pick up stitches evenly along the edge. Make sure to space them out evenly and maintain the desired tension.
Continue the border: Once you have picked up stitches along one edge, continue knitting the border pattern. Follow the instructions for your chosen border pattern, making sure to maintain consistency in your stitches and tension.
Work the corners: When you reach a corner of your blanket, you may need to adjust the pattern to create a clean and neat corner. This may involve working extra stitches or using specific knitting techniques, such as short rows or decreases. Consult your chosen border pattern for corner instructions.
Repeat for all sides: Continue picking up stitches and knitting the border along each side of your blanket, including the corners, until you have completed the border for the entire blanket.
Finishing touches: Once you have completed the border, bind off your stitches following your chosen pattern’s instructions. Weave in any loose ends and block your blanket to give it a polished and finished look.

By following these steps, you can create a beautiful border for your handmade knitted blanket. Whether you choose a simple and classic border or a more intricate pattern, the border will add a lovely finishing touch and make your blanket truly unique.

Blocking and Finishing Your Knitted Blanket

After you have finished knitting your blanket, it’s important to block and finish it to give it a polished look and to ensure that it maintains its shape and size. Here are the steps to block and finish your knitted blanket:

Wash your blanket: Fill a basin or sink with lukewarm water and a gentle soap, such as a wool wash. Gently submerge your blanket in the water, making sure it is fully saturated. Press down on the blanket to release any air bubbles. Let it soak for about 10-15 minutes.
Rinse the blanket: Drain the soapy water and refill the basin or sink with clean lukewarm water. Gently lift the blanket out of the soapy water and place it into the clean water to rinse off any soap residue. Repeat this rinsing process until the water runs clear.
Remove excess water: Once the blanket is rinsed, carefully lift it out of the water and gently squeeze to remove excess water. Avoid wringing or twisting the blanket, as this can stretch or deform the fibers.
Block your blanket: Lay a clean towel or blocking mat on a flat surface. Place your damp blanket on top of the towel or mat. Gently reshape the blanket to its desired dimensions and smooth out any wrinkles or ripples. Use T-pins or blocking wires to secure the blanket in place, pinning along the edges and corners.
Dry the blanket: Allow the blanket to air dry completely. This can take anywhere from a day to several days, depending on the thickness of the blanket and the humidity of the environment. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can fade the colors of the yarn.
Finishing touches: Once the blanket is dry, remove the blocking pins or wires. Use a tapestry needle to weave in any loose ends of yarn. If desired, add a border to the blanket using a contrasting yarn or a crochet hook.

Following these steps will help ensure that your knitted blanket looks its best and lasts for years to come. Happy knitting!

FAQ:

How do I start knitting a blanket?

To start knitting a blanket, you’ll need to gather your materials – knitting needles and yarn – and choose a pattern or stitch that you want to use. Then, cast on the desired number of stitches onto your needles and begin knitting the blanket in the chosen stitch. Follow the pattern or stitch instructions to continue knitting until the blanket reaches your desired size.

What size needles should I use for knitting a blanket?

The size of needles you should use for knitting a blanket depends on the thickness of your yarn and the desired tension in your stitches. Generally, for medium weight yarn (worsted or aran), a US size 8-10 (5-6 mm) needle is a good starting point. However, it’s always a good idea to knit a gauge swatch to determine the needle size that gives you the desired tension and fabric for your blanket.

How long does it take to knit a blanket?

The time it takes to knit a blanket varies depending on several factors, such as the size of the blanket, the stitch pattern used, your knitting speed, and the amount of time you can dedicate to knitting each day. On average, knitting a small to medium-sized blanket can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months. A larger or more complex blanket may take several months or even longer.

What is the best yarn for knitting a blanket?

The best yarn for knitting a blanket depends on personal preference and the desired characteristics of the finished blanket. Generally, a soft and warm yarn is ideal for a cozy blanket. Natural fibers like merino wool or alpaca are popular choices for their softness and warmth. Acrylic yarn is another option, as it is affordable, easy to care for, and comes in a wide range of colors. Ultimately, choose a yarn that you enjoy working with and that meets your needs for the project.

Do I need to block my knitted blanket?

Blocking a knitted blanket is not always necessary, but it can help to improve the final appearance and drape of your blanket. Blocking involves wetting the blanket and then shaping and drying it to the desired dimensions. It can help even out any uneven stitches, relax the fabric, and make the blanket look more professional. However, not all yarns and stitch patterns require blocking, so it is best to check the instructions for your specific project to determine if blocking is recommended.

Making a Knitted Blanket: The Ultimate Guide