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Knitting a Blanket: Step by Step Instructions for Beginners

June 11, 2024

Basics of Blanket Knitting

Before you start knitting a blanket, it's important to understand the basics of this craft. In this section, we'll take a closer look at why knitting a blanket is a worthwhile activity and what materials and tools you'll need to do it.

Why knit a blanket?

Knitting a blanket offers a multitude of benefits. Not only is it a creative and relaxing activity, but it also allows you to create a customized and personal piece. Here are some reasons why knitting a blanket is so popular:

Uniqueness: Knitting your own blanket allows you to create a one-of-a-kind heirloom or gift. You have the opportunity to choose colors, patterns and sizes according to your own taste.
Relaxation: Knitting can have a calming and meditative effect. It helps you relieve stress and calm your mind.
Creative expression: Knitting gives you the opportunity to express your creative side and develop your craft skills. You can try different patterns and techniques to make your blanket unique.
Warmth and comfort: A hand-knitted blanket is not only a beautiful home accessory, but also a warm and cozy addition to your home. You can snuggle up in the blanket and enjoy the cozy warmth.

Materials and tools you need

To start knitting blankets, you will need some basic materials and tools. Here is a list of things you should prepare:

material/tool	Description
wool/yarn	Choose a soft and durable wool or yarn suitable for blankets. The amount depends on the desired size of the blanket.
knitting needles	Choose knitting needles that are the right size for your wool/yarn thickness. The needle size affects the density and texture of the knitted blanket.
Scissors	A good pair of scissors is important for cutting the wool or yarn.
needles	You will need needles to sew the threads and to attach embellishments or tassels.
tape measure	A tape measure will help you determine the correct size of the blanket and measure the length of the rows.
knitting pattern	A knitting pattern is helpful to follow the desired pattern and step-by-step instructions.

By equipping yourself with these basic materials and tools, you'll be ready to knit your blanket and unleash your creative skills.

step-by-step instructions

If you want to knit a blanket, follow these step-by-step instructions to get started and progress successfully.

cast-on and knitting pattern

Start by casting on stitches. This is the first step in knitting your blanket. The number of stitches you cast on will depend on the desired width of your blanket. Use a suitable knitting needle to cast on stitches.
Choose a knitting pattern for your blanket. There are countless knitting patterns to choose from, from simple stockinette stitch rows to more complex cable stitches or color changes. Choose a pattern that suits your personal taste and your abilities as a beginner.
Knit the first row according to the chosen knitting pattern. Make sure to knit the stitches evenly and tightly to achieve a uniform texture. If necessary, use aids such as stitch markers to follow the pattern.

Progressive Rows and Patterns

Continue your work by knitting more rows according to the knitting pattern, making sure to keep the rhythm and follow the instructions carefully. Count your stitches and rows if necessary to make sure your blanket reaches the desired size.
If you have a pattern with multiple rows, repeat the instructions in each row until the desired length of your blanket is achieved. Be patient and focused to ensure an even appearance.
When you're ready to complete the knitting, finish your work with a suitable finishing touch. Depending on the knitting pattern, this may be binding off the stitches or ending a special row. Make sure you follow the pattern's instructions carefully to achieve a neat and professional finish.

When knitting your blanket, it is important to stay calm and focused. Maintain your work rhythm and avoid mistakes by checking your stitches regularly. With this step-by-step guide, you will soon be proud of your knitted blanket.

Tips for Beginners

Knitting a blanket can be an exciting challenge for beginners. Here are some useful tips to avoid common mistakes and maintain a steady rhythm of work.

Avoiding mistakes when knitting

Beginners can occasionally encounter problems when knitting blankets. Here are some common mistakes and tips on how to avoid them:

Losing stitches : To prevent stitches from accidentally slipping off, it is recommended to use marker rings or safety pins to mark the beginning of each row.
Unevenness in the knitted piece : The knitted piece may look uneven if the tension of the stitches is not even. Be careful not to pull the threads too tight or too loose to achieve an even result.
Missing or extra stitches : Accidentally skipping or adding stitches can affect the knitting pattern. Count the stitches regularly to make sure you have the right number.

Maintain working method and rhythm

To make knitting the blanket enjoyable and efficient, it is important to maintain a good work rhythm. Here are some tips to help you maintain your rhythm:

Relaxation : A relaxed hand position helps to avoid tension and fatigue. Take regular breaks to relax and stretch your hands.
Even pressure : Make sure to apply equal pressure to the stitches to achieve an even knit. Pressure that is too tight or too loose can affect the appearance of the blanket.
Regular knitting : To see your progress and maintain the rhythm of work, knit the blanket regularly. Set yourself fixed times for knitting in order to make continuous progress.

By following these tips, you can avoid knitting mistakes and maintain a steady rhythm of work, so you can successfully finish your blanket and be proud of your handmade masterpiece.

variations and patterns

When it comes to knitting blankets, there are countless options, variations and patterns you can try to give your blanket a personal touch. Here are two popular options: simple cable stitches and color-changing striped patterns.

Simple cable patterns

Cable stitches add a beautiful texture and an interesting look to your knitted blanket. There are several different types of cable stitches, from simple to more complex designs. If you are a beginner and are just starting out with blanket knitting, you can start with a simple cable stitch.

The basic principle of a cable pattern is to cast off some stitches and then knit them again later. Here is a simple example of a cable pattern:

 Reihe 1: *1 Masche rechts stricken, 2 Maschen auf die Hilfsnadel vor die Arbeit legen, 1 Masche links stricken und dann die Maschen von der Hilfsnadel rechts stricken*, bis zum Ende der Reihe wiederholen.
 Reihe 2: Alle Maschen links stricken.
 Reihe 3: *2 Maschen auf die Hilfsnadel hinter die Arbeit legen, 1 Masche rechts stricken und dann die Maschen von der Hilfsnadel links stricken, 1 Masche rechts stricken*, bis zum Ende der Reihe wiederholen.
 Reihe 4: Alle Maschen links stricken.

Repeat these four rows to continue the cable pattern. Experiment with different cable patterns and sizes to achieve the desired effect.

color changes and stripe patterns

Another way to add interest to your knitted blanket is to use color changes and striped patterns. Adding different colors can add a personal touch to your project and create an appealing design.

Here is a simple suggestion for a stripe pattern:

Row	Color
1-10	Blue
11-20	White
21-30	Gray
31-40	Blue
41-50	White
51-60	Gray

You can adjust the number of rows and color combinations as you like. Be sure to cross the threads of the unused colors on the sides of the blanket to ensure a neat appearance.

With color changes and striped patterns, you can let your creativity run wild and create unique blankets that reflect your personality.

By incorporating simple cable stitches and color changes with stripe patterns into your blanket knitting projects, you can make your handmade creations even more special. Experiment with different patterns, colors and textures to achieve a result that you enjoy.

completion and maintenance

After you have completed your knitted blanket, there are still a few important steps to finish it and care for it properly.

Casting off the stitches

To cast off your blanket and secure the stitches, follow these steps:

Knit the first 2 stitches as usual.
Take the left needle and lift the first stitch over the second stitch and over the right needle.
Knit another stitch and repeat the process by lifting the previous stitch over the newly knitted stitch.
Continue this process until there is only one stitch left on the right needle.
Cut the yarn and pull it through the last stitch to secure it.

By casting off the stitches, your knitted blanket is completed and has a neat finish.

Washing and drying the knitted blanket

Proper care is crucial to ensure that your knitted blanket stays beautiful for a long time. Here are some tips for washing and drying your knitted blanket:

Check the label of the wool or yarn used for recommended washing and care instructions.
Hand washing is often recommended to maintain the shape and structure of the blanket. Use lukewarm water and a mild detergent.
Gently pressing and squeezing the blanket is better than vigorous rubbing or wringing to avoid damage.
Rinse the blanket thoroughly to remove all detergent residue.
To dry, lay the blanket flat on a towel or drying rack to avoid deformation. Avoid direct sunlight or heat sources such as radiators as this may damage the wool or yarns.
If indicated in the care instructions, a gentle machine wash on a wool cycle with a low spin speed may also be an option. However, please note that hand washing is usually more gentle.

Proper care of your knitted blanket will help preserve its beauty and quality over time. Take the time to wash and dry your blanket carefully so you can enjoy it for a long time.

You can find further articles on this topic here:

https://chiemseegarn.com/blogs/stricken/decke-stricken-mit-haekelspitze

https://chiemseegarn.com/blogs/stricken/decke-mit-stripes-stricken

https://chiemseegarn.com/blogs/stricken/decke-stricken-mit-fransen

https://chiemseegarn.com/blogs/stricken/decke-knitting-guide

https://chiemseegarn.com/blogs/stricken/strickleitung-decke

https://chiemseegarn.com/blogs/stricken/decke-stricken-mit-wellemuster

https://chiemseegarn.com/blogs/stricken/muster-decke-stricken

https://chiemseegarn.com/blogs/stricken/decke-stricken-mit-blattmuster

https://chiemseegarn.com/blogs/stricken/patchwork-decke-stricken

https://chiemseegarn.com/blogs/stricken/decke-mit-lochmuster-stricken

https://chiemseegarn.com/blogs/stricken/decke-stricken-mit-stripe-pattern