It seems that the cold weather hasn’t left us yet and this week in the UK has seen all manner of hail storms and gale force winds. It’s enough to make a knitter snuggle down under the blankets and not want to come out until May - at least that’s my excuse and I’m sticking to it.
There’s something about blanket knitting though that ticks a number of very satisfying boxes. They are infinitely practical, you can make them in any size from tiny prem cot through to giant king-sized afghan.
You can adapt a pattern to pretty much any weight of yarn, although I would probably give the laceweight a miss. And they make perfect gifts for people of all ages.
Young families and their babies almost always welcome an extra blanket, toddlers and older children need them for blanket forts. I would probably still knit a blanket for adults but I’d consult with them first on colour choice and practicality.
I fully accept that not everyone is a fan of the handmade aesthetic and let’s face it, even a small blanket is a lot of work if it isn’t going to be appreciated.
I’ve even knit blankets for dogs and cats before now. I know some people might be quietly horrified at the thought of a dog sleeping on a handknit blanket but I can’t imagine anything nicer.
I’d much rather knit something that’s warm and provides comfort, something that’s used and loved and washed repeatedly, than an heirloom piece that might be quickly won for a photograph and then carefully stashed away for years.
If you are in the mood for a bit of blanket knitting you can see my range of blanket designs by tapping the link below.
It’s tempting to think of blankets just in terms of square or rectangular shapes but there are also some great, fun pieces out there that are slightly more unusual. Well worth considering if you are looking for a bit of a gift with a difference.
Starflanket by Stephen West is a really fun and colourful, star shaped blanket
Radiating Star blanket (Ravelry link) by Alexis Layton uses yarn overs to create a decorative radiating star pattern.
POP Blanket by TinCan Knits is a really colourful, modular blanket. Great for babies.
Ten Stitch Twist (Ravelry link) by Frankie Knits is a really clever circular blanket and you never have more than 10 stitches on the needle at any one time.
Triangulum blanket by Ellie Jones is a stashbusting extravaganza. Knitted on as you go with no seaming it produces a fabulous quilt-effect. Probably not a quick knit but I’m so very tempted by this one.
Of course, I’ll probably dive into knitting a new blanket and the weather will turn - leaving me sweltering under a pile of wool in hot sunshine. But never mind, I can always stash it away and bring it out triumphant to finish off, come autumn.
Happy weekend knitting - may your needles stay warm and cosy.
I’ve knit a few in my time, and I love it. Being hugged by a hand knit blanket is one of my favorite rainy day things.
I am loving that Triangulum blanket.