Brickstreet Blanket - Knitting Pattern

Photos above © anneleterme

Brickstreet by Stephen West is a striking textured knitted throw inspired by the appearance of brick-paved streets in European cities.

The design showcases bulky wool in two contrasting colors. The main rectangular section is worked back and forth, then stitches are picked up around the perimeter to create a contrasting garter-stitch frame.

Originally published in Westknits Book Two in 2011, Brickstreet is currently available as a paid PDF knitting pattern from Stephen West.

Pattern Availability Update

Brickstreet by Stephen West is currently a paid knitting pattern. It is available through Westknits and Ravelry. Amazing Knitting does not provide or reproduce the designer's copyrighted pattern instructions or chart.

Brickstreet Blanket at a Glance

Pattern: Brickstreet

Designer: Stephen West

Published: February 2011

Original Publication: Westknits Book Two

Category: Blanket / Throw

Yarn Weight: Bulky

Suggested Yarn: Quince & Co. Puffin

Main Needle: US 15 / 10 mm circular

Finished Size: Approx. 40 × 48 in / 102 × 122 cm

Colors: Two

Construction: Textured center worked flat with picked-up border

Availability: Paid PDF pattern

About the Brickstreet Blanket

Brickstreet is a textured knitted throw designed by Stephen West.

The inspiration behind the pattern is visible immediately in the knitted fabric: repeating geometric texture creates an effect reminiscent of brick streets found in European cities.

The combination of large-scale texture, bulky wool and contrasting border gives the blanket a strong architectural appearance.

Finished Size

The published finished dimensions are approximately:

40 × 48 inches / 102 × 122 cm

This makes Brickstreet a throw-sized blanket rather than a large bedspread.

It is a practical size for a sofa, reading chair or an extra layer of warmth.

Bulky Yarn

The original pattern was designed to showcase bulky wool.

Stephen West's sample uses Quince & Co. Puffin, a 100% wool yarn.

Thick yarn helps emphasize the sculptural texture while also allowing a substantial blanket to grow relatively quickly compared with one worked at a much finer gauge.

Two-Color Design

Brickstreet uses two colors:

• Color A for the main textured blanket
• Color B for the contrasting frame

The original sample was shown in the colors Honey and Bark.

You do not need to reproduce those exact colors. A strong contrast can emphasize the frame, while two closer shades can create a quieter, more tonal result.

How Much Yarn?

The published yardage is approximately:

• Color A: 650 yd / 594 m
• Color B: 336 yd / 307 m

That gives a total of approximately:

986 yards / 901 meters

These quantities apply to the original dimensions and gauge. Changing the yarn weight, gauge or blanket size will change the amount required.

Needles

The original pattern calls for a:

40-inch US 15 / 10 mm circular needle

Although much of the blanket is worked back and forth, a long circular needle is practical because it can comfortably hold the large number of stitches involved in a blanket.

Two Published Gauges

The pattern gives separate gauge information for the textured pattern and garter stitch.

The textured pattern gauge is approximately:

13 stitches × 13 rows = 4 in / 10 cm

In garter stitch, the published gauge is:

10 stitches × 16 rows = 4 in / 10 cm

Checking gauge is useful if you want the finished blanket to remain close to the designer's published dimensions and yarn requirements.

How Brickstreet Is Constructed

One of the most interesting aspects of Brickstreet is its construction.

The main color is first worked back and forth to create the rectangular center.

After the center is complete, stitches are picked up around the perimeter in the contrasting color.

The outer section then creates the garter-stitch frame that gives the finished blanket its distinctive bordered appearance.

The Textured Center

Texture is the defining feature of the center panel.

Rather than relying on multiple colors to create the brick-like effect, the structure of the knitted fabric itself provides much of the visual interest.

Bulky yarn makes these raised and recessed areas particularly visible.

The Contrasting Garter-Stitch Frame

Once the main rectangle is complete, the contrasting border visually contains the textured center.

Garter stitch provides a simpler texture around the more complex center, creating a useful contrast between the two areas of the blanket.

The second color makes this structural change even more obvious.

Picking Up Stitches Around a Blanket

Picking up stitches evenly is important when adding a border around a large rectangular piece.

Too many picked-up stitches can cause the border to flare, while too few can pull the edges inward.

Follow the designer's pattern carefully for the required distribution rather than simply picking up one stitch from every visible edge stitch.

Useful Notions

In addition to yarn and needles, the original pattern lists:

• 8 stitch markers
• Tapestry needle

Markers can make the large number of stitches easier to organize, especially when working around the perimeter.

Can You Use Another Yarn Weight?

Stephen West specifically notes that different yarn weights can be substituted to create different blanket sizes.

This gives the design considerable flexibility, but a different yarn weight should not be treated as a simple one-for-one substitution.

Changing yarn thickness changes gauge, dimensions, needle requirements and total yardage.

Make a swatch first and decide whether you like the scale and texture produced by the substitute yarn.

Choosing Colors

Because Brickstreet separates the main texture and outer frame into two colors, color selection can dramatically change its appearance.

High contrast emphasizes the geometry of the border.

Two related shades create a more subtle blanket where texture becomes the dominant feature.

Consider viewing your two yarns together in natural light before making a final decision.

Blocking a Textured Blanket

Blocking can help even out the finished fabric and settle the border, but avoid stretching the blanket so aggressively that the dimensional texture becomes flattened.

Always use a blocking method appropriate for the fiber in your chosen yarn.

Measure the blanket while blocking if maintaining the intended proportions is important to you.

Important Pattern Errata

Important Before You Knit

The designer's current pattern listing includes an errata note concerning the placement of the red repeat column in the chart. Work from the current official version and review the designer's errata before beginning the textured section.

This is one reason we recommend obtaining older knitting patterns directly from the designer whenever possible.

A saved or unofficial copy may not contain corrections that were added after the original publication.

Is Brickstreet a Free Pattern?

No, not currently.

Brickstreet by Stephen West is currently sold as a paid PDF knitting pattern.

If you encounter an old Pinterest pin, blog post or other page describing it differently, check the designer's current listing before downloading anything.

Amazing Knitting does not host or reproduce Stephen West's copyrighted instructions or chart.

Get the Official Brickstreet Pattern

The pattern is available directly from Stephen West / Westknits:

View Brickstreet at Westknits →

Looking for a Free Blanket Pattern?

If you would rather begin with a free knitting pattern, Amazing Knitting has several verified blanket patterns in the archive.

One good option is the Sunny Baby Blanket by Lucie Sinkler, which we have verified as a currently available free pattern.

See the Free Sunny Baby Blanket →

For more options:

• Free Blanket Knitting Patterns
• Textured Blanket Knitting Patterns
• Free Baby Blanket Knitting Patterns

Before You Start

Decide whether you want to reproduce the original bulky two-color look or experiment with a different yarn weight, then make a swatch to evaluate the texture and gauge.

Make sure you have enough yarn for both the center and the contrasting border, and read through the complete pattern before beginning.

Most importantly, use the current official pattern and review the published errata so that you are working from the designer's corrected information.

Pattern credit: Brickstreet was designed by Stephen West and first published in Westknits Book Two in February 2011. The existing project photograph on this Amazing Knitting page is credited to anneleterme. Amazing Knitting provides an independent project guide and does not reproduce the designer's copyrighted instructions or chart.

Waffle Blanket - Free Pattern

Photo Projects © Ravelry 

Waffle Blanket by Alexis Layton is a free knitted afghan pattern that uses a simple repeating stitch pattern to create an attractive textured fabric.

Worked with Aran-weight yarn on 5 mm / US 8 needles, the finished blanket measures approximately 40 × 51 inches, making it a useful sofa throw or cozy everyday blanket.

Best of all, the original pattern remains available as a free Ravelry download.

✓ Free Pattern Availability

Waffle Blanket by Alexis Layton is currently available as a free Ravelry download. Use the original pattern listing below for the complete knitting instructions.

Waffle Blanket at a Glance

Pattern: Waffle Blanket

Designer: Alexis Layton

Published: January 2010

Category: Blanket / Throw / Afghan

Yarn Weight: Aran

Suggested Yarn: Bernat Super Value Solids (Vintage)

Needles: US 8 / 5 mm

Yardage: Approx. 764 yd / 699 m

Finished Size: Approx. 40 × 51 in / 102 × 130 cm

Features: Textured stitch pattern, eyelet details

Availability: Free Ravelry download

About the Waffle Blanket

Waffle Blanket is a knitted throw designed by Alexis Layton and first published in January 2010.

Its appeal comes from the combination of relatively straightforward knitting and a textured fabric that looks more elaborate than the construction might suggest.

The repeating pattern creates visual depth across the blanket while still allowing the project to function as a warm, practical afghan.

Finished Blanket Size

The published finished dimensions are approximately:

40 inches wide × 51 inches long

approximately 102 × 130 cm

This makes it a useful throw-sized blanket for a sofa, reading chair or an extra layer of warmth.

Yarn

The original pattern lists Bernat Super Value Solids (Vintage), an Aran-weight yarn.

The published yardage is approximately:

764 yards / 699 meters

Because the originally listed yarn is a vintage/discontinued entry, knitters today may prefer to substitute a currently available Aran-weight yarn.

When substituting, focus on producing a fabric with the right balance of texture, drape and warmth rather than trying to match the old yarn by name.

Needles

The published needle size is:

US 8 / 5 mm

For a blanket, many knitters find a long circular needle more comfortable than straight needles because the cable can support the weight of the growing project.

The blanket can still be worked back and forth even when using a circular needle.

The Waffle-Like Texture

The defining feature of this design is its textured stitch pattern.

Repetition across a large rectangular surface creates the visual rhythm that gives the blanket its distinctive appearance.

Texture can also make a single-color blanket visually interesting without requiring complicated color changes.

A Good Pattern for Showing Off Texture

If you want the stitch pattern to be the main feature, consider using a solid or gently tonal yarn.

Highly variegated yarns can be beautiful, but strong color changes may compete visually with a textured stitch pattern.

A lighter or medium shade can also make shadows within the textured fabric easier to see.

Choosing a Substitute Yarn

Since the yarn listed with this older pattern is a vintage yarn entry, substitution is likely for many modern knitters.

Look for a suitable Aran-weight yarn and make a swatch before buying the full blanket quantity.

Your swatch can tell you several things:

• Whether you like the stitch definition
• Whether the fabric feels too stiff or too loose
• How the yarn behaves in the textured pattern
• Whether the finished fabric has enough drape
• How the yarn responds to washing or blocking

Gauge and Blanket Size

Ravelry lists the original pattern gauge as 18 stitches in stockinette stitch for the published gauge information.

For a blanket, a small gauge difference is generally less critical than it would be for a fitted sweater, but it will still affect the finished dimensions and yarn consumption.

If your gauge is significantly different, expect the blanket to become larger or smaller and plan your yarn quantity accordingly.

Keep Your Tension Consistent

Repeating textured patterns look their best when the tension remains reasonably consistent from one section to the next.

Try not to tighten your stitches when concentrating on a new part of the repeat.

Once you become familiar with the pattern rhythm, the knitting usually becomes much more relaxed.

Use Stitch Markers if Helpful

Long blanket rows can make it frustrating to discover a mistake only after reaching the end.

If the stitch repeat allows it, markers placed between logical repeat sections can help you identify an error much sooner.

They are especially useful during the first few repeats while you are learning how the stitch pattern should look.

Check the Pattern Visually

One advantage of a strong textured repeat is that the fabric itself eventually becomes a useful error detector.

Stop occasionally and look across the previous rows.

If one section suddenly stops aligning with the others, investigate it before knitting much farther.

Consider a Lifeline

If you are uncomfortable correcting mistakes in textured knitting, periodically inserting a lifeline through a known-correct row can be useful.

It provides a safe point to return to if an error is discovered several rows later.

Working a Large Blanket Comfortably

Blankets become progressively heavier as they grow.

If possible, allow the weight of the project to rest on your lap or a table rather than supporting the entire blanket with your wrists.

A long circular needle can also help distribute the weight more comfortably.

Blocking the Finished Blanket

Blocking can help settle the textured fabric and even out the edges.

Use a blocking method appropriate for your chosen fiber and follow the yarn manufacturer's washing instructions.

Avoid aggressively stretching the blanket if doing so would flatten the texture that gives the design its character.

Skills Used in This Project

Waffle Blanket is useful for practicing:

• Working long rows consistently
• Following a repeating stitch pattern
• Maintaining even tension
• Reading the knitted fabric
• Managing a large project on the needles
• Finishing and weaving in ends
• Blocking a textured blanket

Is Waffle Blanket Still Free?

Yes.

Waffle Blanket by Alexis Layton is currently listed on Ravelry as a free download.

Amazing Knitting does not reproduce the designer's complete copyrighted knitting instructions. Use the original pattern listing for the complete pattern.

Get the Free Waffle Blanket Pattern

Visit Ravelry for the original free pattern:

Get the Free Waffle Blanket Pattern →

More Free Blanket Knitting Patterns

If you enjoy textured blankets, you can continue with other free blanket patterns already verified in the Amazing Knitting archive.

Shivaree Throw by Berroco Design Team is another excellent choice, combining cables and double seed stitch in a free official pattern.

See the Free Shivaree Throw →

You can also explore:

• Free Blanket Knitting Patterns
• Textured Blanket Patterns
• Free Baby Blanket Knitting Patterns

Before You Start

Choose a suitable Aran-weight yarn, make a swatch and decide whether you like the way your yarn displays the textured stitch pattern.

Make sure you have enough yarn for the full blanket, especially if your gauge or planned dimensions differ from the original.

Finally, use Alexis Layton's current Ravelry download for the complete instructions rather than copied versions found elsewhere online.

Pattern credit: Waffle Blanket was designed by Alexis Layton and first published in January 2010. Amazing Knitting provides an independent project guide and does not reproduce the designer's complete copyrighted knitting instructions. Please preserve the existing photograph and its original credit on this page.

Jordan Baby Blanket - Free Pattern

Photo above © danelle1977

Looking for an easy free baby blanket knitting pattern with plenty of texture? The Jordan Baby Blanket by marianna mel is a sweet, adaptable design worked in DK-weight yarn using simple knit-and-purl texture.

The original pattern includes several blanket sizes, from a tiny 15-inch blanket through a 30-inch baby blanket, and the designer explains that the size can be adjusted further. This makes it an especially versatile project for baby gifts, premature babies, or dolls.

Jordan Baby Blanket at a Glance

Pattern: Jordan Baby Blanket

Designer: marianna mel

Published: September 2018

Craft: Knitting

Category: Baby Blanket

Yarn Weight: DK

Needle Size: US 6 / 4.0 mm

Gauge: 24 stitches = 4 inches / 10 cm

Sizes: 15", 18", 24" and 30"

Adjustable: Yes

Pattern Availability: Free

About the Jordan Baby Blanket

Designed by marianna mel of Marianna's Lazy Daisy Days, the Jordan Baby Blanket is a textured knitted blanket with a simple, gender-neutral appearance.

Rather than relying on lace, cables, or multiple yarn colors, the visual interest comes from combinations of basic knit and purl stitches. The resulting texture gives the blanket more character than plain stockinette while keeping the techniques approachable.

A Simple Textured Blanket

One of the most appealing features of the Jordan Baby Blanket is its textured surface.

The design uses knit-and-purl combinations to create raised areas across the fabric. This makes it a useful project for knitters who are comfortable with the basic stitches and want to practice maintaining a repeating textured pattern over a larger piece.

A solid or lightly tonal yarn can be especially effective because it allows the stitch texture to remain visible without competing with strong color changes.

Four Sizes — and Easy to Adjust

The pattern provides stitch counts for four sizes:

• 15 inches
• 18 inches
• 24 inches
• 30 inches

The smallest 15 × 15 inch version was designed as a very small blanket suitable for a premature or angel baby, or as a doll blanket.

The designer also notes that the pattern is easy to adjust for larger sizes, giving knitters flexibility beyond the four sizes already provided.

Yarn Requirements

The original design uses DK-weight yarn. The smallest 15-inch version requires approximately:

70g of DK yarn

Naturally, the larger versions require more yarn. Check the designer's current instructions for the requirements of the exact blanket size you intend to make before purchasing your yarn.

For a baby blanket, you may also want to consider softness, washability, and durability when choosing a substitute yarn.

Needles and Gauge

The original pattern recommends:

US 6 / 4.0 mm knitting needles

The published gauge is:

24 stitches = 4 inches / 10 cm

If finished dimensions matter to you, make a swatch before beginning and adjust your needle size if necessary.

Knitting Skills Used

The Jordan Baby Blanket is built around fundamental knitting techniques. Helpful skills include:

• Casting on
• Knit stitches
• Purl stitches
• Following repeating rows
• Maintaining consistent tension
• Binding off
• Weaving in yarn ends

Because the texture comes primarily from knit and purl stitches, the project can be a useful next step after practicing basic knitting.

Important Pattern Correction

The designer notes that an earlier version of the Jordan Baby Blanket contained an error in the purl rows. The instructions have since been corrected. If you saved or printed an older copy, check the current designer version before knitting.

A Useful Baby Gift Project

The adjustable sizing makes this pattern particularly useful when knitting for different purposes.

You can make the small version as a keepsake or doll blanket, choose one of the larger baby sizes, or use the designer's guidance to adapt the dimensions further.

Its simple texture also works with many color choices, making it easy to coordinate the blanket with a nursery or gift theme.

Is the Jordan Baby Blanket Pattern Free?

Yes. The Jordan Baby Blanket is currently listed as a free knitting pattern on Ravelry, with the free pattern linked to the designer's Marianna's Lazy Daisy Days website.

You may also encounter a paid downloadable PDF edition through other marketplaces. That does not change the availability of the designer's free web version linked from the Ravelry listing.

Amazing Knitting does not reproduce the designer's complete row-by-row instructions. Use the original source for the current pattern and its corrected instructions.

Get the Free Jordan Baby Blanket Pattern

Visit the Ravelry pattern page to access the current free pattern information and the link to the designer's original instructions.

Get the Free Jordan Baby Blanket Pattern →

Pattern credit: Jordan Baby Blanket was designed by marianna mel and published through Marianna's Lazy Daisy Days. Pattern availability and technical information may change over time.

More Free Baby Blanket Knitting Patterns

If you enjoy simple textured blankets, explore more free baby blanket knitting patterns, textured baby blankets, and easy baby blanket knitting patterns from the Amazing Knitting archive.

Before You Start

Open the designer's current pattern before casting on, especially if you previously saved an older version. Choose your blanket size, confirm the corresponding yarn requirement and stitch count, check the corrected instructions, and make a gauge swatch if finished dimensions are important.

Sunny Baby Blanket - Free Pattern

Photo above © Funktious

Looking for a simple and cheerful free baby blanket knitting pattern? The Sunny Baby Blanket by Lucie Sinkler combines easy knit-and-purl texture with a generous garter-stitch border to create a cozy, timeless baby blanket.

The original blanket looks especially bright and cheerful in sunny yellow, but the design works beautifully in almost any color. Its straightforward construction also makes it an appealing project for knitters who want a relaxing blanket without lace or complicated colorwork.

Sunny Baby Blanket at a Glance

Pattern: Sunny Baby Blanket

Designer: Lucie Sinkler

Craft: Knitting

Category: Baby Blanket

Yarn Weight: Worsted

Suggested Yarn: Plymouth Yarn Encore Worsted

Yardage: About 800 yards / 732 meters

Needle Size: US 8 / 5.0 mm

Gauge: 17 stitches and 32 rows = 4 inches in garter stitch

Finished Size: About 30½ × 34 inches / 77.5 × 86.5 cm

Construction: Worked flat

Pattern Availability: Free

About the Sunny Baby Blanket

The Sunny Baby Blanket is a classic textured baby blanket designed by Lucie Sinkler. It was first published in 2007 and has remained a popular choice for knitters looking for an uncomplicated baby blanket with more visual interest than plain garter stitch.

Rather than using cables, lace, or several yarn colors, the design creates its texture through simple combinations of knit and purl stitches.

This gives the blanket a clean geometric appearance while keeping the knitting process relatively straightforward.

A Simple Textured Design

The central area of the blanket alternates smooth and textured sections, creating a subtle block-like pattern across the fabric.

A generous garter-stitch border frames the design and gives the blanket a neat, finished appearance.

Because all of the visual interest comes from the stitches themselves, the pattern works particularly well in a single solid color.

Why Yellow Works So Well

The original pattern highlights bright yellow as a particularly cheerful choice for this blanket, which explains the "Sunny" name.

Yellow can make a lovely gender-neutral baby color, but there is no need to limit the project to the original shade.

Cream, white, sage, soft gray, blue, pink, lavender, or stronger modern colors can all give the same pattern a very different personality.

Yarn and Yardage

The pattern calls for approximately:

800 yards / 732 meters of worsted-weight yarn

The original suggested yarn is Plymouth Yarn Encore Worsted, a machine-washable wool and acrylic blend.

Washability can be especially useful for a baby blanket, since blankets intended for regular use may need frequent cleaning.

If you substitute another worsted-weight yarn, make a gauge swatch before beginning so you can check the resulting fabric and finished dimensions.

Needles and Gauge

The original pattern recommends a:

US 8 / 5.0 mm circular knitting needle

A 29-inch circular needle is recommended to comfortably hold the large number of blanket stitches. The blanket itself is still worked flat rather than in the round.

The published gauge is:

17 stitches × 32 rows = 4 inches in garter stitch

Finished Blanket Size

The finished Sunny Baby Blanket measures approximately:

30½ × 34 inches / 77.5 × 86.5 cm

This creates a useful baby-size blanket suitable for the nursery, supervised cuddling, or taking along in a stroller.

Knitting Skills Used

One reason this pattern remains approachable is that the texture is created with fundamental knitting techniques. Depending on your experience, the project can provide useful practice with:

• Knit stitches
• Purl stitches
• Garter stitch
• Following repeating rows
• Maintaining consistent tension
• Working a large number of stitches on a circular needle
• Simple finishing and weaving in ends

There is no need to manage multiple yarn colors to create the blanket's textured effect.

A Good First Baby Blanket Project

If you have already practiced basic knit and purl stitches and want to move on to a larger project, the Sunny Baby Blanket can be an appealing next step.

The repeating structure gives you something more interesting than plain knitting while avoiding many of the techniques found in more advanced lace or cable blankets.

A blanket is also useful for practicing consistent tension over a larger piece of fabric.

A Classic Handmade Baby Gift

A knitted baby blanket can make a thoughtful gift for a newborn or baby shower. The Sunny Baby Blanket is especially versatile because its simple geometric texture can suit many different nursery styles.

Choosing a washable yarn can make the finished blanket practical for everyday use as well as attractive enough to give as a handmade keepsake.

Is the Sunny Baby Blanket Pattern Free?

Yes. The Sunny Baby Blanket by Lucie Sinkler is currently available as a free knitting pattern.

The complete instructions are hosted externally by HowStuffWorks, and the pattern is also listed as free on Ravelry.

Amazing Knitting does not reproduce the designer's complete knitting instructions. Please use the original pattern source for the full pattern.

Get the Free Sunny Baby Blanket Pattern

Visit the original pattern page for the complete knitting instructions, materials, gauge, and finishing information.

Get the Free Sunny Baby Blanket Pattern →

Pattern credit: Sunny Baby Blanket was designed by Lucie Sinkler and published through HowStuffWorks. Pattern availability and technical information may change over time.

More Free Baby Blanket Knitting Patterns

If you enjoy this project, explore more free baby blanket knitting patterns, textured baby blankets, and easy baby blanket knitting ideas from the Amazing Knitting archive.

Before You Start

Check the original pattern before purchasing yarn. Confirm the current materials, gauge, finished measurements, and instructions, then make a gauge swatch if finished size is important to you.

Heart Baby Blanket - Free Pattern

Photos above © katalysis 

Looking for a classic free heart baby blanket knitting pattern? The Heart Baby Blanket by Ann Saglimbene uses simple knit-and-purl texture to create repeating heart motifs across a soft baby blanket.

The design has a timeless handmade look and is especially appealing if you want a decorative blanket without colorwork. The hearts are created through texture, while garter-stitch sections help separate the motifs visually.

Heart Baby Blanket at a Glance

Pattern: Heart Baby Blanket

Designer: Ann Saglimbene

Craft: Knitting

Category: Baby Blanket

Yarn Weight: Worsted

Suggested Yarn: Bernat Satin Solids

Needle Size: US 6 / 4.0 mm

Yardage: About 1400 yards / 1280 meters

Construction: Worked flat

Pattern Format: Written instructions and chart

Availability: Free Ravelry download

About the Heart Baby Blanket

This blanket uses textured heart motifs rather than stranded colorwork or intarsia. The result is a single-color baby blanket with plenty of visual interest and a classic, understated appearance.

The hearts are formed through contrasting knit-and-purl texture, while garter stitch is used between motif sections.

Because the design relies on stitch texture instead of multiple colors, it can work beautifully in soft neutrals, traditional baby shades, or stronger modern colors.

A Textured Heart Design

One of the nicest features of this pattern is that the heart shapes come directly from the knitted fabric itself.

Reverse-stockinette areas contrast with the smoother stockinette background, creating visible heart shapes without changing yarn colors.

This makes the blanket a good choice for knitters who enjoy geometric or pictorial texture but prefer not to manage several yarn colors at once.

Yarn and Yardage

The current Ravelry listing suggests Bernat Satin Solids and classifies the pattern as worsted weight.

The listed yarn requirement is approximately:

1400 yards / 1280 meters

If you substitute another yarn, choose one that can produce a similar fabric and check your gauge before beginning the full blanket.

Needle Size

The pattern listing specifies:

US 6 / 4.0 mm knitting needles

The exact needle you need may still vary with your personal tension and yarn choice, so use the designer's current pattern as your final reference.

Worked Flat

The Heart Baby Blanket is worked flat, making it suitable for knitters who prefer traditional back-and-forth knitting.

The repeating block structure also makes the project easy to think of as a sequence of sections rather than one large uninterrupted field of knitting.

Pattern Skills

Depending on your experience, this project may help you practice:

• Knit stitches
• Purl stitches
• Stockinette stitch
• Reverse stockinette texture
• Garter stitch
• Reading charted motifs
• Following repeated pattern sections
• Maintaining even tension across a large project

The heart effect comes mainly from careful placement of knit and purl stitches, so keeping track of your rows is important.

Important: Use the Corrected 2024 Version

Important pattern update: The designer states that the older version published on Knitting on the Net and in the original calendar contains errors.

Use the corrected Ravelry download dated March 2024 before starting your blanket.

This is especially important because the corrections affect how the heart motif sections are worked across alternating rows.

Amazing Knitting does not reproduce the designer's corrected instructions. Please download the current file directly from the designer's Ravelry page.

Why This Makes a Lovely Baby Gift

Hearts are a natural choice for handmade baby gifts, and this design keeps the motif subtle by building it into the fabric rather than adding separate embellishments.

A single-color textured blanket can also be easier to coordinate with a nursery than a strongly multicolored design.

It can work well as a baby-shower gift, newborn keepsake, or handmade nursery blanket.

Get the Free Corrected Heart Baby Blanket Pattern

Download the current corrected pattern from Ann Saglimbene's Ravelry page. Make sure you use the updated version rather than an older copy from another site.

Get the Free Corrected Pattern →

Pattern credit: Heart Baby Blanket was designed by Ann Saglimbene. The current corrected pattern is provided by the designer as a free Ravelry download. Pattern availability and technical information may change over time.

More Baby Blanket Knitting Ideas

Explore more baby blanket knitting patterns, heart knitting patterns, and textured baby blankets from the Amazing Knitting archive.

Before You Start

Download the current March 2024 corrected version from Ravelry before casting on. Check the designer's latest notes, yarn requirements, needle size, and corrections before purchasing materials or beginning the blanket.

Gansey Afghan - Knitting Pattern Guide

Photo above © nikmeas

The Gansey Afghan by Lena Skvagerson is a richly textured knitted throw inspired by the traditional stitch patterns associated with classic fishermen's gansey sweaters.

Instead of relying on cables or multiple colours for its visual impact, the blanket uses changing knit-and-purl textures to create a series of distinctive geometric sections across the fabric.

Pattern Availability Update

Older Amazing Knitting references may have described this project as a free knitting pattern. The original Gansey Afghan is currently sold as a paid Annie's Signature Designs pattern. We have updated this page to reflect its current official availability.

Gansey Afghan at a Glance

Pattern: Gansey Afghan

Designer: Lena Skvagerson

Publisher: Annie's Signature Designs

First Published: August 2015

Craft: Knitting

Category: Afghan / Throw

Yarn Weight: Worsted

Needle Size: US 9 / 5.5 mm

Gauge: 17 stitches × 27 rows = 4 inches

Yardage: About 1,580–1,600 yards / 1,445–1,463 m

Finished Size: Approximately 44 × 50 inches

Current Availability: Paid pattern

About the Gansey Afghan

Designed by Lena Skvagerson, the Gansey Afghan translates the traditional textured appearance of fishermen's sweaters into a generously sized knitted throw.

Gansey-style knitting is particularly effective in a single colour because the changing combinations of knit and purl stitches create shadows and raised textures across the fabric.

This makes the blanket visually interesting without requiring frequent yarn changes or elaborate colourwork.

Finished Size

The finished blanket measures approximately:

44 × 50 inches

This makes it a practical throw-sized project rather than a small baby blanket.

Yarn and Yardage

The original design uses Plymouth Yarn Encore Tweed, a worsted-weight yarn.

The published requirement is approximately:

1,580–1,600 yards / 1,445–1,463 metres

The original version uses eight skeins. If substituting another yarn, concentrate on achieving the correct gauge and choosing a fibre suitable for the warmth, weight, and care requirements you want from the finished blanket.

Needles and Gauge

The original pattern recommends a:

US 9 / 5.5 mm, 40-inch circular needle

The circular needle provides room for the large number of blanket stitches; the blanket itself is worked as a flat project.

Published gauge is:

17 stitches × 27 rows = 4 inches / 10 cm in pattern stitch

The Gansey-Inspired Texture

Texture is the defining feature of this blanket. Different combinations of knit and purl stitches create changing geometric areas across the fabric, echoing the richly patterned surfaces associated with traditional gansey knitting.

A solid or lightly heathered yarn can work particularly well for this style because light and shadow help reveal the stitch patterns.

Written Instructions and Charts

The official pattern includes both written instructions and a chart, allowing knitters to follow the textured sections using the format they prefer.

Amazing Knitting does not reproduce those instructions or charts. They remain part of the designer's copyrighted pattern.

Skills That Help

Useful skills for a project of this type include:

• Casting on a large number of stitches
• Knit and purl stitches
• Reading repeated stitch patterns
• Following written instructions or charts
• Using stitch markers
• Maintaining consistent gauge and tension
• Binding off
• Weaving in yarn ends

Is the Gansey Afghan Still Free?

No. The original Gansey Afghan by Lena Skvagerson is currently offered as a paid pattern.

Older pages and saved links may describe it differently because pattern availability can change over time. For the current legitimate version, use the designer/publisher listing rather than copies reproduced on unrelated websites.

View the Original Gansey Afghan Pattern

The Ravelry listing provides the current pattern information and links to the official purchase source.

View the Gansey Afghan Pattern →

Looking for a Free Gansey-Style Blanket?

Prefer a free option? There are also gansey-inspired blankets that use knit-and-purl texture to create a similar traditional look without copying Lena Skvagerson's design.

Free Alternative: Gansey Sampler Blanket

Plymouth Yarn's B225 Sampler Blanket uses a collection of textured knit-and-purl stitch sections, including ribs, moss-style texture, diamonds, and other traditional-looking patterns. It is a separate design, not a free copy of the Gansey Afghan.

Find the Free Gansey Sampler Blanket →

You can also browse free afghan knitting patterns, free blanket knitting patterns, and textured knitted blankets from the Amazing Knitting archive.

Before You Start

Check the current official pattern before purchasing yarn, confirm the required yardage, and make a gauge swatch. For a large textured blanket, consistent tension is particularly useful because differences can become more noticeable across long sections of patterned fabric.

Pattern credit: Gansey Afghan was designed by Lena Skvagerson and published by Annie's Signature Designs. Amazing Knitting does not reproduce the designer's copyrighted written instructions or charts.

Sea Shell Baby Blanket - Knitting Pattern Guide

Photo from the web

This Sea Shell Baby Blanket is a beautiful example of how simple lace shaping can create flowing, shell-like waves across a knitted blanket.

The original Amazing Knitting post described this project as a free pattern discovered through Pinterest. However, we have not been able to verify the original designer or a legitimate current download for this exact blanket. Rather than attribute the design incorrectly, this updated page preserves the project as a knitting inspiration and pattern guide.

Pattern Availability Update

This page was originally published in 2019 as a free-pattern discovery. We can no longer verify a legitimate free source for the exact blanket shown here or confidently identify its original designer. Amazing Knitting therefore does not provide an unverified download or reproduce instructions from an unknown source.

Sea Shell Baby Blanket at a Glance

Project: Sea Shell Baby Blanket

Craft: Knitting

Category: Baby Blanket

Style: Lace / Wave / Shell Texture

Inspiration: Feather-and-fan style lace

Construction: Flat knitted blanket

Original Designer: Not reliably identified

Current Availability: Exact original free pattern not verified

About the Sea Shell Baby Blanket

The attraction of this blanket comes from its repeating waves of textured lace.

In the photograph, the knitted fabric creates a series of curved, shell-like sections that give the blanket considerably more movement than plain stockinette or garter stitch.

It is a particularly effective style for baby blankets because the repeating pattern can create an elaborate appearance without requiring complicated colorwork.

A Feather-and-Fan Style of Lace

The original Amazing Knitting post described the stitch pattern as belonging to the broad feather-and-fan family of lace patterns.

Feather-and-fan style knitting uses carefully arranged increases and decreases to make the fabric naturally rise and fall into decorative waves.

Different designers use this basic idea in many different ways, changing the number of stitches, spacing, texture and arrangement to create everything from gentle waves to pronounced scallops and shell-like motifs.

Why the Pattern Looks More Difficult Than It Is

Lace blankets can appear intimidating because a finished piece contains hundreds of openings, curves and textured sections.

In reality, many designs of this type are based on a relatively short stitch repeat worked again and again across the blanket.

Once the knitter understands where the increases and decreases occur, the visual complexity comes primarily from repetition rather than from learning a completely new technique on every row.

How Knitted Waves Are Created

The characteristic movement in feather-and-fan inspired knitting comes from balancing increases and decreases.

Yarn overs add stitches and create decorative openings. Decreases remove stitches and pull sections of the fabric together.

When these operations are arranged systematically across a row, the fabric develops the flowing curves associated with wave and shell patterns.

Choosing Yarn for a Lace Baby Blanket

Yarn choice has a major effect on how clearly a lace pattern appears.

A smooth yarn generally allows the increases, decreases and openings to remain visible. Very fuzzy yarn can soften those details and make an intricate stitch pattern harder to see.

For a baby blanket, also consider:

• Softness against sensitive skin
• Washability
• Durability
• Good stitch definition
• Comfortable finished weight
• Appropriate fiber care requirements

Solid Colors Show the Texture Beautifully

A single color can be especially effective for this type of blanket.

Without frequent color changes competing for attention, light and shadow emphasize the raised and open sections of the knitted fabric.

Pale neutrals can create a traditional baby-blanket appearance, while stronger colors can make the same lace structure look much more modern.

Keep Your Stitch Count Under Control

One of the most useful habits when knitting lace is checking the stitch count regularly.

A missed yarn over or decrease may not become visually obvious until several rows later. By then, correcting the error can require undoing a substantial amount of knitting.

Count stitches after important pattern rows and consider placing markers between repeats when the pattern allows it.

Use Lifelines for Lace Knitting

A lifeline is a strand of contrasting yarn or thread passed through a completed row of live stitches.

If a mistake occurs later, the knitting can be carefully unraveled back to that protected row without losing the entire project.

For a large lace blanket, inserting a lifeline periodically can save a considerable amount of time.

Blocking Makes a Big Difference

Lace often looks uneven or compressed while it is still on the needles.

Appropriate blocking after knitting allows the fabric to settle and can make the openings and wave shapes much more visible.

Always follow the care instructions for your chosen fiber and avoid stretching a baby blanket beyond the dimensions intended by the pattern.

Skills That Help

A shell or feather-and-fan style blanket commonly uses skills such as:

• Casting on and binding off
• Knit and purl stitches
• Yarn overs
• Basic decreases
• Repeating lace sections
• Counting stitches accurately
• Reading written lace instructions or charts
• Correcting simple lace mistakes
• Blocking finished lace

Is This Exact Sea Shell Blanket Pattern Still Free?

The original 2019 Amazing Knitting post described this project as a free pattern found through Pinterest.

During our current review, however, we could not reliably identify the original designer or confirm a legitimate current free download for the exact blanket shown in the photograph.

Several unrelated knitting and crochet patterns use very similar names, so linking one of those designs here as though it were the original would be misleading.

Amazing Knitting therefore does not reproduce the old instructions or link to unofficial pattern copies.

Looking for a Free Alternative?

If you love the shell and wave effect but need a pattern that is genuinely available free today, you can still create a similar ocean-inspired look with a verified free knitted square.

Seashell Square by Daisy and Storm is a free knitting pattern that creates a seashell motif using knit and purl stitches. Individual squares can be joined with other blocks to create an afghan or blanket.

Get the Free Seashell Square Pattern →

More Free Baby Blanket Patterns

Amazing Knitting also has many baby blanket projects in the archive that you can explore for a currently available free pattern.

Explore Free Baby Blanket Patterns →

You can also browse lace baby blankets, feather-and-fan knitting, and free knitting blanket patterns.

Before You Start

If your main goal is to recreate the appearance of the blanket shown here, avoid assuming that another pattern with “Sea Shell” in its title is the same design.

Instead, choose a verified lace or feather-and-fan blanket pattern, check its required yarn and gauge, and make a swatch before committing to the full project.

Source note: This page was originally published by Amazing Knitting in 2019 as a Pinterest pattern discovery. The original designer and a legitimate current download for the exact photographed blanket could not be reliably verified during our latest review. Amazing Knitting does not claim ownership of the original photographed design or reproduce unverified pattern instructions.

Tree Rings - Knitting Pattern Guide

Photo above © Brooklyn Tweed/Jared Flood

Tree Rings by Andrea Rangel is a dramatic circular knitting pattern inspired by the classic pi-shawl construction associated with Elizabeth Zimmermann.

Instead of relying primarily on open lace, Tree Rings builds visual interest through changing textures, geometric movement, chevrons, and a decorative knitted-on edging. The finished piece can be worn as a large circular shawl or used as an impressive knitted throw.

Pattern Availability

Tree Rings is currently available as a paid PDF knitting pattern from Brooklyn Tweed. Amazing Knitting provides this project guide and links readers to the legitimate designer/publisher source rather than reproducing the copyrighted pattern instructions or charts.

Tree Rings at a Glance

Pattern: Tree Rings

Designer: Andrea Rangel

Publisher: Brooklyn Tweed

Collection: Wool People, Volume 6

First Published: November 2013

Craft: Knitting

Category: Circular Shawl / Throw

Yarn Weight: Worsted

Yardage: Approximately 1,820 yards / 1,664 m

Suggested Needles: US 7 / 4.5 mm and US 10 / 6 mm

Finished Size: Approximately 62 inches in diameter

Construction: Center-out, worked in the round

Current Availability: Paid PDF pattern

About Tree Rings

Designed by Andrea Rangel, Tree Rings takes the basic idea of a circular pi shawl and gives it a strongly textured, contemporary appearance.

The design draws the eye outward from the center through changing areas of texture and geometric patterning. As the circumference increases, the knitted fabric develops the layered appearance that inspired the name Tree Rings.

Although officially categorized as a shawl or wrap, its generous circular dimensions also allow it to function beautifully as a decorative throw.

Finished Size

The published finished diameter is approximately:

62 inches / 157.5 cm

That makes Tree Rings a substantial project. It is considerably larger than a typical accessory and requires both a significant amount of yarn and increasingly long circular needles as the work grows.

Yarn and Yardage

The original version was designed for Brooklyn Tweed Shelter, a worsted-weight wool yarn.

The published requirement is:

Approximately 1,820 yards / 1,664 metres of worsted-weight wool

The original sample used 13 skeins of Brooklyn Tweed Shelter.

Because texture is such an important part of this design, yarn choice affects more than the finished size. A yarn with good stitch definition helps the changing surface patterns remain visible after blocking.

Needles

Tree Rings uses two main needle sizes:

• US 7 / 4.5 mm — suggested for the welted stockinette sections and edging
• US 10 / 6 mm — suggested for the center lace and horizontal chevron sections

The project begins with double-pointed needles and progresses to circular needles as the number of stitches increases.

The official materials list includes both 32-inch and 60-inch circular needles in the required sizes.

Gauge

Because Tree Rings contains several different stitch patterns, the official pattern provides more than one gauge measurement.

For example, the published gauge for the welted stockinette section is:

18 stitches × 26 rounds = 4 inches / 10 cm after blocking

Other sections have their own row or round gauge because lace, twists, and textured stitches behave differently.

How Tree Rings Is Constructed

Tree Rings is worked from the center outward in the round. This means the circumference becomes progressively larger as the project grows.

Near the outer edge, the construction changes. The lace edging is worked back and forth and attached to the live shawl stitches as it progresses.

This method creates an integrated decorative border without simply binding off the large circular body and sewing on a separate edging later.

Texture Instead of Traditional Lace

One of the most interesting features of Tree Rings is its emphasis on texture.

Many circular pi shawls are dominated by open lace motifs. Tree Rings instead combines welted stockinette, twists, chevrons, lace, and other structural changes to create movement across the circular fabric.

The result is a project whose appearance changes depending on the light and the direction from which the textured stitches are viewed.

Skills That Help

Tree Rings is best suited to a knitter who is already comfortable with the basics and wants a substantial project. Useful skills include:

• Knitting in the round
• Working with double-pointed needles
• Using long circular needles
• Increasing stitches
• Following charted stitch patterns
• Working textured stitches and twists
• Basic lace techniques
• Managing a large number of live stitches
• Working an attached edging
• Blocking a large circular project

Important: Brooklyn Tweed notes that the stitch patterns for this design are charted. If you strongly prefer written-out row-by-row stitch instructions, check the current pattern details before purchasing.

Shawl or Blanket?

Tree Rings occupies an interesting space between a shawl and a blanket. Brooklyn Tweed presents it as a textured pi shawl, while its 62-inch circular size makes it large enough to work beautifully as a decorative throw.

Many knitters are therefore drawn to the design not only as something wearable, but also as an heirloom-style circular blanket.

Is Tree Rings a Free Knitting Pattern?

No. Tree Rings by Andrea Rangel is currently a paid knitting pattern.

The official Brooklyn Tweed listing currently offers the pattern as a downloadable PDF. Pattern prices and availability can change, so check the publisher's current page for the latest information.

Amazing Knitting does not reproduce the pattern's copyrighted charts, stitch counts, or row-by-row instructions.

Get the Official Tree Rings Pattern

The safest source for the current version, pattern support, and any published corrections is Brooklyn Tweed.

View Tree Rings at Brooklyn Tweed →

Looking for a Free Knitted Blanket?

If you found this page specifically because you were searching for a free blanket pattern, you can explore the free blanket projects collected in the Amazing Knitting archive instead.

Explore Free Blanket Knitting Patterns →

You may also enjoy round knitted blankets, textured blanket patterns, and lace blanket knitting patterns.

Before You Start

Tree Rings is a large project, so read through the official pattern before buying the full yarn quantity. Check your gauge, make sure you have the necessary needle lengths, and become familiar with the charts before the number of stitches becomes large.

Also check the current Brooklyn Tweed pattern page for the latest version and any published errata before beginning.

Pattern credit: Tree Rings was designed by Andrea Rangel and published by Brooklyn Tweed in Wool People, Volume 6. The existing photograph on this Amazing Knitting page is credited to Brooklyn Tweed / Jared Flood. Amazing Knitting does not reproduce the designer's copyrighted charts or knitting instructions.

Little Soldier Blanket - Knitting Pattern Guide

Photo above © Julie Ferguson

The Little Soldier Blanket, officially published as the Patriotic Soldier Blanket by Julie Ferguson, is a charming knitted blanket featuring classic soldier motifs against a simple textured background.

Originally featured on Amazing Knitting as a free pattern, its availability has changed. The official pattern is now offered through Let's Knit Together membership, so we have updated this guide to reflect the current legitimate source.

Pattern Availability Update

This Amazing Knitting page previously described the Little Soldier Blanket as a free pattern. The official Let's Knit page currently lists the pattern as available to Let's Knit Together members. We have updated this page so readers are not promised a free download that is no longer offered on the same terms.

Little Soldier Blanket at a Glance

Official Pattern: Patriotic Soldier Blanket

Designer: Julie Ferguson

Craft: Knitting

Category: Blanket / Throw

Difficulty: Intermediate

Yarn Weight: DK / 8 ply

Needle Size: US 6 / 4.0 mm circular needle

Finished Size: Approximately 75 × 75 cm

Techniques: Garter stitch, moss stitch, colourwork

Current Availability: Let's Knit Together membership

About the Little Soldier Blanket

Designed by Julie Ferguson, this square knitted blanket combines a practical baby-blanket shape with distinctive soldier motifs.

The official pattern is called Patriotic Soldier Blanket. Its soldier design gives the project a recognizable character, while the surrounding knitted fabric provides texture without making every section of the blanket colourwork.

Finished Size

The official finished measurement is approximately:

75 × 75 cm

This compact square format makes it suitable as a decorative small blanket or keepsake project.

Yarn Requirements

The official pattern uses King Cole Merino Blend DK. The listed yarn quantities are:

• Main colour: six 50g balls
• Black: one 50g ball
• Scarlet: one 50g ball
• Aran: one 50g ball

Other DK-weight yarns may be suitable, but matching the pattern gauge and choosing yarn appropriate for the intended use of the blanket are more important than simply matching the yarn label.

Needles

The pattern calls for:

US 6 / 4.0 mm circular knitting needle

A circular needle is useful for accommodating the large number of blanket stitches even though the project is not simply a small item knitted in continuous rounds.

The Soldier Motifs

The soldier figures are the feature that gives this blanket its distinctive appearance.

According to the official pattern information, knitters can use colourwork techniques, and the soldier details can also be added afterwards using Swiss darning.

Swiss darning, sometimes called duplicate stitch, allows decorative colour to be added over existing knitted stitches. This can be an approachable alternative for knitters who would rather add some motif details after completing the main fabric.

Skills That Help

Useful skills for this project include:

• Casting on
• Knit and purl stitches
• Garter stitch
• Moss stitch
• Following colour placement
• Intarsia or decorative colourwork
• Swiss darning / duplicate stitch
• Binding off
• Weaving in yarn ends

Let's Knit currently categorizes the project as Intermediate, although its official description notes that the basic knitting itself is approachable because the soldier motifs can be added afterwards.

Is the Little Soldier Blanket Still Free?

Not through the current official source.

Older references to this project, including the original Amazing Knitting page, described it as a free knitting pattern. The current official Let's Knit listing states that the pattern is available to Let's Knit Together members.

Because availability can change over the lifetime of an older knitting pattern, we recommend using the current publisher page rather than downloading copies reproduced by unrelated websites.

View the Official Little Soldier Blanket Pattern

Visit Let's Knit for the current pattern details and access information for Julie Ferguson's Patriotic Soldier Blanket.

View the Official Soldier Blanket Pattern →

Looking for a Free Baby Blanket Instead?

If you arrived here specifically looking for a free knitted baby blanket, Amazing Knitting has many currently free alternatives in the archive.

Explore Free Baby Blanket Knitting Patterns →

Before You Start

Check the current Let's Knit pattern page before choosing your yarn. Confirm the current access requirements, prepare the DK yarn colours needed for the soldier design, and read through the colourwork sections before casting on.

Pattern credit: Patriotic Soldier Blanket was designed by Julie Ferguson and published by Let's Knit. The original project image on this Amazing Knitting page is credited to Julie Ferguson. Amazing Knitting does not reproduce the designer's copyrighted pattern instructions or charts.