You may have your hook and yarns ready, but then you ask: How many chains for a baby blanket should I use?
The answer will depend on many factors, such as yarn thickness, pattern, and hook size. Before you embark on crocheting a lovely blanket for your cute baby, equip yourself with a clear idea of what to do first.
Many things can go wrong, which may force you to start from scratch later on. You can read this tutorial to avoid ending up with either an undersized or oversized blanket.
How Many Chains For A Baby Blanket Should There Be?
There’s no definitive answer for this one, but the way a blanket works is that you wrap it over someone else’s body. Instinctively, it must be larger than the intended body.
A baby blanket can be mistaken for a lap blanket and vice versa. Instead of fixating on the number of chains, measuring your chain is a better alternative. The length of the chain will affect the result, and blankets may vary because of this.
The smallest in size is a 10″ × 10″, known as a “lovey blanket.” Next to it, a 30″ × 35″ blanket is considered appropriate for strollers, also known as a “pram blanket.” The chief among them is a 45″ × 45″ blanket, big enough to swaddle your baby.
Another concern you might have is the kind of stitch you will use. More than the chain number, the design can make all the difference. If you want to give a blanket to an expectant mother, it will be a heartwarming gift.
Crochet Stitches
If you are new to this experience, here are a few stitching ideas for your crochet sessions.
Cross-over block stitch
If you can do single and double crochet with your eyes closed, the cross-over block stitch is perfect for you, as it requires only minimal effort and skill. The stitch is known for its simplicity and elegance. The crochet pattern may look basic, but at least you spent a decent amount of time crafting it with love.
Granite stitch
If you want a solid color blanket with emphasis on texture, consider the granite stitch. Known by other names like the moss stitch or the seed stitch, this stitch stands out from basic ones. Although it looks intriguing, it’s simple enough to make.
Star stitch
The starburst design earned the star stitch its name. The resulting blanket has a different texture in the front and back so that you could turn it over.
Tulip stitch
Have you mastered double crochet already? Then if you’re looking for a fun texture, the tulip stitch is ideal. This versatile stitch has zigzag patterns that can suit different yarns.
Materials Needed
Here are some of the items you’ll need for your crochet adventures.
Yarn
The backbone of your project is the spool of yarn! It will help if you pinpoint the kind you want to use for the blanket, defined by weight and fiber. Materials like polyester, wool, cotton, and acrylic are among the most common.
Crochet hooks
Crochet hooks come in variety as well. You can choose between plastic, aluminum, ergonomic and handcrafted. Heed the advice of testing out a beginner’s set first to see which hooks work for you best.
Tapestry needle
Another must-have is a tapestry needle. You can tell the difference with a sewing needle through the soft tips. Upon finishing your project, a tapestry needle will help you weave the ends of yarn.
Hook case
Lastly, a hook case can be optional. Having an intended cabinet to gather your materials suffice already. However, if you want something you can carry around, a container is a good idea.
Now keeping those in mind, you are ready to crochet a baby blanket. Here are the following steps you can take:
How to crochet a baby blanket
Step #1. Plan your blanket by deciding on the size, type of yarn to use and by choosing a hook
Step #2. Understand the basic stitches. Learn and master how to do the single crochet (sc) and the double crochet (dc)
Step #3. Begin with a foundation chain
Step #4. Crochet the first row and make a turning chain
Step #5. Crochet the next row
Step #6. Keep crocheting until you reach the desired number of rows
Step #7. Finish the blanket by adding a border or weaving the ends
Are they safe for babies?
Wrapping babies in a blanket is generally safe. However, swaddling is only appropriate for newborns, as the covering resembles the mother’s womb to soothe the infant. If done correctly, swaddling can calm the baby and even promote sleep.
What is the best type of yarn to use?
If you’re making a blanket just for practice, opt for wool. With this material, you can overlook mistakes, as you can reuse it even if it unravels. Most beginners go for wool, but check if you have an allergic reaction to it first.
On the other hand, if you’re a veteran, cotton can offer a slight challenge. The difficulty comes from cotton being an inelastic fiber. Aside from being lighter than wool, the summer heat can make wool unpleasant, making cotton the better choice.
Conclusion
How many chains for a baby blanket you deem necessary hardly matters. As you have learned, the length of the chain, design, and yarn type matters more. Consult this tutorial as you go on with your projects and create beautiful needleworks for your little angel.