50 Best Crochet Stitches For Blankets And Afghans
THIS ARTICLE CONTAINS AFFILIATE LINKS THAT SUPPORT HANDY LITTLE ME CONTENT AND FREE PATTERNS.This blog post will show you a comprehensive list of the 50 best crochet stitches for blankets and afghans.
You’ll also find information on choosing the perfect stitch for your crochet blanket.
Crafting crochet blankets is a fun and fulfilling pursuit, and this guide will equip you with all the knowledge you need to make them.
What Crochet Stitches Are Best For Blankets?
There is no right or wrong stitch for a blanket.
However, you can check out the 50 best crochet stitches for a blanket, along with crochet stitch tutorials below.
Happy Crocheting!
Single Crochet (sc)
Single crochet is a basic stitch that forms a tight, dense fabric.
Ideal for beginners, it creates a smooth texture suitable for various blanket styles.
An excellent crochet stitch pattern for beginner crocheters or if you are looking for a mindless project.
Double Crochet (dc)
A classic stitch that's taller than the half double crochet.
The double crochet creates a more open and airy fabric, perfect for lightweight and breathable blankets.
This is another easy and great stitch to consider for your next crochet project
How To Half Double Crochet Stitch For Beginners (hdc)
The half-double crochet stitch is slightly taller than the single crochet, producing a fabric with a bit more drape.
It works up quickly, making it great for cozy blankets.
It's a great stitch for new makers.
Treble Crochet (tr)
Offering even more height, the treble crochet stitch creates a loose and open texture, making it excellent for lacy and decorative blanket patterns.
This is also one of the basic crochet stitches.
So, it's perfect if you are looking for easy crochet blanket stitches.
Granny Square ( gs)
A timeless favorite, the granny square involves clusters of double crochets separated by chain spaces, forming a square motif.
Combine multiple granny squares for a charming blanket.
You can find many beautiful blanket patterns made with this design.
Shell Stitch (sh)
The shell stitch comprises groups of stitches (commonly double crochets) in the same space.
The shell stitch creates a scalloped edge and adds texture.
Making it a popular choice for elegant blankets.
How To Crochet The Basket Weave Stitch (Free Tutorial)
Mimicking the look of a woven basket, this stitch alternates between blocks of front and back post double crochets.
It adds depth and a unique pattern to blankets.
This intermediate pattern is perfect for makers who want to experiment with different textures.
Popcorn Stitch (pc)
A playful and textured stitch, the popcorn stitch involves creating a "popcorn" or bobble by working multiple stitches into the same space.
You can make the bobbles in different sizes by adding stitches.
This adds a three-dimensional quality to the blanket.
How To Corner To Corner Crochet (C2C) For Beginners
It is a trendy technique where you crochet from one corner to the other, creating a pixelated design.
C2C is versatile, allowing for intricate patterns in blankets.
An excellent stitch pattern to create Instagram-worthy items.
Moss Stitch (Granite Stitch)
The moss stitch is created by alternating single crochets and chain spaces.
Forming a stunning, textured, and reversible fabric.
It is undeniably the perfect choice for making reversible blankets.
How To Crochet The Waffle Stitch (Free Tutorial)
The waffle stitch creates a textured, grid-like pattern by combining front post double crochets and regular double crochets.
This stitch adds thickness and warmth to blankets.
And a beautiful texture that resembles the beloved dessert.
Crochet Puff Stitch (ps) (A How-To Tutorial For Beginners)
Characterized by raised, puffy clusters of stitches, the puff stitch adds a fluffy and decorative element to blankets.
It's often used for creating eye-catching textures.
This stitch also adds extra warmth and coziness to your crochet projects.
Bobble Stitch (bo)
Similar to the popcorn stitch, the bobble stitch involves creating clusters of stitches in the same space, forming round, raised bobbles for a distinct and cozy blanket texture.
This stitch is often used in crochet to create decorative patterns.
With its unique look and feel, the bobble stitch is a popular choice for handmade creations.
Chevron Stitch
The Chevron Stitch, also known as the ripple stitch, forms a zigzag pattern by alternating increases and decreases along the rows.
This stitch creates a dynamic and visually striking design, making it popular.
It's an excellent stitch for intermediate makers.
Fancy Shell Stitch by The Stitchin Mommy
A variation of the shell stitch, the fancy shell stitch incorporates additional decorative elements.
Such as picots or different stitch combinations for an ornate and intricate appearance.
It's an excellent stitch for intermediate makers.
Zig Zag Puff Stitch
By combining puff stitches in a zigzag pattern, this stitch creates a playful and modern design for blankets.
It's a great way to add movement and interest to your crochet projects.
It's a great pattern for advanced makers.
Cluster V-Stitch (cl V-st)
Combining clusters of stitches with the classic V-stitch, this variation adds density and texture to the fabric.
It's versatile and can be adapted for various blanket styles.
It's a great pattern for advanced makers.
Extended Single Crochet (ext sc)
An elongated version of the single crochet, the extended single crochet, creates a slightly taller and more flexible fabric.
It's a simple yet effective stitch for lightweight blankets.
An excellent stitch pattern for beginners.
Pineapple Stitch
Named for its resemblance to a pineapple motif, this stitch involves intricate combinations of stitches and chain spaces.
It's a popular choice for creating delicate and vintage-inspired blankets.
It's a great pattern for advanced makers.
Herringbone Half Double Crochet (hhdc)
The herringbone half double crochet is a variation of the half double crochet that creates a distinctive diagonal texture.
Adding a modern and visually interesting touch to blankets.
It's a great stitch pattern for intermediate makers.
Thermal Sitch
The thermal stitch creates a thick and textured fabric with a waffle-like appearance.
The stitch pattern involves working front and back post double crochet stitches, which gives the blanket extra thickness and warmth.
This makes it particularly suitable for cozy and comforting blankets, as the texture helps to trap heat, providing additional insulation.
Petal Stitch
Resembling flower petals, the petal stitch involves working clusters of stitches in a circular pattern.
It's a charming choice for blankets with a touch of whimsy.
A fabulous stitch pattern for anyone who loves intricate stitch patterns.
How To Crochet A Front Post Double Crochet Stitch (fpdc)
By working double crochets around the front post of the stitch, the front post double crochet creates a raised, textured fabric.
This stitch is often used in combination with other stitches for added depth.
A great stitch pattern for blankets.
How To Make A Back Post Double Crochet Stitch (BPDC)
Similar to the front post double crochet, the back post double crochet is worked around the back post of the stitch.
This creates a ribbed texture, making it a great choice for blankets with a classic, tailored look.
It's a great stitch pattern for intermediate makers.
Crocodile Stitch
Named for its crocodile scale-like appearance, this stitch involves working layered stitches to create a unique texture.
While more advanced, it adds a dramatic and eye-catching element to blankets.
It's a great stitch pattern for intermediate makers.
Granny Stripe
A variation of the classic granny square, the Granny Stripe stitch involves working rows of double crochets in different colors, creating a striped pattern.
This stitch offers a modern twist on the traditional granny square.
It's a versatile blanket choice, allowing endless color combinations and customization.
Star Stitch Crochet Tutorial (Easy For Beginners)
It involves clusters of stitches worked together, creating a central star-like motif surrounded by a textured background.
This stitch adds a whimsical and eye-catching element to blankets.
It's a great stitch pattern for intermediate makers.
Tunisian Simple Stitch (tss)
A fundamental stitch in Tunisian crochet, the Tunisian simple stitch creates a dense and sturdy fabric.
It's perfect for blankets that require added warmth and structure.
All of the basic Tunisian crochet stitches are great for blankets.
Suzette Stitch
Combining single crochet and double crochet stitches, the Suzette stitch creates a dense yet flexible fabric with a subtle diagonal texture.
It's a great stitch for blankets that need a balance of warmth and drape.
It's a great stitch pattern for intermediate makers.
Offset V-Stitch
A variation of the V-stitch, the offset V-stitch involves staggering the placement of the V's, creating a dynamic and modern pattern.
It's a versatile choice for blankets with a contemporary flair.
It's a great stitch pattern for experienced makers.
Bavarian Square
The Bavarian square is a textured, three-dimensional square made by working stitches in the same space.
It's often used to create visually striking blankets with a classic, quilt-like appearance.
It's a great stitch pattern for experienced makers.
Ribbon Candy Stitch
Resembling the twists of ribbon candy, this stitch involves a combination of stitches and chain spaces.
It's a playful and decorative choice for blankets with a touch of whimsy.
It's a great stitch pattern for experienced makers.
Lemon Peel Stitch
Alternating single crochets and double crochets, the lemon peel stitch creates a subtle texture resembling the skin of a lemon.
It's a versatile stitch suitable for a variety of blanket styles.
A great stitch pattern for experienced makers.
Crossed Double Crochet (Cross dc)
By crossing double crochet stitches over each other, this stitch creates an interwoven pattern.
It adds a touch of complexity and visual interest to blankets.
It's a great stitch pattern for experienced makers.
Spike Stitch
The spike stitch creates a unique vertical texture by involving working stitches into the row below.
It's an excellent choice for blankets that benefit from added depth and dimension.
It is a great stitch pattern for intermediate crocheters.
Spider Stitch
The spider stitch involves clusters of stitches worked into the same space, creating a visually exciting pattern resembling spider legs.
It's a playful choice for blankets with a whimsical theme.
It's a great stitch pattern for all makers.
Houndstooth Stitch
Inspired by the classic houndstooth pattern, this stitch involves alternating colors and post stitches to create a timeless and sophisticated design.
It's perfect for blankets with a touch of elegance.
It's a great stitch pattern for all makers.
Tulip Stitch
Resembling the petals of a tulip, this stitch involves clusters of stitches worked in a specific pattern.
It's a charming choice for blankets with a floral theme.
It's a great stitch pattern for all makers.
Arcade Stitch
Combining shells and arches, the arcade stitch creates a lacy and openwork pattern, making it suitable for lightweight and decorative blankets.
The alternating shells and arches give the fabric a delicate and airy feel.
It's a great stitch pattern for intermediate makers.
Cluster Stitch (cl)
The cluster stitch involves crocheting multiple stitches into the same space and then completing them together.
This creates a raised, textured cluster, making it versatile for creating patterns and adding dimension to blankets.
It's a great stitch pattern for intermediate makers.
X-Stitch (Cross Stitch)
Resembling a traditional cross stitch, the X-stitch involves skipping stitches and crossing over with a long stitch.
It's a classic choice for blankets with a timeless and geometric design.
It is a great stitch pattern for intermediate crocheters.
Lattice Stitch
The lattice stitch creates a grid pattern by working clusters of stitches and chain spaces.
It produces a fabric with an open and textured look, making it suitable for various blanket styles.
It's a great stitch pattern for all makers.
Pine Tree Stitch
Resembling rows of pine trees, this stitch involves clusters and chain spaces arranged to create a repeating tree motif.
It's a playful and decorative option for themed blankets.
It's a great pattern for intermediate makers.
Raised Ripple Stitch
The raised ripple stitch adds a twist to the traditional ripple stitch.
It incorporates front post stitches to create a textured, raised effect.
This stitch adds depth and visual interest to blankets, making it a dynamic project choice.
How To Crochet The Blanket Stitch For Beginners
The blanket stitch is often used in afghans and blankets.
It combines single-crochet and double-crochet stitches to create a dense yet soft and textured fabric.
By alternating these stitches strategically, the blanket stitch produces a cozy and inviting texture.
Iris Stitch
The iris crochet stitch is a beautiful and intricate pattern that resembles the petals of a flower. Its unique combination of puff stitches and chains characterizes it, creating a textured and visually appealing design.
This stitch is often used in blanket projects.
Even Moss Stitch
It is a versatile crochet pattern characterized by alternating single crochet and chain stitches. This stitch creates a tight, textured fabric with a woven appearance.
Its simplicity and reversible nature make it an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced crocheters.
Trinity Stitch
The Trinity Stitch is also called the Raspberry Stitch.
It's an eye-catching crochet pattern that forms a cluster of three double crochet stitches worked into the same space.
Popular in various projects like hats, shawls, and baby blankets.
Feather Stitch
It's an elegant, lacy crochet pattern featuring elongated double crochet stitches separated by chain spaces.
Its design adds a touch of sophistication to crochet creations.
Making it a favorite for those seeking a graceful and dainty texture.
How To Crochet The Alpine Stitch (Pattern Tutorial)
In this blog post, you will see how to crochet the alpine stitch (pattern tutorial).
The alpine stitch is versatile and can be used to create a range of patterns and textures.
This free tutorial teaches you how to crochet the alpine stitch and use it to make various beautiful items, from scarves and hats to blankets and more.
What’s The Best Yarn For A Crochet Blanket?
Choosing the best yarn for a crochet blanket depends on various factors, including the blanket’s purpose, your budget, care instructions, and personal preferences.
Here’s a breakdown of some popular yarn choices for crochet blankets, highlighting their benefits and potential considerations:
- Acrylic Yarn: Acrylic is a synthetic fiber that is widely used for crochet projects. It’s affordable, durable, easy to care for (machine washable and dryable), and available in a wide range of colors. Acrylic yarn is a great choice for everyday blankets, including baby blankets, because it’s soft and hypoallergenic. However, it might not be as breathable as natural fibers, which could be a consideration if you’re making a blanket for warmer climates.
- Cotton Yarn: Cotton is a natural fiber that’s soft, breathable, and sturdy. It’s an excellent choice for warmer climates or for people with sensitive skin. Cotton yarn can produce a blanket with a lovely drape and is typically easy to care for. It’s also good for projects that require definition, such as intricate stitch patterns. However, cotton can be heavier than acrylic and might not be as warm, making it less ideal for cold-weather blankets.
- Wool Yarn: Wool is another natural fiber known for its warmth and durability. It’s an excellent choice for cozy, warm blankets intended for colder climates. Wool has a natural elasticity, making it great for blankets that will see a lot of use. It can be more expensive than synthetic fibers and requires more care (hand wash or specific machine wash settings) to avoid shrinking or felting. For those sensitive to wool, consider looking into superwash wool, which has been treated to make it machine-washable and less itchy.
- Blend Yarns: Blends combine fibers (e.g., cotton-acrylic, wool-acrylic) to offer the benefits of both materials. For example, a wool-acrylic blend can be warmer than pure acrylic while being more affordable and easier to care for than pure wool. Blend yarns can provide a good balance of softness, durability, care ease, and cost, making them a versatile choice for many projects.
- Chunky/Bulky Yarns: Regardless of the fiber type, chunky or bulky yarns are popular for blankets because they work up quickly and create a cozy, textured finish. They’re ideal for making thick, warm blankets but can be more expensive and require more yarn to complete a project.
- Specialty Yarns: These include organic, eco-friendly, or luxury fibers (like alpaca, cashmere, or silk blends). They’re perfect for special gifts or luxurious projects. Keep in mind that these yarns can be costly and may require specific care.
When choosing yarn for your crochet blanket, consider the project’s intended use, your budget, and any care instructions.
It’s also a good idea to touch and feel the yarn (if possible) to ensure it meets your softness and texture preferences.
Finally, consider the washing and care needs of the recipient, especially for baby blankets or gifts.
- Learn everything about the different yarn weights here – Yarn Weight Guide {+ Conversion Chart}
- Learn how to read a yarn label here – How To Read A Yarn Label (Step By Step)
- Learn everything about yarn fibers here – Yarn Types Explained: A Guide To Different Fibers
How Many Stitches For A Crochet Blanket?
The number of stitches needed for a crochet blanket depends on several factors, including the size of the blanket you’re aiming for, the weight of the yarn, the size of the crochet hook, and the specific stitch pattern you plan to use.
Here’s a general guide to help you estimate the number of stitches you might need based on these factors:
1. Determine Your Blanket Size
First, decide on the dimensions of your blanket. Common sizes include:
- Baby Blanket: Typically around 30″ x 40″
- Throw Blanket: About 50″ x 60″
- Twin Bed Blanket: Roughly 66″ x 90″
- Queen Bed Blanket: Approximately 90″ x 90″
- King Bed Blanket: Usually around 108″ x 90″
2. Yarn Weight and Crochet Hook Size
Yarn weight and the size of the crochet hook you use will significantly affect the number of stitches per inch you can achieve.
Yarn labels suggest appropriate hook sizes and gauge (stitches per inch/cm).
3. Gauge Swatch
To accurately determine how many stitches you’ll need, make a gauge swatch:
- Choose your yarn and hook. Refer to the yarn label for the recommended hook size, or choose based on your pattern or preference.
- Crochet a small sample. Make a swatch that’s at least 4″x4″ using the stitch pattern you plan to use for your blanket.
- Measure your stitches. Count how many stitches and rows are in a 4″ square of your swatch. This tells you your gauge.
4. Calculate Stitches Needed
Use your gauge to calculate the total number of stitches:
Stitches per inch = Number of stitches in 4″ divided by 4.
Total stitches needed = Desired blanket width in inches × Stitches per inch.
Example Calculation
If your gauge swatch shows you have 16 stitches in 4 inches (4 stitches per inch), and you want to make a baby blanket that’s 30 inches wide:
4 stitches/inch×30 inches = 120 stitches
You would start with 120 stitches for a baby blanket that’s 30 inches wide.
Considerations
- Adjusting for pattern multiples: If your stitch pattern requires a certain multiple (e.g., a stitch pattern that repeats every 6 stitches), you’ll need to adjust your total stitch count to be a multiple of that number.
- Edging: If you plan to add a border or edging, consider that it may require additional stitches or adjustments to your initial chain.
This guide provides a starting point but always refer to specific patterns for detailed instructions, as they can offer tailored advice based on the design and stitch used.
Choosing The Perfect Crochet Stitch For Your Blanket…
What is the best crochet stitch for a blanket with no holes?
For a crochet blanket with no holes, creating a dense and warm fabric, you want to choose stitches that are closely worked together.
Here are some of the best crochet stitches for such a blanket, offering a solid, cozy texture:
- Single Crochet (SC): Single crochet is one of the most basic crochet stitches, producing a tight, dense fabric. It’s excellent for a beginner-friendly project that requires minimal gaps. Single crochet stitches are worked closely together, making them ideal for a warm, solid blanket.
- Half Double Crochet (HDC): Half double crochet offers a bit more height than single crochet but still maintains a relatively dense fabric. It’s a good middle ground between the tightness of single crochet and the slightly more open double crochet, providing warmth and a bit more texture without significant holes.
- Double Crochet (DC) with Reduced Gaps: While double crochet typically creates a more open fabric, you can adjust it for a tighter weave. By working in the front or back loop only, or by using a smaller hook size, you can make the double crochet stitches closer together, reducing gaps.
- Herringbone Half Double Crochet (HHDC): This variation of the half double crochet has a unique, twisted look that pulls the stitches closer together, minimizing gaps. It creates a dense fabric with an interesting texture, perfect for a cozy blanket.
- Moss Stitch (also known as Linen or Granite Stitch): The moss stitch is made by alternating single crochet and chain stitches, skipping over a stitch between single crochets. Despite involving chain spaces, the moss stitch creates a fabric with a very minimal appearance of holes, as the single crochets fill in the gaps, producing a tightly woven, textured fabric.
- Waffle Stitch: The waffle stitch creates a textured fabric that resembles a waffle pattern. It is achieved by using a combination of double crochet stitches and front post double crochet stitches. Despite its texture, the fabric created is quite dense, making it suitable for warm blankets with minimal gaps.
- Basketweave Stitch: Utilizing front post and back post double crochet stitches, the basketweave stitch creates a thick, textured fabric that mimics the weave of a basket. This stitch is excellent for blankets as it produces a dense fabric with a beautiful, tactile surface.
When choosing a stitch for your no-hole blanket, consider the stitch’s texture and the overall look you want to achieve, along with the yarn weight and hook size, as these will also influence the fabric’s density and warmth.
Smaller hooks and thicker yarn can help reduce gaps further in any chosen stitch pattern.
What is the warmest crochet stitch for a blanket?
Due to its unique texture and structure, the waffle stitch is considered one of the warmest crochet stitches for blankets.
This stitch combines front post double crochets and regular double crochets, creating a thick and plush fabric that traps heat effectively.
The raised ridges formed by the front post stitches add an extra layer of insulation, making the waffle stitch ideal for blankets intended to provide maximum warmth.
The textured squares of the waffle pattern create small pockets that can trap heat, offering visual appeal and enhanced thermal properties.
When crafted with bulky yarn and a large hook, the waffle stitch produces a blanket with a substantial weight and superior insulation, ensuring coziness during colder seasons.
What crochet stitch works up the fastest for a blanket?
The double crochet stitch is renowned for its quick and efficient execution, making it the go-to choice for crocheters aiming to complete blankets rapidly.
Its taller nature compared to single or half double crochet stitch allows for faster coverage of each row, resulting in quicker progress.
The simplicity of the stitch also lends itself well to a continuous and rhythmic crocheting process, reducing the time spent on intricate stitch work.
Additionally, opting for a larger hook size with a corresponding bulkier yarn further accelerates the blanket-making process, ensuring a speedy and satisfying project completion without compromising the overall warmth and coziness of the finished piece.
What crochet stitches for blankets that use less yarn?
Crochet stitches that use less yarn while maintaining a pleasing aesthetic include the moss stitch and the granny stripe.
The moss stitch, formed by alternating single crochet and chain stitches, creates a dense and textured fabric that requires fewer yarn resources due to its smaller stitches and minimal yarn consumption.
Similarly, the granny stripe, employing simple double crochets in rows, offers a visually appealing striped pattern without intricate detailing, making it an efficient option for yarn economy.
Choosing these stitches for a blanket allows you to achieve a polished look with a frugal use of materials, making them ideal for budget-friendly or eco-conscious projects where yarn conservation is a priority.
What crochet stitch makes the softest blanket?
The alpine stitch is an excellent choice for a soft and luxurious blanket.
The alpine stitch combines single crochet and front post double crochet to create a dense yet plush fabric with a rich texture.
This stitch pattern creates a cozy and velvety surface, providing a gentle touch that feels exceptionally soft against the skin.
Additionally, using a high-quality, soft yarn such as merino wool, alpaca, or a plush acrylic blend enhances the overall softness of the blanket.
The alpine stitch offers a luxurious feel and adds a touch of sophistication to the design, making it an ideal option for crafting blankets that prioritize both comfort and aesthetics.
Crochet Blanket Patterns
- How To Crochet A Blanket + Free Crochet Pattern
- Chunky Crochet Blanket – Super Easy Free Pattern!
- How To Crochet A Granny Square Blanket (Free Pattern)
- 33 Best Bernat Blanket Yarn Patterns (Free Ideas)
- Crochet Afghan Patterns
- 47+ Free Crochet Baby Blanket Patterns Using Lightweight Yarn
- 20 Temperature Blanket Patterns (The Ultimate Guide)
- 13 Free Black And White Blanket Crochet Patterns
- 23 Fall Crochet Blanket Patterns
Crochet Blanket Posts
Crochet Lessons
If you are a new maker and need help with the crochet basics, check out the crochet lessons here – Crochet Lessons {With Video Tutorials}.
There, you will find tutorial posts for all the crochet techniques a newbie needs to know.
Including how to create a foundation chain (ch), single crochet, double crochet, and all the crochet abbreviations ( in UK and US terms) a maker needs to know.
And if you need more video tutorials, check out my YouTube channel here – Handy Little Me – YouTube
Join The Handy Little Me Facebook Group to connect with more makers.
