Easy Baby Blanket Knitting Pattern (Broken Rib Stitch)
THIS ARTICLE CONTAINS AFFILIATE LINKS THAT SUPPORT HANDY LITTLE ME CONTENT AND FREE PATTERNS.In this post, you will see an easy baby blanket knitting pattern.
The blanket is knit with a great beginner stitch pattern called the broken rib stitch.
This modern baby blanket knitting pattern is made with soft yarn and is super squishy.
Please scroll down to view the free pattern or grab your printer-friendly ad-free PDF here.
A Basic Level Free Knitting Pattern
This is a basic pattern for those of you who are just learning how to knit.
The techniques you will need to know are casting on, casting off, working garter stitch, and the purl stitch.
Make a beautiful blanket in all of your favorite different colors.
This easy knitting pattern is the baby version of my Easy Squishy Knit Throw Blanket Pattern.
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The Yarn I Used To Knit The Baby Blanket
To knit the blanket I used a baby soft chenille yarn – Himalaya Dolphin Baby.
This yarn is available to purchase from Hobium Yarns online and they have an array of colors to choose from.
I used a bright pink shade for this blanket.
This yarn can be a little tricky to work with, especially when you sew the ends in – you get fluff and bits poking out here and there.
You can also check out Love Crafts for a great collection of soft baby yarns.
Yarn substitutes
You can substitute this yarn with any one of the following:
- Katia Bambi
- King Cole Yummy
- Sirdar Smudge
- Red Heart Sweet Home
- Bernat Baby Blanket
- Cygnet Chenille Chunky
Resources and tutorials you may find helpful in following this pattern:
This pattern is great for any beginner knitter.
- Knitting cast-on methods
- Knitting Lessons
- How to cast on knitting
- How to cast off knitting for total beginners (step by step)
- How to knit garter stitch
- How to knit the purl stitch (for beginners + a video tutorial)
- How to knit stockinette stitch (for beginners)
- How to read knitting patterns for beginners
- Knitting abbreviations and terms (US and UK)
- How to knit rib stitch
Easy Baby Blanket Knitting Pattern
Grab your inexpensive ad-free, PDF printable pattern in my shop here.
Notes
Skill Level – Basic
The simple baby blanket knits up in a simple broken rib stitch pattern, and the design makes for a relaxing and enjoyable knit.
It will make a great baby shower gift for a new baby, and you can substitute the yarn choices for something else if you wish.
Make it in bright colors, with color changes, a solid color, or something else if you want to get super creative!
Video tutorial – How to knit the broken rib stitch.
Copyright Info
- Please do not copy, sell, redistribute, or republish this easy baby blanket knitting pattern.
- If you wish to share this pattern, link to the pattern page only.
- You may sell items produced using this pattern.
- Do NOT use copyrighted photos for your product listing.
- For the copyright T&C, please read my Terms of Use.
Size Information
The finished blanket will measure…
- Width – 50″/127cm
- Length – 50″/127cm
Gauge – 10 x 10 cm /4 x 4 inches = 9 sts and 18 rows in broken rib stitch.
Grab The Ad-Free Printable PDF Pattern Here
The Supplies You Need
Yarn
- Himalaya Dolphin Baby Chenille Yarn(100g/120m/131 yds) in the following colors:
- 6 x skeins in Pink – 80309
- This yarn is available to buy from HobiumYarns.com
- Substitute yarn suggestions: Katia Bambi / King Cole Yummy / Sirdar Smudge / Red Heart Sweet Home / Bernat Baby Blanket / Cygnet Chenille Chunky
- Super Bulky 06 (you can also make this blanket with a bulky yarn that can be used with the needle size below).
- Yarn Weight Guide (+ Conversion Chart)
Needles
- 7 mm (US 10.5/11) 40″ circular knitting needles.
- You do not join in the round to work – the circular needles /cable is to accommodate a large number of stitches.
- You can use straight needles to knit this blanket.
Notions
- Tape measure
- Darning needle/yarn needle
- Scissors
- Stitch markers x 2
Abbreviations / Knitting Abbreviations And Terms (US And UK) List
- CO – Cast on
- Cont – Continue
- K – Knit
- P – Purl
- PM – Place marker
- Rep – Repeat
- RS – Right Side
- St(s) – Stitch(es)
- SM – Slip Marker
- WS – Wrong Side
Pattern Instructions
CO 111 sts
- Rows 1-10: Knit
Next, start the broken rib stitch pattern;
- Row 11: (RS) Knit
- Row 12: (WS) K 10 (edge), PM, P1, *K1, P1 – rep from * to last 10 sts, PM, K 10 (edge).
- Row 13: (RS) Knit
- Row 14: (WS) K 10 (edge), SM, P1, *K1, P1 – rep from * to last 10 sts, SM, K 10 (edge).
The two rows above form the pattern.
Use stitch markers so you know where the edging is.
View A Broken Rib Stitch Tutorial Here
Rep rows 13 and 14 until you have completed around 48 inches in length.
Knit 10 rows in garter stitch (every row knit) to complete the bottom garter stitch border section of the blanket.
Cast off loosely.
Weave in all loose ends.
Could you share your work with us…
I love seeing your finished projects.
If you enjoyed making the simple knit baby blanket, I’d love to see yours on Instagram, be sure to tag me @handylittleme.
If you are on Facebook, stop over to the Handylittleme Facebook group and share a photo.
I’d love to see your work.
Happy Knitting!
Knitting Baby Blankets FAQ
What size should a knitted baby blanket be?
The size of a knitted baby blanket can vary depending on personal preference and intended use.
A common size for a standard baby blanket is approximately 30 inches by 36 inches (76 cm by 91 cm).
This size provides a cozy and comfortable covering for a baby in a crib, bassinet, or stroller. However, baby blankets can be made larger or smaller based on individual needs.
Some knitters prefer larger blankets, such as 36 inches by 36 inches (91 cm by 91 cm) or 36 inches by 40 inches (91 cm by 102 cm), for added versatility and longevity as the baby grows into a toddler.
Smaller sizes, like 24 inches by 30 inches (61 cm by 76 cm), can be ideal for newborns or as a portable blanket for traveling in a car seat.
When choosing the size for a knitted baby blanket, consider the intended use, the climate, and any specific preferences regarding coverage and functionality.
What knitting stitch is best for a baby blanket?
The best knitting stitch for a baby blanket often depends on the desired look, texture, and level of warmth.
For a soft and squishy blanket with good drape and texture, the seed stitch or moss stitch can be excellent choices.
These stitches create a fabric with a subtle texture that is visually appealing and provides a bit of extra warmth.
Another popular option is the garter stitch, which is simple to knit (just knit every row) and produces a reversible, stretchy fabric that is great for baby blankets.
If you prefer a more delicate and lacy look, consider using a simple eyelet or lace pattern.
Ultimately, the best stitch for a baby blanket is one that you enjoy knitting and that complements the overall style and functionality you envision for the blanket.
What size yarn do I need for a baby blanket?
The yarn weight needed for a baby blanket can vary based on the desired thickness and drape of the blanket.
Different yarn weights produce different textures and warmth levels.
For a lightweight and delicate baby blanket, choose a sport weight yarn.
This weight is typically used with smaller needles and produces a soft, airy fabric.
A DK weight yarn is thicker and provides a good balance of warmth and drape, making it suitable for a variety of baby blanket styles.
Worsted weight (medium) yarn is a popular choice for baby blankets because it knits up relatively quickly and creates a cozy, durable fabric.
It’s versatile and works well with a range of stitch patterns.
If you prefer a thicker, chunkier blanket, consider using a bulky weight (chunky) yarn, which knits up rapidly and results in a plush, warm blanket.
Ultimately, the choice of yarn weight depends on the desired look and feel of the blanket, as well as the level of knitting experience and time available for the project.
Before starting your project, it’s good to make a gauge swatch; you will only need a small amount of yarn.
- Learn everything about the different yarn weights here – Yarn Weight Guide {+ Conversion Chart}
- Learn everything about yarn fibers here – Yarn Types Explained: A Guide To Different Fibers
- Learn how to read a yarn label here – How To Read A Yarn Label (Step By Step)
Are knitted blankets safe for babies?
Knitted blankets can be safe for babies when used appropriately and with certain considerations in mind.
It’s important to ensure that the yarn used is soft, non-irritating, and free from potential hazards such as loose fibers or embellishments that could pose a choking risk.
Additionally, knitted blankets should be made with a tight, even stitch pattern to prevent little fingers or toes from getting caught.
When using knitted blankets in cribs or bassinets, always follow safe sleep guidelines recommended by pediatricians, which often advise against placing loose blankets in sleeping areas with infants to reduce the risk of suffocation or Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).
Instead, opt for lightweight, breathable blankets or sleep sacks designed specifically for infants.
As babies grow older and can safely use blankets, supervise their use and ensure the blanket is kept away from the baby’s face during sleep.
Overall, with proper precautions and supervision, knitted blankets can add warmth and comfort to a baby’s environment.
What size knitting needles for baby blankets?
The size of knitting needles for a baby blanket can depend on the yarn weight you choose and the desired texture and drape of the finished blanket.
Generally, for a baby blanket made with worsted weight (medium) yarn, using needle sizes in the range of US 7 to US 9 (4.5 mm to 5.5 mm) can work well.
This size range allows for a balanced fabric that is not too tight or too loose, resulting in a blanket that is cozy and has a good drape.
However, if you are using a different yarn weight, such as fingering weight or bulky weight, you would adjust the needle size accordingly.
Always refer to the yarn label for recommended needle sizes and consider swatching to determine the best needle size to achieve the desired gauge and fabric for your baby blanket project.
Why make a baby blanket?
Making a baby blanket is a cherished and meaningful project for several reasons.
First and foremost, a hand-knit baby blanket is a perfect gift that shows love and care for the baby and their family.
It’s a personal and thoughtful way to welcome a new life into the world.
Hand-knitted blankets are also unique and can be customized with specific colors, patterns, and stitches, making them one-of-a-kind keepsakes that can be cherished.
Many keep their first blanket for years to come.
Additionally, knitting a baby blanket can be a fulfilling and enjoyable creative endeavor, providing a sense of accomplishment as you see the project progress.
From a practical standpoint, baby blankets serve a functional purpose by providing warmth and comfort to babies during sleep or tummy time.
Plus, if you are a new maker and you want to try out making blankets it’s a good idea to make a baby blanket before moving to a larger project.
Make one in all of your favorite colors.
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