31 Free Baby Blanket Knitting Patterns (Easy Knit Blankets)
THIS ARTICLE CONTAINS AFFILIATE LINKS THAT SUPPORT HANDY LITTLE ME CONTENT AND FREE PATTERNS.In this post, you will see a collection of 31 free baby blanket knitting patterns (easy knit blankets).
Nothing is more heartwarming and fulfilling if you are a maker than creating unique handmade baby gifts for your friends and family.
There is an abundance of baby things you knit or crochet for our little friends, from adorable baby clothes, tiny baby booties, soft squishy toys, and, most importantly, baby blankets.
Because there is nothing more adorable than a baby wrapped in a tiny baby blanket.
31 Free Baby Blanket Knitting Patterns
If you are expecting a baby or a loved one is and you want to gift them with a baby blanket, take a look at the knitting patterns below, and you might find your next project.
Happy Knitting!
Corner To Corner Baby Blanket Pattern
Make a colorful corner-to-corner baby blanket with this easy knitting pattern.
Corner to corner means that you will knit this pattern diagonally from corner to corner.
This design is colorful, and you can choose any color combination.
The pattern is free and great for beginners; moreover, there is a video tutorial to help you along.
Easy Baby Blanket Knitting Pattern {Broken Rib Stitch}
Make an easy knitted blanket to wrap around your baby with this easy, free knitting pattern.
The blanket is knitted with the broken rib stitch, which is great for beginner knitters!
You can even make it with a self-striping yarn for a more interesting color result.
Cable Knit Baby Blanket Pattern
The blanket is easy to make, with advanced beginner knitters and more intermediate knitters in mind.
Using a simple 6-cable stitch pattern, you will create a baby blanket with a garter stitch border.
You will need bulky/chunky/12-ply yarn, 7mm (US 10.5) knitting needles (circulars are preferred, but not to knit in the round - this is for the number of stitches you cast on), and a cable needle.
Heart Baby Blanket Knitting Pattern
Cast on a new project with this super cute heart baby blanket knitting pattern.
The blanket is knit in two colors with a repeated heart design in the pattern knit using the intarsia technique.
You can make one for a baby shower or for Valentine’s day in different colors.
Cloverleaf Eyelet Baby Blanket
Make a beautiful knit baby blanket with the free knitting pattern.
The pattern makes for a beautiful knit with the cloverleaf eyelet stitch and the crochet cloverleaf edge.
The pattern includes a video tutorial to help you along.
Woolflower Velvet Yarn Knit Blanket - Free Knitting Pattern
Make a beautiful knitted blanket with velvet yarn with this free knitting pattern.
The design is truly beautiful, and the velvet yarn will make it extra soft, making it the perfect gift.
There are three baby blanket sizes.
Baby Blanket Pattern (Patchwork + 4 Stitch Patterns)
Make a patchwork baby blanket with this free knitting pattern.
This baby blanket knitting pattern includes four stitch patterns, and it’s great for any advanced beginner knitter.
The combination of stitches and colors will make for a beautiful make that will impress whoever you gift it to.
Warm Hands Baby Blanket pattern by Sophia Minakais
Make a pretty knitted baby blanket with the free knitting pattern by Sophia Minakais.
The design makes a beautiful make that you can gift to a loved one.
Grab the free PDF on Ravelry.
Zoe Baby Blanket Knitting pattern by Lille Larsen
If you love intarsia, then you will love this baby blanket project.
It's an adorable project with cute hearts all over the blanket.
Update 2024: the pattern is no longer free, but you can still purchase it on the Love Crafts website.
Triss baby blanket Knitting pattern by CrepleKnits
This looks like a great knitting pattern for any beginner.
Made up of knit and purl stitches, this pattern looks great in stripes.
The pattern is available as a free PDF on the Love Crafts website.
Soft 'n Simple Baby Blanket in Caron Simply Soft
Make a simple baby blanket with this free pattern from designer Donna Childs.
The blanket is made using Caron's simply soft yarn.
The pattern is available as a free PDF on the Love Crafts website.
Bold Baby Knit Blanket in Bernat Softee Baby Cotton
This lovely color block blanket is from Bernate and made with Bernat Softee Baby Cotton.
A super cute blanket that's perfect for beginners.
The pattern is available as a free PDF on the Love Crafts website.
Coral Bells Baby Blanket in Premier Yarns Sweet Roll Sprinkles
Make an adorable blanket with a cable design with this free pattern.
Knit in Premier Yarns Sweet Roll Sprinkles: this blanket has an interesting color palette.
The pattern is available as a free PDF on the Love Crafts website.
Diagonal Rib Blanket in Bernat Baby Coordinates Solids
Make a stylish baby blanket with this free pattern.
This diagonal rib blanket is made in Bernat baby coordinates solids.
The pattern is available as a free PDF on the Love Crafts website.
Lace Waves Baby Blanket in Caron Simply Soft
Margaret Wilson designed this lace waves baby blanket and uses Caron simply soft yarn.
Make one for your baby or as a gift.
The pattern is available as a free PDF on the Love Crafts website.
Diagonal Stripe Baby Blanket in Bernat Satin
This pretty pastel diagonal stripe blanket is from Bernat and uses Bernat satin yarn.
Made with aran weight yarn this is blanket will be great for all seasons.
The pattern is available as a free PDF on the Love Crafts website.
Gleeful Tweed Baby Blanket in Lion Brand Jiffy
This chunky knit baby blanket is from Lion Brand and uses Lion Brand Jiffy yarn.
Made with bulky weight yarn, this blanket will be great for winter.
The pattern is available as a free PDF on the Love Crafts website.
Bernat Cloud Nine Knit Baby Blanket Pattern by Yarnspirations
Make a super soft blanket with this free knitting pattern.
Knit in a fun color palette will look amazing in any baby room. You can also take inspiration from rainbows and make something colorful.
The pattern is available as a free PDF on the Yarnspirations website.
A Modern Baby Blanket Knitting Pattern by Lee Lee Knits
In this blog post, you will see a fun seed stitch baby blanket.
Knit with circular needles and worsted weight yarn.
Make one as a gift or for your baby.
Easy Knit Baby Blanket by B Hooked Crochet
In this blog post, you will see an easy blanket knit pattern.
A great baby blanket project for all makers.
Make one as a gift or for your baby.
Rice Stitch Baby Blanket Free Knitting Pattern by Purls And Pixels
In this blog post, you will see a unique baby blanket pattern.
Made in the rice stitch this blanket has a great texture.
Make one as a gift or for your baby.
Knit Lace Baby Blanket Pattern by Nourish And Nestle
In this blog post, you will see an easy lace baby blanket.
A great pattern for intermediate makers.
This will be the perfect baby shower gift for a friend who is expecting.
Insiya Baby Blanket: Free Knit Baby Blanket Pattern by The Blue Elephants
In this blog post, you will see a beautiful baby blanket pattern.
A great and quick pattern that doesn't require a large number of stitches.
Make one for your baby or as a gift.
Ash Bark Blanket by Purl Soho
In this blog post, you will see a crib blanket free knitting pattern.
The pattern has a great design and will look amazing in your baby's room.
Plus, there is a chart to help you along.
Starry Night Baby Blanket Knitting Pattern by Lee Lee Knits
In this blog post, you will see an adorable baby blanket pattern.
The design makes for a super fun project.
Make one for your baby or as a gift.
ABC Baby Blanket by Jenny Williams
Knit a cute baby blanket with this free pattern.
Made in wool worsted weight yarn, this blanket will be ideal for all seasons.
The pattern is available as a free PDF on the Knit Picks website.
How to Knit a Baby Blanket (with Bobbles!) by Sheep And Stitch
In this blog post, you will see a bobble baby blanket pattern.
A great pattern for all makers as it's made in stockinette stitch.
Plus, there is a video tutorial to help you along.
Pastel Rainbow Baby Blanket by Stitchylinda Designs
Knit a beautiful feather and fan baby blanket with this free knitting pattern.
Make one for your baby or as a gift.
Grab the free PDF on Ravelry.
Soft Babyblanket / Mykt Babyteppe by Strikkly Speaking
Knit a soft baby blanket with this free pattern.
The pattern is available in English and Norwegian.
Grab the free PDF on Ravelry.
Petit Prince by DROPS Design
Knit a beautiful and soft baby blanket with this free pattern.
A unique pattern for all makers.
Plus, there are video tutorials and a chart to help you along.
Memory Maker by DROPS Design
Knit a classic baby blanket with this free pattern.
Make one for your baby or as a gift.
Plus, there are video tutorials and a chart to help you along.
Easy Knitted Baby Blanket Patterns
Α baby blanket is a very thoughtful and sweet gift you can give to an expecting mother.
As a maker, there are a hundred ways you can go with this: you can let your creativity flow and make a unique piece.
So, when you are deciding on the pattern, think about some variables.
- Like the material you want to work with.
- The intended use: is this blanket going to be used for the crib or the car seat? That will impact the finished size.
- Also, when gifting a blanket, think about the parents.
- Do they love bright colors? Or pastel colors?
- Would they want gender-based pinks or blues for babies? or something more neutral?
What Is The Average Size Of A Knitted Baby Blanket?
The size of a knitted baby blanket can vary depending on personal preference and the intended use.
However, a common size for a standard baby blanket is approximately 30 inches by 30 inches (76 cm by 76 cm) to 36 inches by 36 inches (91 cm by 91 cm).
These dimensions provide a cozy and functional blanket that can be used for swaddling, as a stroller blanket, or for tummy time.
You can adjust the size based on your preferences or the specific needs of the recipient.
If you want a larger blanket for a toddler or a smaller one for a newborn, you can customize the dimensions accordingly.
It’s also essential to consider the yarn weight and stitch pattern, as they can affect the overall size and drape of the finished blanket.
What Is The Best Knitting Stitch For A Baby Blanket?
Choosing the best knitting stitch for a baby blanket often depends on personal preference, the level of experience of the knitter, and the desired look and texture of the blanket.
Here are a few popular and versatile knitting stitches that work well for baby blankets:
- Garter Stitch: Garter stitch is created by knitting every row. It results in a squishy and reversible fabric with a textured appearance. It’s great for beginners and provides a classic look. Learn how to knit the garter stitch here – How To Knit Garter Stitch – Handy Little Me
- Stockinette Stitch: Stockinette stitch involves knitting one row and purling the next. The right side has a smooth appearance, while the wrong side has a bumpy texture. It’s simple and creates a clean, modern look. Learn how to knit the stockinette stitch here – How To Knit Stockinette Stitch (For Beginners)
- Seed Stitch: Seed stitch alternates between knit and purl stitches within a row and between rows. It creates a textured pattern that looks like a field of seeds. This stitch adds visual interest to the blanket. Learn how to knit the seed stitch here – How To Knit Seed Stitch For Beginners
- Basketweave Stitch: Basketweave stitch involves blocks of knit and purl stitches, creating a pattern that resembles a woven basket. It provides a textured and cozy feel to the blanket. Learn how to knit the basketweave stitch here – 12 Simple Knitting Stitches For Beginners
- Cable Stitch: Cable stitches involve crossing stitches to create intricate cable patterns. While they might be a bit more advanced, they can add a beautiful and timeless touch to a baby blanket. Check out eight cable knitting patterns here – 8 Cable Stitch Knitting Patterns
- Lace Stitch: Lace patterns involve creating decorative holes or eyelets in the fabric. Simple lace patterns can add a delicate and airy quality to the blanket. Check out lace knitting patterns here – 37 Free Lace Knitting Patterns
When choosing a stitch for a baby blanket, consider factors such as the yarn weight, ease of care, and the season in which the blanket will be used.
Additionally, make sure the chosen stitch pattern is not too holey or loose, as this can pose a safety risk for tiny fingers and toes.
It’s always a good idea to create a small swatch to see how the chosen stitch pattern looks with your selected yarn before committing to a larger project.
How Many Skeins Of Yarn Do I Need To Knit A Baby Blanket?
The number of skeins of yarn needed to knit a baby blanket depends on several factors, including the size of the blanket, the yarn weight, the chosen stitch pattern, and the specific brand and type of yarn you’re using.
To estimate the amount of yarn required, you can follow these general guidelines:
- Check the Yarn Label:
- Yarn labels typically provide information on the yardage (or meters) per skein and the recommended gauge. Use this information as a starting point.
- Determine the Size of the Blanket:
- Consider the dimensions of the baby blanket you want to knit. For a standard-sized baby blanket (around 30 inches by 30 inches or 76 cm by 76 cm), you might need less yarn compared to a larger blanket.
- Calculate Total Yardage:
- Multiply the yardage per skein by the number of skeins you’ll need for the desired size. For example, if the label states that a skein contains 200 yards and you need 4 skeins, the total yardage would be 800 yards.
- Consider Stitch Pattern and Yarn Weight:
- Certain stitch patterns and yarn weights may require more or less yarn. For complex stitch patterns or bulky yarn, you might need more yarn compared to a simple stitch pattern or lighter weight yarn.
- Buy a Little Extra:
- It’s always a good idea to purchase a bit more yarn than the calculated amount to account for any variations in gauge, differences between dye lots, or unexpected changes in the project.
- Make a Swatch:
- Before starting the blanket, consider making a small swatch to check your gauge. This can help you estimate how much yarn you’ll use per inch or centimeter and adjust your calculations accordingly.
What Do You Need To Make A Baby Blanket?
What weight yarn is best for baby blankets?
The best yarn size for a baby blanket depends on various factors, including your personal preferences, the intended use of the blanket, and the desired look and feel.
Here are some common yarn sizes and their characteristics for baby blankets:
- Fingering or Baby Weight Yarn (Category 1):
- Fingering weight yarn is lightweight and creates delicate, dainty fabrics. It’s suitable for lightweight blankets, especially for warmer climates. Keep in mind that it might take longer to knit a blanket with finer yarn due to the smaller stitches.
- Sport or DK Weight Yarn (Category 2-3):
- Sport and DK weight yarns are slightly heavier than fingering weight. They provide a good balance between warmth and drape. This yarn weight is often preferred for baby blankets as it allows for a quicker project while still creating a soft and comfortable blanket.
- Worsted Weight Yarn (Category 4):
- Worsted weight yarn is a versatile choice for baby blankets. It’s easy to work with, and projects knit up relatively quickly. Worsted weight yarn provides a good balance between warmth and breathability, making it suitable for various climates.
- Bulky or Chunky Yarn (Category 5-6):
- Bulky or chunky yarns work up quickly, making them a great choice if you want a fast project. These yarns create warm and cozy blankets, perfect for colder weather or as a plush, snuggly option.
Consider the climate and the baby’s comfort when choosing the yarn weight.
Softer and machine-washable yarns are often preferred for baby items, as they are easy to care for.
Always check the yarn label for care instructions and fiber content.
Have a think about yarn choices by looking at all of the soft baby yarns on offer from Caron, Bernat, Lion Brand, Debbie Bliss, Red Heart, and Paintbox yarns.
- Learn everything about 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)
What size knitting needles for a baby blanket?
The size of knitting needles for a baby blanket depends on various factors, including your chosen yarn weight, desired stitch pattern, and personal knitting style.
However, a common starting point is to use needles that are recommended on the yarn label or in the pattern you’re following.
Here are some general guidelines based on common yarn weights:
- Fingering or Baby Weight Yarn:
- For finer yarns like fingering or baby weight, you might use needle sizes in the range of US 3 to US 6 (3.25mm to 4mm).
- Sport or DK Weight Yarn:
- For sport or DK weight yarn, needle sizes around US 6 to US 9 (4mm to 5.5mm) are often suitable.
- Worsted Weight Yarn:
- Worsted weight yarn commonly works well with needle sizes in the range of US 8 to US 10.5 (5mm to 6.5mm).
- Bulky Yarn or Chunky Yarn:
- If you’re using bulky or chunky yarn, consider using larger needles in the range of US 10.5 to US 15 (6.5mm to 10mm).
The recommended needle size is often mentioned on the yarn label or in the pattern details.
What supplies do you need for a baby blanket?
To knit or crochet a baby blanket, you’ll need a few essential supplies.
Here’s a basic list of items you’ll typically need:
- Scissors
- Yarn Needle or Crochet Hook (for Finishing)
- Measuring Tape
- Gauge Swatch Materials
- Have extra yarn and needles or a hook to create a gauge swatch before starting your project. This helps you determine the correct gauge and adjust your stitch count if necessary.
- Stitch Markers (Optional)
- Blocking Materials (Optional)
- Comfortable Seating and Good Lighting: Create a comfortable and well-lit workspace to make your knitting or crocheting experience enjoyable.
Everything You Need To Know About Making A Baby Blanket
How many stitches should I cast on for a baby blanket?
The number of stitches you should cast on for a baby blanket depends on several factors, including the desired size of the blanket, your chosen yarn weight, and your knitting gauge.
Here are some general guidelines to help you determine the number of stitches to cast on:
- Choose Your Yarn and Needle:
- Decide on the yarn weight and needle size you want to use for your baby blanket. The recommended needle size is often listed on the yarn label.
- Check Gauge:
- Make a gauge swatch to determine how many stitches you knit per inch or centimeter. This will help you adjust the number of stitches to achieve the desired width of your blanket.
- Determine the Desired Width:
- Decide how wide you want the baby blanket to be. A standard size for a baby blanket might be around 30 inches (76 cm) to 36 inches (91 cm) wide.
- Calculate the Number of Stitches:
- Multiply the stitches per inch or centimeter from your gauge swatch by the desired width of the blanket. For example, if your gauge is 5 stitches per inch, and you want a 30-inch wide blanket, you would cast on 5 stitches/inch x 30 inches = 150 stitches.
- Adjust for Pattern:
- If you’re using a specific stitch pattern or if the pattern you’re following has a multiple of stitches required, make sure your calculated number of stitches is a multiple of that pattern’s stitch count.
- Consider the Border:
- If you plan to add a border to your baby blanket, you may need to adjust the number of stitches accordingly. The border could require additional stitches on each side.
Learn how to cast on here – How To Cast On Knitting
Choose Your Design
From knitted to crochet from chunkier yarns to lighter ones, from colorful blankets to earthy color palettes, from traditional to modern designs.
There are many knitting patterns you can make from C2C (corner to corner) baby blankets knitting patterns, cable knit baby blankets, and knit-purl blanket patterns.
Your options are truly limitless.
Modern baby blanket knitting patterns
There are so many modern baby blanket knitting patterns online you can find for free and make a beautiful blanket.
Even if you are a beginner maker and want to give blanket patterns a go, a knitted baby blanket is a good project to start as it is a bigger project but not as big as an adult-sized blanket.
And it will be an excellent knitting exercise as the repetitive action will help you practice your stitches.
Knitting Lessons
If you are a new knitter and need help with the knitting basics, check out the knitting lessons here – Knitting Lessons (With Video Tutorials).
There, you will find step-by-step tutorials for all the different knitting techniques a newbie needs to know.
Including how to cast on, how to knit the knit stitch, the stockinette stitch, the rib stitch, the garter stitch, the mattress stitch, short rows and a list of knitting abbreviations, and more.
And if you need more video tutorials, check out my YouTube channel here – Handy Little Me – YouTube.
More Free Knitting Patterns For Blankets
- Everyone Loves Free Knitted Blanket Patterns!
- Temperature Blanket Pattern (Free Knitting Project + Plan)
- Easy Squishy Knit Throw Blanket Pattern
- How To Knit A Blanket (Free + Easy For Beginners)
- How To Make A Chunky Knit Blanket For Beginners
- Chunky Cable Knit Blanket Pattern
- 20 Temperature Blanket Patterns
- The Best Free Mermaid Blanket Knitting Patterns
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