Small Blocks

The Small Blocks Baby Blanket is a fun blanket to knit with loads of opportunities to use colour.

What I like about this pattern is the use of a couple of different techniques to create the blocks of colour and texture.

The blocks along the inside edge of the borders are created using mosaic knitting (slip stitch knitting) and are stocking stitch in appearance. This technique means that in any given row only one colour is in use and the pattern forms by slipping the stitches in the other colour.

The coloured blocks in the main section are worked using the intarsia method. This is a colourwork method that is used when there are stand-alone sections of colour that are not repeated across the row. These blocks have the purl side of stocking stitch outwards (reverse stocking stitch). To add an extra element of interest, the intarsia blocks are alternated with reverse stocking stitch blocks in the background colour. The slightly raised texture of these blocks provides a tactile experience.

So, there is a lot of engaging knitting in this blanket to keep you interested and motivated. And even though there is a lot to focus on, in between the blocks there are lovely rows of stocking stitch to give you a little breather.

It is a pattern suitable for an intermediate knitter who would like to give intarsia in particular a go. I have provided detailed instructions in the pattern to help you on your way. Plus, instead of having to juggle lots of balls attached to your knitting while working the blocks, I give instructions for cutting short lengths for the coloured blocks. There are only four main balls attached for the background at any given time and then only for the 6 rows required to work the blocks.

I have used three different 8 ply/DK weight yarns in my pictured samples.
The blanket with the brown (natural) background is Tarndwarncoort’s Natural Polwarth and Homestead Garden Range.

The blanket with the cream background is Australian Organic Wool WOOLganics.

The blanket with the pink undertones is Cleckheaton Superfine Merino.

This blanket is a very useful size. It measures approximately 70cm wide and 75cm long when finished. Suitable for wrapping up a newborn, popping in the pram or car, using in the cot (although it won’t fully tuck in around the mattress) or laying baby on for tummy time.

I hope you are inspired to make a Small Blocks blanket for that special baby in your life. You can purchase the pattern here.

Don’t forget that as always, I am here to help should you have any questions at all about making this blanket.

Contact me here.

Happy knitting and please tag me in any finished pics.

cheers
Debra