Easy Crochet Blanket Patterns With Bernat Blanket Yarn
Hey everyone! Are you ready to dive into the cozy world of crochet? If you're a beginner or just looking for a super satisfying project, then you're in the right place. Today, we're going to explore some amazing and easy crochet blanket patterns using the wonderfully soft Bernat Blanket yarn. This yarn is a total game-changer, and it's perfect for creating snuggly blankets that you'll absolutely adore. We'll break down the steps, making it super simple to follow along, even if you've never picked up a crochet hook before. Get ready to create something beautiful and warm!
Why Bernat Blanket Yarn is Perfect for Beginners
Bernat Blanket yarn is a chunky, chenille-style yarn that's a dream to work with. Seriously, guys, it's like crocheting with a cloud! Here's why it's a fantastic choice for beginners:
- Super Softness: The yarn is incredibly soft, making it ideal for blankets that you'll want to cuddle up with. This plushness makes it a top choice for baby blankets and throws alike.
- Quick Projects: Because it's a chunky yarn, your projects work up super fast. You'll see your blanket taking shape in no time, which is incredibly motivating for beginners.
- Easy to See Stitches: The thickness of the yarn makes it easy to see your stitches, which is a massive help when you're learning. No more squinting and wondering where the hook goes!
- Wide Range of Colors: Bernat offers a vast array of colors, from solid pastels to vibrant hues and even variegated options. You can easily find the perfect shade to match your home decor or personal style.
- Machine Washable: This is a huge bonus! Bernat Blanket yarn is machine washable and dryable, so your blankets are easy to care for and maintain. This makes it perfect for everyday use.
Basically, Bernat Blanket yarn takes the intimidation factor out of crochet and makes it a fun, accessible hobby. With its softness and ease of use, it's an excellent choice for anyone who wants to create a cozy and cuddly blanket quickly. So, let's get started with some easy pattern ideas, shall we?
Simple Crochet Blanket Patterns for Beginners
Alright, let's jump into some simple crochet blanket patterns that are perfect for beginners using Bernat Blanket yarn. I've chosen patterns that are easy to learn, use basic stitches, and create beautiful, finished products. No matter your skill level, there's a pattern here for you to try. These are fantastic because they're great for creating large blankets quickly and are simple to adjust to your desired size. The stitch patterns are easy to memorize, so you'll be able to crochet while watching TV, listening to music, or chatting with friends – it's that relaxing!
The Classic Single Crochet Blanket
This is the quintessential beginner project. Single crochet is the most basic stitch, and once you master it, you can make a blanket of any size.
- Materials You'll Need: Bernat Blanket yarn (the amount depends on the size of the blanket, but a good starting point is 4-5 skeins for a baby blanket and 8-10 for a throw), a crochet hook size 8 mm (L/11), scissors, and a yarn needle.
- Instructions: Begin by creating a foundation chain. The length of the chain will determine the width of your blanket. For a baby blanket, aim for around 60-70 chains; for a throw, aim for 100-120 chains. Now, single crochet into the second chain from the hook and each chain across. Turn your work, chain one, and single crochet in each stitch across. Repeat this row until your blanket reaches the desired length. Finish off and weave in the ends. And that's it! This is as easy as it gets, and the result is a beautifully textured blanket.
- Tips for Success: Make sure to keep your tension consistent to ensure a neat finish. Don't pull your yarn too tight or too loose. If you're struggling to keep the edges straight, use stitch markers at the beginning and end of each row to keep track of your first and last stitches.
The Simple Double Crochet Blanket
Double crochet is another easy stitch, and it works up a bit faster than single crochet. This makes it a great option if you want to create a larger blanket quickly.
- Materials You'll Need: Bernat Blanket yarn, an 8 mm crochet hook, scissors, and a yarn needle.
- Instructions: Start with a foundation chain. For this project, you'll need fewer chains than with single crochet. Try 40-50 chains for a baby blanket or 70-80 chains for a throw. Double crochet into the third chain from the hook and each chain across. Turn your work, chain two, and double crochet in each stitch across. Repeat this row until the blanket is the size you desire. Fasten off and weave in any loose ends. The double crochet stitch creates a looser, drapier fabric compared to single crochet, making this blanket extra comfy.
- Tips for Success: Pay attention to your chain two at the beginning of each row. It serves as your turning chain and counts as a stitch. This will help maintain the edges of your blanket. This is a great choice when looking for something that creates more volume and warmth.
The Textured Crochet Blanket
Once you’ve mastered the basic stitches, you can elevate your project by adding a bit of texture. This pattern uses a combination of single and double crochet stitches to create a visually interesting and cozy blanket.
- Materials You'll Need: Bernat Blanket yarn, an 8 mm crochet hook, scissors, and a yarn needle.
- Instructions: Start with a foundation chain (same as the double crochet blanket). Row 1: Double crochet in the third chain from the hook and in each chain across. Turn. Row 2: Chain 1, single crochet in each stitch across. Turn. Row 3: Chain 2, double crochet in each stitch across. Turn. Repeat Rows 2 and 3 until your blanket is the size you desire. Fasten off and weave in ends.
- Tips for Success: This creates a simple but stunning texture. Keeping a good tension is important here to ensure the stitches are defined. This is an awesome way to practice multiple stitches and still keep it easy! It's a fantastic pattern to help you feel confident and explore beyond the basics.
Step-by-Step Guide: Starting Your Crochet Blanket
Okay, guys, let's get down to the nitty-gritty and walk through the steps of starting your crochet blanket. This will guide you from the very beginning to ensure your project starts off smoothly. We'll cover the fundamental steps applicable to all of the previously mentioned patterns, so you'll be all set to start your Bernat Blanket yarn adventure!
1. Gather Your Supplies
First things first, gather your supplies. Here's a quick checklist:
- Bernat Blanket Yarn: Choose your favorite colors! The amount you'll need depends on the size of the blanket. It's always a good idea to have a little extra, just in case.
- Crochet Hook: An 8 mm (L/11) hook is the most common size for Bernat Blanket yarn, but check your yarn label for specific recommendations.
- Scissors: To cut the yarn.
- Yarn Needle: For weaving in the ends. This is a must-have.
- Stitch Markers (Optional): If you're a beginner, these can be super helpful to keep track of your stitches.
2. Make a Slip Knot
This is how you get started. Make a slip knot and place it on your hook. This is the first step in most crochet projects. Here's how to do it:
- Make a loop with the yarn, with the tail of the yarn in front and the working yarn (the yarn connected to the skein) behind.
- Insert your hook into the loop, grab the working yarn, and pull it through the loop.
- Gently pull on the tail to tighten the knot.
3. Create a Foundation Chain
The foundation chain is the base of your blanket. It determines the width.
- Hold the hook with the slip knot in your dominant hand, and hold the yarn with your other hand.
- Yarn over (wrap the yarn around the hook).
- Pull the yarn through the loop on the hook.
- Repeat steps 2 and 3 until you have the desired number of chains.
Remember, guys, the more chains, the wider your blanket will be.
4. Work Your First Row
This is where the magic happens! The stitch you choose will depend on your pattern (single crochet, double crochet, etc.).
- Insert your hook into the appropriate stitch in the foundation chain (check your pattern for where to start).
- Yarn over.
- Pull the yarn through the chain (you should now have two loops on your hook).
- Complete the stitch according to your chosen stitch type (e.g., for single crochet, yarn over and pull through both loops on the hook).
5. Work Subsequent Rows
- Chain one (for single crochet) or chain two (for double crochet) at the end of each row. This is your turning chain.
- Turn your work.
- Work the stitches of the next row into the stitches of the previous row (again, following your pattern).
6. Fasten Off and Weave in the Ends
- Once your blanket is the desired size, fasten off. Cut the yarn, leaving a tail of about 6-8 inches.
- Pull the tail through the last loop on your hook and pull tight to secure.
- Using your yarn needle, weave in all the ends. This means tucking them into the stitches so they're invisible. This will make your blanket look nice and tidy.
Tips and Tricks for Crochet Blanket Success
Now that you know the basics, let's go over some tips and tricks to make your crochet blanket project even better. These will help you avoid common mistakes and ensure a beautiful finish.
1. Consistent Tension
One of the most important things in crochet is maintaining consistent tension. This means pulling your yarn with the same amount of tightness throughout your project. This prevents your stitches from being too tight or too loose, which can make your blanket look uneven. Practice and focus on keeping your tension steady; you'll get the hang of it quickly!
2. Counting Stitches
Counting your stitches at the end of each row is really important, especially when you are starting out. This ensures that you're keeping the correct number of stitches and that your blanket remains square or rectangular. Use stitch markers if you're finding it difficult to keep track. A simple trick is to place a stitch marker at the end of each row.
3. Reading Your Pattern
Always read your pattern carefully before you start, and pay close attention to any special instructions. Crochet patterns use specific abbreviations, so make sure you understand them before you begin. If you're not sure about something, search online, watch a video tutorial, or ask a more experienced crocheter for help. The more you use a pattern, the easier it will become.
4. Avoiding Mistakes
We all make mistakes, but don't worry! If you catch a mistake early on, it's easy to undo a few rows. If it's a small mistake, it might not even be noticeable. Don’t be afraid to take your project apart and redo sections if it’s bothering you. It's all part of the learning process.
5. Blocking (Optional)
Blocking is a technique used to shape and even out your finished crochet project. While it's not essential, it can really improve the look of your blanket. To block a blanket, wet it, gently stretch it to the desired shape, and pin it to a blocking board or a surface you don’t mind getting wet until it dries. You can find detailed instructions online.
6. Choosing Colors
Choosing colors can be fun! Consider the room where the blanket will be used. Do you want it to match or complement the existing decor? Consider different color combinations and see which works best for you. If you are a beginner, it might be better to start with solid colors. Don't be afraid to experiment! Bernat Blanket yarn offers a huge selection of colors, so you can make your blanket match any style.
Troubleshooting Common Crochet Problems
Sometimes, even with the best intentions, things can go wrong. Here's a quick guide to some common crochet problems and how to fix them:
1. Uneven Edges
If your edges are uneven, it's likely due to inconsistent tension or not turning your work correctly. Make sure you're chaining the correct number of chains at the beginning of each row (chain 1 for single crochet, chain 2 for double crochet) and turning your work properly. Using stitch markers at the beginning and end of each row can also help.
2. Holes in Your Work
Holes can happen if you accidentally skip stitches. Carefully count your stitches at the end of each row to make sure you have the correct number. Check your work frequently and correct any missed stitches as you go.
3. Wavy Edges
Wavy edges can be caused by pulling your stitches too tight or by adding too many stitches in a row. Try relaxing your tension or, if you're consistently adding extra stitches, ensure that your chain count is correct and that you're working the correct number of stitches in each row. If the problem persists, try using a slightly smaller hook.
4. Tight or Stiff Fabric
If your fabric feels too tight or stiff, you might be pulling your stitches too tightly or using too small of a hook. Try loosening your tension or using a larger hook size.
5. Yarn Splitting
Bernat Blanket yarn can sometimes split, especially if you're using a hook that's too small or if your tension is too tight. Try using a larger hook and being mindful of your tension.
Conclusion: Embrace the Cozy Life!
Crocheting a blanket with Bernat Blanket yarn is a fun, relaxing, and incredibly rewarding experience. It's the perfect project for beginners and a great way to create something beautiful and useful. With the right yarn, a simple pattern, and a little patience, you'll be snuggling up under your own handmade masterpiece in no time. So grab your yarn, hook, and get ready to start your cozy adventure! Happy crocheting, and enjoy the snuggle life! You've got this, guys!