Knit Blanket

Tools

• Knitting needles suitable for the yarn
• Scissors
• Tapestry needle
• Measuring tape

Materials

• Machine-washable blanket yarn
• Pattern or planned blanket dimensions
• Optional stitch markers

Safety

• Take regular breaks and change hand, wrist, shoulder, and neck positions to reduce repetitive strain.
• Keep needles pointed safely away from yourself and others when not in use.
• Keep yarn away from young children and pets to prevent tangling or swallowing hazards.
• Work in a clear, well-lit area so yarn does not become a tripping hazard.

Steps

1. Step 1: Plan the blanket

   • Choose the finished width and length.
   • Select a yarn weight and use the needle size recommended on its label.
   • Choose a simple stitch, such as garter stitch, which uses knit stitches on every row.

   Check: Confirm that you have enough yarn for the planned size. · Check that the yarn label and needle size are compatible.

2. Step 2: Make a gauge swatch

   • Cast on about 20 stitches and knit several rows.
   • Measure the number of stitches across a known width.
   • Adjust the needle size if the fabric is too loose or too tight.

   Check: The fabric should feel flexible and even rather than stiff or floppy. · Record your stitches per unit of width before calculating the cast-on number.

3. Step 3: Cast on

   • Calculate the cast-on number by multiplying your desired width by the number of stitches per unit of width.
   • Cast on that number of stitches using a comfortable, moderately loose tension.
   • Place a stitch marker if it helps you identify the row edge.

   Check: Count the stitches before starting the first row. · Make sure the cast-on edge is not twisted.

4. Step 4: Knit the blanket

   • Knit every stitch across the first row.
   • Turn the work and knit every stitch across each following row.
   • Continue until the blanket reaches the planned length.
   • Pause occasionally to spread the blanket flat and check its shape.

   Check: Count stitches at the end of several early rows to catch dropped or added stitches. · Check that the sides remain approximately straight. · Stop and correct mistakes promptly if you can identify them.

5. Step 5: Bind off

   • Bind off all stitches loosely when the blanket reaches the desired length.
   • Cut the yarn, leaving a tail of about 15 centimetres.
   • Pull the tail through the final loop and tighten gently.

   Check: The finished edge should stretch similarly to the cast-on edge. · Confirm that no live stitches remain on the needle.

6. Step 6: Weave in ends and finish

   • Thread each loose yarn end onto a tapestry needle.
   • Weave the ends through several nearby stitches on the wrong side of the blanket.
   • Trim the excess yarn without cutting the knitted fabric.
   • Wash and dry the blanket according to the yarn label.

   Check: Check that all yarn ends are secure. · Measure the finished blanket and inspect it for loose stitches or holes. · Lay it flat to dry if the yarn label recommends flat drying.