Forever Baby Blanket
I call this the Forever Baby Blanket because its design is so timeless and classic. You will never look at it and wonder, “What was I thinking?”, which is important when it comes to baby blankets because no one throws away a handknit baby blanket. It is, in fact, forever. It gets wrapped in tissue, surrounded by cedar, and tucked away until a new generation comes along and thanks you for having made such an enduringly beautiful blanket!
I was really excited to use Purl Soho’s latest addition to our line of Anzula yarn, For Better or Worsted. Like our beloved Squishy, For Better or Worsted is a superwash merino, cashmere and nylon blend in gorgeous hand dyed colors. It is the perfect baby blanket yarn, machine washable, super duper soft, and special enough for heirloom knitting.
Ever since making the Autumn Equinox Vest I’ve wanted to revisit the Cartridge Belt Rib. Its distinctive texture is characterized by deep valleys and high ridges, created by a simple slip stitch pattern. For a baby blanket, this rib is a wonderful choice because it provides a lofty coziness nothing short of what we want for our precious babies!
Yarn lovers, if you adore the yarn used in this project, you’ll love exploring all of our other yarn collections! Discover over 45 thoughtfully designed yarns in nearly every natural fiber and in every spectacular color you can imagine. Only available here at Purl Soho’s online yarn store, where every skein is created with care and your creativity in mind!
UPDATE: NOW IN KNITTING YARN ON A CONE + TUSSOCK
November 17, 2024
We updated this classic pattern so you can knit it with Knitting Yarn On A Cone and our gorgeous mohair-silk Tussock held together… Gorgeous! The soft, warm fabric seems to glow as if lit from within, so we called this new version the Ember Blanket. Cast on with two colors that spark your delight!
Designed by Purl Soho designer, Whitney Van Nes.
Share your progress and connect with the community by tagging your pics with #PurlSoho, #PurlSohoBusyHands, and #PurlSohoForeverBabyBlanket. We can’t wait to see what you make!
Materials
- 5 skeins of Anzula’s For Better or Worsted, 80% Superwash Merino Wool, 10% Cashmere, 10% Nylon. Approximately 1,000 yards required. This color is “Root Beer”. (NOTE: We no longer offer Anzula’s For Better Or Worsted, but choose from one of our other worsted weight yarns.)
- US 9 (5.5 mm), 32-inch circular needles
Shop our wonderful collection of aran + worsted-weight yarn to find a suitable substitute for this project, and remember that it’s always a good idea to check your gauge before you cast on… Our All About Gauge Tutorial shows you how!
Gauge
30 stitches = 4 inches in stitch pattern, unstretched
Size
24 inches wide x 28 inches long
Pattern
NOTE: When this pattern says “sl 1 wyif”, it means to slip 1 with the yarn in front. So, bring your yarn forward as if to purl, slip the next stitch from the left needle to the right needle as if to purl, and then bring the yarn back into the knit position.
Cast on 179 stitches. We used a basic Long Tail Cast On.
Row 1: K3, *sl 1 wyif, k3, repeat from * to end of row.
Row 2: K1, *sl 1 wyif, k3, repeat from * to last 2 stitches, sl 1 wyif, k1.
Repeat Rows 1 and 2 until piece measures 28 inches from the cast on edge. End with Row 2, ready to knit Row 1.
Bind Off Row: Bind off in a k3, p1 rib. (Here’s how: K2, slip the first stitch over, k1, slip the first stitch over, *p1, slip the first stitch over, k1, slip the first stitch over, k1, slip the first stitch over, k1, slip the first stitch over, repeat from * to end of row.)
Cut the yarn and pull it through the remaining stitch.
Weave in the ends and you’re all done!
Looking for more inspiration? Explore all of our free knitting patterns and knitting tutorials, buy one of our many knitting kits and yarn bundles, and shop for beautiful yarn. We have over 35 gorgeous natural fiber yarns in 100’s of magnificent colors, designed to bring integrity, beauty, and joy to your next knitting project and only available at Purl Soho!
Is there a less expensive yarn that would produce a lovely blanket that is machine-washable?
funny, i knit this stitch naming it linnen ribbed stitch without knowing it already existed 🙂 i used it as the center for a shawl with a roses border in mosaic stitch.
it is on ravelry under the name “la dame aux roses” in my projects page as Zaz.
My sis and I are trying to make this and are a little confused. Is the close up picture of the blanket sideways? The knitting is actually going up and down in your picture, correct? We're going to keep trying b/c we love the pattern!
Hi Chelsea Smith,
Yes, we can recommend some less expensive yarns! Try 4 skeins of Lorna's Lace's Shepherd Worsted (https://www.purlsoho.com/purl/products/item/817-Lornas-Laces-Shepherd-Worsted) or 6 skeins Spud & Chloe's Sweater (https://www.purlsoho.com/purl/products/item/5886-Spud-Chloe-Sweater). Both would be less expensive but still machine washable and beautiful!
Good luck!
Whitney
Hi Liz,
Good question! Yes, the picture is sideways – when you knit the stitches will be oriented to look like V's.
If you want to practice on a small swatch before casting on all 179 stitches, just cast on a multiple of 4 plus 3 stitches (like 19, 23, or 27).
Let us know if you have any more questions and good luck!
Whitney
I love this blanket- but I would love to make one as a throw. How many skeins ( and cast on stitches) would you recommend for a throw? Also based on the fact that this will be a larger blanket, and the expense will increase…can you recommend a similar yarn but less expensive?
Thanks!
Hi Barbara,
If you give me an idea of how big you'd like your throw to be I'll be much better equipped to answer your questions. Everyone has such different ideas about what a “throw” actually is! So, give me the dimensions you have in mind and I'll get right back to you!
Thanks,
Whitney
I chose Blue Sky Alpacas worsted hand dye in light blue. I have 6 skeins, which I'm knitting on 10.5 needles (I think, my addi turbos are impossible to read). After a couple of tries with different sized needles and different number of stitches, it looks like I'll have a blanket about 28″ x 30″. The combination of this stitch with this yarn feels like velvet! I don't think this will be the last blanket I make with this pattern. Thank you so much!
Do you know anything about how superwash wool is made? I've heard that it is made using a plastic-like coating. I'm wondering about using this type of wool for a baby that will likely mouth the wool on a blanket. Thanks in advance for any information you have!
Hi there! Gorgeous pattern but I'd like to make the blanket a little bigger. I'm a beginner and haven't learned how to figure that sort of thing out yet. I'd love to have a 36×40 blanket. How much more yarn would I need? And cast on stitches?
many thanks!
Hi Kati,
To determine how many to cast on, you multiply the gauge by the dimension. So, in this case, 7 1/2 times 36 equals 270. Then you need to round up or down for the stitch pattern to work out correctly. For this pattern you need a number that is a multiple of 4 plus 3. So 268 is a multiple of 4, plus 3 is 271. So cast on 271 stitches!
And I would guess that you need 11 skeins of Anzula's For Better or Worsted.
It sounds beautiful and good luck!
Whitney
Beautiful! I can't wait to get started tonight!
Kelly
Hi! I have MANY babies in my future so I have gotten started tonight on what surly will not be the last of this blanket in my future. Just wondering if you can clarify one thing for me. When you slip the stitch, are you wanting to slip it purl or knit wise? I have been slipping it purl wise and it's looking good but it is looking a bit different than the picture. I think my gage it a bit looser than what your picture is showing which could be why it's looking a bit different but I just wanted to clarify that, in case anyone else it wondering.
thanks!
Summer
Hi Summer,
You're doing it right! You want to slip the stitch purlwise…
Good luck with this and all your baby blankets!
Whitney
http://www.pburch.net/dyeing/dyeblog/C1691090068/E20091010162851/index.html
Here's info on how they make superwash wool
The pattern says “Repeat Rows 1 and 2 until piece measures 28 inches from the cast on edge. End with Row 2, ready to knit Row 1”. I am confused about ready to knit row 1 after end with row 2. My thought is that if it ends with row 2. then, next would be bind off. Did I miss something?
Hi Peng,
All I mean is that you WOULD be ready to knit row 1 if you weren't binding off. So, you're right, after knitting your final Row 2, you bind off…
Sorry for the confusion!
Whitney
Hi! I'd like to use Blue sky worsted
https://www.purlsoho.com/purl/products/item/711-Blue-Sky-Worsted
for this blanket. What size of needles/ how many skeins do I need? Is it machine washable? Thank you!
Hi Idele,
I would use a US size 10 needle with the Blue Sky Worsted, although the ideal size depends both on your knitting tension and on your taste!
You'll need about 10 skeins of the Worsted, but because the Blue Sky is a bit thicker than the Anzula, you can expect a slightly bigger blanket.
And, to answer your last question, no, the Worsted is not machine washable, but it is, of course, hand washable!
Thanks for asking – your idea sounds so beautiful!
Whitney
I made the investment in Anzula For Better or Worsted and am about halfway through this baby blanket. I love the stitch pattern — it's almost like pleats!
I do have one question. I expected to be able to machine wash and dry this blanket but the yarn label says to hand wash and lay flat to dry. Will it truly be machine washable? I would hate to burden a new mom with a hand wash blanket.
Also, a word of warning: The “Ducky” yellow color is really sort of a mustard— not what I expected. I decided to go ahead and knit it up and will probably embellish it with some other colors to brighten it up a bit. It's a lovely color but not what you'd typically see in a baby blanket.
Hi Sunny-
Do not fear, this yarn really is machine washable!
Thanks for your thoughtful comment.
– Molly
I love the baby blanket but am actually very curious to where you got your Moses basket seen in the picture? I have been looking for one and am finding it very difficult to find one.
Thanks!
– Alisha
Hi Alisha-
It's from Target! Here's the link:
http://www.target.com/s/moses%20basket#keywords=moses%20basket
Thanks for the question.
– Molly
I'm thinking of knitting this with Madeline Tosh Merino- I'm guessing I'd need about 6 skeins- but do you think I should use a different size needle? Thanks!
I LOVE this stitch! I've been wanting to try it for a while and finally decided to test it on a scarf in chunky merino. It looks awesome – so lofty and cozy. Thanks Purl SOHO!! <3
Hi Michaela,
If you're thinking of casting on the same number of stitches as this pattern, you should be fine with only five skeins of the Madeline Tosh Merino (each skein is actually 10 yards longer than the Anzula For Better or Worsted).
The best needle to use depends on your tension and your taste. If you know that you are a tight knitter, consider a US #10 or even #10.5. If you are an average knitter, I would guess a US #9 or #10. And if you are a loose knitter, try a US #9 or #8. Factor in also if you like a tight or loose knit. For this project, I personally prefer a looser knit so the blanket is really lofty and soft!
I think the Madeline Tosh Merino is great idea, by the way! A little bit more affordable, still machine washable, wonderfully soft and absolutely beautiful!
Thanks for your question and good luck!
Whitney
Hi, I'm quite new to knitting (only ever done scarves with knit and purl stitches). I love the look of this blanket and set out to make one using US #9 circular needles (first time using circular needles!) and Paton's silk bamboo yarn (http://www.patonsyarns.com/product.php?LGC=silkbamboo).
Anyway, I tried to knit a small swatch first after casting on 19 stitches, and it really looks nothing to me like your beautiful blanket. Mine is quite hole-y and yours is tight (can't see through it) and I can barely make out the pattern on mine. What am I doing wrong? 🙁
Hi Stephanie,
It looks the Paton's Silk Bamboo you're using is a sportweight yarn. The Forever or Worsted that I used is a worsted, which means it's a bit thicker than yours. You can either stick with your #9 needles and switch to a worsted weight yarn, or you can use your yarn with a smaller a needle. Paton recommends a US #6, so that would be a good place to start. You may also want to cast on more stitches since smaller yarn will make a smaller blanket. This pattern works with any multiple of 4 plus 3 (for example, 4 x 5 = 20 + 3 = 23).
Thanks for your question and for challenging yourself! Good luck!
Whitney
Hello,
I am a beginner and have only ever done knit and purl stitch. I am hoping that I can conquer this pattern for my sister's new baby.
I am opting for a different type of yarn and just wondered what weight yarn I should purchase. I like the look of the picture and would like to acheive something similar.
Thank you.
Hi Melissa-
You should be able to tackle this, just make sure to practice the “sl 1 wyif” described in the “Note” in the pattern before you begin.
You should look for a worsted weight or aran weight yarn for this project. We have a lot of options available here:
https://www.purlsoho.com/purl/products/3-knitting-crochet-yarn?filters%5B%5D=6
Thanks so much for your question!
Help! I am new to this an was doing great until I just made a mistake in R1. I knit 4 before sl 1 wyif. I only did it once, but it was the very first sequence in the row (only noticed when I finished the row as stitchees were off). I am afraid to take the row apart in case I lose some of the stitches……
What do I do?
Thank you for any help you can give me.
HI Melissa,
Instead of taking the stitches off your needles, you might want to “unknit” the row. It's much safer and not hard to do! I found this video which shows you how: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OkXdqQnU7Pw&feature=related
Fixing mistakes is daunting at first, but learning how to unknit will spare you a lot of stress. Good luck!
Whitney
Hello,
I would really like to make this blanket using Malabrigo Rios. I'm pretty sure it is compatible with what the suggested yarn. Would you be able to tell me if I would need more or less of the yarn? I'm thinking maybe 6 skeins?
Thank you for any help you can give!
Hi Emily-
I'm not familiar with that particular yarn but you will need 1000 yards total of whatever yarn you choose to use.
Thank you for your question!
Molly
i was thinking of using Blue Sky Cotton for this blanket. Any thoughts on that substitution? Also any color suggestions for a baby of unknown sex? I'd like to do something more modern than a traditional light green or yellow.
Hi Stephanie-
We love Blue Sky cotton so that seems like a great substitution. Just make sure to knit a swatch beforehand to make sure you're using the correct needle size. You don't need to worry too much about the gauge in this pattern because it doesn't have to fit anyone.
As for colors: Tomato and True Red are both beautiful and bright, Poppy is a luminous orange, and Stone is a lovely neutral. I think anyone of those would make a great unisex blanket.
Thank you for your fun question!
Molly
Molly,
thanks for answering so quickly! one more question for you. how much will the cotton shrink? any care recommendations?
Stephanie
Hi Stephanie-
It shouldn't shrink at all and you can machine wash it on a gentle cycle or hand wash it.
Thanks for your question!
Molly
I'm really hoping that someone can help me! I'm about 90% done with this blanket and I seem to have made a mistake. I now have what looks like a broken rib. It looks like my mistake was only about 2 rows back but with 179 stitches per row, taking it out is no small task.
I'm attempting to correct myself but I feel like this would be so much easier if I clearly understood which part of the stitch pattern made the V. Is it slipping the stitch that does this, knitting the stitch after the slipped stitch, or is it something else? I can usually think through my mistakes pretty easity but this one is really giving me a hard time.
Hi VMacaulay,
The pronounced “V” stitch is the stitch that is slipped every other row. It is surrounded on either side by one column of garter stitch. I hope this helps to disentangle your knitting. Good luck – you're almost there!
Whitney
I absolutely love this pattern! I just finished the blanket, but i'm confused about the BO row. I've never done a BO in pattern before (to BO i usually just knit two stitches together, then slip the resulting one stich back onto the left needle and keep going like that until i don't have any stiches left). I understand the stitches for the BO row, but i'm not sure how it actually binds off, it seems like it would just be knitting another row. Could you offer a little more guidance on the BO row for this pattern? I would be forever grateful!!
Hi LJ,
The way you're used to binding off is not actually a conventional technique. I'm glad you have this opportunity to learn the more usual way!
You are probably just confused by “slip the first stitch over”. This means that when you have two stitches on your right needle, grab the first (or right hand) stitch with your left needle and pull it off the right needle, just letting it fall. There are tons of bind off videos on line if you need some visual help with all this!
Thanks so much for your question and good luck!
Whitney
Am just about to begin this blanket, the wool and needles and the other item I ordered turned up in only 8 days, incredible. Thanks so much
Lesli
I'm about 90% finished, and wondering which technique would be best to weave in my ends. I've checked out your page on the different ways of weaving in the ends, and was thinking the garter stitch, since part of this pattern is garter. What would you recommend?
Thanks so much for all of your beautiful projects, I plan on making many more sweaters, cowls, blankets, beanies…. you get the picture 😉
~ Courtney
HI Courtney,
When ribbing is involved I almost always use the technique described in our tutorial as “Weaving in Ends on the Vertical.” I hope you're happy with the effect and with your finished blanket!
Thanks for asking!
Whitney
Hi there,
Do you think it's possible to introduce other colours into this pattern, rather than just the one? If so, is it better to begin it on a row 1 or 2?
Also, I'm from Australia, so we don't tend to have a LOT of skeins (not that are easy to find anyway!) , so I'm just wondering, approximately what would be the ply of the wool be that you've used in this?
Thank you!
Julia
HI there! I am about 50% done with this and it is just so gorgeous. I love it!!! I ended up using the Spud and Chloe yarn in grey, pink and cream…and I made big stripes with the pink and cream, with grey as the primary clolor. It's so pretty! This is a great pattern that I will make several times over! Excited to try more of the great stuff on purlbee!
Hi Julia,
The transition row between colors may not be perfectly clean, but give it a try! It may look great!
I believe that in Australia this worsted weight yarn would be known as a 10-ply. Also, if you'd like to expand your choices, we do ship to Australia all the time. Here are our shipping rates and policies: https://www.purlsoho.com/purl/shop/shipping
Thanks for your question! Let us know how it turns out!
Whitney
this is only my second project ever (and my first is just quarter-finished as I wanted to try this!) and I'm having so much fun with it. It's an awesome combination of simple in execution and dynamic in look. and it is also really serving as a useful “exercise” project for me because it's teaching me to let go of perfectionism and embrace my “homemade” mistakes, pay attention to stitches enough to “unstitch” rather than just unravel, and pay attention to the pattern enough to decide on a corrective course of action knitting forward when a mistake is too far gone to be corrected.
anyway… enough about us…
like a poster above, I was also thinking of incorporating another color, but as a border. is there a border you would recommend for this? I was thinking of the one that goes with the “bulky baby blanket” pattern, but would you suggest any modifications to that in adapting it to this blanket, or suggest another border pattern altogether?
thanks!
so… although (as mentioned above) I was going pretty strong on the blanket, I had one hole some rows back and thought that maybe it would be best to try to address it earlier rather than later. I know, I know, as this was only my second project, perhaps I should have just let it be and either loved it as a beginner's mistake or maybe even just taken another piece of yarn and sewing it up a little after I was all done. but alas… I got cocky and tried to follow some videos to fix it. but now I unraveled just that one stitch column, but because of the knit/slip combo I now am not exactly sure what to do 🙁 I am sure you are quite quite busy but any chance you could walk me through how to close it back up and work my way back up to where I left off the knitting…?? the stitch currently unraveled is the slip (facing forward) — although I also kind of think the stitch to the left of it (k1) might also be affected, but I at least had enough forethought to just undo one column at a time. ugh…
Would a cotton yarn work? I am making two striped throws for my grandchildren using cotton yarn and love the feel. Could the yarn work for this as well?
Hi Lilia,
Yes, absolutely! Blue Sky's Worsted Cotton would be a great choice, really soft and cuddly. You can find it right here: https://www.purlsoho.com/purl/products/item/721-Blue-Sky-Worsted-Cotton
If you want your blanket to be 24 x 28 inches, just make sure you get the same gauge with whatever yarn you choose!
Thanks for asking!
Whitney
Hi Kym,
We underwent some site construction and accidentally lost your question! Luckily, I had it saved somewhere else. For other readers, it was this…
Hi, I would like to make this as a throw for an adult (thinking maybe 45 X 60. Can you help with the conversion, i.e. how much to cast on and also using larger needles to make it a little chunkier, say size 11 or 13?
So, to finally answer you… You'll first need to make a gauge swatch in the stitch pattern (cast on a multiple of 4 plus 3; 19 stitches, for example). Multiply the number of stitches you get per inch by the width of your intended blanket (45) and cast on the number of stitches that is closest to that number but is also a multiple of 4 plus 3.
If you're confused by any of this, please let us know your gauge and we'll work it out for you. Here's our tutorial on knitting a gauge swatch, in case you need it: https://www.purlsoho.com/create/not-too-tight-tutorial/
Thanks for your question!
Whitney
Hello,
I've made the forever baby blanket and LOVED it! I am going to try making an infinity scarf with the same pattern, but as I go to knit it in the round, I'm having a hard time figuring the pattern out. Would I alternate every other row like this:
Row 1: K3, *sl 1 wyif, k3, repeat from * to end of row.
Row 2: P1, *sl 1 wyib, p3, repeat from * to last 2 stitches, sl 1 wyib, p1.
This is just my best guess at how to knit this pattern in the round. Can you verify if it's right or help me otherwise? Thank you so much!
Hi Jeanne,
To knit this stitch pattern flat you should cast on a multiple of 4 plus 3 stitches and then do almost exactly as you suggest, except for Row 2 you should…
K1, *sl 1 wyif, k3, repeat from * to last 2 stitches, sl 1 wyib, k1.
Sounds beautiful! Thanks for your question and good luck!
Whitney
Hi,
I have loved this blanket since it was first posted — it truly feels timeless. I am expecting my first baby and finally have the opportunity to knit this blanket.
I typically use a long-tail cast on. Would this cast on be appropriate for the stitch pattern? Since the bind off edge is in the rib pattern is there another cast on method that would better match the bind off?
Sincerely,
LB
Hi LB,
I almost always use a long tail cast on (including when I knit this blanket!). For ribs some knitters use what'scalled a tubular cast on. It bears some resemblance to a provisional cast on but is designed to look and feel like the rib pattern that follows it. It's a fairly challenging technique, and I'm not sure how it will work out with this particular stitch pattern, but you might care to look into it!
Thanks so much for asking and please let us know if you have any other questions. Congratulations, too, on your coming baby!
Whitney
This blanket is beautiful. I love this stitch. I am using Hobby Lobby's "I Love This Yarn" Ombre in Pastels. It is so soft and warm. I will be making more blankets with the pattern. Thank you so much!
Whitney – I notice that you've gone up several needle sizes (to a 9) over the sizes (4-7) usually recommended for "For Better or Worsted". Do you recommend doing this for other yarns we might use for this pattern as well? I'm using Debbie Bliss Cashmerino Aran. Thanks in advance for any recommendations.
Hi Janet,
Well, a few things… First, the needle recommendations on all yarn labels (and in all knitting patterns!) should always be taken with a grain of salt, both because everyone knits at his or her own tension and because the ideal gauge depends on the project. For blankets, I tend to use a bigger-than-normal needles because a bit looser means a bit softer and more drapey.
If I were using Debbie Bliss's Cashmerino Aran, I would probably use a US #9 needle like I did here. But you may want to experiment a little to find the needle size you like best with this stitch pattern for this project.
I hope this steers you in the right direction. Please let us know if you have any other question and thanks for this one!
Whitney
Hi there,
Like a previous poster I too would like to make a larger blanket, (the 45 X 60 sounds good). I purchased 11 balls of Spice Berry, Wasabi because of the softness and lovely combination of colors in it. The gauge says 12 sts X 16 rows = 4" with size 9 needle. Upon reading your comments I noted you said we need about 1000 yards of yarn for the baby blanket. It seems like I only have enough for the baby blanket size and will have to order more to make the larger blanket, but I'm not sure about needle size and quantity of yarn. Can you help? Thanks. It looks to be a beautiful blanket.
Hi Laila,
I'm not familiar with Wasabi yarn (and don't see it in the internet), but it sounds quite a bit thicker than the For Better Or Worsted, which is normally 4 1/2 to 5 stitches per inch on a US #4-7 needle. I used a bigger needle than suggested to have a nice loose and soft fabric.
So, you'll have to experiment with needles a little bit to see what you like with the Wasabi and the stitch pattern. Like us, you may want to go up a couple of needle sizes for your blanket!
And your blanket size is four times the size of ours, so you'll need 4000 yards, although probably less since your yarn is thicker!
Please let us know if you have any more questions; thanks for these; and good luck!
Whitney
Forgive me because I am a brand new knitter. I want to make this a little larger but I need some guidance please.
I can easily figure out to make it longer to simply keep knitting.
BUT, I need help to figure out how to increase the cast on for the width if I want it to be closer to say 36" wide instead of 24". Would you kindly help me please? It doesn't have to be exactly 36" wide but sort of closer to that than 24.
Thank you kindly.
Hi Diane-
I would cast on 271 stitches to get a 36-inch wide blanket. Just make sure you are getting the correct gauge before you start!
If you're interested in how I got the number 271 here's the math:
This stitch pattern will only work with a cast on that's a multiple of 4 plus 3.
You should be getting 7.5 stitches per inch in the pattern. 7.5 X 36 (the desired width) = 270. Round that down to the nearest multiple of 4, which is 268, and then add 3= 271.
Thanks for your question!
Molly
Hi,
I am a beginner knitter and this is my first time using a pattern, so far the only thing I have made is a scarf. I had a question about the pattern and apologize if my question is silly. When starting row 2 stitch pattern does it matter if you do it front or back?
Thank you for your help!
Hi Clorinda,
No questions are silly, but I'm not sure I understand what you're asking. Are you asking about slipping with the yarn in front? Or are you wondering how to turn the work in order to start the next row? Or are you unsure of where the working yarn should be? Or is it something else?
If you're still wondering, please clarify a little bit and we'll be happy to help!
Thanks!
Whitney
Hi Whitney,
Sorry for the confusion. I am wondering how to turn the work in order to start Row 2. Also I am making this blanket for a baby that is about 2 months old, I figure it is going to take me awhile to make this blanket should I make it a little bigger.
Thank you for your help!
Clorinda
Hi Whitney,
This might sound silly but why a circular needle? It would seem that this would Create a tube, rather than something flat. Maybe I'm thinking of the wrong kind of needle?
Thanks,
Melissa
Hi Melissa-
In this case you are using a circular needle but not knitting in a circle. You simply do not join to work in the round at the end of the first row. Instead, treat the two ends of the needle as separate needles, switching them in your hands after each row. It's no different than knitting with two separate needles except that the cord connecting the needles holds the width of the blanket as you go.
We actually use Addi Turbe circular needles for most of our projects because they are less bulky than straight needles and because they knit very smoothy.
Thank you for your question!
Molly
Hi Clorinda,
Thanks for clarifying! To turn the work in order to start the next row, you simply put the end of the needle that was in your right hand into your left hand, and the needle that was in your left hand into your right. This turns the whole work so that the side that was facing away from you is now facing you, and the working yarn is coming from the left needle. When you insert the right needle into the first stitch and knit it, the working yarn will then be coming from the right needle, ready to work the rest of the row.
Since making the blanket bigger just takes longer, I would maybe stick with this size, but if you do want to add a couple of inches, cast on 187 stitches instead of 179.
I hope this gets you on the right path. Please let us know if you have any more questions and thanks for these!
Whitney
I love this pattern. Question… I am so new to pattern reading.
Row 1: K3, *sl 1 wyif, k3, repeat from * to end of row.
This means:
Row 1: K3, *sl 1 wyif, k3, *sl 1 wyif, k3
I always get confused.
Hi Lindsay,
When a pattern says "repeat from * to end of row", you should repeat the instructions from the asterisk to the word "repeat" over and over until you reach the end of the row. In this case, you will repeat "sl 1 wyif, k3", starting with a k3, so k3, sl 1 wyif, k3, sl 1 wyif, k3, sl 1 wyif, k3, etc all the way to the end of the row. Note that, unless the pattern says otherwise, you should end the row exactly at the end of the instruction you are repeating, i.e. with a k3.
I hope this clears things up for you. Please let us know if you have any more questions and good luck!
Whitney
http://www.ravelry.com/yarns/library/stylecraft-special-aran-with-wool
I am thinking of knitting this blanket (in adult size) with this yarn, what size needles and how many skeins do you recommend?
Thanks in advance 🙂
ps I love your knitting! 😀
Hi Jana-
Thanks! We are not familiar with that yarn but it does seem like it's a fairly similar weight to the original yarn Whitney knit this in. The needle size depends on your personal gauge but the link you sent recommends a US 7 or 8 needle so I'd try that.
The amount of yarn you need will also depend on the gauge and the finished size you'd like. But, as a rough estimation, if you're getting the same gauge as the pattern recommends you will need approximately 1000 yards per every 4 square feet. So for a blanket that was 5 feet by 6 feet you would probably end up needing 7500 yards.
I hope this helps!
Molly
Hi, I would like to make a throw size of this pattern. I was thinking something like 60×60 – do you think this would look good in this size and how many skeins would I need. If you could explain how to calculate the number of skeins that would be great. From previous posts I get a cast on number of 447.
Thanks in advance
Melissa
Hi Melissa,
Yes, I think this stitch would make an incredible throw! To calculate the number of skeins you'll need, you first figure out how many square inches this blanket is: 24 x 28 = 672 square inches. Then you figure out how many square inches one skein can knit: 672 / 5 (skeins) = 134 square inches. Then you calculate how many square inches your throw will be: 60 x 60 = 3600 square inches. And finally you divide that number by how many square inches 1 skein can make: 3600 / 134 = 27 skeins (which, by the way, is 5400 yards).
Please let us know if you need any more help with calculations. Thanks for your question and good luck!
Whitney
Whtney,
I am so impressed with your patient answers to everyone's questions. I worked a swatch of 19 like you suggested, and all went well. But when I tried 179 to make a baby blanket, I just could not get it to work. I tried for days. I really want to do this beautiful pattern. I am a beginner knitter so please help.
Kim
Hi Kim,
If you were able to figure out a 19-stitch swatch, then I know you'll be able to master the same pattern over 179 stitches. Don't despair!
Since it seems you understand the concept of the repeats and the way the pattern is written (again, since you made it work over 19 stitches), then my best guess is that you're losing count and making some small mistake somewhere along the way.
But to really diagnose the problem, I need to know what's happening. Do you end up with the wrong number of stitches at the end of the row? Which row? All of them? Or does the stitch pattern just not look right?
Please let us know so we can help straighten you out!
Whitney
Hi Whitney,
I love this blanket and would like to make a couple for my granddaughters to use as a throw while theyre growing up. I want to make it with Cascade Superwash 128 (so soft)! Can you tell me how many stitches to bind on using a #9 circular needle so it would be about 45 wide and around 60 long? I cannot ever figure these things out and feel so dumb! Also, is it thick enough, or should I double the yarn? I want to make it yummy for them to love forever.
Thanks for any help you can offer…it just looks beautiful!
Hi Nancy,
First of all, since the Cascade 128 is a really soft, chunky weight yarn, your blanket will be super cuddly using just one strand.
Then, as far as how many stitches to cast on, you will have to first figure out your gauge. To make a gauge swatch, cast on 23 stitches and follow the pattern instructions for about 4 inches. Measure how many stitches per inch you're getting, then multiply that number by the width you want (45). Find the closest number that is also a multiple of 4 plus 3. That is your cast on number!
If this sounds confusing or overwhelming, please feel free to write in with your gauge and we'll help you figure out how many stitches to cast on!
Thanks so much for your questions and good luck!
Whitney
Hi,
I need some help, originally I wanted to make this baby blanket for my cousin before she had her baby. I never had the time. Now the baby is 8 months and I figure by the time I finish he will be 1. What size blanket do I make and can I still make this one. I already bought the US #9, 32 inch circular needle needed.
Thank you for the help!
Clorinda
Hi Clorinda,
To make the blanket bigger, you will, of course, need to cast on more stitches. For this stitch pattern, the number of cast on stitches has to be a multiple of 4 plus 3. For example, 4 x 44 = 176 + 3 = 179.
A good size to shoot for might be 30 x 36 inches. So in that case, you'd cast on 30 x 7.5 (the gauge) = 225; then you figure out that the nearest number that is a multiple of 4 plus 3 is 227, and that's your cast on number. You then follow the pattern as it's written.
If you need more help, please let us know. We'd be happy to get you on the right path! Thanks for your question and good luck!
Whitney
Hi there! I am planning on knitting this as you described above (30×36 inches). How many skeins of the recommended yarn would I need?
Hi Jessica,
Thanks for reaching out! I would recommend buying an extra 2 or 3 skeins to be safe, I would leave 1 or 2 of them unwound in the event you don’t end up using all of it you can exchange the yarn for store credit within 6 months!
Happy knitting!
Gianna
Lovely pattern – made a scarf for my boyfriend in a lovely dark grey which looks great. I have a question about working this in the round (I'm a big fan of cowls!) and not sure if this question has already been asked. For working in the round, would it be a case of simply repeating Row 1 until the required height is reached?
Thanks in advance.
Hello,
If I am getting two columns of garter stitch(or some stitch!) in between each V column, what am I doing incorrectly?
In my pattern, the V columns are more spaced out than your pattern. Not sure where I am misreading the pattern.
Hi Jana,
You should end up with three columns between your columns of "v"s: two garter stitch columns on either side of the wrong side of a "v" column. As you knit, the rib pulls in a little and the three columns scrunch together, not looking so wide. So, it could be that you're not doing anything wrong!
However, if you still think you are, I think the most likely place to go awry is with slipping the stitch, so be sure to double check the Note at the beginning of the pattern that explains how to slip with the yarn in front.
Please let us know if you still have doubts and we'll get you on the right path!
Whitney
Hi Gemma,
No, it wouldn't be quite so easy, but it's not hard either! Here's what you'd do…
Cast on a multiple of 4 stitches.
Round 1: *K3, sl 1 wyif, repeat from * to end of row.
Round 2: P1, *sl 1 with yarn in back, p3, repeat from * to last 3 stitches, sl 1 wyib, p2.
Please let us know if you run into any problems and thanks so much for your question!
Whitney
I have always loved the patterns and the look of your yarns, a friend visited your shop last year and I think she had to bring home an extra suitcase for the yarns and other wonderful items she found. I was excited to pick out 2 lovely skeins that turned into a soft and warm scarf/wrap for my Mom.
Now, I am unfortunately not able to purchase the required skeins of Anzula to make this blanket for my great nephew that will join our family in December, but I am hoping that you might suggest a different brand or type of yarn that would work with this pattern. I am an advanced beginner but after reading all the comments I believe that this won’t be out of my experience range.
Love your site and your yarns are wonderful, I am not good with a sewing machine, but after seeing your patterns I may have to learn, LOL. An advanced thank you for your help!
Hi Marianne-
This pattern will work with any worsted weight yarn! Right now we have a very soft superwash wool on sale that would work very well: https://www.purlsoho.com/purl/products/item/817-Lornas-Laces-Shepherd-Worsted
Or you can check out all of our worsted weight yarns here: https://www.purlsoho.com/purl/products/3-knitting-crochet-yarn?filters%5B%5D=6
Thank you so much for your kind words about the site! Please let us know if you have any more questions!
Best-
Molly
Hi! Just wondering how many skeins of Lorna’s Laces I would need for this pattern. To obtain the correct gauge of 7 1/2 sts/inch, I think I would need to use a needle smaller than size 7 with this yarn?
Thanks!
Hi Karen,
I’d go for 4 skeins of the Lorna’s Laces Shepherd Worsted. Four skeins would be 100 yards shorter than 5 skeins of For Better or Worsted, but I don’t think I used every last drop of the For Better or Worsted. If you’re worried about it, you can buy an extra skein and make the blanket a little bigger if you want!
Thanks so much for asking and please let us know if you have any other questions!
Whitney
Hi Whitney,
I see the gauge is different between the Lorna’s Laces and the Anzul . . . would I use a size 7 needle with the Lorna’s Laces?
Sorry, I always get confused!
Thanks!
Hi Karen,
The gauges are actually the same. They are both 4 1/2 stitches to the inch on a US #7 needle, but this guideline should always be considered a suggestion, both because people knit at very tensions and because sometimes you may want to knit tighter, i.e. use a smaller needle (for a hat, for instance) and sometimes you may want to knit looser, i.e. use a bigger needle (for a scarf, maybe).
In the end, the best answer to your question is to knit a gauge swatch using a US #7 needle and see if you’re getting the pattern’s gauge, which in this case is 7 1/2 inches to the inch in the stitch pattern (unstretched).
I hope this gets you on the right path and please let us know if you have any more questions!
Whitney
I would love to make this for my granddaughter as she heads off to college next year. Any suggestions about size,number of cast on stitches….Thanks again for another beautiful pattern.
Hi Patricia,
Maybe something the size of our Super Easy Lap Blanket would be good! It’s 36 x 44 inches (you can see it here: https://www.purlsoho.com/create/2013/01/06/whits-knits-super-easy-lap-blanket/ ), so for this pattern you would cast on 271 stitches, assuming you’re getting the same gauge we did (7 1/2 stitches to the inch in the stitch pattern). A good thing to keep in mind if you decide you’d like to try a different size is that this stitch pattern works over a multiple of 4 + 3 (for example 67 x 4 = 268 + 3 = 271).
And if you’re using the For Better or Worsted yarn, you’ll probably need about 12 skeins.
Thanks for your question and please let us know if you have more!
Whitney
i am wanting to knit a baby blanket, and this pattern seems achievable. can i use worsted twist yarn?? and would i need the same size needle. i’m not a great knitter and need lots of guidance!!
Hi Lisa-
Yes, you could use Worsted Twist for this! You would need to get 7 skeins since it’s a little shorter than the original yarn. It also won’t be machine washable and the finished blanket will have to be washed by hand.
You could probably use the same size needle but everyone knits differently so the important thing is that you use whatever size need you need to get the correct gauge. The needle size listed in a pattern is always just a suggestion.
I hope this helps. Please let us know if you have any more questions!
Molly
Which yarns would be machine washable and, also, be able to put in the dryer. New mothers aren’t going to want to have to worry about laying out to dry.
Thanks
Hi Marcia-
The original yarn that this was made with (Anzula’s For Better or Worsted) is totally machine washable and dryable!
Please let us know if you have any more questions!
Molly
Do think this blanket would be as nice in a DK weight yarn? If so, can you recommend a yarn, needle size, and yardage amounts for same?
Thanks very much!
Karen
Hi Karen!
I’m sure it would be lovely in DK weight! The same company as the original yarn used carries a Sport/DK weight yarn called Cricket. I can’t be sure of which needle size and yardage would be best for you on this blanket though. I’d suggest you do some swatching or experimenting, and see what you like best!
Happy Knitting!
Thomas
Hi. I like blankets to have an edge/boarder. I was wondering if I wanted an edge on this, would you suggest a garter edge on the beginning and end, and on the ends of the rows, essentially giving the blanket a boarder?
How would you suggest to do this? How many knit StS to get a nice boarder.
Hi Yaya!
You can certainly add a border if you like! I usually go with garter or seed stitch for borders, and I usually estimate approximately 1 inch of border.
Happy Knitting!
Thomas
Hi,
I need help with two issues. I cannot figure out how many stitches to cast on in order to make this large enough enough to be a throw, like 55 x 65 ~ and in addition, I don’t know the yardage required for that.
The other thing to take into account, I always add 2 additional stitches for the selvedge edge because I slip the last stitch, (as opposed to the first stitch,) and then I knit the first stitch immediately afterwards. Those 2 stitches don’t get into the fabric but just into the edge. It’s just my personal preference. I like this edge much better.
Can I still work this pattern while doing this? I really love this blanket and would love to knit it for my daughter. Thank you in advance for your help.
Hi Marjorie!
First of all, as far as yardage requirement goes, your blanket is over 5 times as big as the original in area. That means you’ll need somewhere between 27 and 30 skeins for your size.
For your cast-on, this pattern requires a multiple of 4 plus 3 extra stitches. If you are successful in obtaining 7.5 stitches per inch you would need 451 stitches wide.
Structurally, it doesn’t matter whether you slip the first stitch or the last (as long as the working yarn is held appropriately in front if that stitch is a knit on the alternate rows). It is entirely okay for you to do whichever you prefer. If you add 2 extra stitches for this selvedge, you would need to cast-on approximately 453 stitches (or 449 would work too), again assuming that you have achieved the correct gauge.
Thanks for your question! Happy Knitting!
-Thomas
What does it mean, “End with Row 2, ready to knit Row 1.?”
Hi again!
This just means that when you finish your length of the blanket, you will stop repeating after having finished row 2. Then the bind-off directions will work perfectly!
Happy Knitting!
Thomas
Hi, I am thinking or using Chroma worsted yarn for making a baby blanket. Would this yarn work ? I also want it to be bigger and so be able to be used longer. This blanket is for my daughter who lost a baby before this one. It needs to be special and she loves greys and am am having trouble finding mixed yarn with soft grey tones.
Thanks
Chris
Hello Chris,
We’re so sorry to hear about your daughter’s loss. This blanket should be special and will be one of a kind! The Chroma worsted would work very well for this pattern!
For another idea, try Madeline Tosh’s Merino in Charcoal. This yarn is machine washable and hand dyed, so no two skeins are alike! Here’s the link:
https://www.purlsoho.com/purl/products/item/8234-Madelinetosh-Tosh-Merino
Per Whitney’s suggestions, you should start by knitting a gauge swatch and determining your desired size blanket. Just keep in mind you’ll need to cast on a multiple of 4 plus 3, for example: 219 stitches for a 30 in blanket. Let us know if you need more help calculating and happy knitting!
Alyson
I would like to use your pattern for a baby blanket and have bought 3 large balls of a #6 weight yard. How many stitches would I cast on using a #8 needle.
Hi Cathy-
To determine how many stitches to cast on you’ll need to make a gauge swatch in the stitch pattern (cast on a multiple of 4 plus 3; 19 stitches, for example). Multiply the number of stitches you get per inch by the width of your intended blanket (24) and cast on the number of stitches that is closest to that number but is also a multiple of 4 plus 3.
Please let us know if you need any more help and thanks for getting in touch!
Molly
I am getting ready to start knitting the Forever Baby Blanket – I thought you had a recommendation for casting on. If so please pass it on, if not, maybe it came from another source.
Thank you
Hi Katie,
Thank you for the comment! I recommend using a long tail cast on for this project. There have been some comments about using a tubular cast on, which would work, although that is usually used for 1×1 or 2×2 ribs so this stitch pattern isn’t the most logical use of it. If you want to use it I would do a the tubular cast on for 2×2 ribs.
I hope this answers your question and feel free to write back if you have any future questions!
Happy Knitting!
Jake
Hi there! I’m hoping to make this for a toddler (1.5yrs old) to use, but am a beginning knitter. I see that previously 30″ across was suggested as a good width to use for a toddler – would I simply stitch on to closest to 30″ that’s a multiple of 4×3 and then use that as my cast on amount? (I’m not hugely familiar with gauges). Would you think 7 skeins would be sufficient for a larger size? Cheers!
Hello Laura,
Since this stitch pattern will only work with a cast on that’s a multiple of 4 plus 3, here’s how I got the math: You should be getting 7.5 stitches per inch in the pattern (make sure to check your gauge!). 7.5 X 30 (the desired width) = 225. Round that down to the nearest multiple of 4, which is 228, and then add 3= 231.
1400 yards should be about right for this sized blanket as long as your gauge is correct. I would always err on the side of caution and get an extra to be safe, especially if you’re working with handmade yarn! Happy knitting! -Alyson
when asked how many stitches to make a 36″ x28″ you stat 271 stitches
Then when asked how many stitches to make a 30″ x 36″ you say 227 stitches
How come less for a larger blanket… signed confused new knitter
Hi, Jane!
Great question! The cast on edge is the width of the blanket not the length. So, the 36″x28″ has more stiches than the 30″x36″ because the width of the first (36″) is greater than the width of the second (30″). Does that make sense? Let me know! Thank you so much for writing in! Happy knitting.
Best wishes,
Kumeko
Hello,
I would like to know how you made the edges so pretty. Did you add an extra stitch for both ends & then slip either the first or last stitch? If so, do you slip the extra stitch knit wise or purl wise & do you do it at the beginning or end of the row?
wise
Hi Betty,
Thanks for writing in and our apologies for the greatly delayed response! There is not secret sauce for the edges of this blanket. We knit it as written in the pattern. If you are having difficulty getting a tidy edge, you could add 2 stitches (1 to each edge) to your cast on and slip the first stitch. If you do decide to do this, just remember to slip the first stitch and knit the last so that they do not interfere with the overall pattern.
Happy knitting!
Cassy
I’m hoping to make this for my soon to be great niece or nephew, but I like baby blankets that are larger, more like 40 x 45 range.
How many stitches would you suggest I cast on? Planning on using the Anzul yarn, but how much will I need for the larger blanket?
Thanks for the help!
Hi Beth,
Thanks for writing us! To make things easy, you should just double the pattern. I would double the cast on, buy double the yarn and knit for twice as long. According to the measurements given in the pattern, you will get a blanket that is roughly the size you are aiming for. This will turn out amazing, I know it! Good luck!
Best,
Adam
Thank you for this great pattern (no purl ribbed blanket). I have just taken up knitting again after about 30 years. This baby blanket is so easy and so beautiful, it has inspired me to continue with this great pastime.
Is it possible to turn the Forever Baby Blanket into a pattern using 3 colors , if so how?
Thanks so much, this is for my 1st Grandchild:)
Hi Cheryl,
What a great idea! I’m sure you grandchild will love it! I suggest doing a color block stripe. If you have six skeins of yarn, I would use two for the beginning, two for the middle and two for the end. I hope this inspires you!
Best,
Adam
I wonder what size needle one would recommend if you are using Cascade 128 super wash where label recommends size 10
Thank you
Hello Blue,
Thanks for writing us! I think that if the Anzula is knit on a US 9, then the Cascade 128 Superwash could be knit on a 13 for this stitch. I always like to do a small swatch of the stitch just to make sure that I like the stitch definition. It saves so much time!
All the best,
Adam
Hello,
I have five skeins of worsted, but they are different colors. They are all in soft blue, green, grey color families and look great together. Do you think this stitch would look nice using multiple colors and would you arrange them in wide stripes or change the color every other row? Every two rows? I guess I have some experimental swatching to do! Thanks for your beautiful designs and treasure chest of ideas.
I just read a comment above where you suggested a “color block stripe” for this pattern. Is that just a solid stripe, or could you please explain?
Best Wishes,
Mary
Hi Mary,
Great question! I think that this blanket could look great striped! When we mention color blocking, we mean large stripes of each color. If you have more of one color than the others, you could use this as the first and last stripe or alternate it with your other colors. I like to take out colored pencils and draw a little sketch to get the color order I like off the bat. You can also arrange your skeins in different orders until you find a color order that works for you.
I hope that this helps and happy knitting!
Cassy
I would like to use Plymouth Encore Chunky yarn. 143 yards.
How many skeins would I need?
Hi Susan,
Thanks for contacting us! I’m not familiar with this yarn, but from what I see online you’ll need 5 skeins. Since this yarn is thicker than the yarn used in our pattern, I’m comparing the yardage to a similar weight blanket we’ve done. All in all you’ll probably need around 600 yards total. I hope this helps!
Best of luck!
-Adam
Hello,
I want to make this into a throw because I love that stitch
how much yarn would I need using Anzula?
Do you also have other yarns that I can use if it is a lot?
Thanks
Robin
Hi Robin,
Great question! Throw sizes vary quite a lot. Most of my research shows measurements of between 50-60 x 60 inches. Looking at a 50×60 inch throw, you will need roughly 24 skeins of Anzula For Better or Worsted. If you would like to try an alternative yarn, you will need roughly 4800 yards of worsted weight. Our Worsted Twist would make a nice substitution, as would Manos Maxima or for a budget friendly option, Cascade 220.
I hope that this helps and happy knitting!
Cassy
I adore this pattern! It is super easy and very repetitive. Which is great for newer knitters. And it comes out beautifully! No matter what yarn you use! I’ve already completed this blanket and given it as a baby shower present. This will always be my tried and true favorite pattern!!
Hi Jennifer,
That makes my day! Thank you for the lovely comment!
-Adam
Hi! What a beautiful pattern! I am planning to make this with Malabrigo silky merino which is a DK and was wondering what size needles and cast on you would recommend.
Thank you!
Hi Rebecca,
Thanks for your kind words! I don’t know the gauge you are working with, but I suggest casting on in multiples of 4 + 3. This means you can cast on 191 which is 188 (divisible by 4) + 3 = 191 stitches. The needle size also depends because some DK weights work best on a US5 and some on a US6. Best of luck!
-Adam
What size needle would I use for Plymouth Encore Chunky yarn?
Hi Susan,
Thanks for writing in! I am not really familiar with Plymouth Encore Chunky. It looks like the recommended needle size for that yarn is US 10. To make this blanket with a larger yarn, I would suggest knitting a gauge swatch and multiplying the number of stitches you get per inch times 24 inches. This pattern is worked over a multiple of 4 stitches plus 3 stitches. So long as your stitch count takes this formula into account, you should be good to go.
I hope that this helps and happy knitting!
Cassy
I was thinking about knitting this blanket holding the worsted weight yarn and Anzula Cloud together and knitting the same number of stitches, just to get a little more fluffiness and color into the blanket. How do you think that would look?
Hi Joanne,
I think that’s a great idea! I love mixing yarns — it adds so much texture and intrigue to the project. Good luck!
-Adam
Almost done. Blanket lovely. Thanks for the pattern.
I added 2 more stitches for the edge-slipped first stitch on each row.
How do I do the bind off?
K3, slip first stitch over, K1, slip first stitch over, K1, slip first stitch over *P1 etc. What do I do at the end of the row?
Hi Susan,
Thanks for the question. No matter your stitch order you will bind off the knits knit-wise and the s1wyif purl-wise. To bind off you never want to have three stitches on the right-hand needle. You are just doing the passover bind off techniques, so knit two, pass the first stitch over the second, etc. When you get to the s1wyif you’ll bind this off in purl. Hope this helps!
-Adam
I love this stich and would like to use it in a baby cap, knitting in the round. Could you please tell me how to create the pattern for knitting in the round? Thanks, C
Hi Cheryl,
Thanks for writing in! Whitney did help out by giving this pattern in the round in an early comment on this pattern. To knit this stitch pattern in the round, you will:
Cast on a multiple of 4 stitches.
Round 1: *K3, sl 1 wyif, repeat from * to end of row.
Round 2: P1, *sl 1 with yarn in back, p3, repeat from * to last 3 stitches, sl 1 wyib, p2.
Figuring out the decreases for the top could be a bit of a challenge but if you are up for a bit of a challenge, you should be good to go!
Best,
Cassy
Whitney
I want to make this blanket smaller….about 24 X 24. How many stitches should I cast on? And I thought the pattern was multiples of 7 but that doesn’t divide out with 179 stitches. What am I doing wrong? Also, the yarn calls for a needle size 6-8 but the blanket says use a #9. Is that correct? Thanks.
Hello CJ,
Thank you for reaching out! If you would like your blanket to be 24×24 all you need to do is stop knitting when you reach 24 inches, so you can keep the cast on number the same! We knit this blanket on a size US9 to achieve a gauge of 7 1/2 stitches per inch in stitch pattern, unstretched.
I hope this helps and happy knitting!
-Marilla
Hello! I was so excited to try this pattern, but I had trouble getting it to look like the picture. I tried slipping the stitch knitwise instead of purlwise with yarn in front and that seemed to give a better outcome, but I’m still wondering if that is correct. Or maybe I’m doing something else wrong?
The paragraph explaining about the slip stitches says to “bring the yarn front as if to purl, then move the stitch from the left needle to the right needle as if to purl”. Is that how it’s supposed to be written or is it a typo? Thanks so much! I love browsing your site!
Hi Danielle,
Thanks for reaching out! I am sorry to hear that you are having difficulties! The slipping the stitches purlwise with the yarn in the front is not a typo. You will want to slip these stitches purlwise as they will be knit on the return row. Slipping them purlwise sets them up in the correct orientation to be knit. If there were to be slipped knitwise, the stitch on the return row would be twisted.
We are always happy to look at an image of your work to try to help! If you would like, you can send an image into us at [email protected] and we can try to be of more help!
Best,
Cassy
Thanks so much for responding so quickly! That makes sense; maybe I’ll try sending a picture. It could be too that I have the wrong texture of yarn so it doesn’t look as smooth. I got the Handspun Hope merino yarn, so that could be it!
Thanks again!
Hello! This pattern is so classic. Could I knit this using your ‘Cotton Pure on a Cone’? If so, would I follow the same pattern or does it need to be modified by adding a few more stitches? I would like to be able to use just one cone. Thank you!
Hi Sue,
Although Cotton Pure is quite a bit thinner than Anzula For Better or Worsted, you could certainly make a few modifications to the pattern to make it work! I would suggest knitting a gauge swatch in pattern using Cotton Pure on US 5 needles to determine your stitches per inch. You can then multiply that number by 24 inches and round to the nearest multiple of 4 plus 3 stitches to figure out how many stitches to cast on. Even though you will be casting on more stitches, since a cone of Cotton Pure has more than twice as much yardage as we used for the original blanket, you should have plenty of yarn with one cone!
Best,
Julianna
Do you have any tips for how to best weave in the ends? I can’t quite figure out what to do around the raised slip stitches.
Love your patterns. So modern yet classic! Thanks for offering so many free patterns.
Hello Diane,
Thank you for reaching out and for your kind words! I would recommend checking out our tutorial on weaving in your ends, particularly the ribbed portion!
I hope this helps and happy knitting!
-Marilla
Regarding Anzula…..5 skeins @ $35 each= $175 !
Wish I could.
Alas,I cannot.
Acrylic make me shudder, however.
Suggestions ?
I am 77 on a fixed income; first great grandchild arriving in February.
I wish there were scholarships for knitters like me .
Thank you for the pattern for this Forever blanket.
I noticed a few knitters mentioning this blanket flared at the ends.
The fix could be a size smaller needles fir the first and last couple of inches.
Hi Mamasan,
We hear you! We totally understand that sometimes our yarn suggestions are more of an inspiration than a reality for many people. We are always happy to recommend less expensive (but still beautiful!) alternatives. In this case, we suggest that you try Blue Sky Worsted Cotton. It is still washable and just perfect for babies, but should be a bit more economical!
I hope that helps, and happy knitting!
Julianna
Hello – I am completing my first Cozy Corners Crib Blanket, about to begin a second, and just found out yet another niece/nephew is on the way. I absolutely love how the Cozy Corner turned out even with my beginner’s subtle signs, however, do you think that the Forever Blanket would knit up faster than the Cozy Corner if I used Blue Sky cotton & made it around 30″X36″? Also, if I go with a 30″x36″ Forever Blanket in Blue Sky, how many skeins would you suggest, – & same needle size as recommended on the instructions?
Thank you for your time & help!
Susan K.
Hi Susan,
Thanks for writing in, and what a busy blanket-knitting season you are in! The Cartridge Rib Belt stitch pattern in the Forever Baby Blanket doesn’t involve any purling, so if you knit faster than you purl, as many of us do, it probably will be a bit faster to knit overall! Although Anzula For Better or Worsted and Blue Sky Worsted Cotton knit up to the same gauge, Worsted Cotton has a thicker, sturdier feel, so I would recommend knitting a gauge swatch to make sure you are happy with the needle size and to get an accurate measurement for calculating how many stitches to cast on for your wider blanket. You will need 7 or 8 skeins for your desired blanket size.
I hope that helps, and happy knitting!
Julianna
Any sense of when the For Better or Worsted in Mauve will be back in stock? It’s gorgeous for a baby girl blanket!
Hi Jenna,
Thanks for reaching out! Unfortunately we do not have an ETA for For Better or Worsted in Mauve, but we will be restocking it as soon as Anzula can dye it for us! If you enter your email address on the product page, we will let you know as soon as it is available.
Best,
Julianna
New to knitting. Followed pattern using your yarn, size 9 needle and width came out to 32 + inches. Ripped out almost entire finished blanket once I realized shape was so off. Bought 7 in needles and have cast on 179 and knit a few rows. Width is 30 inches. Why is my width so off from your finished product of 24 in? I am not a terribly loose knitter. Any suggestions? I really don’t want this to be more than 26-28 width. Please help! Frustrated and trying to get this done before baby is too big to use 😉
Hi Peggy,
Thanks for reaching out, and I’m so sorry you are having so much difficulty with this pattern! It may be that you need to pull the yarn tighter when transitioning back to knitting after slipping three stitches. If you take a look at our close-up picture, you can see that there aren’t any visible floats or gaps, despite the fact that you are carrying the yarn across three stitches at a time on every row. By keeping the yarn a little taught or snugging it up slightly every time you move it to the back of the work, the “ribs” of the stitch pattern should pull in more and result in a narrower blanket!
I hope that helps!
Julianna
Hello,
The No Purl scarf is my favorite, and i have made 5 so far. I add 2 stitches for neater edges, so i can’t follow the pattern’s bind off exactly. How can i adjust it, please? It is very important that the cast on and bind off match very well.
Hi Ellen,
Thanks for reaching out! If you have adjusted the stitch count you can easily adjust the bind off based on the stitch sequence, as long as you are following the rib pattern based on what the previous stitch was you will be good to go!
All the best,
Gianna
Hi
My knitting doesn’t look right despite following your pattern exactly. I notice you mention 3 slipped stitches in a reply to someone. There are no three slipped stitches in the pattern I have.
Hi Patricia,
Thanks for reaching out! Please send our customer service team a photo of your work and the information above to [email protected] and they can troubleshoot further what may be happening from there!
Warmly,
Gianna
Any tips for blocking this blanket? Im afraid to lose the dimensionality of the stitch. Thanks!
Hi Alexis,
Thanks for writing in! I would suggest wet blocking and gently shaping the blanket on your blocking surface to your desired final dimensions and letting it dry flat. You could skip using pins during this process to avoid stretching any part more than you’d like. Blocking helps the wool fibers bloom after they absorb the water, so the final project will have great stitch definition and be even sturdier than before. If you made the blanket in Anzula’s For Better or Worsted, this yarn is actually machine washable so you could also machine wash it on cold and gentle if the need for that ever arises. I would suggest laying it flat to dry as well if you go with that route. Hope this helps!
All the best,
Cat
I am 1/2 way through my first skein and it doesn’t seem as if the blanket is lengthening and seems to be rolling up. I noticed the slip stitches feel tight thought out the length of the blanket. Is it supposed to be that way. That might be why it is rolling and not lengthening.
Hi Theresa,
Thanks for reaching out! Please send our customer service team the information above along with a clear photo of your work to [email protected] and they can help troubleshoot what may be happening from there!
Warmly,
Gianna