Flannel Receiving Blankets
I’m starting to think that there is something in the water. Friends, left and right, are turning up pregnant. Thrilled with the good news, I’ve become a receivin’-blanket-makin’ machine. No sooner am I done with one, then I am on to the next. With each blanket I find myself guessing baby names, picturing my friends in the role of ‘Mom’ and imagining the nervous excitement of the dads-to-be.
I am so happy sitting with this super soft flannel draped in my lap, hypnotized by the rhythm of crochet and the feeling of merino wool as it winds through my fingers. The soft touch of these remarkable materials soothes me in the same way I know it will the new babes!
While it is a pleasure to make these Receiving Blankets, it is an even greater joy to think of them in use. The foggy, warm stripes of Ecrulet’s Flannel and the crisp, rich colors of Koigu’s merino combine in such pretty harmony, that I can’t wait to see my friends’ littles bundles all wrapped up inside!
Congrats to all those expecting! –Laura
PS: Check out Molly’s Lap Duvets for more ideas on how to use Ecrulet’s magnificent Flannel Stripes!
Designed by Purl Soho designer, Laura Ferguson.
Materials
To make one 41-inch by 41-inch blanket:
- 1 1/4-yards Ecrulet Flannel Stripes. I used Grey.
- 1 skein of Koigu’s Koigu Premium Merino. I used colors 2290 and 2405.
- 1 US size A crochet hook
- 100% cotton thread. I used 1040.
Pattern
Cut and Wind
Cut the fabric into a 42-inch by 42-inch square.
Wind the yarn into a ball. Place it to the side for now.
Pin and Sew
Fold and press each edge of the fabric 1/4-inch toward the wrong side. Fold and press each edge 1/4-inch toward the wrong side once more. Pin the folds in place and machine sew down with an edgestitch.
Crochet the Edge
Orient the fabric so the front is facing you and the stripes are vertical.
Begin approximately 1 inch from a corner. Insert hook just below the hemmed edge, into the middle of a stripe. Pull a loop through. Grab the yarn from the back and pull it through the loop you just made.
Insert hook back through the same hole, and make a single crochet along the edge of the fabric.
*Chain one.
Insert hook into the next stripe, and make a single crochet.
Insert hook back through the same hole, and make a single crochet
Insert hook through the same hole, for a third time. Make a single crochet.
Repeat from * until you reach the corner.
Turn the Corner
After you’ve made a cluster of single crochets right before the corner, chain 3 (rather than 1). For the next stitch (the first of the new side), insert the hook into the last hole you made, as pictured above.
Now that you have turned the corner, you no longer have stripes to guide your placement. You can mark the fabric every 1/4 to 5/8-inch using a Chaco Marker if you would like a guide or you can just eye-ball it.
Continue around the 2nd, 3rd and 4th edge of the blanket, turn the 4th corner and work up to the stripe where you first began.
Connect at the End
Chain one.
Insert hook into the first stripe, where you began, and make a single crochet.
Cut yarn and pull through. Using a tapestry needle, weave in your ends.
You have done it!
Now you can do it again to make a pair!!!
Update 2024: You can explore our current collection of beautiful fabrics and supplies on our page of Sewing Tools + Notions!
They look beautiful ! But, how does the merino react to washing ? Baby receiving blankets see a lot of it… I wonder if a cotton would be more practical ?
Hi Cecile,
The Koigu merino is machine washable. It wears beautifully!
Do you typically pre-wash the flannel before crocheting the edge to prevent puckering?
This is perfect! I wanted to do this before my daughter was born but never got around to it. Thanks for reminding me, and including instructions! I love the look of that merino but I'm trying to use up some of my flannel stash before buying more. What is the approximate distance between the stripes (at the point where you pierce the fabric)? Thanks!
Amy
These blankets look so practical, beautiful and simple to do. I think I'll give them a try as they'll be great for those “sex yet to be determined” newborns. Takes the worry out of using pink or blue.
TFS.
So beautiful!!! Thanks for this great idea.
LOVELY!! And that hook just slips into the fabric easy-peasy??
Hi Amy! So glad you like the project. The puncture points are about 1/4 to 5/8-inches from one another. Happy crocheting. -Laura
Liz, thanks for asking! Great question. I typically pre-wash my fabric, but I have known other who do not. -Laura
Hi Karin-
The hook does go through pretty easily, that's why Laura used a fairly small hook.
Thanks for your question!
Molly
These are a really elegant alternative to the typical receiving blankets, and I love the neutral colors. I will definitely have to make a few of these!
That's it. I'm learning how to crochet.
That is absolutely lovely! I have a wonderful vintage lap blanket made fRom the cutest red mushroom fabric and the edge is done like this with a little picot between each cluster! I think I need to make one of these!
Where can I find the crochet hook? The smallest size I could find was US size B – 2.25mm. Please help since this project is charming and unites my new found love of sewing with knitting/crochet into one project. Thanks!
I love this website, and was lucky enough to visit your store a few weeks ago! Thanks for all the great project ideas, I can't wait to start this one! Question, I'm pretty new to sewing, so please excuse my ignorance….when I sew the seam of the blanket, should my stitches be as close to the inside of the fold as possible? Or is right down the middle ok? Im still mastering control over the fabric when I sew lol. Souri, I have a US size 2 hook at home that is 2.2 mm as well, and I just tried to poke it through the flannel and it went through just fine, so your B will probably be just fine for this project 🙂
Hi Jessica-
You should sew it as close to the fold as you can. Thanks for the kind words and good question.
Molly
Those blankets are splendid. What kind of stitch did you use on the hemming of the blanket?
Hi Michelle-
Laura just used a regular medium length sewing machine straight stitch to hem the blankets before crocheting their edges.
Thanks for your question!
Molly
I know you've probably been asked this, but have you thought about making these blankets to sell. I have zero talent for making these myself, but would love to have some made for my little one. Would you be willing to make some to sell?
Tristin
Hi Tristin-
We don't make any finished products to sell but if you call our New York City story they might be able to get in in touch with someone who can. Their number is 212-420-8796.
Thanks for the question!
Molly
These are adorable! Just another reason I need to get a sewing machine…
What does a crochet size hook A convert to in metric sizing? Thank you!
Hi Christina, great question. A US size A crochet hook is usually around 1.75mm to 2.00mm. A US size B is 2.25mm, often times, anything smaller than a B is only measured in mm, rather than given a letter size. For this project I recommend using as small a hook as you can so to minimize the punture holes in the flannel. Hope this helps! -Laura
Could I use Perle Cotton #5 in place of the fingering weight yarn?
Hi HBell-
Perle cotton would work fine, you might want to use a smaller crochet hook, but it's just a matter of preference.
Thank you for your question!
Molly
These are absolutely beautiful.
Love these!! I make receiving blankets for Project Linus and these are just perfect. Different and definitely more special than just a plain blanket. Thanks!
These are lovely. My aunt made me similar ones in a very light white Birdseye pique for my twins with the colored crochet trim. I LOVED them and they were perfect for summer.
Incredible tutorial!
Your photographs are so clear. Perfect tutorial.
If you are unsure about spacing of the holes, or if you don't have a stripe to use as a guide, you can “poke” holes using your swing machine — just set the stitch to the length that you want the holes to be apart, and “sew” without thread…it pokes perfect holes equally spaced.
Fabulous instructions!! Have not had a chance to crochet in many years…will the help of your directions, definitely going to give it a try again!!
Your idea brings back some old memories. My grandmother used to do that edging on the short end of facecloths and then add several more rows of decoration. I remember doing that as a kid – many years ago.
It's also another way to strengthen the hem that those little ones love to pull on.
I still have my kid's favorite blankys. they are keepsakes.
Hi. I love this project! Such beautiful results. I am excited to try to make one but I want to practice with what I have on hand before I order my “good stuff” to make the real deal. What number weight is the yarn used for the crocheting (I'm sorry if this is not the technical term but just referring to the number on the back). Thanks so much for sharing this! I'm expecting a baby in early September and can't wait to make one for him.
Hi Andie-
You have some leeway with the weight of the yarn but you wouldn't want it to be much thicker than a sport weight. I believe that would be no larger than a number 2 if we are thinking of the same numbering system (the little yarn icon with a number inside?). You can use anything that says it's baby weight, sock weight, sport weight, fingering, or fine. You could also use pearl cotton or embroidery thread. Please let us know if you have any other questions and good luck with the project!
Molly
This is my first experience with crochet. Do you have any recommendations on more thorough instruction on “a single crochet chain”? I'm a little bit confused. Thank you!
Hi Meredith-
You might want to check out our crochet basics tutorial here: http://purlbee.squarespace.com/crochet-basics/
Or, if you'd like to explore crochet even further you might want to get this booklet. It's only $6.50 and it has a lot of well explained information!
https://www.purlsoho.com/purl/products/item/213-TNNA-How-to-Crochet
Thanks for your question!
Molly
I have a quick question! I am excited to start this project, but am wondering if the flannel you used is soft on both sides? I can't find any flannel like that and am thinking about laying to pieces together, soft sides out. Do you think this would work ok? And is the flannel used in this project soft on both sides?
Thanks!
Hailey
Hi Hailey-
This is soft on both sides but certainly softer on one side than the other. Both sides will get even softer as they get washed.
We wouldn't recommend using two layers of flannel because it would really complicate crocheting around the edge and the pieces might not stay in line with one another.
Thanks for your question!
Molly
I did buy the Koigu KPM from Purl and although you mention that it is machine washable, I look at the wrapper and it says Hand wash. Lay flat to dry. I am wondering if I bought the right yarn?
Hi Michele… You are absolutely right, the tag does say Hand Wash. All of us here ar Purl have been machine washing out koigu knits for years and with amazing results. I do tend to lay them flat to dry, but I know many people throw them right in the dryer (on a lower heat setting of course). Again, I have never had (or heard about people having) machine washing this wool. Hope this helps. -Laura
I've been working on one of these blankets and had a question about tension- any tips on tension so that the crochet doesn't bunch up the edge of the blanket? I'm having a tough time getting it just right with every grouping. Any tips would be greatly appreciated!
Hi Nikki… When I am struggling with tension usually after trying to just relax my hands some, I will wrap the working yarn around my pinky or pointer finger to help smooth out my stitches. Hope this helps. -Laura
I wouldn't have thought a crochet hook would have gone through the flannel!
It looks beautiful! thank you so much 🙂
how very very lovely. I can do most things with my hands – I sew, knit, paint, draw, cook etc but crochet has always been my “no can do” even after endless lessons with very adept teachers lol. however, I am (once again) tempted to try your very sweet edging. thanks so much for sharing your knowledge.
maria smith
mossel bay
south africa
I read through the comments and I hope I didn't miss this information, but for the 42X42 inch blanket, how much yarn do I need to buy to crochet around this blanket? Did you purchase 1 Koigu skein at 175 yards per blanket? Love this tutorial, brought back some old memories. Thank you so much for sharing.
Lori
Hi Lori. Great question. I did buy one skein per blanket, but I found that with two skeins, you can edge three blankets, if you are conservative with your tails. Hope this helps. -Laura
What do you use to puncture the holes?
Hi V.Thor,
Good (and common) question. I used the tip of the crochet needle. This fabric is not woven extraordinarily tightly. With other fabrics I have found the need to pre-puncture the fabric before beginning to crochet. In this case, I typically use a crochet hook one size down to do so.
Hope this helps.
Laura
I love this design but I am using fleece with a super bulky yarn. Any suggestions for this or do you have another pattern you would recommend? I am making this for a baby blanket and wanted the edging to be a little more fluffy……thus the bulky yarn. Any suggestions would be really appreciated.
Hi Robin.
What are you looking for suggestions on specifically? Yarn? I would try and keep it something that is machine washable. You could use the same yarn I did (Koigu's KPM) but double it. Or you could look at using Anzula's For Better or Worsted (https://www.purlsoho.com/purl/products/item/7913-Anzula-For-Better-or-Worsted), a worsted weight machine washable. Or Spud and Chloe's Sweater (https://www.purlsoho.com/purl/products/item/5886-Spud-Chloe-Sweater), a cotton / wool blend. Or you could do a cotton yarn like Blue Sky's Worsted Cotton (https://www.purlsoho.com/purl/products/item/721-Blue-Sky-Worsted-Cotton).
As for the hook size… that will involve some trial and error to find the smallest size hook that will still accommodate the yarn, making the least noticeable puncture point.
Please let me know if you have any other questions!
Laura
Hi! This is lovely! It looks like the stripe print on the flannel is on both sides of the fabric – is that true? Where do I find similar flannel? Thanks for sharing such a great idea. I'm making one for my new baby niece who is due in August.
Hi B. Dale-
You're right that the stripes on this fabric are woven in so you can see them on both sides. Unfortunately we are sold of of this fabric and aren't expecting to get any more in. You can see our other flannels here: https://www.purlsoho.com/purl/products/12-sewing-patchwork-fabric?filters%5B%5D=518
Sorry we can't be of more help! Good luck with the project!
Molly
I love making these! And the babies seem to love them too. I'm on my third blanket and have plans for a fourth.
I, too, spent quite some time searching for a flannel stripe fabric (with Purl sold out). I finally found a nice flannel sheet in ticking stripe. A queen size yields 4 blankets. It's fun choosing just the right shade of Koigu for the recipient.
Thanks for the great pattern!
I have used crochet as an edging on other fabrics by hand sewing blanket stitch along the edge first and then crocheting into this. Particularly good on non fraying material such as fleece. Can make a very simple scarf with crocheted ends in no time at all. Thanks for all the great patterns.
Beautiful, the perfect project for donating . I do a lot of items for preemies and older children, hospitals and seniors.
Your blanket will be a big hit! Thank you
People should know that you are not supposed to bleach wool, so you may want to
use cotton instead.
Amei a dica e tutorial. Obrigada pela gentileza!
I'm retired and want to make these for the hospitals. They are beautiful, I only hope mine turn out as well as yours!
They look lovely. You could also sew 2 layers of flannel rights sides together and round the corners off leaving a space for turning right side out before crocheting the edge. Would be extra warm for winter then.
I’m sorry, but I am having the hardest time with this project. I am new to crocheting and this tutorial just isn’t happening. I’ve also looked at the other tutorials on your site, but I can’t seem to get the hang of it because there is not enough detail. For example, in the first step, when you say “pull a loop through,” do you mean a slip knot? If so, what do you do with the tail at the end? How do I “insert the hook back through the same hole”? The same hole in the fabric? Or in the yarn?
Is there anyone out there who can help with more detail?
Hi Ellie.
I’d love to try and help you on this.
You begin by puncturing the fabric with your crochet hook, pushing the needle through the fabric from the front to the back. You use the hook to grab the working yarn and you pull it through the hole in the punctured fabric. With your left hand, you tack down the tail of the yarn so it does not slip through the punctured fabric. At this point there is one loop of yarn on your crochet hook.
Then, grab the working yarn and pull it through the loop on your needle.
Then, insert your crochet hook back through the same hole in the punctured fabric and bring the working yarn through the hole. You now have two loops on your crochet hook. At this point make a single crochet along the edge of the fabric.(Here is a link to our Crochet Basics tutorial which includes a single crochet tutorial: https://www.purlsoho.com/create/2007/04/12/crochet-basics/ )
Then you chain one. That chain one will be the beginning of the repeat.
Please let me know if this helps clarify things at all or if you have any questions!
Thanks,
Laura
Hi,
I’ve looked through the step by step instructions and photos as well as these more written out directions, but I’ve still not been able to get the crochet. I’m a knitter and I don’t crochet, but I’ve looked at multiple crochet tutorials and I’m stuck. Im having issues when I need to insert the hook back through the same hole and pull the working yarn through the hole to have two loops. I can’t get the yarn through the hole and keep the loops on the hook.
Hello Sarah,
So sorry for the late response! Fortunately, it sounds like you are doing the crochet correctly. Make sure you are working with the right hook size though. It sounds like your troubles can be alleviated by having a little more control with the hook. This technique might take some practice, but with all needle crafts it just takes some practice!
Best of luck,
Adam
Try looking at youtube tutorials. They are great and you can see exactly what is needed to do. Good luck!
Hi,
These are beautiful. I am trying with a different flannel as this is sold out. I am afraid that the fabric will fray around the holes. Is there anything I can do to keep the fabric fibers from getting pulled at the site of the hole? Thank you.
Hi KJR-
That shouldn’t really be an issue since you aren’t cutting a hole, you are pushing the crochet needle through the weave of the fabric. Laura has made many of these blankets over the years and fraying around the holes hasn’t been an issue.
Thanks for getting in touch!
Molly
Would this edging be suitable as a base stitch for adding a more decorative scalloped edge onto? This looks prettier to me than the regular blanket stitch normally sewn on with a yarn needle. Very lovely blankets!
Hi Jessie-
We don’t have any experience doing a scalloped edge but from what I understand of it I think this should be fine. Thanks so much for getting in touch and please let us know if you have any more questions!
Best-
Molly
Hi,
I love this project and would like to create one, instructions seem very easy. I have several crochet hooks I have inherited and none of them are size “A”. I’ve looked up conversion charts, but no success finding what number size is compatible to size “A”. Can you help me out with this dilemma?
Cheers,
Nancy
Hi Nancy.
Great question. A US size A crochet hook is usually around 1.75mm to 2.00mm. A US size B is 2.25mm, often times, anything smaller than a B is only measured in mm, rather than given a letter size. For this project I recommend using as small a hook as you can so to minimize the punture holes in the flannel. Hope this helps!
Laura
Thanks Laura!
All my hooks have numbers on them, not letters. (They were my Mom’s old hooks) and no mm either… can you let me know what size to use??
Hello Debbie,
Thank you for your question. How lovely to have your mothers old hooks! You might like to look at the crochet hook size chart on the craft yarn councils website here: http://www.craftyarncouncil.com/hooks.html. They have letters and numbers for each size. I hope that helps! Please let us know if you have any other questions.
Happy crafting!
Allison
I am brand new to crocheting, and after 3 nights of failed attempts, I finally got this down–feel like I just won the lottery. Thanks for a great tutorial!
I would like to crochet an edge on a baby boy blanket. I would be using Jersey knit instead on flannel. Has anyone ever attempted this? Does it work? What about using stretchy yarn? This will be my first project with crocheting.
Hi Lisa-
We wouldn’t recommend using jersey because the edge would get pulled out of shape very easily. I think you would have the same issue using a yarn with stretch in it. The good news is that it will work with almost any mid weight woven fabric and any non-stretchy yarn. Please let us know if you have any more questions and I apologize for the delay in getting back to you!
Best-
Molly
I love this edge and I’m going to try it! I also put edges on flannel receiving blankets, but they are more work as I use a variety of designs. I really like this simpler yet stylish stitch!
Are you pushing the hook through the fabric? I’d love to make some of these for family members who are expecting. These are absolutely Beautiful!
Hi Stephanie-
Yes, you are pushing the hook through the fabric. Please let us know if you have any more questions!
Molly
Thank you for this great tutorial! I have a new grandson on the way next month and have recently taken up sewing. I LOVE the look of the edging and would like to add it to the blankets I’ve already hemmed but I can only afford the soft, inexpensive flannel from the big box stores (with a coupon) ;). Am I likely to have fraying issues after multiple washes wherever I’ve made a hole for yarn? Worried that maybe I should quit while I’m ahead but these are so irresistible!
Hi Tammy.
Thanks for writing in!
That’s a great question. Do not worry about fraying. Between my grandmother and mom and aunts and me… we’ve made these blankets in loads of different flannels and fraying has never been an issue.
Enjoy the pattern.
Laura
This is such a great project! I am wondering if you know what might happen if I use yarn that is not labeled as machine washable on this. I plan to use flannel fabric and just realized the yarn may not work. Will it shrink and make the fabric lay wonky if washed? Thanks for your help!
Hi Tamarah.
Thanks for writing in.
If the yarn isn’t machine washable and it goes into the machine and the drier… the yarn may felt and cause the edges of the blanket to cinch up.
Hope this helps.
Laura
I loved it. I am going try to make it.
Thanks
Love these, one question…I’ve tried piercing “flannel” with a crochet hook and couldn’t do it….how do you make the “hole” to crochet into?
Thanks.
Hi Ingrid.
I used the smallest crochet hook that works with the edging yarn and simply guided it through the fabric with a little pressure. May I ask, are you using 100% cotton flannel? If it’s a synthetic blend, the fabric may not take so kindly to being punctured.
Thanks for writing in.
Hope this helps.
Laura
I have an answer for Jessie B. Since there aren’t too many babies left in the family, I used the stitch to edge matching flannel gowns and pajamas for little girls ranging from two to twelve. The prints were red and white Christmas prints and I used red, white and green washable thread and a small needle. After going around (the necklines and cuffs) once, I added a scalloped or picot edge. They looked so cute!
I have used the stitch on bags and other projects. I have even used it on fine batiste fabric. As you said, the trick is to use the smallest hook you need and “push” the hook between threads. If you don’t break the threads, there is nothing to fray! My Mom (now deceased) used to crochet edges on everything but used a plain stitch that looked more like a sewn blanket stitch. I like this one better. Thanks for sharing!
Need how to crochet
Is this Merino yarn machine washable? I’m getting ready to do receiving blankets for a gift out of quilt shop-quality flannel, but I want a washable yarn. I love this simple but classic way to finish edges.
Hi Lynne B.
The merino yarn I used here is machine washer friendly.
Thanks for writing in.
Laura
Does one skein do one blanket or two?
Hi Lynne B.
I believe you can get three blankets out of 2 skeins, but I’m not sure there is enough yardage to get two blankets done out of 1 skein.
Thanks for writing in!
Laura
I am having a hard time understanding how to sew the edges of the two fabric. Can someone please help.
Thank you.
Hi Elisa.
Thanks for writing in.
This pattern only calls for one fabric. For hemming the edges…after folding the edges of the fabric 1/4-inch toward the wrong side and then folding and press each edge 1/4-inch toward the wrong side once more. Pin the folds in place and machine sew down with an edgestitch.
I do hope this helps!
Please let us know if you have any questions.
Laura
Hi,
I don’t sew and will need to either track down a machine or sew the flannel edge by hand…is this doable, do you think?
Also, I’m thinking of using Robert Kaufman Mammoth flannel in smoke. Would this work and what color should I use for the edging? This will be for a little boy who is due any day so I’ll need to get busy!
Thanks!
Deborah
Hi Deborah,
Thank you for your message and our apologies for the greatly delayed response! You can certainly stitch the edges down be hand. I would be sure to use a neat, small stitch. You may want to try a slip stitch or a ladder stitch.
Robert Kaufman Mammoth flannel in smoke would look lovely with a red, blue or dark gray edging!
I hope that this helps!
Cassy
I have been making flannel blankets with this crochet edging for 40 years. I start with 3 yards of flannel and fold it in half crosswise. It makes a nice size to cover infant and adult while the infant is feeding.
These are beautiful!! I am thinking the edge would be a nice finish to some homemade cloth napkins.
I haven’t worked with flannel enough to know if you wash it before you begin the project. Although I’ve made lots of baby blankets out of fleece and I know how to crochet, right now I’m into quilting and I always wash my fabrics beforehand.
It looks like a great baby blanket project and before I start, I want to make sure I fully understand how to begin.
Hi, Debbie!
Thank you for writing in! You are correct, you’ll want to wash the flannel before working with it. Just as in quilting washing the fabric before hand will keep it from pulling your stitches when you launder the blanket. If you have further questions, please let us know!
Best,
Kumeko
Where cam i find the gray stripped flannel for the receiving blankets
Hi Muggs,
Sadly, we no longer carry this flannel. That said the Shetland Flannel and the Mammoth Flannel that we currently carry would both work for this pattern.
I hope that this helps and happy sewing!
Cassy
Is there a substitute Crochet Hook # and the yarn used for this project. I am having a tough time finding this yarn and the hook.
Hi Neeta,
Thanks for writing in! We sell both the Koigu and the crochet hook on our website! We ship all over the world and would be happy to do so for you!
Best,
Cassy
I’m about to make this (so excited!) but am wondering if I need to prewash the yarn? If I prewash the flannel and not the yarn, will the yarn shrink in future washes?
The yarn I’m using is Spud and Chloe superwash wool/silk sock yarn.
Hi Tiffany,
Thanks for writing in! There is no need to wash the yarn before hand. Especially given that you are using a superwash wool, there should be no real issues with shrinking so long as you follow the washing instructions for the yarn when your blanket is completed!
I hope that this helps!
Cassy
thank you; this is just beautiful.
is the flannel fabric single thickness?
thanks,
jill
Hi Jill,
Thank you for writing in and for your kind words! We used just a single thickness of flannel for this project!
Happy sewing!
Cassy
I love the look of these flannel blankets! I’ve been wanting one for my new baby boy, but I just don’t seem to have time to make one with all the kids! I will definitely just have to buy one, but I will definitely be getting a flannel one just like these. Every baby deserves a beautiful and cozy blanket.
Hello Annika!
Thank you for writing in! I hear you, it can be tough to get any crafting done with kids around! Thank you for your kind words!
Best wishes,
Kumeko
These are just gorgeous! I’m planning to make one using the Robert Kaufman Tahoe Flannel in Grey and was wondering if you had any recommendations on a border color? Nothing seems to “click” with the Koigu. Do you think Purl Soho’s Line Weight in Peony Pink would work as a replacement since it’s also fingering weight? Thanks for the recommendations!
Hi Melissa,
Thanks for writing in and for the kind words! Our Line Weight is a hand wash only yarn. It is also a single ply and may not be as robust as might benefit this project. For a washable alternative, I would suggest checking out Anzula Squishy!
Best,
Cassy
If you do not have a stripe fabric how far apart should you place the dots to crochet through?
Thank you,
Nina
Hi Nina,
Thanks for writing in! You can mark the fabric every 1/4 to 5/8-inch if you would like a guide or you can just eye-ball it. Good luck with your project!
-Marilla
Do you pre-punch the holes in the fabric?
Hi Alisha,
Thanks for writing in! We did not pre-punch the holes when crocheting the edge. The size of the crochet hook combined with the type of fabric lend themselves to being punched as you work using the tip of the crochet hook!
I hope that this helps!
Cassy
The instructions say to mark the fabric every 1/4 to 5/8-inch for a guide. Is that the same spacing used in the pictures? They look more like they are spaces 1/2 – inch apart.
Please respond ASAP. I’m under quite the time crunch to get this done before my new niece or nephew arrives! Thanks!
Hi Elizabeth,
Congratulations on the new niece or nephew! The 1/4-5/8 inch spacing is when we used in the samples! If you like, you can measure the distance between the crochets on the side with the lines and then mimic it on the other side. This is essentially what we did here!
I hope that this helps!
Cassy
The women in my church make these blankets in flannel and fleece for charity. We use skip cut rotary cutters to quickly cut holes in the fabric edges; this is a must for fleece as you cannot punch a crochet hook through the fabric. These cutters are available at JoAnn, Hobby Lobby and Amazon, and other sewing sites on online. If you use one, you need a self-healing mat (use those JoAnn coupons!).
Thanks for this pattern! I am brand new to crocheting, and am confused on one part – after you chain one, and start a new hole, how does that chained stitch get off the needle? I am restarting the pattern at the new hole and have a stitch stuck back on the needle…
Hi Rebecca,
Thanks for writing in! Whenever you are crocheting, you will always have at least one loop on your hook, which will be used to form part of the next stitch. After you work the chain one between clusters, you are correct that you will still have a loop on your hook. You will then insert your hook into the next stripe and pull up a loop so that you have two loops on your hook, yarn over and pull the new loop through both the loops on the hook. The only time you will not have at least one loop on your hook is when you are completely finished and fasten your work off!
I hope that clears things up!
Julianna
Hi , I did this edging on an alpaca blanket for a new little one. I also slightly felted the edge instead if stitching . Was very happy with the result. Luv your work, so different , truly works of art, I am yet to use your pattern for your mushrooms. I am working on my Christmas talismans.
Thanks again for sharing your talents
Lesley
Doesn’t the flannel fabric fray after a washing or two?
Hi Mary,
Great question! Although unhemmed cut flannel will fray, since we turned the edge under twice and secured it with crochet stitches, these blankets should not fray in the wash.
Best,
Julianna
If you were crocheting this edging on just one side of, say a burp cloth, how would you start it, so that it looks consistent instead of going all the way around the blanket. The first cluster doesn’t match the rest of the clusters.
Thanks
Hi Laura,
Great question! Although the first cluster doesn’t look quite the same as the rest, I do think that is how I would start and end if I was only doing a single line of this edging – it is essentially a half cluster, which will stay flush with the side of the fabric nicely.
I hope that helps!
Julianna
Is Viscose yarn good to use to crochet around a baby blanket? Does it hold up well to wash in the washing machine? It is so much softer than cotton thread.
Thanks!
Hi Cassidy,
Thanks for reaching out! I’m not familiar with viscose yarn, so I can’t really say; however, when in doubt, you can always crochet a small swatch and run it through the washer and dryer with your regular laundry to see how it turns out!
Best,
Julianna
Hi. I thought i saw a version of this using Robert Kaufmann Shetland flannel. Was i daydreaming? i’ve purchased the fabric and now that i’m ready to make it – can’t find it! please help. Thanks.
Hello Lei,
Thank you for reaching out! While we don’t have a story in which we used the Shetland Flannel, you can certainly use this fabric for this project.
I hope this helps and happy sewing!
-Marilla
If I choose to use already -made receiving blankets, is there a problem? A hem could still be turned and crochet can be spaced evenly with marks along the hem. Is this a good thought?
Hi Donna,
Thanks for reaching out! Yes, I think using a ready-made flannel receiving blanket would be a great time-saving option, and you would still crochet the edging in exactly the same manner! Great idea!
Best,
Julianna
So you don’t need to pre-puncture the holes? Your hook can just pierce right through the flannel?
Hi Crystal,
Thanks for writing in! Yes, that is correct! A US A crochet hook is quite small and pointy, so it might take a bit of a push, but you should be able to poke it right through your woven fabric.
Best,
Julianna
My mother passed away over 30 years ago and this is what she always gave as a baby gift but she used crochet cotton instead of yarn.
I plan to make these but I am not using stripe material so was wondering how far apart are they so I know what the space length is. Thank you.
Phyllis Miracle
Hi Phyllis,
Thanks for reaching out! It is a 1/2″ in between each one!
Warmly,
Gianna
Did u use a regular crochet hook or one of those sharp ones?
Hi Kathryn,
Thanks for reaching out! We used a regular crochet hook for this pattern! We used the SKACEL Addi Color Coded Crochet Hooks in a US size A!
Warmly,
Gianna
I am working on these now. Do the edges curl a bit or are they supposed to lay flat after adding the crochet stitches? Mine seem to pucker or cuve a bit but I’m not sure if this means I am crocheting too tightly or not. Thank you!
Hi Katie,
Thanks for reaching out! These blankets should lay pretty flat and not curl so you may be crocheting a bit too tightly if you are experiencing curling and puckering!
Warmly,
Gianna
Don’t have or use a sewing machine. Too old to start! Any other ideas
Hi Jan,
Thanks for reaching out! It will be a bit more cumbersome but you could certainly hand sew the edges!
Warmly,
Gianna
You’re never too old to start a new hobby. It also keeps your mind sharp challenging it. You can hand stitch it by catching the edge of the double fold.
Very nice tutorial.
Thank you to teaching and share.
Are these washable since merino wool is used?
Hi Christine,
Thanks for reaching out! It will totally depend on the flannel you use and the washing instructions for that particular fabric. Since we no longer carry this particular flannel, I don’t have the washing instructions available. However, some flannels are superwash so they are machine washable, and others require hand washing to avoided felting!
I hope this helps!
Gianna
I have done these for decades, but I use cotton blanket fabric & cotton or silk embroidery thread. Many babies do not tolerate wool. I have never heard of an allergy to cotton (which does not mean it does not exist), and it is usually less expensive.
I love you tutorial and photos, I haven’t made any blankets yet, but my Grandmother used to make blankets with this crocheted edging. I always wondered how she did it. Now I can make at least one for my new grand niece that was born about six weeks ago.
Thank you so much!
Just making sure- these are one piece of flannel with the edges sewn down? It’s not two pieces of flannel sewn together?
Thank you-
Hi Antonia,
Thanks for reaching out! Yes, that is correct, this is one piece of flannel!
Warmly,
Gianna
Have I missed something? How do you get the crochet hook through the fabric?
Hi Deb,
Thanks so much for reaching out. The size US A crochet hook should be small and sharp enough to poke through the flannel, but you can also use a sharp tapestry needle to poke the hole if you find that easier!
I hope this helps! Please let us know if you have any questions.
All the best,
Carly
In the 1960’s I was given a flannel baby blanket with this very crochet edging and I have always wanted to know the stitch, but never able to figure it out. To replicate that blanket I made gifts using double flannel and made machine edging, nice but not the same. Thank you so much for this pattern and I plan to try it for expectant great grandchild.
Hi Dorothy,
Thank you for reaching out, and congratulations on your grandbaby on the way! It’s lovely to hear that you’re already planning out a receiving blanket for the new baby. You must be so excited!
Our warmest wishes to you and your growing family!
All the best,
Carly
What do you call this stitch?
Hi EM,
Thanks for reaching out. While it doesn’t look like this stitch has an official name, but it’s created with clusters of elongated single crochet stitches, connected with a chain stitch. Hope this helps!
All the best,
Lili
I have searched everywhere for the kind of flannel you show – double faced or reversible flannel. Everyone looks at me like I’m imagining this!
I understand the company that you mentioned is no longer in business but do you have any other suggestions where I might find flannel that is the same on both sides? Using a flannel that has a print on one side and simply plain white on the other isn’t as pretty. Thanks for any help you can lend.
Hi Sylvia,
I’m so sorry that we haven’t been able to help find a similar fabric! However, we had an idea that might make your vision for this project feasible with the fabric you’ve come across already. What if you sewed two pieces of fabric together, with both their right sides facing outwards? That would create a double-sided (and doubly thick!) blanket.
All the best,
Lili
Sylvia,
This is kind of late, but maybe it will help others…
I was looking for double-sided fabric as well. Most of the flannel fabrics at JOANN Fabrics (the only fabric store near me) were printed on just one side. But then I found a line called Plaiditudes that are double-sided and 100% cotton. I found a couple of patterns I felt could work for a modern-ish take on a baby blanket.
Hope that helps!
shirley