Super Easy Lap Blanket
The Super Easy Baby Blanket has become something of an institution here at the Purl Bee. We love how accessible this pattern is to knitters of all levels, and even more, we love the opportunity to play with gorgeous palettes of color!
I knit up the original Super Easy Baby Blanket four and a half years ago in Alchemy’s gorgeous Temple superwash merino. Later, Faye knit her own interpretation with Koigu’s Kersti Merino Crepe. With its ocean and sunshine colors and a squishier feel, her New Super Easy Baby Blanket was such a smash that we made it into a super easy kit! And most recently, we used our own Super Soft Merino for a bigger, even cushier version that we call the Super Easy Crib Blanket.
And now here is our biggest version yet, the Super Easy Lap Blanket! Knit out of Manos Del Uruguay’s amazing Maxima, this one is cozy soft, decadently toasty and looks absolutely stunning in kettle-dyed, hand-spun 100% extrafine merino wool.
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!
The Super Easy Lap Blanket is perfect for drafty winter evenings on the couch and chilly mornings at the kitchen table. And in colors that meander from rich Mahogany, through the land of pinks and blues, to finish in deep Dark Chocolate, this version has a sophisticated drama that will light up any room! -Whitney
Materials
- 7 skeins of Manos Del Uruguay’s Maxima, 100% extra merino merino wool. These colors, from the top, are Mahogany, Shocking, Cotton Candy, Natural, Stratus, Pewter, and Dark Chocolate.
- US 10 (6 mm), 32 or 40-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
16 ¼ stitches = 4 inches in garter stitch
Size
35 inches x 44 inches
Note
To get a nice, neat edge, just slip the first stitch of every row knitwise with the yarn in back.
Pattern
Starting with the color Dark Chocolate, cast on 142 stitches.
Knit every row until the skein runs out (or for about 6 1/4 inches from the cast on edge).
Join the color Pewter.
Knit until the skein runs out, making sure to end on the same side you finished the Dark Chocolate. In other words, all of the tails (except, perhaps, the cast on tail) will be along the same selvage, and the first row of every color will be on the “right side” of the blanket and you will end each color on the “wrong side”.
Continuing…
*Join the next color (Stratus).
Knit until the skein runs out, ending with a wrong side row.
Repeat from * working through the next three colors: Natural, Cotton Candy, and Shocking.
Finish with Mahogany, knitting the entire skein minus about 3 yards.
Bind off loosely and weave in all the ends.
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!
Hi! I don't understand why and how to use the circular needle? Thanks!
Any chance of creating a kit for this pattern? 🙂
Wow!!! I want to add that to my “to dos” !!
Hi Laurie-
We don't have any plans for a kit for this at the moment but if you'd like to give our website a call they'd be happy to get it all together for you! Their number is 1-800-597-PURL
Thanks!
Molly
Hi Josje-
The circular needle is just used as you would two straight needles, it's just less bulky and the cable holds long width of the blanket without a lot of bulk.
Thank you for your question!
Molly
Is the yarn held doubled? I see this yarn is worsted weight – but you use a size 10 needle.
Yay! A project finally within my skill set!!!
I love these colors too.
Thanks guys:-)
Hi Annilissa-
No it's not doubled, it's just a thicker worsted knit on the loose side. You might use a different size needle, it's just important that you get the same gauge.
Thank you for your question!
Molly
Beautiful! Did you do any thing special on the ends for the straight edge. Some patters will call for a slipped stitch edge.
Beautiful! My very next project.
I love it. I made myself a goal this year to knit myself something for me. This is the first project i will do. Thanks.
Hi Jill,
Whoops! Thanks for reminding me! Yes, I slipped the first stitch of every row knitwise with the yarn in back. I added a pattern note to let everyone know.
Thanks again!
Whitney
Love your site, beautiful patterns! Thank you for sharing!
how can I tell a right side from a wrong side?
I am a new knitter but adore this blanket, it looks simple with exception of just slip the first stitch of every row knitwise with the yarn in back. – not sure what that means. Is there a video or tutorial of that you could send a link to?
Thanks Paige
I feel like a total dope, but I am not understanding the Pattern Note about how to get the straight edge. Do you not knit the first stitch-just slip it off the needle?
I would love a quick video of slipping that first stitch, please?
Hi LilaRose,
Thanks for writing in! We’d be happy to demonstrate how to slip a stitch, and I’d recommend signing up for a 1-On-1 Help appointment for that. I bet you can also find some great YouTube videos on slipping stitches if you want to try it out in the meantime!
All the best,
Lili
HI Susan,
The right side is the side that is facing you when you start the second color. It is the side that has a clean transition from one color to the next (it is also the side that is shown in all the photographs). The wrong side looks like it has a bit of an extra stripe when you change colors.
I hope this helps! Please let me know if you have any other questions and good luck!
Whitney
Hi Paige and Val,
To slip the first stitch knitwise with the yarn in back, you simply hold your yarn and needles just like you would if you were going to knit the first stitch. You insert the right needle into the first stitch, again just how you would if you were going to knit. Then, instead of knitting, you transfer the first stitch from the left needle to the right needle. That's it!
I've just watched a bunch of You Tube videos on the subject, and there are several that cover the subject of edge stitches exhaustively, but I didn't find one that had a good, simple explanation of this technique. Feel free to check out what you can find because there really are about a hundred ways to make a neat edge in knitting!
Thanks for your questions and good luck!
Whitney
What is the yardage for each skein? And weight?
Hi Patice-
All of this information about this yarn can be found on our website at the link above or here: https://www.purlsoho.com/purl/products/item/7529-Manos-Del-Uruguay-Maxima
Thank you for writing in!
Molly
Hi…this is a beautiful blanket! Is the wool washable? Also, how would you expand this into an afghan?
Hi Stephanie-
This yarn is hand washable. You can easily make it larger by casting on more stitches and buying more yarn. You should be getting 16 1/4-stitches per 4-inches which should help you figure out how many to cast on.
Thank you so much for your questions!
Molly
I'd really like to knit this blanket in the yarn and colours you have chosen here as it looks great, but I see that the cupboard is bare and you dont have many of the colours
I am in London England – is there any chance you could put together all the yarns for me to order when they get restocked – its not so easy for me to phone you up
Thanks
Hi Cynthia-
Please send an email to customerservice AT purlsoho DOT com asking to be informed when we get more of the Super Soft Merino in stock and they will let you know.
Thank you so much for writing in!
Molly
I cannot WAIT to do this blanket. I have a heap of wool that needs to be used up and this would be a great way to use it all AND have something nice and cosy to wrap myself up in. With an Australian winter 5 months away, that should give me enough time to get it done.
Yay!
Hi Molly, I'm so thrilled. I have wanted to make this blanket ever since the first version of it that you had up on the site, but by the time I went to buy those divine customized colours you had, they were sold out, never to be seen again. I pouted a fair bit, but carried on and made the chevron blanket for my new grandson. Having learned my lesson, as soon as I saw this latest version up, I quickly put in an order for the wool. Trouble was, I couldn't stop at just 7 skeins – I ended up with enough to make 3 blankets, and I'll still have 3 skeins over for something else. My order arrived a couple of days ago, and I've just sorted them out into lots of sevens, ready to knit up, and I'm starting on the first blanket today. Can't wait to see how they look! Thanks so much Molly. I really love your patterns! Very inspiring!
Hi. Thanks for this idea-I love all of the colors. I have a question about joining the next color-how do I do this and maintain the slipped stitch? I looked for a tutorial online, but couldn't find one. Should I join the second stitch from the last, so I can continue with the slip, or do I skip the slipped stitch when joining?
Thanks!
Hi!! I would love to make this for my husband as an afghan, but in the sun colors of the Super Easy Baby Blanket. I was wondering what size needles you would recommend, and how much yarn I should buy. Also, how many cast on stitches would you recommend? Thanks!!!
Hi Ashley,
For a 40 x 56-inch throw, you should cast on 162 stitches (provided you're getting the correct gauge of 16.25 stitches to 4 inches), and knit each stripe for 8 inches. You'll need to buy 2 skeins of each color, and you can use a 32 or 40-inch circular needle.
It sounds absolutely beautiful! What a lucky husband! Please let us know if you have any more questions and thanks for these!
Whitney
Hi Nadia,
Good question! You should knit the first stitch of the new color and then go back to slipping on the next row.
Thanks for asking and good luck!
Whitney
If you knit each row, why doesn't it curl? It seems to lie nice and flat. Also, you're using circular needles, but not knitting in the round, so you stop at the end of the row, then go back the other way?
Hi Gretchen-
Knitting every row is called 'garter stitch' and it never curls, it always lays flat. If you knit one row and purl one row you'll get 'stockinette stitch' which always curls.
You are correct that you will stop at the end of the row, switch the needles in your hands, and then knit the other way. Just as you would with straight needles.
Thanks so much for your questions!
Molly
Hi there can you tell me what ply this is please?
Hi Mary Lou-
This yarn isn't plied but it would be similar to a 10ply in weight.
Thank you for your question!
Molly
Hi, can you tell me what other weight I might use that would be similar to the superfine merino that you used? I am having a hard time finding the right yarn and the brand you used is not well stocked at this time. Thanks!
Hi Pamela-
You can use any worsted weight yarn that you like! Here is a list of all of our worsted weights:
https://www.purlsoho.com/purl/products/3-knitting-crochet-yarn?filters%5B%5D=6
Specifically, Madeline Tosh would be a great substitute: https://www.purlsoho.com/purl/products/item/8234-Madelinetosh-Tosh-Merino
Thanks for your question!
Molly
I am a new knitter and need some clarification please. If all the tails are on same side does that mean you are joining the new colors correctly? Or is there an additional step I am missing ?Thanks
Hi Sarajoe,
Yes! You're doing it right! Notice how on the “wrong side” there's a little hiccup of color where you change yarns. That's why we call it the wrong side!
Thanks for asking and good luck!
Whitney
Hi! I wanted to switch things up and knit this with the seed stitch. If I cast the same number of stitches will it still be the same width and length?
Thanks!
Hi Adrienne,
You can make your seed stitch version the same width by knitting up a seed stitch gauge swatch, then casting on the number of stitches per inch times the width of the blanket (35).
The length may not be the same, however, because seed stitch and garter stitch don't use up exactly the same amount of yarn.
It would probably be pretty close though, so if you're not too concerned with the exact dimensions, you can just go for the first color and suss out the situation then!
Thanks for asking and good luck!
Whitney
Thank you for the clarifications about the slip stitch. I just started this last night (as a birthday present to myself), and as relatively new-knitter got stuck with the slip-stitch aspect of the pattern. Now, I feel confident.
The colors of the Manos Del Uruguay's Maxima extramarino wool I chose are as follows: Ultramarine, Royal, Helium, Kelly, Acid, Natural, and Dark Chocolate. (That's also the order I'm knitting them.) The wool is so soft – can't wait until the lap blanket is done. It was fun to start this project on my birthday, even though I didn't get too far. 🙂
Also, thank you for providing information about how to make this blanket in a larger-than-lap-blanket size. After I complete my lap blanket, I plan to teach my daughter how to create this blanket, only she'd like it big enough for her twin bed. She'll be knitting her own blanket – thought it would be a good first-time knitting project for her. (She knits beautiful scarves with ruffle yarn but hasn't tried knitting with "regular" yarn yet.)
Hi – Eager to do this! Have the yarn – but not the incredibly long needles. Am on an island in Maine. Am thinking of doing it in thirds – and then patching together? But then you lose that lovely smooth feel. Any other suggestions? Longest needles I can find are about 14" long….Thanks!
Hi Katherine,
I know the feeling of being in an isolated situation and having to innovate (whittled chopsticks and unraveled thrift store sweaters come to mind)!
For your predicament, I think you could get away with knitting two halves and having only one central seam.
Or it may be less disruptive to knit the pattern the other way (from side to side, rather than from bottom to top) That way the seams would run parallel to the stripes, joining them together. You could work two stripes at a time if you want, making sure to twist the yarns as you change colors. If you're using the Manos Maxima and getting the same gauge as the pattern, you should cast on 25 or 26 stitches for each stripe.
Thanks for asking and good luck!
Whitney
Hi there, Can you confirm what ply the yarn for tis pattern is? (e.g. 4ply etc)
Thanks
Jo
Hi Jo-
We don't use the ply nomenclature very often but we think this is close to a 12ply in weight. It's a chunky weight. Hope this helps!
Thanks!
Molly
Just ran across your blog and fell in love with this blanket. I would love to order yarn but all the colors you suggest are not available at this time. Can you make another suggestion with the current colors? Hard to pick colors on the internet and count on them to be as striking as the original colors. I love sunset colors–yellow to orange to pink to red. Not as crazy about the blues. Suggestions?
Hi SimplySusan,
I think this would be a stunning combo: Dark Chocolate, Cherrywood, Mahogany, Zinnia, Clementine, Shocking and Cotton Candy.
What do you think? Let me know if you want me to go back to the drawing board – I'd be happy to! And if you think you'd like to play around a little, try clicking on the thumbnail images, then dragging each full-size image to your desktop, then open them up and see what you come up with!
Thanks so much for your question!
Whitney
Whitney,
I'm working on this in Manos Maxima, but I'm in love with the way the Mallard color of Manos Classico pops with my other choices. I know the Classico stripe won't be as soft, but I'm worried it will felt up substantially more when I hand wash. Do you think it would be texturally incongruous to mix in a skein of Classico?
Thanks!
Libby
I am working on this blanket now and almost finished. Can you suggest other color combinations like with blues or tans, natural & whites or cream ?
Thanks
Hi Libby,
I don't think either yarn will felt if you gently hand wash your finished blanket (in any case, if they do felt, it would be equally). My bigger concern is that the Classico is a bit thicker than the Maxima, so the Classico stripe will be denser and possibly a little wide than the Maxima stripes. Try it though, the difference might not be too noticeable!
Thanks for asking and please let us know if you have any more questions!
Whitney
Hi Brenda,
We think these would be beautiful: Eucalyptus, Oxygen, Natural, Sand, Foil, Stratus and Pewter. If these particular colors aren't available online right now, please call our New York City store at (212) 420-8796. We'd be happy to send them to you from there!
Thanks so much for asking and let us know how it turns out!
Whitney
Hello! I would like to ask how you choose the needle size you are going to use for each yarn. For example, I was comparing the pattern for the suoer easy blanket with this one (this one is my favourite, I must say – love the colours!) and I noticed that you are you using a bigger size needle here, although the yarn is finer than the one you are using at the super easy blanket. I also noticed that for this project you are using a bigger needle than the suggested one for this yarn.
So, how do we pick needles, is it according to the yarn weight or is there another criteria? Is there a standard rule I should bear in mind when picking needles for my yarn?
One more question, if I may. I live in Greece, and I am not sure I understand the different yarn categories (e.g. 2ply, 4ply or worsted weight, sport weight etc) so I am never sure I am picking the right yarn. The only info there is normally available on the label here is length, weight and suggested needle size. Is there some way to figure each categorie, e.g. by looking at the weight/length of the yarn? Is there some kind of chart available for this purpose, like with needle size conversion?
I am sorry to bother ypu with all these questions, but you seem like the right people to ask. Wish I lived in New York, I don't think I have spotted any store like yours here in Athens. Any thoughts for moving here? 🙂
Thank you so much,
Efie
How do I keep the tension right as I knit? Only have school experience so am a complete beginner! All my previous attempts had serious jagged edges!! Love this site and really would love to knit again!
HI Efie,
Actually the Manos Maxima is thicker than the Alchemy Temple and the Koigu Kersti, which is why I used a bigger needle here.
And things to keep in mind when choosing a needle size are… First of all, the label is just a suggestion. You may be a tight or loose knitter and so you may always need to pick a bigger or smaller needle than labels recommends. You'll also want to consider what you're making. Hats, mittens and socks tend to be knit on the tight side (for warmth), whereas blankets and scarves are often knit more loosely (for softness and drape). You may also want to consider the yarn you're using. Cashmere, for example, fills in with a halo of soft fiber and so it likes to be knit a little loose. And finally, and most importantly, is the gauge of your pattern. You have to pick the needle that knits up to the proper number of stitches per inch in the yarn and stitch pattern you're using. This can often mean some experimenting, trying different yarns and different needles. You might find some useful info on this subject right here: https://www.purlsoho.com/create/knitting-tutorials-getting-rea/
And as far as converting yarn weights goes, the Craft Yarn Council is a great resource. Here is their page on Standard Yarn Weight Systems: https://www.purlsoho.com/create/knitting-tutorials-getting-rea/
Thanks so much for your interest! Please let us know if you have any other questions!
Whitney
Hi, I've just started one blanket using the colourway suggested starting with Eucalyptus in the comments section and it's looking great.. I was wondering if you could suggest another colour combo, using Manos Del Uruguay's Maxima that covers blues/ greys – similar to the 'Heron' option that you have for the Super Easy baby blanket?
Love your work! Already have heaps of friends knitting amazing stuff from your website. 🙂
Hi! It's getting cold and snowy here (yes…), so I am looking forward to starting this pattern! I just have one quick question; do you recommend a specific type of cast-on? (i.e. knitted, long tail)
Now I might just browse your website for other colors, because I love the Maxima 😀
Hi Sufy,
I asked our color whizzes at the New York City store to recommend a palette for you, and here's what they think: Slate, Foil, Natural, Stratus, Ion, Helium, and Royal.
I see that not all of these colors are currently in stock at purlsoho.com, but you can see all the available Maxima colors right here: http://fairmountfibers.com/yarns/maxima. Feel free to call our NYC store at (212) 420-8796 to see if they have what you want in stock. Or chat with our online store at (800) 597-7875 to place a special order!
Thanks so much for your question and please let us know if you have any more!
Whitney
Hi Maria,
I almost always use a long tail cast on, including here. But feel free to use whatever cast on you're comfortable with!
Thanks for asking!
Whitney
I want to make this lap blanket for my Dad but I need a suggestion on a yarn that is machine washable but also available with a good selection of yarn colors. My dad will want it rather neutral, he is 73 after all. Any suggestions on yarn as well as colors to go with?
Update on MdU Clasica: it worked beautifully in a mix with Maxima. The Clasica stripe is the right width, and the textural change is minor, and pleasant. The stripe itself is a bit shorter, because the skein isn't as long, but, again, I find the variety pleasant. The Clasica knit up uniformly with the Maxima. It all looks intentional, and the blanket has a nice drape, with no pulling or bulging.
I love my new blanket, in the colors of a Northwest winter: Foil, Pewter, Sea Urchin, Natural, Stratus, Mallard (Clasica), and Spirulina. From misty purple and grey mountain views, to clouds, and sea, and the most vibrant mosses. It reminds me (despite the drizzles and short days), how rich the winters here are.
HI Christina,
We have lots of machine washable, worsted weight yarns that come in many beautiful neutral colors. Here are some options:
Madelinetosh's Tosh Merino: https://www.purlsoho.com/purl/products/item/8234-Madelinetosh-Tosh-Merino
Lornas Laces' Shepherd Worsted: https://www.purlsoho.com/purl/products/item/817-Lornas-Laces-Shepherd-Worsted
Anzula's For Better or Worsted: https://www.purlsoho.com/purl/products/item/7913-Anzula-For-Better-or-Worsted
Spud & Chloe's Sweater: https://www.purlsoho.com/purl/products/item/5886-Spud-Chloe-Sweater
Blue Sky's Worsted Cotton: https://www.purlsoho.com/purl/products/item/721-Blue-Sky-Worsted-Cotton
And a little bit chunkier, Cascade's Superwash 128: https://www.purlsoho.com/purl/products/item/6355-Cascade-Yarns-Superwash-128
Once you decide on a yarn, we can help you pick colors here, or you can call the website (800 597-7875) or store (212 420-8796) for some one-on-one advice!
Thanks so much for your question!
Whitney
Hi Libby,
Thanks for the update! So good to know and I'm really happy it worked out!
Whitney
Hello! Thank you so much for putting this pattern together! I taught myself to knit specifically to make this blanket, and after a few starter projects, I just cast on with my first color in the Maxima last night. I love knitting with it so much I was about to order the rest of my colors this morning, when I realized a hard truth: Maxima is 100% wool and I have a cat who sheds like it's her job. Am I crazy to knit this gorgeous afghan (in the large size referenced earlier in these comments for extra warmth)? Do you have any tips for cleaning such a large wool knit, and specifically ridding it of cat hair? Or would I be smarter to pretend I never touched this gorgeous yarn?
Hi! I was wondering about how long it took you to knit this, having taught yourself to knit for this particular pattern?
Thanks!
Hi Veronica!
It is very very difficult to estimate how much time it will take for you to knit this, as knitters vary widely. Commit to knit some every day on the blanket, and it will be done quicker than you might think!
Happy Knitting!
Thomas
Hi Gwen-
We would recommend that you hand wash it in a gentle cleasner like "Soak" which we carry here: https://www.purlsoho.com/purl/products/10-knitting-crochet-notions-tools?filters%5B%5D=862
And in between a tape lint roller does wonders!
Thanks for getting in touch!
Molly
This is going to sound like the most inane question — but have you done this same project in a single yarn so the blnaket is solid. I am attempting this as my first big project (and it seems well easy enough and I will be on vacation with plenty of time on my hands so this seemed like a fun thing to try) but I have a sensibility for solid (or ombre) yarns. I assume the answer is yes, and I was wondering if there was a speckled or ombre yarn that you might suggest for this same blanket.
You are incredible generous with your feedback and your input so I of course appreciate it.
Hi New Knitter Beth-
You could certainly do this in one yarn! It would be super easy. You'd just need to cast on and then knit until the blanket measures 44-inches.
There are a couple of great yarns I would recommend. Maxima, which is what this blanket was originally knit in, comes in some great multi-colors and since they are hand-dyed even the solid colors have a lot of variation! https://www.purlsoho.com/purl/products/item/7529-Manos-Del-Uruguay-Maxima
Eco Duo would be great too. It's super soft and it comes in very pretty natural colors: https://www.purlsoho.com/purl/products/item/6858-Cascade-Yarns-Eco-Duo
Blue Sky Worsted Hand Dyes would also be a good choice. It has a lovely drape and is ultra soft and smooth: https://www.purlsoho.com/purl/products/item/711-Blue-Sky-Worsted-Hand-Dyes
Thank you!
Molly
Hi!
Just wanted to say I knitted my first blanket in the colours that you recommended and it is simply amazing. Love it! Thanks so much for such great ideas. I'm off to knit my next one now!:)
I wanted to let you know how beautifully my husbands blanket came out. I used your color combination: Eucalyptus, Oxygen, Natural, Sand, Foil, Stratus and Pewter and he loves it. I made a larger blanket so he could use it for naps, however, I have about 2/3 of each of the colors left (as I purchased two balls of each yarn). I was thinking I would use the remaining yarn and knit the seed stitch wrap for myself. Can you recommend 3-4 more colors to add to my wrap which would work with the above colors. I love the bright and pale pinks. My wrap won't be as big as your Amazing Seed Stitch wrap, but I thought it would be an great way to use up my leftovers!
Whitney, I have now finished 2 of these blankets one in the original colors and the 2nd one in the colors you suggested…….. Love them ! I now want to do another one in just cream and whites any suggestions !
Thanks again
Brenda
I want to make this blanket for my daughter's den. The room is neutral except for one wall painted lime green. I'd like to include "acid" and maybe "chartreuse" along with five other fairly neutral colors in the blanket. First, do you think these two colors would work in the same blanket or is it too much? Second, can you suggest colors that would enrich the look of the blanket. My daughter has excellent taste and prefers a tailored look. This blanket shouted her name when I first saw it online!
Hi Brenda,
Wow! You're on a roll! For your next blanket, Manos only makes two colors strictly in your palette, Natural and Sand, so you may consider adding Foil and Kohl, and then working the colors Kohl, Foil, Sand, Natural, Sand, Foil, Kohl. Or what about alternating Natural and Sand with maybe one stripe of something you find interesting, so… Natural, Sand, Natural, Sand, XX (Stratus? Foil?), Natural, Sand.
If you want to discuss your options with a live and very color-informed person, feel free to call our store at (212) 420-8796. We're always happy to help!
Thanks so much for the fun color challenge and for loving our blanket!
Whitney
Hi Linda,
Sounds beautiful! I like Acid and Chartreuse together, and I would add to the mix, Natural, Sand, Foil, Kohl and maybe Kelly. Another direction might be Kelly, Acid, Chartreuse, Natural Sand, Highlighter, and Spirulina.
I know our stock online doesn't currently include all of these colors, but we'd be happy to get whatever you want for you. You can see all of Manos del Uruguay's Maxima colors here: http://fairmountfibers.com/yarns/maxima.
Give us a call if you want to talk about your options and/or place a special order to get exactly what you want! Our New York store phone number is (212) 420-8796.
Thank you so much for asking and I hope you find just what you're looking for!
Whitney
I'm making a baby blanket for a friend with this yarn in about the same color combo. I am worried that the colors will bleed if she tries to hand wash. I'm not sure what to tell her. Has anyone had success with a clean wash? Thanks— I love PS.
HI Jas-
Handwashing this should be fine. If you're worried you can use a color catcher:
https://www.purlsoho.com/purl/products/item/5963
Thank you!
Molly
Hi there! If you did this in seed stitch, would you still slip the first stitch of each row knitwise?
Thank you!
Hi Elizabeth,
I think that would look nice, but you may want to try a little swatch to make sure you like it!
Thanks for your question and please let us know if you have any others!
Whitney
Hi! How many cast-on stitches do you suggest for a baby blanket?
Hi Kerry-
This pattern is actually an adaptation of a baby blanket pattern. You can see the original Super Easy Baby Blanket pattern here:
https://www.purlsoho.com/create/the-purl-bee/2008/5/24/whits-knits-super-easy-baby-blanket.html
And here is a link to a more recent version in a heavier wool:
https://www.purlsoho.com/create/the-purl-bee/2013/9/22/super-easy-blankets.html
Thank you!
Molly
How do you get it to not curl?
Hi Karissa O-
This doesn't curl because it's knit in garter stitch (knitting every row) which never curls. Stockinette stitch (knit one row, purl one row) will always curl because of the tension difference between the two sides of fabric.
Thanks for your question!
Molly
Hi, I was wondering why the picture of the blanket looks so much bigger than 35×44… Is that really the final size? Also, how big can a blanket be made using a 40" circular needle?
Thanks for your help!
Hi Katie,
Yes, it really was that size, although since this photo was taken, it's probably grown a bit vertically, since that's what garter stitch tends to do.
With a 40-inch needle you can make at least a 60-inch wide blanket. Probably even wider! Remember that the needle has to fit the stitches, not the knit fabric, and you can really cram a lot of stitches on a 40-inch needle!
Thank you for your questions and please let us know if you have any more!
Whitney
I was recently in your fabulous New York store, but didn’t have enough time to choose a yarn for the lap blanket/afghan I am knitting for my mother. I want the softest wool or wool blend in a French blue color (she has a white sofa with tiny blue flowers and a loveseat in her bedroom which is a natural linen color with French blue and white pillows), and have been trying to choose either your Maxima or Blue Sky Worsted yarn. I was originally planning to use an easy pattern from Ravelry called the Hip To Be Square Blanket. After seeing your beautiful Super Easy Lap Blanket, I might change my mind about the pattern! Could you also suggest colors for this pattern that are in a French blue tone?
Thank you so much for your help! I can’t wait to get started!!
Could you tell me how much yarn and how many stitches I would need to make this blanket for a queen or full size bed for my son who’s outgrown his baby blankets but could really use a warm blanket on his bed? Thanks!
Hi Debbi,
The pattern here for the Lap Blanket would be a great next step after a baby blanket, but your request for a queen or full-size blanket throws me for a loop! Those would be quite a lot of blanket for even a growing toddler.
So, please let us know what dimensions you’re thinking, and we’ll give you as much specific direction as we can! Thank you!
Whitney
Hi Elizabeth,
I think using the Blue Sky Worsted colors Midnight, Dungaree Blue, Light Blue, Ecru and Putty (and maybe Charcoal) would be very nice! You would probably need 2 skeins for each stripe, but since the yarn is a bit thicker than the Maxima, you might get away with only 5 or 6 colors. Also, you could cast on fewer than 142 stitches (again, because the Worsted is a bit thicker).
Another option would be to use Purl Soho’s Worsted Twist and to follow the instructions for our Worsted Twist Super Easy Crib Blanket: https://www.purlsoho.com/create/2013/09/22/super-easy-blankets/
The finished dimensions are only a bit smaller than this Lap Blanket version and we have lots of blues and neutrals to choose from. One idea might be: Sea Salt, Heirloom White, Artemesia Green, Desert Blue, Dragonfly Blue and Peacock Blue (this would be on the blue-green side) OR Sea Salt, Heirloom White, Charcoal, Storm Gray, Steel Blue and Ice Blue (for a more neutral version).
Please also feel free to call our store anytime during store hours, if you’d like to chat with someone who has eyes on the yarn! Our number is (212) 420-8796 and our hours are Monday through Friday 12-7; Saturday and Sunday 12-6.
Please let us know if you have any other questions and thank you so much for this one!
Whitney
I would love to make this blanket a little larger than the lap size. I’d like to be able to curl up completely under te blanket while laying on a couch. What would be the best weigh to add size to it? Double number of stitches and an extra skein per color?
Hi April-
If you’d like to make this double the size, meaning double the width and double the length, you will need to cast on 2X the stitches and get 4X the yarn! But if you’d just like to make it a bit bigger you can just cast on maybe 10 or 20% more stitches and get an extra skein of each. The proportions of the color changes and the blanket itself won’t be the same as this one but it will still be lovely!
Thanks!
Molly
Hi!
I would like to know if there is another type of yarn I could use that is soft but cozy. I’ve been looking for a simple pattern like this for a really long time so I’m anxious to get my supplies!
Thank You!
Hi Odalys-
The yarn that this was originally knit in, Maxima, is super soft and cozy! But if you’d like to use something else you can use any worsted weight yarn. Here are some soft and cozy suggestions:
Purl Soho Worsted Twist yarn: https://www.purlsoho.com/purl/products/item/9307-Purl-Soho-Alpaca-Pure
Woolfolk Far: https://www.purlsoho.com/purl/products/item/9607-Woolfolk-Yarn-Far
Purl Soho Alpaca Pure: https://www.purlsoho.com/purl/products/item/9307-Purl-Soho-Alpaca-Pure
Thanks for getting in touch about this!
Molly
Thank You so much!
I am a brand new knitter, and so excited to try this project! I’ve never had to switch colors yet, nor have I even done anything that I’ve had to add more yarn. How do you do that? Also, are these colors usually in stock? I don’t want to buy them all at once if I don’t have to. Thank you.
Hi Kelly,
To add a new ball of yarn: Finish your last row of knitting with the old ball and then cut that yarn, leaving a 6 inch tail. Insert the needle into the next stitch then use the new yarn to wrap around the needle and make the next stitch (leaving another six inch tail to weave in later). Don’t be alarmed if your knitting seems loose here. At the end of the project you weave in all of your ends and everything will get nice and tidy!
And yes, we do try to keep this yarn in stock.
Thanks so much for getting in touch and please let us know if you have any questions!
Molly
Help!! I am new to knitting and I would like to make a blanket that is 66L x 47W
How many stitches do I cast on? How many skeins?
Thanks!!
Hi Tara-
You will need to cast on 190 stitches. And instead of getting 1 skein of each color I would get 3 of each color and then knit each color section to be 9 1/2 inches long.
Thanks for getting in touch!
Molly
As a fairly new knitter, I was wondering if you have a suggestion for the best way to join a new color, specifically when you’re supposed to start each row with a slipped stitch knitwise. I’ve looked up a couple videos but am still a little confused. Thank you!!
Hi Laura,
You should knit the first stitch of each new color instead of slipping it. That’s all!
Thanks so much for your great question and please let us know if you have any more!
Whitney
This is a beautiful blanket. I would like to make it for my Great Aunt for Christmas. Her favorite colors are rusts and a range of turquoise. I am having a hard time mixing the colors online. This is what I came up with, pewter, oxygen, stratus, natural, coral, cherrywood, zinnia. Will these colors work well together or do you have better suggestions? I really appreciate the help. LOVE the purl bee. Thanks!
Hi Megan-
We think these colors look great together and would recommend the following order:
Pewter
Oxygen
Stratus
Natural
Coral
Zinnia
Cherrywood
Thanks so much for getting in touch!
Molly
I absolutely love this pattern, but I also love the pre-made colour patterns from the pattern for the Super Easy Crib Blanket – specifically Sea Glass. Is it possible to purchase those same colours for this lap blanket?
I’m just worried if I buy the crib blanket wool kit that I will end up with a blanket that is too small…
Hi Robyn-
The two projects use different yarns at different gauges so it’s not a straightforward substitution. However, here are some options:
– You could buy two of the Sea glass kits and cast on more stitches.
– We could try to put some colors of the Maxima yarn together to replicate the Sea Glass kit.
Please let me know what you’d like to do and we’ll be happy to help!
Best-
Molly
Hi I am a total beginner and I love your blankets. I would love to knit this lap blanket but in the winterberry colours (from the crib blanket kit) Is that possible to do? Also what number needle should I buy? 32 or 40. Could you please let me know. Also I live in Australia and that shouldn’t stop me from purchasing your kit -right? You are very creative. Beautiful work.
Hi Saswati,
One option would be to buy the Winterberry colors in our Worsted Twist yarn, which you can knit at this pattern’s gauge. The Worsted Twist is right here: https://www.purlsoho.com/purl/products/item/9239-Purl-Soho-Worsted-Twist
And the Winterberry colors are Clementine Orange, Red Zinnia, Paprika Red, Pink Grapefruit, Heirloom White, Oyster Gray and Storm Gray.
Because the Worsted Twist skeins are a bit shorter than the Maxima skeins, you may want to cast on 125 stitches and expect a blanket that measures 31 x 38 inch, es (provided you get the correct gauge).
Another option is to pick Maxima colors that are a close approximation. I’d recommend Sweet Potato, Speeding Ticket, Fire, Coral, Natural, Foil and Pewter.
Thanks so much for your question and please let us know if you have any more!
Whitney
Thanks Whitney
I am going to follow the colour combination that you have worked out for me in Maxima. I love it.
You have said “US #10, 32 or 40-inch circular needle” Exactly which one should I get and what difference will it make to my knitting.
Also you have said to get a neater edge do this “To get a nice, neat edge, just slip the first stitch of every row knitwise with the yarn in back.” Is there a video for that I have no idea how to do this.
What is the order I should follow colour-wise?
How long do you think will it take to get to Australia??
Sorry to bombard you with all these questions. I am completely a newbie.
Saswati
Hi Saswati,
I’d recommend the 32-inch needle because it is a little bit more useful in the long term and also a little bit less unruly than the 40-inch needle. (The reason we give options is to help people avoid having to buy needles!)
We don’t have a video for slipping a stitch, but hopefully a verbal description will get you on the right path: To slip the first stitch knitwise with the yarn in back, you arrange the yarn and needles as if you were going to knit the first stitch, but instead of knitting it, you simply insert the right needle into the first stitch (as if you were going to knit) and bring the stitch from the left needle to the right needle. That’s it!
The color order is shown in the Materials section of the pattern.
For international shipping information, please visit our shipping page here: https://www.purlsoho.com/purl/shop/shipping
I hope I answered all of your questions and please let us know if you have more!
Whitney
Dear Whitney
Thanks for your reply. Could you please let me know the order of the colours. I am going to use your choice of colours in Maxima – I absolutely love them. Although I was thinking could I use Zinnia instead of Sweet Potato and Sand instead of natural. Do you think that will go alright. Also which needle should I use 35mm or 40 mm. Thanks again for taking the time and working out the colours for me.
Saswati
Hi again Saswati!
you should use the colors in the order I wrote them: Sweet Potato/ Zinnia, Speeding Ticket, Fire, Coral, Natural/ Sand, Foil and Pewter.
By the way, I think your color choices (Zinnia and Sand) will look fabulous!
Whitney
Hi Whitney
I wanted to buy more yarns and can’t find Coral and Sand. May be they are not available – if so how can I check the availability.
Thanks
Saswati
Hi Saswati-
We should be getting those colors back in stock soon. If you’d like to be emailed when they arrive please drop us a line at [email protected]
Thank you!
Molly
Hi,
Am I correct to assume I should buy a total of 7 skeins? Or, is it 7 skeins of each color?
Also, if I were interested in making this into a throw, how many skeins would I have to purchase?
Thank you so much!
Hi Courtney-
It’s 7 skeins total, one of each color. You could get a more throw sized blanket by buying two skeins of each color and casting on more stitches. (I would try casting on 200.)
Thanks so much for your questions!
Molly
I am in love with these blankets but I want to make it larger than the 35×44. I am a new knitter and I don’t know how to convert to a larger size of 50×60 and how much more yarn do I need? Can I still do the 7 rows or I would need to add a row? I am stuck at this step before buying the yarn. Thank you.
Hi Yoli!
Total, your size of the blanket is about 3 times as large in yarn amounts. You’ll also want to cast on about 1 and a half times the number of cast-on stitches!
Happy Knitting!
Thomas
I’m currently knitting an afghan in stockinette & garter by casting on 300 stitches and it ended up about 67 inches wide and it will end up being about 80-90 inches long. I’d like to make this blanket about that size, should I cast on 300 stitches and still use 3 skeins of 7 colors like suggested in other comments or should I try 3 skeins of 8 colors to make up for the extra length I’d like? Or will each color need 4 skeins?
I really appreciate your advice!
Hi Emmy!
It is very hard to say for sure. It sounds like you have a good plan! I always suggest erring on the side of having extra yarn. Sounds like it will be a beautfiful big blanket!
Happy Knitting!
Thomas
I am working on knitting using my current stash. I have some yarn similar to Blue Sky Worsted that I would like to try this lap blanket with. Would I still use #7 needles as you have suggested here? Can you also give me an approximate yardage for each stripe? Thank you so much for taking the time to answer my questions.
Hi Sara-
This pattern suggests using #10 needles, not #7. I think Blue Sky Worsted might be OK on a 10 but you’ll have to do a gauge swatch to make sure. Each stripe in this blanket takes approximately 219 yards.
Thanks so much for getting in touch and please let us know if you have any more questions.
Best-
Molly
Looking at this lap blanket, to work on later, after I finish the many projects I’m still working on, from your lovely purl soho yarns. I wanted to know, instead of using the Maxima, could I use the Super Soft merino, with the 13 needles? I already have a larger lap blanket I did in blue sky techno yarn I bought from you a few years back. Will look in the store next time I come in to check out the baby blankets to see how super soft merino looks. Working on the linen stitch wrap, but making it less wide with 7 colors reversing like the gradient cowl. Just love your yarn, would love to make this blanket in the alpaca pure, but would be way to expensive.
Hi Cheryl!
You could certainly use the Super Soft Merino! You can see a crib blanket that we did with it by clicking here! If you wanted to make that one into a larger size, just pick up a few extra stripes, and make it a little bit larger.
Happy Knitting!
Thomas
Thank you for this beautiful blanket. I’ve been vacillating between this one or possibly the seed stitch blanket. I’m knitting this as a gift for my daughter. I’d need this to be a little larger though. The seed stitch blanket gave options in the pattern for different sizes. Could you possibly offer some help on how many stitches to cast on to make this a throw for a queen size bed, no a bedspread or a comforter. Maybe like that in between size of 50 x 65 or something in that area.
Thank you in advance for your help.
Hi Marjorie!
If you do achieve gauge (of just over 4 stitches per inch), you need 60 inches X 4 = 240 stitches.
Yarn wise, you need a little over twice as much yarn.
Happy Knitting!
Thomas
Hi!
I’d love to make this in a seed stitch or double seed stitch. Will a seed stitch use up more yarn or can I stick with the seven skeins?
Thanks!
Hello Melinda,
Since knits and purls are the same technique but in reverse, there shouldn’t be a significant difference if you add some purls into the mix! I find that I knit seed stitch and double seed stitch much more tightly than stockinette stitch, so make sure to check your stitch gauge if you’re worried about the blanket coming out a little smaller. Other than that 7 skeins should do it!
Thanks! -Alyson
How would I make a smaller version of this in something that does not contain wool. I love this design. Thanks.
Hi Dorie-
I would recommend following this version of the pattern: https://www.purlsoho.com/create/2013/09/22/super-easy-blankets/ using this cotton yarn:
https://www.purlsoho.com/purl/products/item/721-Blue-Sky-Worsted-Cotton
Thanks for getting in touch!
Molly
I like the idea of using the blue sky worsted cotton but I would have to either add additional colors or double up on half of the colors. Any suggestions?
Hi Robin,
Thank you for the comment! This project would look lovely in the Blue Sky Worsted Cotton yarn! It will take about 11 skeins of it to achieve the same dimensions as the original pattern. Here are 2 color-ways of worsted cotton baby blanket combinations that you could either double up on some colors or introduce some new ones; https://www.purlsoho.com/purl/products/item/9161-Purl-Soho-Yarn-for-Chevron-Baby-Blanket
To browse our whole color selection for this yarn look here; https://www.purlsoho.com/purl/products/item/721-Blue-Sky-Dyed-Cotton
I hope this helps and feel free to write back if you’d like anymore suggestions!
Happy Knitting!
Jake
I would love to knit a smaller version for a baby or a premie…Thank you so much
Hello Peggy Ann! You’re in luck! We have this style blanket in a baby size as well. The finished size turns out to be around 24″ x 28″, just right for a stroller or a car seat! Check out the pattern here: https://www.purlsoho.com/create/2012/08/18/new-super-easy-baby-blanket/. Happy Knitting!
Hi — Could this blanket also be made with the Tosh Merino yarn?
Hi Meg-
Yes, that would be a perfect substitution!
Thanks for getting in touch!
Molly
Is this Merino machine washable? Thanks – Polly
Hi Polly-
This yarn is handwash only. Thanks for your question and please let us know if you need any more help.
Best-
Molly
I just cast on in the Merino Script. I was hoping the make it a little longer and wider. I plan on using a skien and a half for each color. How do you think that will work?
Thanks,
Lainie
Hi Lainie,
Thanks for the comment! I think this will absolutely work! For a wider blanket you will want to cast on a larger number than the pattern calls for adding 4 stitches for every inch you want to add. The only thing to be mindful of is if your going to use half a skein for a color you want to keep track of the number of rows you knit of each color to ensure that the color blocks are equally proportioned.
Good luck with your blanket!
Happy Knitting!
Jake
I love this pattern and would like to make it for my daughter who is going away to college.
Her favorite color is blue and navy blue and white are her college colors. Can you suggest a color way that incorporates blue shades of this yarn? Thanks!
Hi Lisa,
Thanks for writing in! I’d be happy to help you out! I think that Royal, Oxygen, Stratus, Natural, Foil, Slate and Pewter would be a lovely color combination. You could also omit Pewter and add Ultramarine before the Royal.
I hope that this helps!
Cassy
Hi-
I love this blanket and just finished making one! I had to switch up the colors because the soho store didn’t have all of these.
I am making this blanket as a gift and they asked for all earth tones- would like 7 to 8 colors. Can you please suggest some colors and order I should make it in?
Would love to hear what you think!
Hi Leah,
Thanks for the comment. Here is a more neutral, earth tone colorway option. You can view the color options on our website here;https://www.purlsoho.com/purl/products/item/7529-Manos-Del-Uruguay-Maxima
Here is the color order:
Cherrywood
Mahogany
Sand
Natural
Chamomile
Slate
Dark Chocolate
I hope this helps and please let me know if you need more options!
Happy Knitting!
Jake
Thank you!
Hi – thanks for the great pattern and inspiration! I love this yarn and the fun, bright colors. I’d like to make a bright version using the chartreuse and sweet potato colors; can you recommend the remaining colors and order? Thanks so much, I’m excited to do this!!
Hi Mindy,
Thank you for the comment! Here’s a bright colored color-way I’ve put together. You can browse the color selection on our website here; https://www.purlsoho.com/purl/products/item/7529-Manos-Del-Uruguay-Maxima
Fire
Sweet Potato
Peach Melba
Spirulina
Highlighter
Chartreuse
I hope you like it and if you would like any more suggestions let me know!
Happy Knitting!
Jake
Hi!
I am a beginner knitter who wants to knit a blanket. So, I think this is a good option for me. I am going to do the bright version (fire, Sweet potato…) but only 6 colors are listed. Shouldn’t there be 7? Would you recommend another for me?
I can’t wait to get started!
Thanks!
Hi, Tessa!
The brighter version that Jake suggested sounds gorgeous! You’ll have to send us pictures! You are correct, there should be 7 colors. I think Zinnia or Speeding Ticket would be a fun addition to this colorway. If you have further questions, please let us know!
Best wishes,
Kumeko
I would like to knit this blanket in a yarn that can be machine washed. I have some Cascade 220 Superwash already, and I was wondering if you think it would be a good substitute for the Maxima. From what I’ve seen online they knit up at a similar gauge, but I’m fairly new to knitting so I wanted to see what you guys think! Thanks!
Hi Jordyn,
Thank you for the comment! The Cascade 220 Superwash and the Maxima are different weights. The Cascade 220 Superwash is referred to as a sport weight which knits up to roughly 6 stitches per inch while the Maxima is considered a worsted weight and knits up to about 4.5 stitches per inch. If you were to use the 220 Superwash as a substitute you will want to cast on about 192 stitches to end up with the same size blanket and you will probably want to purchase 2 skeins of each color you choose. For another machine washable yarn that is more similar in weight to the Maxima I would take a look at the Madeline Tosh Merino which is a gorgeous hand-dyed, machine washable option. You can browse our color selection for that yarn here; https://www.purlsoho.com/purl/products/item/8234-Madelinetosh-Tosh-Merino
I hope this helps and feel free to respond if you have anymore questions!
Happy Knitting!
Jake
I love this pattern and I want to start working on it right away! Is there a more budget-friendly yarn that I could use?
Hi Sarah-
We think this yarn is very blanket friendly! I don’t know of a machine washable yarn that we carry that would work but you can use any yarn that gets the same gauge!
Thanks for getting in touch!
Molly
I was hoping to knit the blanket with Cleckheaton country 8 ply as it is more economical. Is this yarn okay to use? If not could you recommend a wool yarn that is appropriate for this project.
Thanks, Dee
Hi Dee-
I am not familiar with that particular yarn but any chunky weight or heavy worsted weight yarn would work! Thanks for getting in touch!
Molly
Hi Molly, my question is how do you neaten the edges.
Thanks Lynette
Hi Lynette,
We have a note at the beginning of our pattern that says…
To get a nice, neat edge, just slip the first stitch of every row knitwise with the yarn in back.
Please let us know if you have any questions about that or anything else! And thank you for asking!
Whitney
I read the information about neat edges, but I am a beginning knitter and I do ‘t know what “slip the first stitch of every row knit wise with the yarn in back” means. Can you refer me to specific instructions or a video? Thanks.
Hi, Marilyn!
Thank you for writing in! Slipping the first stitch is easy-peasy, all you’re doing is moving the stitch from your left needle to your right without knitting it, making sure that your working yarn in in the back as if to knit. Unfortunately, we don’t a video on this stitch, sorry! If you have further questions please let us know!
Best wishes,
Kumeko
I have a question: When I change to another colour the first stitch that I just pick up and don’t knit in the first row has the old colour, right?
Yes, Anke, you’re correct! Regardless, the edging that the slipped stitches create will be very clean looking and when you weave in your ends you can sort of even it out as well. Happy knitting!
What ply wool would be best to use. I am from Australia and having trouble finding wool
Hello Alison,
This simple design would be applicable to any size yarn! If you want to yield a similar size as our sample in this pattern, we recommend a yarn that is in the US referred to as “Worsted Weight” that usually gets 16-20 stitches per 4″ or 10cm and what I believe you may refer to as 8 ply. Always remember to check your gauge! Happy knitting!
-Alyson
Hi Alison-
I believe that this is equivalent to an 8 ply yarn.
Thanks for getting in touch!
Molly
Good Evening,
I was wondering if you have a suggestion on how to make a Small Version of this for someone who is taking Chemo. This looks big.
The yarn I am using is POUND OF LOVE.
Thank you.
Hello Rita,
What a sweet idea to make more of a small lap blanket. I would use this pattern, but calculate how big you want the end size to be and cast on accordingly. Since the gauge of the pattern is about 4 stitches per inch, figure out how many inches less you want the width of the blanket to be and multiply that by 4. That will be the total stitches you subtract from the cast on edge.
Please don’t hesitate to write in again if you have more questions! Thanks! -Alyson
Is there a way I can do this without a circular needle? I’m still super new to knitting and not sure I can handle changing it up that much… or would it be a simple thing to get adjusted to?
Thanks,
Sam
Hello Sam!
Unfortunately it would be very difficult to fit all the stitches for a blanket of this size on straight needles. You will be knitting in rows just as you are used to, they will just be connected at the other end. The trick to getting used to this is to make sure that after each row you swap needles between your hands (put the needle in your right hand in your left and vice-a-versa).
If you are local, feel free to come by our NYC shop and we can demonstrate! Best of luck! -Alyson
If you slip the first stitch knitwise, should you purl the last stitch of the row–otherwise it doesn’t look like a braided stitch. Or could you slip the first stitch purlwise so you could just knit the last stitch to have the same look?
Hello Ida!
Slipping the first stitch of each row knitwise as the pattern suggests will create a more finished looking edge without changing the rest of the pattern. It won’t look braided exactly, but it will look like a cleaner and more neat edging if you simply knit each stitch. There are many ways to add a simple border to a blanket like this, but if you like the way the sample looks, no purling is necessary!
Best of luck! -Alyson
Hi! I wanted to make this blanket for my queen size bed and I was thinking of doubling the yarn (knitting with two strands of yarn at once) to get a more chunky blanket. Are there any adjustments I need to make to the pattern (except buying more yarn…)? Do you think I need to change the needle size?
Thanks for your help!
Audrey
Hi Audrey-
Yes, I would definitely change the needle size (I’d try a size US #15 to see if you like it?) and buy double the yarn. Although I still don’t think you’ll get something that is as big as a queen bed. But it will be a more ample size!
Thanks for getting in touch and please let us know if you have any more questions!
Molly
Hi Molly,
Since the first time I saw this blankets the colors just look like my daughter. I’d love to make a version for my son too. He likes reds, but I feel like the suggestion you made with sweet potato, fire etc my be too bright for him. While they’re young kids now I’d love to make each of them one. Do you have a suggestion for a boy(man)ish color combination with reds?
Thanks
Hello Jen!
I totally understand how sometimes hand dyed yarns can appear more feminine and bright. I would recommend taking a look at Purl Soho’s Worsted Twist, since the solid colors usually give off a more classic vibe. Try using Red Zinnia, Heirloom white, Oyster Grey, Ice Blue, Dragonfly blue, Peacock Blue, and Timeless Navy! The blanket will come out a little smaller but the pattern for this yarn is all written out here: https://www.purlsoho.com/create/2013/09/22/super-easy-blankets/
Take a look at this version and let us know what you think! -Alyson
Can I make this using a stockinette stitch as well? What adjustments would I need to make? Thank you! – Esther
Hello Esther!
You could definitely change this simple pattern into stockinette stitch, but keep in mind that it would curl up without a grounding border. I would recommend trying Attached I-cord, or a built in garter stitch border while you’re knitting the blanket.
Please write in again should you have any more questions. Happy knitting! -Alyson
This blanket is amazing, and i love all of the color option you have suggested. As a relatively new knitter, I am wondering what exact needled I should purchase, I do not have any circular needles and am overwhelmed by the options. Additionally, I have read all the comments and explanations about the note to slip the first stitch of every row knitwise with the yarn in the back, I think I understand, but it is the “knitwise with the yarn in the back” portion that is confusing me. What does it mean “knitwise”, and what does it mean “with the yarn in the back”?
Thanks!
Hello Sarah!
We’re happy to help! The yarn used for this blanket can be found at this link: https://www.purlsoho.com/purl/products/item/7529-Manos-Del-Uruguay-Maxima and our selection of circular needles can be found here: https://www.purlsoho.com/purl/products/8-knitting-crochet-knitting-needles?filters%5B%5D=48.
You’ll want to make sure you purchase size US #10, with a cable of either 32-inch or 40-inch length. That way you’ll have enough space for all the stitches you’ll be casting on!
Slipping a stitch “knitwise” means that you will be transferring the first stitch of the row from your left hand needle to the right without knitting it, but inserting the right needle into the stitch as if you were going to knit it. Keeping the yarn in the back means that you don’t want the yarn to be in the front of your work when you slip the stitch or it may interfere and create an accidental yarn over. Just make sure the working yarn (the strand attached to the ball of yarn) is behind your needles as you slip the first stitch.
I hope this helps and welcome to the world of knitting! -Alyson
Thanks so much, that helps alot!
I have never tried this type of knitting before.
Think it might be very interesting..
I found your site through FaveCrafts and I love it! This is probably a silly question but, I cannot knot the traditional way because I have dexterity problems. I have used a knitting loom before? Could I use this pattern using a loom? I have one for afghans. Thanks!
Hi, Kat!
Thank you so much for writing in! I have not used a knitting loom, but I believe that this pattern could be easily adapted for use on an afghan loom since the pattern is just large stripes. You’ll want to make sure that you use the appropriate gauge yarn to suit your loom. Also, you might require more or less yarn for each stripe depending on the length of your loom. I can definately make some yarn and yardage recommendations if you let me know what type of afghan loom you have. Again, thank you for your question!
Best wishes,
Kumeko
Hi!
I made this blanket for my daughter’s dorm room and she loves it! I’d like to make one for my niece, in different colors. I’d like to use the Currant colorway. Can you suggest the rest?
Thanks so much.
Hello, Barb!
Thank you so much for writing in! I am not certain that I understand your question, but I am gonna try! We have made the Super Easy Lap Blanket in just one color way, however we have made the Super Easy Baby Blanket in many color ways. Did you see the Currant colorway in the Super Easy Baby Blanket project post?
Or do you like the first color of the Super Easy Lap Blanket (Manos del Uruguay’s Mahogany) and if so are you interested in us creating a color way around that particular color?
Or do you know what colors you are planning on using and would like us to help you adjust the pattern?
Please let us know, we are more than happy to help!
Best wishes,
Kumeko
Hi Kumeko
Thanks for your response! I could use a little help in adjusting the colors for the pattern. So far, I have purchased: Sand, Spirulina, Fern and Dark Chocolate. I need three more colors, and would like to use one of the pink colorways as well.
Thank you
Barb
Hello Barb!
Thank you for getting back to me, I am sorry it’s taken so long to respond! I like the colors that you’ve selected so far! Here’s what I would recommend:
Dark Chocolate
Sand
Cotton Candy
Coral (or Shocking, depending on how pink you wanna go)
Natural
Spirulina
Fern
What do you think?
Best,
Kumeko
I am from South Africa and on holiday now.
So my question – do you think I must use a Aran or a Chunky wool
With the 145 stitches to get it the same size as your.
Thank you!
I am absolutely I love with this blanket!
Hello, Margaret!
Thank you so much for writing in! It is difficult to say whether a cast on of 145 stitches would get you the same gauge with an Aran or chunky wool. Have you already purchased the wool? If so, I would make a sample swatch and from that you can calculate how many stiches you’ll need to cast on to get a blanket with the same width. For example, if you are getting 16 1/4 stitches over 4 inches (in garter stitch) then you would cast on 142 (35-inch width of blanket divided by 4 inches = 8.75. 8.75 x 16 1/4 = 142)
Does that make sense? Please let us know if you have further questions.
Best,
Kumeko
I am making the easy lap blanket in Manos Maxima using the colors suggested in the pattern. I would like to make another using a more variegated color like fern, seedling, chrysanthemum. Could you suggest a color way or how to use variegated colors and not be boring?
This pattern and yarn are so wonderful!
Susan
Hi, Susan!
Thank you so much for writing in! There are many exciting ways that you can use variegated colors for this project. You can use the varigated color as the pop of color and use one or two colors from it to create the other stripes. For example, Cotton Candy, Peach Melba, Coral, Chrysanthemum, Clementine, Sweet Potato and Zinnia.
Or you could just pull all the colors from the varigated yarn. For example: Eucalyptus, Fern, Spirulina, Chrysanthemum, Saffron, Clementine and Coral.
Does that help? Please let us know if you have further questions!
Best,
Kumeko
Hi. I’m new to knitting and want to make this blanket. If I use 10″ circular needles, how many inches long should they be? Thanks!
Hi Leslie,
Thanks for writing in! The pattern calls for a US 10 that is either 32 or 40 inches long!
I hope that this helps!
Cassy
I would love to make this lap robe, but I wonder if I am misinterpreting the size of the needle? U.S. Size 10 needle, seems like a huge needle, hard to tell by the photographs on the website
Hi Sue,
Thanks for writing in! You read correctly! We used a US 10 needle for this blanket!
Happy knitting!
Cassy
Hi –
I could use a little help in adjusting the colors for the pattern. So far, I have purchased: Sand, Spirulina, Fern and Dark Chocolate. I need three more colors, and would like to use one of the pink colorways as well.
Thank you!
Barb
Hey, Barb!
I just saw you’re previous comment! I am so sorry that I missed it! Here’s what I recommend:
Dark Chocolate
Sand
Cotton Candy
Coral (or Shocking, depending on how pink you wanna go)
Natural
Spirulina
Fern
What do you think?
Best,
Kumeko
Hi Kumeko –
Thank you for the quick reply! I figured it got lost in the shuffle. I love the colors – I think my niece will too.
Barb
Barb,
I am so glad you like colors. Thank you!
Best,
Kumeko
Hi – I love this pattern and am considering tackling this as my second knitting project! I would like to make a blanket with peacock blue/teal tones on one end and purple on the other. Might you be able to propose some colors to use? Thanks!
Hello Jennifer,
Thank you for your question. This lap blanket would be a great second knitting project! There aren’t very many blues or purples in our stock of Manos Maxima at the moment. You can see all of the colors here: https://www.purlsoho.com/maxima.html. You could use the blues in our Worsted Twist yarn, such as Peacock Blue, Dragonfly Blue and Desert Blue (as seen here: https://www.purlsoho.com/worsted-twist.html). You could also use Tosh Merino in Night Bloom and Calligraphy which can be found here: https://www.purlsoho.com/tosh-merino.html. I would fill in the rest with a few neutrals like white or gray. I hope that helps. Please let me know if you have any other questions.
Happy knitting,
Allison
Hi –
I love this wool but am not finding the colors I’m looking for. Any suggestions for a similar wool that I could use?
Thanks & so excited to make my blankets!
– june
Hi, June!
Thank you for writing in! We have many different options for you to choose from!
The Madeline Tosh Merino is very similar to the Maxima.
Another great option is the Purl Soho Worsted Twist
And finally, Anzula’s For Better or Worsted
I hope this helps! If you have further questions, please let us know!
Best,
Kumeko
Hi Kumeko –
Thanks for your quick reply! I have one more question re: what type of yarn (fiber) to use. I love this lap blanket and am making it as a sort of pet blanket – something to put out on the couch for our dog to lay on. He sleeps sometimes, and flips around some time, so I’m thinking I should look for something that would hold up the best to these conditions…..something that pills or felts the least? What type of yarn would you recommend with this in mind? I guess I don’t know if I should be looking at wool, washable wool, cotton…who knows?! Thank you again 🙂
Hi, June!
I recommend using either a superwash wool or a cotton as these will not felt easily (if at all). You will experience some pilling because all natural fibers pill. Some great options for this include:
Again, the Madeline Tosh Merino
And Anzula’s For Better or Worsted
Also, Cascade’s 220 Superwash Aran
And for a cotton option, Blue Sky Alpacas Worsted Cotton
Thank you, again, for writing in!
Best wishes,
Kumeko
Hi, I just finished knitting this blanket in the colours recommended and it turned out beautiful. I would love to make another blanket in different colours. Can you suggest a colour combination using the colour Prince as one of the colours. Thanks
Hi Liz,
Thanks for writing in! So glad you like the pattern. Unfortunately we don’t have the resources at this time to customize patterns, but there are so many beautiful hand-painted Manos colors that I think you’ll find it quite easy to make a gorgeous blanket!
Best,
Adam
Hi, I want to make this blanket, and I love the color way on the website, however it looks like you’re out of Mahogany and Dark Chocolate. Replacements? Or will yogurt those back in soon? Thanks!
Hi Leah,
Thanks for writing in! At the moment we do not carry those colors but I am happy to suggest alternates. For Mahogany, I would suggest using Cherrywood and for Dark Chocolate, Black would be a great replacement. Due to the soft, single ply quality of Maxima, the black reads softer than a true black and would work well!
I hope that this helps and happy knitting!
Cassy
Hi, what needles and needle size were used for this blanket? I have US10 40in circular needles but I’m afraid the stitches might come out loose. I really want the blanket to come out like this one.
Hi Kriya,
Thanks for writing us! We used a US 10 for this blanket and you can use any cord length 32″ and up. Everyone knits differently, so it’s best for you to find the needle that yields the best looking fabric for this yarn. This might take some swatching, but you’ll definitely be satisfied with the end result if you work everything out beforehand. I’ve seen this yarn knit up on a US 8, 9 and 10 and all three fabrics look and feel great! Give your US 10 a shot and if you don’t like the fabric, you can jump down a needle size. Best of luck!
-Adam
is there any other border you could use besides the slip stitch
Hi Lisa,
Thanks for writing in! There are many borders out there. I think an i-cord cast on with an i-cord border and bind off would be lovely. We don’t have tutorials for these on our website but YouTube has plenty! Thanks again!
-Adam
What is the ounces of the skeins of yarn. Can you use worsted weight yarn and how many stitches for the lap blanket.
Hi Tammy,
Thank you for writing in to us. Each skein of Manos del Uruguay Maxima is 100 grams and the yarn is worsted weight. This blanket has a cast on of 142 stitches and you can find all the pattern info on the webpage. Best of luck and happy knitting!
-Adam
Hi there!! Will this work with a us 13 needle?
Hi there!
Thanks for writing us! This blanket will not work on a US 13 in the Manos yarn since it’s a worsted weight, but we do have a Super Soft Merino version that can be knit on US 13s. I hope this helps!
Best,
Adam
Hi guys!
Loving this blanket! I’ve already knitted 3 of them in the earlier colourways suggested in the beginning.
Have noticed that Manos Maxima now have some variegated yarn – and I really like Sweet Potato and Peach Melba – but am terrible with matching colours.. could you kindly assist with suggestions for a bright-ish colourway incorporating these two colours? I think I’d like to start with them and progress maybe to a purpley/ blue? Any suggestions would certainly be welcome!! Thanks!
Hello Sufy,
I’m so glad you keep returning to this blanket! I suggest you consider a blanket in this color order: Sweet Potato, Peach Melba, Fruits of the Forest, Currant, Prince, Fractal and Purple Rain. I hope you’ll like it!
Best regards,
Adam
A year ago August Sam asked you the same question I have now: How many stitches on straight needles?
Hi Roberta,
Thank you for writing us! I’m glad you’re interested in the pattern! The same amount of stitches apply for straight needles as to circular. However, it would be very difficult to knit up a blanket on straight needles because of the amount of stitches needed to cast on. Let me know if you have any other questions!
Best,
Adam
Hi I’m almost finished my Super Easy Lap Blanket, it’s been a fun project. I’m using Manos de Uruguay Maxima as recommended. The pattern doesn’t mention blocking or steaming after binding off. Is the blanket supposed to be blocked in any way after I finish binding off? It looks great as is and I would hate to ruin it by getting it wet, but on the other hand as you know most knitting patterns do suggest either steaming or blocking upon completion. What do you recommend? Thanks!
Hi Kit,
Thanks for writing in and I’m glad you like the pattern! I suggest steaming the blanket to relax the yarn — that’s all! It should turn out beautifully!
Best,
Adam
Thanks Adam, I’ll get started right away!
Hi! My daughter has requested a “pink” blanket. (She is two, so pink also includes red in her vocabulary). Do you have suggestions for a set of colors that includes pink but is a bit brighter than the standard? I love the cactus flower color of the pinks, and I also love the bright reds, the yellows, the purples, the acid/helium — I pretty much love them all, you see the problem! Can you suggest a color palette that includes a nice pink like cactus flower and six others to go with it?
Another question — the maxima yarn suggests a size 7 needle but the pattern suggests a size 10 — just wanted to make sure the pattern didn’t have a typo.
Hello, Valarie!
Thank you for writing in! I adore the idea of brightening up the color palette for this project! Here’s what I’m thinking:
Speeding Ticket
Cactus Flower (or Coral)
Cotton Candy
Sand
Oxygen (or Stratus)
Helium
Acid
What do you think? Also, although the yarn suggests a US 7, the pattern does use a US 10.
Please let us know if you have further questions!
Best,
Kumeko
Hi, do you have a crochet version of this pattern, or advice on how to convert it ( number of stitches for the foundation chain)? I was thinking of doing the crochet crib blanket, but this would be a better size, I think, for an adult.
Hello, Julie!
Thank you for your question! Unfortunately, we don’t have a crochet version of this blanket, but as you noted the Crocheted Super Easy Baby Blanket is a great alternative. I recommend using our crocheted baby blanket pattern with a couple of adjustments.
To make the blanket larger for an adult (maybe 54-inches by 46-inches) and using the Maxima yarn, I recommend using a size G (4mm). With the first color in your color sequence you will make a Foundation Single Crochet of 208 stitches (this will get you a width of 54-inches) And you’ll need about 2 skeins per color for a total of 14 skeins. To get the length of about 46-inches, you’ll want each of your stripes to be about 6 1/2-inches.
Please let us know if you have further questions and again, thank you for writing in!
Best,
Kumeko
Thanks so much Kumeko for taking the time to respond! I can see you get a lot of questions and are benerous in your answers. Thats very helpful. Could you please tell me how long standard delivery to Australia usually takes?
Hey, Julie!
Thank you so much for kind words! Standard international shipping can take 1-3 weeks, Expedited can take 1 week and Express less than a week. More often than not shipping to Australia takes the usual 1-3 weeks but, sometimes it can be 4-5 weeks due to hold-ups at customs. If you’re in a time crunch I highly recommend ordering immediately.
Thank you again for writing in!
Warmest Wishes,
Kumeko
Hi
Can you use new fashion yarn double knit to make the blanket.
Hi Patricia,
Thanks for writing in! I am not familiar with new fashion yarn but this blanket can truly be knit with any gauge yarn! We have done it is several gauges ourselves and it always comes out great! We did a version in DK weight (https://www.purlsoho.com/create/2012/08/18/new-super-easy-baby-blanket/) that would work as a template for your blanket! You could use the cast on number and suggested needle size and you should be good to go!
I hope that this helps!
Cassy
If I wanted to make the Super Easy Lap Blanket with your Super Soft Merino, how many skeins would I need? Thanks!
Hi Shari!
Thank you so much for writing in! We made a crib sized version of this blanket using the Super Soft Merino, you can see it here. The Super Easy Crib Blanket is 30 X 32-inches and the Super Easy Lap Blanket is 35 x 44-inches. So, I recommend getting 14 skeins of the Super Soft Merino, 2 in each color, to make the Super Easy Lap Blanket.
Please let us know if you have any more questions!
Best wishes,
Kumeko
I am new to knitting and I love this project. But when I start a new color the “wrong side” has a line of the old color through the first row. It only has the clean blocks on one side. Am I doing something wrong?
Dawn
Hi Dawn,
Thanks for writing in! You are doing exactly the correct thing! This is the nature of garter stitch. On one side you will have a slight line from the previous color. So long as you are sure to change the yarn on the same side each time, this will only appear on one side and this will be the back of your work.
I hope that this helps!
Cassy
I just found your lap afghan pattern, but I’d like to make it smaller for a neighbor who is in hospice. I don’t know how much time I have. Also, I am knitting with a trigger finger and arthritis that slow me down a bit. I cast on 130 stitches for a smaller afghan. Will this make a sizeable afghan he could put on his lap or put it around his shoulder as a shawl? Thanks for your help.
Hi Rosemary,
Thanks for the question! If you cast on 130 stitches, you’ll get a width of about 32″ at four stitches per inch. If this works for you, then go for it. If not, then multiply your stitches per inch by your desired with measurement and this will yield a rough cast on number.
All the best,
Adam
If my gauge is 3 stitches to the inch .how many stitches do I cast on?
Hi Rosemarie,
Thanks for writing in! At a gauge of 3 stitches per inch and a width of 35 inches, you would want to cast on 105 stitches!
Happy knitting!
Cassy
Hi there! I’d like to make a thicker, bigger version of this blanket and I’m hoping you can help me figure out how much of the yarn to buy and how to adjust the pattern. I was thinking of using double strands of the merino, but I’m also open to using a different yarn y’all sell altogether. And I’d like the blanket to be about 50″x70″. Thank you so much!
Hi Aubri,
Thanks for writing in! I would recommend trying the version of this blanket that we knit with Super Soft Merino, which is a bulkier yarn. This version is about 30×32 inches and uses 7 skeins of our Super Soft Merino. A 50×70 blanket would about 3.5-4 times larger and require require about 4 times the yarn or 28 skeins. You would cast on 138 stitches to get a 50 inch wide blanket!
I hope that this helps!
Cassy
I purchased the colors for this blanket with the exception of Mahogany. Is Cherrywood a suitable substitute for Mahogany?
Also, I want to make a blanket for my mother who likes corals and oranges. I came up with the following pallet, cherrywood, coral, cotton candy, natural, sweet potato, zinnia, and fire, OR Cherrywood, coral, peach melba, natural, sweet potato, zinnia, and fire. The colors seem so close online, I can’t really tell which is lighter, or whether it is a blended color yarn. My mother also likes purples so maybe something like Prince, peach melba, coral, natural, sweet potato, zinnia, and fire.
HELP! Thank you, Chival
Hi Chival,
Thanks for writing in! I do think that Cherrywood would make a good substitute for Mahogany. I also think that both of the orange/coral color combinations that you put together would be lovely. Given that Manos is a hand dyed yarn, each batch comes in a little different. Some of the more variegated colors (i.e. Fire and Peach Mebla) can vary from quite blended to being more distinguished between colors in a single skein. Either way, they would be lovely in this blanket!
Happy knitting!
Cassy
Hi! your shop in NYC is wonderfull. I am knitting the beautiful “Super Easy Lap Blanket ” and I have a question: how can I weave the ends and keep this nice and regular edge (get by sliping the first stitch of everything row). I hope you’ll understand my terrible english… Thanks for help. Eli
Hi Eli,
Thank you for writing in and for your kind words! We have a great tutorial for weaving in ends that can be found here: https://www.purlsoho.com/create/weaving-in-your-ends/
I would suggest trying any of the methods we list for weaving in ends in garter stitch and you should be able to maintain those lovely edges!
Best,
Cassy
Think you very much!
Best regards Eli
I want to make a throw for the end of my great granddaughter’s bed. But I want to use an acrylic type yarn for easy to wash.
She has a double bed. Will acrylic or polyester, or whatever work. I don’t want it huge chunky.
Perhaps size 10 needle. ??? How many sts and how long?
Thanks for your help.
Hi Theone,
Thanks for writing in! This blanket is easy to modify and you may use whichever yarn most appeals to you! Once you select your yarn, you will need to pick a needle that will work with it (this is generally noted on the ball band). To figure out a cast on number, you will need to knit a small gauge swatch in pattern. Once you know the number of stitches that you are getting per inch, you will multiply that by the number of inches that you would like the blanket to be and cast on that number!
I hope that this helps!
Cassy
I plan to make this blanket with the Blue Sky worsted cotton, but would like to make it 50×60. I was wondering how much yarn you would recommend. I am using 7 colors as in the original pattern.
Thanks for your help!
Hi Danielle,
Thanks for writing in! For a blanket roughly 50 x 60, I think that you will need 16-17 skeins of the Blue Sky Cotton. This does not divide evenly by the 7 colors that you would like to use. Perhaps you can use 8 colors and get 2 of each (total of 16 skeins) OR you could select 6 colors and get 3 skeins of each (total of 18 skeins). Alternately, you could make 3 of the stripes wider than the rest, buying 2 skeins each of 4 colors and 3 skeins each of 3 colors.
I hope that this helps!
Cassy
To make a 50*60 blanket is the cast on number still the same?
Hi Lauren,
Thanks for writing in! Depending on the yarn you are using you will likely need to adjust your cast on amount to achieve a bigger blanket. I would suggest starting off by working a gauge swatch to determine your stitches per inch, from there you can calculate your cast on!
Happy knitting!
Gianna
What ply wool would be best for this blanket?
Hi Jess,
Thanks for reaching out. This blanket has such a simple construction, that nearly any yarn would work great for it! In terms of ply though, yarns with fewer plies often create a softer fabric, since they’re spun more loosely. However, this also gives them the tendency to pill, which might not be desirable for a large project like a blanket, since it requires some upkeep. Yarns that are spun with more plies though are much more resistant to pilling.
I hope that this information helps as you plan your project!
All the best,
Lili
I have Cannoli yarn and need to know how many stitches to cast on to make this 35 inches x 44 inches.
The yarn lady said to use US 19/15mm circular knitting needle. The yarn says 8sts – 4inches and 10 rows – 4 inches.
Can you please help me. Need to refresh my knitting skills.
Hi Beverly,
Thanks for writing in! I am not familiar with the yarn that you are using but I did look it up. It seems that on a US 15 needle, you should get a gauge of roughly 2 stitches per inch. If you are using a yarn that has a gauge of 2 stitches per inch, you will need to cast on 70 stitches to get a blanket that is 35 inches wide as we have here!
I hope that this helps and happy knitting!
Cassy
Hi
Can you use one colour only
Thank you
Patricia
Hi Patricia,
Thanks for writing in! You can certainly do this blanket in just 1 color! You will just knit to the end of each of 7 skeins and you will be all set!
Best,
Cassy
I am going to try making this lap blanket with sock wool. Will this work?
Hi Sheerah,
Sock yarn could work as long as it is a worsted weight yarn. We also have a version of this blanket knitted on a size 7 needle and would work well for a DK weight yarn.
I hope this helps!
Carly
I would like to make this using bulky 170g (185 yd) skein in size 36×36. How many to cast on and what size needle? Thank you
Hi Diane,
It’s hard to tell how many stitches to cast on before doing a gauge swatch. Once you find out how many stitches you get per inch you can multiply that number by 35 since the blanket is 35″ wide. So if I had 4 stitches per inch in my gauge swatch I would cast on 140 stitches total to make my blanket 35″ wide.
I hope this helps!
Carly
can you make this with straight knitting needles? thanks in advance
Hi Taylor,
Thanks for writing in! Although we used circular needles for this project, we knit the blanket flat, meaning back in forth in rows, turning the work at the end of each row. The reason we sometimes use circular needles for flat knitting is to accommodate a lot of stitches. Cramming a blanket’s worth of stitches onto long straight needles can be pretty cumbersome and sometimes even, impossible. To use circular needles for knitting flat you simply finish a row, turn the work so the other side is facing you and put the needle that was in your right hand into your left hand and the needle that was in your left hand into your right hand, ready to go on the next row!
By the way, once you get the hang of it, you may find that you never use straight needles again, even for projects without so many stitches. Circular needles are just easier to keep track of (no losing one in the cushions of your couch!), and they never poke the person sitting next to you!
Best,
Cassy
Thanks so much and one last question is it 7 large rolls or the smaller rolls like peaches and cream?
Hi Taylor,
Manos Maxima comes in 100 gram skeins that have 219 yards per skein!
Best,
Cassy
I would love to make this blanket in your suggested colors. It appears you no longer carry the colors Mahogany and Dark Chocolate though. Do you have any replacement suggestions? Thanks!
Hi Nicole,
Thanks for writing in! To replace Mahogany, I would suggest using Cherrywood; this is a very close color match. The best replacement for Dark Chocolate would probably be Black. You could also try Sea Urchin, which is a deep purple if the contrast of the black is too much.
I hope that this helps and happy knitting!
Cassy
I would love some guidance on colors. I want to make this blanket using Chrysanthemum. I am thinking of possibly adding Coral, Sweet potato and Spirulina. Do you have any ideas for colors to round this out–possibly a blue, green or plum, and also the order of the stripes? Thank you!
Hi Amy,
Thanks for writing in! We are happy to help with colors! With the colors that you are hoping to use, I would suggest Chamomile, Agua and perhaps Currant. For a color order, Currant, Chrysanthemum, Coral, Sweet Potato, Chamomile and Agua could be quite nice!
Best,
Cassy
What color would you use for the 7th color. These are all very beautiful.
Oops are Coral and Chamomile out of stock or discontinued? If so, what other colors would you suggest? Thank you!
Hi Sue,
Thanks for reaching out! Unfortunately, both Coral and Chamomile have been discontinued. For a similar blanket based around Chrysanthemum, I would suggest Sea Urchin, Currant, Chamomile, Meltaway Mints, Sand, Oxygen, and Agua.
Happy knitting!
Julianna
I have a few questions about the Super Easy Lap Blanket. I want to use Cascade Superwash 128, instead of the recommended Maxima yarn (it’s for a teenage boy so I need to be able to easily clean it). I want to make it approximately 45″x70″. According to the 3.5 stitch per inch gauge, using size 10 needles do you think I will be able to acquire a 45″ width if I cast on 146 stitches? If not, please recommend how many stitches I should cast on.
Also, how many skeins of the Superwash do you recommend to obtain approximately 70″L? Each skein of the Superwash has 128 yards.
Thank you so much,
Erin
Hi Erin,
Thanks for writing in! What a lovely gift! Using Cascade 128 Superwash, I think that you will need between 20 and 25 skeins depending on your personal gauge (tighter knitters will use more yarn). If you want to use 7 colors as we do here, you could purchase 3 skeins of each color and that should get you in the ball park of a 45 x 70 inch blanket. For your cast on, at a gauge of 3.5 stitches per inch, you will want to cast on 157-158 stitches to get a 45 inch wide blanket!
I hope that this helps and happy knitting!
Cassy
Hello, is it possible to knit this blanket using the Worsted Twist rather than the maxima? I am looking for wool that has more colour options in the grey/black/brown tones. Open to other wool suggestions also. Thanks!
Hi Bella,
Thanks for writing in! You certainly can! We wrote out the pattern using Worsted Twist! The pattern can be found here: https://www.purlsoho.com/create/2013/09/22/super-easy-crib-blanket-in-worsted-twist/
Best,
Cassy
I accidentally bought 10.5 circular needles. It’s knitting up a little too loose, but doesn’t look bad. I’m about 1/3 through the first color. Do you think that it will stretch enough that I should redo with US 10??
Hello Beth,
Thank you for reaching out! This all depends on what you prefer. If you don’t mind the blanket being slightly looser then I wouldn’t worry to much about it. You could always knit up a little gauge swatch and block it to see if it so you will know what the finished results will be.
I hope this helps and happy knitting!
-Marilla
I would like to make this blanket 60×70 and I was wondering how much yarn I should use and how many stitches to cast on.
Hello Laurie,
Thank you for reaching out! Are you planning on using Manos Del Uruguay’s Maxima? From my calculations you will need 19 skeins of the Manos or 4,161 yards of worsted weight yarn. As long as you are on gauge (16 1/4 stitches = 4 inches in garter stitch) a cast on of 244 stitches will get you a width of 60″.
I hope this all makes sense and let us know how it goes!
Happy knitting!
-Marilla
Hi:)
I’ve been trying to find yarn for this pattern – same colors – for a throw when I wondered if this palette will become available?
Thanks.
Brenda?
Hi Brenda,
Thanks for reaching out! We do still carry most of the colors of Maxima used in this blanket, though it looks like the link above is broken at the moment – I’m so sorry about that! While we are getting it fixed, you can view our current selection of Maxima by clicking here: https://www.purlsoho.com/maxima.html. Two of the colors in our Super Easy Lap Blanket, Mahogany and Dark Chocolate, have unfortunately been discontinued, but I think you could easily substitute Cherrywood for Mahogany and either Sea Urchin or Slate for Dark Chocolate and still have a very pleasing palette that is quite similar to the original!
I hope that helps!
Julianna
Hi!?
Thanks for responding so quickly! And thanks for recommending the alternative colors for this blanket.
I’m wondering if I could use Super Soft Merino instead?
Using Purple Clover, Boygainvillea Pink, Ballet Pink, Heirloom White, Denim, or Timeless Navy, Toasted Charcoal or Trout Brown.
I’m wondering if the weight changes, what about needle size and cast on – plus, will these colors and this yarn come close to a beautiful throw? I do like the hint of verigation in the original palette.
Please help – guide – steer me toward the right choices!
Thanks!
Brenda?
Hello Brenda,
I love this idea and your color choices! We actually have a pattern written up for this blanket in Super Soft that we knit up with a size 13 needle. We used 7 colors for this project so I think you color choices of Purple Clover, Boygainvillea Pink, Ballet Pink, Heirloom White, Denim, Timeless Navy and Trout Brown would make a beautiful blanket.
Happ knitting!
-Marilla
Hi!
I’m making the Super Easy Lap Blanket in Worsted Twist using the great 5 colors you helped me decide on today by phone! I have made this decision so complicated for weeks – virtually going crazy and now I’m so excited for my order to arrive! It’s one of those special gifts you want to be just right – why it was so hard to make the decision. The palette is so luxurious and great! I’m so thrilled. Can’t wait!
Thank you!
Brenda?
Hello Brenda,
I’m so happy to hear it all worked out! You will have to send us photos when you are finished.
Happy knitting!
-Marilla
?Hi!
I might have already answered my own question but I’d appreciate your artistic opinion. I’m making the Lap Blanket using 5 colors: Red Plum, Bouganvilla Pink, Ballet Pink, Heirloom White and Artemsia Green. My stripes are 9 1/2 inches on US8. Would you call this color palette good – dark to light. Or, would you add in one or two darker colors to gradient the colors from dark to light to dark? What would be more appealing to the eye?
Thanks,
Brenda
Hello Brenda,
Thanks for reaching out and valuing our artistic eye! I think this will be beautiful. I love the dark to light idea.
I hope you send us pictures when it is finished and happy knitting!
-Marilla
How do you keep the blanket from curling at the edges?
Hi Emily,
Thanks for reaching out! Our Super Easy Lap Blanket is knitted in garter stitch, which by its very nature lays perfectly flat right up to the edges, so no borders or edge treatments are necessary.
Happy knitting!
Julianna
I am a beginning new knitter. In my enthusiasm, I bought the following colors to make the super easy lap blanket:
cherrywood, shocking, cotton candy, natural, stratus, pewter, and sea urchin – Manos Del Uruguay’s Maxima, 100% extra merino merino wool.
The pattern calls for US size 10 needles. The tag on the wool suggests size 6 – 8 needles.
I like a tighter stitch. (My 4 inches in garter on a size 8 needle is about 18 stitches.) So would I size down to a size US 9 or 8 needles? Also, how would this affect the overall pattern and size of the blanket?
Would you suggest adding another color yarn to the pattern and if so, where would I place it?
Thank you for your advice.
Hello Francine,
Thank you for reaching out- you chose some beautiful colors! If you go down in needle size the overall blanket will come out smaller. I would suggest going down to a US9 needle and then when you are nearing the end of your blanket you could decide if you want extra length or not. Alternatively, if there is a color that caught your eye, you could just go ahead and get that extra skein.
I hope this is helpful and let us know if you have any further questions!
-Marilla
I love the colors & wool you’ve used in the creation of this lap blanket. I’m part of a lovely group of folks who meet once a month at a local hospital to knit items for patients undergoing cancer treatments. I’d like to contribute a few lap blankets, pretty caps , and radiation sleeves ( to help keep arms warm that would be otherwise be bare; these should be knitted in acrylic). We use only acrylic and cotton for allergy/sensitive skin. Which would be your preferred yarn(s) for said projects?
Thank you ♥️
Hi Amantha,
Thanks for reaching out, and what a lovely charity project! I would suggest using Blue Sky Worsted Cotton – it is perfect for sensitive skin and can be machine washed and dried.
Happy knitting!
Julianna
Would love to make super easy lap blanket. Where can I buy the manos del ufuguay wool?
Hi Rhonda,
Thanks for reaching out! Although a few of the colors we used in our original Super Easy Lap Blanket have been discontinued, most of them are still available and you can find them by clicking right here.
I hope that helps!
Julianna
I’m excited to say that I just ordered 7 skeins of the Maxima merino wool to knit the Easy Lap Blanket. Your directions say to use a
US #10 needle for this project. When I read the description of Maxima the suggested needle size is 6-8. Which is the correct size to use for the blanket? Thanks much.
(Please tell me that #10 is the way to go!
Hello Debby,
Thank you for reaching out with this great question! We knit up this lovely blanket with a US10 with a slightly larger gauge.
Happy knitting!
-Marilla
Hi! Could I make this blanket using bernat blanket yarn? Also if I wanted to make it 70”x90” how would I do that?
Hi Makenzie,
Thank you for reaching out! You can certainly use this yarn, all you need to do is knit up a gauge swatch to determine how many stitches per inch you are getting. Once you have this number you can use it to determine a cast on number. Basically you will be multiply your stitches per inch by 70 to get a width of 70″ and then you will just knit for 90″.
I hope this all makes sense and let us know if you have any further questions!
-Marilla
I want to make this blanket in a larger size (45″ by 65″) and using super soft merino.
Can you tell me how many skeins would I need?
Thank you so much! Frances
Hi Frances,
Thanks for reaching out! Since Super Soft Merino is a heavier weight yarn than Maxima, I would suggest following the gauge and needle size we use for our Super Easy Crib Blanket in Super Soft Merino, which is 11 stitches to 4 inches on a US 13 needle. For a 45″ wide blanket, you will need to cast on 124 stitches, and you will need three skeins each of seven colors, or 21 skeins total.
Happy knitting!
Julianna
Hello, I am a brand new knitter and I’m excited to make the lap blanket. I would like to make it a bit bigger 45×60. I’m using cascade Luna (it’s for a ten year old boy so I wanted to make sure it’s easily washed. ).
The yarn says 18 stitches equals 4 inches and says needle size is US 7.
Each skein is 82 yards. (I have 6 of 6 different colors).
My question are: how many stitches do I cast on? (2) okay to use size 10 needles? (3) can explain the instruction on near ends? What is knitwise? Anything else to look out for?
Thank you!!
Hi Ana,
Thanks for reaching out! The best way to find out the answer to all your questions is to try knitting a swatch! I’m not familiar with your yarn, but it sounds like it is at least a little thinner than Maxima, so I would recommend knitting a gauge swatch on US 10 needles to see if you are happy with the fabric or if you will need to use a smaller needle. Once you are happy with your needle size, you can measure your stitches per inch and multiply that number by 45 inches to determine how many stitches to cast on. You can even practice the edge stitch in your swatch! To do so, you will simply insert your needle into the first stitch as if you were going to knit it, and then move it over to the right hand needle without working it.
Happy knitting!
Julianna
When knitting alternate colors with a knit stitch for this blanket, is there a wrong side? Meaning the additional line on one side of the project when alternating colors. Is there a way to avoid it?
Hi and thanks for reaching out! When changing colors or working stripes in garter stitch, the color change will be clean on the right side of the work and have a somewhat speckled or blended appearance on the wrong side of the work, and this effect is unavoidable. This means your blanket will have a definite right and wrong side, but since it only happens on the color change row, it shouldn’t be too noticeable!
Happy knitting!
Julianna
Hi Julianna,
Thanks for getting back to me 🙂
Is there any way at all that the color change line on the wrong side can be minimized/removed? Or is that something that is simply unavoidable?
Of course, I’m happy to help! Unfortunately it is truly unavoidable in both garter and stockinette stitch – I’m so sorry about that! In the future, you might want to try a technique that is completely reversible, such as our Double Knit Blanket or Nature’s Palette Blanket.
I hope that helps!
Julianna
Hello! I have started this blanket with Manos del Uruguay Maxima using Meltaway Mints (multi-colored). What colors do you think would look good with that? I was thinking maybe Sand, Cotton Candy, Oxygen, Prince, and Pewter, and maybe finish it with Meltaway Mints again but am not sure, especially since Melataway Mints is multi-colored. Would love your thoughts!
Hi Thea,
Thanks so much for writing in, your project sounds really fun! I love all of your ideas, and I might add that Stratus would look really good with the Pewter in Maxima. Every skein of Maxima is a little different, so I’d look to see for example, how much white there is in your skein – you might also consider Natural. For a nice wash of neutrals or close matches to Meltaway Mints I’d say Cotton Candy, Sand, and Natural would be lovely! I hope some of this helps – let me know if you have any more questions!
Happy Knitting!
Cassandra
Thank you! Love that idea.
Question. An elderly neighbor who can no longer knit due to declining eyesight gifted me her small yarn stash and I discovered 14 skeins of Rowan Island Blend Fine yarn in two gorgeous coordinating colors and I’d love to make this lap blanket for her. I’m confused by this yarn though….each skein is 50g, 180 yards….but some websites say it’s a fingering weight yarn while others say sport. Gauge is listed at 26 sts & 34 rows = 4 inches on US 3 needles. I’m a very tight knitter. I’d probably go up in needle size but if I used the suggested needle size I’d have to cast on 227 stitches if my math is correct and I’d need a lot more yarn. Any thoughts/suggestions/help?
Hi Joy
Thanks for writing in! I suggest doing a generous gauge swatch with this yarn first because with garter stitch you may find you can go up to a 5 or even a 6. And then recalculate your cast on number. Another option would be to hold the yarn double, and follow the pattern as written. It would be a touch shorter, but this might be your easiest option! I hope this helps!
Happy knitting
Jessica
Thanks Jessica!
Hi! I am very new to knitting and this blanket would be a good start for me besides the dishcloths i have been making. I found a variegated yarn that i like at hobby Lobby. It’s a 4 medium with 252 yards in the skein. It shows using a size 8 needle but I’m not sure how much yarn to get. I’m very math challenged and especially on how to figure it out for knitting. Can you help please? Thanks a bunch.
Hi Karen
Thanks for writing in! So glad you are up for the challenge of a blanket! The Super Easy Crib Blanket would work with the yarn you have purchased, and you will need 1,148 yards for this pattern, which is 5 skeins of the yarn you have. I hope this helps!
Happy knitting
Jessica
Hi Jessica! Thanks! I think i want to do this one since it is a bit bigger and for myself. Do you know how many skeins that would be? I appreciate your help.
Hi Karen
It would be a bit over 6 skeins, so I would purchase 7 just to be safe! And I always recommend knitting up a gauge swatch!
Best
Jessica
Hi Jessica, one more question,what does knitting up a gauge mean? Going up a needle size? Thanks so much for your help!
Hi Karen,
Great question! This simply refers to knitting a 5″ square to make sure your stitches per inch is the same as ours, which for this pattern is 16.25 stitches to four inches. Unless you are already aware that you tend to knit very tightly or very loosely, I would recommend knitting your gauge swatch with the same needle size that is recommended in the pattern! If your gauge is off, you can then try again with a larger or smaller needle until you find the size that will give you the correct gauge.
Happy knitting!
Julianna
“We also have a version of this blanket knitted on a size 7 needle and would work well for a DK weight yarn.”
Hello.
I saw the above comment on this chat, & would love to see this pattern if possible please. My daughter had just learned to knit & we’ve been given alot of DK wool to use for a project.
Thank you,
Judi Davies
Hi Judi,
Thanks for reaching out! Although it’s not quite the same size as this blanket, I believe you are looking for our New Super Easy Baby Blanket, which is written for a DK weight yarn. To make it the same size as our Lap Blanket, you will need to cast on 175 stitches.
Happy knitting!
Julianna
I would love to make this for a new momma gift. My friend is having a baby next March. She has extremely sensitive skin. What yarn do you recommend? Thank you!
Hi Cara,
Thanks for writing in! Manos del Uruguay Maxima, which we used for our original blanket, is really quite soft and not at all itchy! If your friend is sensitive to all wools, Blue Sky Worsted Cotton or Jade Sapphire 8-Ply Cashmere would be lovely alternatives.
I hope that helps, and happy knitting!
Julianna
Hi! This blanket pattern is the most advanced thing I’ve done so far with knitting (so evidently I am not very experienced) and I am almost done!! Does anyone have recommendations for what a good project would be after finishing this? What is a good next step?
Hi Lilly,
Thanks for reaching out! I am happy to help and would love to suggest a few projects for you! What are you interested in making?
Warmly,
Gianna
For this particular pattern it says to slip the first stitch of each row to get a clean edge. Would you also slip the last stitch to get a finished edge on on the other side of the blanket?
Hi Specs,
Thanks for reaching out! Yes you will slip the first stitch of each row but not the last. When you do this it will create the boarder on both sides of the blanket since you start out every row with a slip stitch!
I hope this clears things up!
Warmly,
Gianna
Hi there
I am using Paint Box Yarns Simply chunky. Would I use the same pattern for the same Desired length?
Thank you
Hi V,
Thanks for reaching out! I would recommend starting off by working a gauge swatch and comparing it to the written gauge of the pattern. If your gauge is consistent you can go forward with the pattern as written or you can make any necessary adjustments!
I hope this helps and please let me know if you have any other questions!
Warmly,
Gianna
Can you help me figure out how many Super Soft Merino skeins I would need for the lap blanket? I was going to make the crib blanket but I’d love to go bigger.
Hi Nancy,
Thanks for reaching out! For a lap version of this blanket in Super Soft Merino I would suggest 2 skeins of each color! Keep in mind that the original pattern uses Maxima which is a worsted weight yarn and Super Soft Merino is a bulky weight, so I suggest using a US 11 needle instead and working a gauge swatch prior to beginning to see how your gauge compares to the pattern and if there are adjustments you need to make!
I hope this helps and please let me know if you have any more questions!
Warmly,
Gianna
If I wanted to make this slightly larger by using 9 skeins of Maxima, would you suggest casting on more stitches to make it wider as well as longer? If so, how many more?
Hi Naomi,
Thanks for reaching out! I think this blanket would be excellent with 9 skeins! I would make it a bit wider as well as longer, so I would recommend extending the width to about 40″ so approximately casting on 162-164 stitches!
I hope this helps, happy knitting!
Gianna
Super helpful, thanks so much!
I’ve done this blanket, or versions of it, several times and usually use the Manos Maxima. My questions are about color and numbers of skeins.
Baby’s nursery is beige and cream. Was thinking of primarily sand and natural, with some meltaway mint. Is there any other color that might give it a bit more punch? Hesitant about cotton candy, because don’t want it to be too “girly.”
And how many skeins might I need? Think I’ve used 7 before but can’t remember.
Thanks.
Hello!
Thanks for writing in. Maxima is such a special yarn, so I’m happy to hear that you’re interested in knitting with it again! I love the color Meltaway Mint, and I actually do think that Cotton Candy complements it really nicely (and I don’t find it too “girly” at all!). But if you’re interested in a color that would give it more punch, you might want to consider Prince or Pewter. Both these colors are more saturated than Cotton Candy, but they still fit in with the overall palette of Meltaway Mint.
You’re also completely correct that this project takes 7 skeins! Hope this helps!
All the best,
Lili
Hi –
Thank you for such a pretty color combo idea! I want to do the same colors etc but want to do an ~5” seed stitch border and stockinette main field. Would I cast on the same amount of stitches to get the dimensions you listed above?
Thank you!!
Hi June!
Thank you for your question! To add a seed stitch border to the edge of this blanket, I recommend making a small swatch in seed stitch to measure how many stitches and rows per inch you are getting, which will help you determine how many stitches of the 142 you need to reserve for the seed stitch border! If you notice your gauge differs in seed stitch versus garter stitch, then I suggest adjusting your cast-on amount with that gauge measurement in mind to maintain the dimensions of this blanket.
I hope this helps!
All the best,
Margaret
Hi,
I am a very beginner knitter in my old age, and I just joined a prayer shawl group. I want to make this pattern (using one color) for a lap blanket, but I would like to include a boarder on all sides. How many stitches should I add or use of the 142 cast on to make a boarder? Instead of garter stitches, should the boarder be seed stitch? Of course, I want all sides to be the same width.
I am confused, but I am going to stick with it.
Thank you for your help.
Debbie
Hi Debbie,
Thanks for writing in! That sounds like a fun idea, and it’s actually very open-ended. How wide would you like the border to be? Depending on how much of a border you’d like in addition to the main blanket, the number of stitches would be different. If you’d like the blanket to be the same dimensions as we designed it to be, then you can keep the same cast-on number, but if you’d like to have the border in addition to the size of the blanket, then you can cast on more stitches.
Let me know what your preferences are for these aspects of the project! Once I know that, I can give more specific recommendations for how to go about adding the border.
All the best,
Lili
I would like to make the beautiful super easy lap blanket with the original 7 colors but substituting cherrywood for mahongany and either black or loam for the chocolate brown. To make it just a bit bigger, I would like to add one more stripe. Can you suggest a color and where in the pattern it might go?
Thanks so much!
Hi Katie,
Thanks for reaching out! I’d recommend adding the color Ion between Stratus and Pewter. Hope this helps you plan your project!
All the best,
Lili
Great! Thank you!
What does it mean to slip the 1st stitch of every row knitwise with the yarn in back to get an even edge?
Thanks.
Hi Connie,
Thanks for reaching out! This means that instead of knitting the first stitch of every row, you will slip it instead. To slip a stitch, just transfer it from your left needle to your right needle. In this pattern, you’ll want to make sure your working yarn is in back of your work (held as if you were going to knit that stitch) while you slip the stitch. The remaining stitches on each row are knit as normal!
All the best,
Lili
Thank you!
Hi I’m new to knitting and I would like to try making this blanket but I’ve got lots of DK yarn would I be able use it, and if I wanted to make it 36 x 36 inches it’s for a charity. How many stitches do I cast on and needle size please.
Hi Parveen,
Thanks for reaching out! Here’s how you can determine the cast-on number for any weight yarn: First, you will want to knit a gauge swatch in pattern. Once you know how many stitches you are getting per inch, you can multiply that number by the width that you would like (36 inches) and cast on the nearest whole number. Then you can follow the pattern as written! We generally recommend using anywhere between size US 4 and size US 7 needles for a DK weight yarn, but you can use whichever you prefer. Hope this helps!
All the best,
Lili