How to Crochet a Blanket (Even If You're a Total Beginner)

There’s something incredibly satisfying about making your own cozy blanket from scratch — one stitch at a time. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing hobby, a heartfelt handmade gift, or just a good excuse to wrap yourself in yarn, crocheting a blanket is the perfect project. Don’t worry if you’ve never picked up a crochet hook before — I’m going to walk you through every single step, from choosing yarn to weaving in your final tail.

So grab your favourite mug of tea (or coffee, no judgment here), get comfy, and let’s make something beautiful together. 💛

🧺 What You’ll Need

Before we dive in, let’s talk supplies. The great thing about crocheting is that you don’t need a ton of stuff to get started:

✨ Basic Supplies:

  • Yarn: For beginners, I recommend a medium-weight yarn (also known as worsted weight, labelled as “#4” on the yarn label). Acrylic is affordable, washable, and great for practice.

  • Crochet Hook: Check your yarn label for the recommended hook size. For worsted weight yarn, a 5.5 mm (I-9) or 6.0 mm (J-10) hook works well.

  • Scissors

  • Yarn needle (also called a tapestry needle) for weaving in ends

  • Measuring tape (optional, but handy)

🧶 Yarn Tip:

Stick with a light color if you’re new — it’s easier to see your stitches. Dark yarn looks sleek, but it can be a nightmare to work with when you're starting out.

🧵 Step-by-Step: Let’s Crochet a Blanket!

We’ll be making a simple single-stitch blanket using the double crochet stitch — perfect for beginners and still impressively cozy.

🔹 Step 1: Decide Your Blanket Size

There’s no “one size fits all” for blankets. Choose based on who it’s for:

Blanket Type Width x Length
Baby Blanket 30” x 35”
Throw Blanket 50” x 60”
Twin 66” x 90”
Queen 90” x 90”

Example: For a comfy throw blanket, aim for around 130 stitches wide if using worsted weight yarn and a 6.0 mm hook.

🔹 Step 2: Make a Foundation Chain

This is your blanket’s base.

  1. Make a slip knot and place it on your hook.

  2. Chain (ch) the number of stitches needed for your blanket width.

Tip: Keep your tension loose — if your chain is too tight, the edges of your blanket will curl.

🔹 Step 3: Crochet Your First Row

We’re using the double crochet (dc) stitch — tall and quick to work up.

  1. Yarn over, insert your hook into the 4th chain from the hook.

  2. Yarn over again and pull up a loop (3 loops on hook).

  3. Yarn over, pull through 2 loops (2 loops remain).

  4. Yarn over, pull through the remaining 2 loops.

🎉 You’ve just made your first double crochet stitch!

Keep making 1 double crochet in each chain across the row.

🔹 Step 4: Keep It Going!

At the end of each row:

  1. Chain 3 and turn your work — this acts as your first dc for the next row.

  2. Make 1 double crochet in each stitch across.

Repeat this row over and over until your blanket reaches your desired length.

Pop on a show, listen to a podcast, or let your mind wander — this is the meditative part. Trust me, after a few rows, you’ll be on autopilot. ✨

🔹 Step 5: Finishing Off

Once your blanket is as long as you want:

  1. Cut the yarn, leaving about 6 inches.

  2. Yarn over and pull the tail through the last loop to fasten off.

  3. Use your yarn needle to weave in the ends — tuck them through the stitches on the back of the blanket, then trim any extra.

Optional: Add a border! Single crochet all the way around the edges to give your blanket a clean, polished look.

🌈 Customizing Your Blanket

Now that you’ve got the basics down, the real fun begins. Try these variations to make your blanket truly yours:

  • Colour changes: Switch yarn colours every few rows for stripes.

  • Textured stitches: Try a row of half-double or puff stitches.

  • Border styles: Scalloped, picot, or fringe — oh my!

  • Yarn types: Chunky yarn = big, squishy stitches and faster progress.

🧣 Troubleshooting Tips

  • Blanket curving or rippling? You might be adding (or skipping) stitches. Count your stitches every few rows.

  • Edges not straight? Make sure you’re turning correctly and always placing your last stitch in the right spot.

  • Yarn splitting? Try using a hook with a smoother tip or switch to a different yarn brand.

💬 Final Thoughts

Crocheting a blanket is like reading a good book: the beginning takes a little effort, the middle flows easily, and before you know it, you’re sad it’s over — but so proud of what you’ve created.

Remember, every stitch is progress. Even if you mess up a few rows, it’s all part of the process. You’re not just making a blanket — you’re making something with your own hands that will bring warmth, comfort, and a little bit of handmade magic.

Happy hooking! 🧶💕

Got questions or want to share your WIP (work in progress)? Drop a comment below — We'd love to cheer you on!


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