Now you will repeat the White Lacy Stripe and Solid Color Stripe sequence. The solid color will alternate between Pink and Grey.
Repeat Rows 11-14 (White Lacy Stripe) using Color C.
Change to Color A (Pink) on the last yarn over of the last dc of the last lace row.
Repeat Rows 2-10 (Solid Pink Stripe) using Color A.
Continue this sequence until your blanket reaches your desired length. For a blanket approximately 36 inches long, you will repeat the full sequence of (Solid Color, White Lace) 3 times, ending with a Solid Color stripe. So, the sequence will be:
- Pink Solid (10 rows)
- White Lace (4 rows)
- Grey Solid (10 rows)
- White Lace (4 rows)
- Pink Solid (10 rows)
- White Lace (4 rows)
- Grey Solid (10 rows)
- White Lace (4 rows)
- Pink Solid (10 rows)
This will give you 9 sections, totaling 70 rows before the border. This should be approximately 35 inches. Adjust by adding or removing full stripe repeats as needed.
After your final solid color stripe (the last 10 rows), FO and weave in all ends neatly. Now we’re ready for the beautiful scalloped border!
Scalloped Border
We’ll work the border around the entire blanket. For a lovely two-tone effect, I suggest using Color C (White) for the base round and Color A (Pink) for the scallops.
Border Round 1 (Base Round – Color C)
Join Color C with a sl st in any corner stitch. Ch 1. Sc evenly around the entire blanket. Work 3 sc in each corner to ensure flat corners. When working along the sides of the rows, aim for approximately 2 sc per dc row and 1 sc per sc row to keep it even. Join with a sl st to the first sc. (Make sure you have an even number of stitches along each side before proceeding to the scallop round, or adjust as you go to make it work out.)
Border Round 2 (Scallops – Color A)
Join Color A with a sl st in any sc. Ch 1. *Sk 1 st, (dc, ch 1, dc, ch 1, dc) all in the next st, sk 1 st, sl st in next st.* Repeat from * to * around the entire blanket. When you reach a corner, try to place the center dc of a scallop in the corner stitch for a nice effect. Adjust your skips and sl sts slightly if needed to make the scallops fit evenly around. Join with a sl st to the first sl st. FO.
Finishing Touches
Once you’ve completed the border, take a moment to weave in any remaining yarn tails securely. Give your blanket a gentle tug to shape it, ensuring all the stitches lay nicely. A light blocking can also help define the lace pattern and scallops, especially if you’re using cotton yarn. Simply dampen the blanket, gently shape it, and lay it flat to dry.
Customization Ideas
- Color Palette: This pattern would look stunning in any color combination! Try blues and greens for a boy, gender-neutral yellows and creams, or even a rainbow of pastels.
- Yarn Weight: For a lighter blanket, try a DK (light worsted) yarn with a smaller hook. For a warmer, cozier blanket, use a bulkier yarn with a larger hook, adjusting your starting chain to achieve the desired width.
- Stripe Width: Make your solid stripes wider or narrower by adding or subtracting rows. You could also make the lace stripes wider by repeating the lace pattern rows more times.
- Border Variation: Instead of scallops, you could do a simple single crochet border, a picot edge, or even a little ruffle for a different look.
Display and Gift Ideas
This Sweet Dreams Baby Blanket is more than just a blanket; it’s a hug in yarn form! It makes an exquisite baby shower gift, a thoughtful present for a new mom, or a cherished heirloom for your own little one. Drape it over a nursery glider, fold it neatly at the foot of a crib, or use it as a cozy mat for tummy time. It’s also perfect for stroller rides on cooler days, adding a touch of handmade charm wherever it goes.
Care Instructions
Since this blanket is likely to be loved and used often, easy care is a must! I recommend washing handmade cotton blankets gently. Machine wash on a delicate cycle with cool water and a mild detergent, or hand wash if preferred. Avoid harsh chemicals or bleach. Reshape the blanket while it’s damp and lay it flat to air dry. Avoid high heat from a dryer, as it can cause cotton to shrink or lose its shape. Always refer to your yarn label for specific care instructions.
FAQ About Crocheting Baby Blankets
Q1: Is this a good project for a beginner?
A: While it involves color changes and a simple lace stitch, an adventurous beginner who has mastered basic stitches like sc and dc should be able to tackle this project. Take your time with the lace section, and don’t be afraid to unravel and try again if needed!
Q2: What’s the best yarn for a baby blanket?
A: Cotton yarn is highly recommended for baby blankets due to its softness, breathability, durability, and ease of washing. Acrylic yarn is also a popular, often more affordable, and very washable option. Always choose yarns that are soft against sensitive skin.
Q3: How can I make this blanket larger or smaller?
A: To change the width, adjust your starting chain. Make sure your chain is a multiple of 4 + 4 for the initial double crochet row, and then adjust the lace pattern repeats if necessary (the lace pattern repeats over 4 stitches). To change the length, simply add or subtract full stripe repeats until you reach your desired measurement.
Q4: My edges are wavy. What am I doing wrong?
A: Wavy edges usually indicate that you’re either adding too many stitches or not enough. Double-check your stitch count at the end of each row. If you’re consistently getting more stitches, you might be accidentally crocheting into the turning chain. If you’re losing stitches, you might be skipping the last stitch or crocheting into the wrong part of the turning chain.
Q5: Can I use a different stitch for the solid stripes?
A: Absolutely! You could use half double crochet (hdc) for a slightly denser fabric, or even single crochet (sc) for a very dense, warm blanket. Just remember that changing the stitch will affect your gauge and the overall look, so you may need to adjust the number of rows to maintain stripe width.
Happy Crocheting!
Creating a baby blanket like this is such a rewarding experience. There’s a true joy in seeing those stripes come together and watching the delicate lace pattern emerge. Whether you’re making it for your own little one or as a heartfelt gift, the love you pour into each stitch will surely be felt. So grab your hook, choose your favorite colors, and enjoy the process of bringing this beautiful Sweet Dreams Baby Blanket to life. Happy crocheting!
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