Learn How to Crochet an Easy Rippling Rickrack Rainbow Blanket

Learn How to Crochet an Easy Rippling Rickrack Rainbow Blanket

Table of Contents:

1. Introduction
2. Materials Needed
3. Getting Started
4. Row 1: Creating the Zigzag Pattern
5. Row 2: Repeating the Zigzag Pattern
6. Changing Colors
7. Following the Color Sequence
8. Finishing Touches
9. Conclusion

Article: How to Crochet the Rippling Rickrack Rainbow Blanket

Introduction:

Crocheting baby blankets is not only a rewarding hobby but also a thoughtful and heartfelt gift for expecting parents. In this article, we will guide you on how to crochet the Rippling Rickrack Rainbow Blanket, a beautiful and easy pattern created by Red Heart. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced crocheter, this tutorial will take you step-by-step through the process and enable you to create a stunning blanket for a little one. So gather your materials and get ready to embark on a crocheting adventure!

Materials Needed:

Before we dive into the pattern, let's make sure we have all the materials required for this project. You will need the following:

1. Baby Hugs Yarn by Red Heart - We recommend using two skeins of the "Frosting" color, one skein of the "Sky Sprout," and one skein of "Lilac."
2. 5.5 millimeter crochet hook
3. Red Heart's Rippling Rickrack Rainbow Blanket pattern - Make sure to download and print the pattern from redheart.com.

Getting Started:

Now that you have all the necessary materials, let's start crocheting the Rippling Rickrack Rainbow Blanket. Follow these instructions to begin:

1. Chain 157 stitches.
2. Single crochet into the second chain from the hook.
3. Skip one stitch and single crochet into the next four stitches.
4. Place three single crochets into the following stitch.
5. Single crochet into the next four stitches.
6. Repeat steps 3-5 to create the zigzag pattern.
7. Continue the pattern across the chain until you reach the last two stitches.
8. Skip the second-to-last stitch and single crochet into the last stitch.

Row 1: Creating the Zigzag Pattern:

In the first row, we will establish the foundation of the zigzag pattern. Follow these steps:

1. Chain one (does not count as a stitch) and turn your work.
2. Work into the back loops only for this row.
3. Single crochet into the first stitch.
4. Skip one stitch and single crochet into the next four back loops.
5. Place three single crochets into the next back loop, creating the peak of the zigzag.
6. Single crochet into the next four back loops, creating the downward slope of the zigzag.
7. Repeat steps 4-6 until you reach the last two stitches of the row.
8. Single crochet the last two stitches together.

Row 2: Repeating the Zigzag Pattern:

Row 2 will serve as the template for the rest of the pattern. Follow these steps to repeat the zigzag pattern:

1. Chain one (does not count as a stitch) and turn your work.
2. Work into the back loops only.
3. Single crochet into the first stitch.
4. Skip one stitch and single crochet into the next four back loops.
5. Place three single crochets into the next back loop, creating the peak of the zigzag.
6. Single crochet into the next four back loops, creating the downward slope of the zigzag.
7. Repeat steps 4-6 until you reach the last two stitches of the row.
8. Single crochet the last two stitches together.

Changing Colors:

To add a pop of color to your Rippling Rickrack Rainbow Blanket, you can easily change colors. Follow these simple steps:

1. When you reach the end of a row and have two stitches remaining, skip the second-to-last stitch.
2. Begin a single crochet in the last stitch but stop halfway through, leaving two loops on the hook.
3. Take your new yarn and wrap it around the hook, pulling it through the two loops.
4. Chain one and start the next row with your new color.

Following the Color Sequence:

If you want to recreate the color scheme of the Rippling Rickrack Rainbow Blanket in the pattern, follow these instructions:

1. Refer to the color layout in the pattern or the picture for the exact sequence.
2. Work colors A, B, C, D, and E for two rows each.
3. Repeat this pattern sequence for a total of 20 rows.
4. Follow it up with 68 rows of color A.
5. Begin a reverse color sequence – E, D, C, B, and A for two rows each.
6. Repeat this pattern sequence for the last 20 rows.

Finishing Touches:

Once you have completed all the rows and followed the color sequence, it's time to finish your Rippling Rickrack Rainbow Blanket. Here are the final steps:

1. Fasten off your yarn by cutting it, leaving a long tail.
2. Weave in any loose ends to give your blanket a neat and polished look.
3. Give your completed blanket a final inspection, ensuring all stitches are secure and the colors flow smoothly.

Conclusion:

Congratulations! You have successfully crocheted the Rippling Rickrack Rainbow Blanket. This pattern is not only beginner-friendly but also allows room for creativity with color choices. Whether you make it for your little one or as a gift, this blanket is sure to be treasured for years to come. So gather your materials, follow the instructions, and enjoy the process of creating a beautiful and unique baby blanket.

Highlights:

• Beginner-friendly crochet pattern for a baby blanket
• Utilizes the rippling rickrack stitch to create a zigzag design
• Uses Baby Hugs Yarn by Red Heart in various colors
• Provides step-by-step instructions for each row and color change
• Allows for personalization with different color sequences
• Creates a stunning and heartfelt gift for expecting parents

FAQ:

Q: How long does it take to crochet the Rippling Rickrack Rainbow Blanket? A: The time it takes to complete the blanket depends on your crocheting speed and the amount of time you dedicate to the project. On average, it can take a few weeks to a month to finish.

Q: Can I use different yarn brands for this pattern? A: While the tutorial suggests using Baby Hugs Yarn by Red Heart, you can certainly use other yarn brands of similar weight and fiber content. Just make sure to check the gauge and adjust your hook size if necessary.

Q: Can I customize the size of the blanket? A: Yes, you can adjust the size of the blanket by chaining more or fewer stitches at the beginning. Keep in mind that changing the size may also require adjusting the number of rows and the amount of yarn needed.