Learn to Crochet a Cozy Jumbo Blanket with Bernat Blanket Big Yarn

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Materials Needed
3. Getting Started
4. Making the Foundation Chain
5. Working the First Row
6. Continuing the Rows
7. Changing Yarn Colors
8. Managing Yarn Tails
9. Controlling Tension
10. Finishing Touches
11. Final Result

Introduction

Crocheting a blanket can be a rewarding and relaxing project. In this tutorial, we will guide you step-by-step on how to make a Bernard blanket bag. This blanket measures 44 inches wide and 60 inches long, and it requires eight skeins of yarn and a 25-millimeter hook. We will cover everything from making the foundation chain to creating even stitches and managing yarn tails. With some patience and practice, you can create a beautiful and cozy blanket for yourself or as a thoughtful gift. Let's get started!

Materials Needed

Before diving into the crocheting process, let's gather all the materials you will need:

• Eight skeins of yarn in your preferred color(s)
• A 25-millimeter crochet hook
• A pair of scissors
• A sewing thread and needle for securing yarn ends
• A comfortable workspace with good lighting

Getting Started

To begin with, you'll want to familiarize yourself with the crochet hook and the yarn you'll be working with. The Bernard blanket bag requires a larger hook and thicker yarn, which may require some adjustments to your usual technique.

Hold the crochet hook in a way that feels comfortable for you. However, due to the size of the hook and the thickness of the yarn, you may find it more comfortable to hold the hook from above, rather than the traditional way. Experiment with different grips to find what works best for you.

Making the Foundation Chain

To start your blanket, you'll need to create a foundation chain. Here's how:

1. Make a slip knot by creating a loop with the yarn tail.
2. Insert the crochet hook through the loop and tighten the knot around the hook.
3. Yarn over (wrap the yarn around the hook) and pull it through the loop on the hook. This counts as your first chain.
4. Repeat the yarn over and pull through process for the desired number of chains. In this case, you'll need 24 chains.

Remember to keep your tension consistent while making the chains. Too tight or too loose chains can affect the overall look and size of your blanket.

Working the First Row

Now that you have your foundation chain, it's time to start the first row of double crochet stitches. Here's how:

1. Count three chains from the hook. These three chains will serve as your first double crochet.
2. Yarn over, insert the hook through the fourth chain from the hook, and pull up a loop.
3. Yarn over again and pull through two loops on the hook, completing the first double crochet stitch.
4. Continue making double crochet stitches into each chain across the row.

Keep in mind that the three skipped chains count as your first double crochet. By the end of the row, you should have a total of 22 double crochet stitches.

Continuing the Rows

Now that you have completed the first row, it's time to continue working on the subsequent rows of double crochet stitches. Here's how:

1. Turn your work so that the completed row is facing down, and the unfinished row is facing up.
2. Chain three, which will count as your first double crochet stitch.
3. Skip the first stitch (which is the turning chain) and begin making double crochet stitches into each stitch across the row.
4. Repeat the previous step for each row, turning your work at the end of each row.

Remember to maintain an even tension and adjust your grip around the hook as needed. Crocheting with thicker yarn and a larger hook may require more effort, but it also creates a larger and more cozy blanket.

Changing Yarn Colors

If you wish to incorporate different yarn colors into your blanket, it's important to know how to change colors seamlessly. Here's a simple method to do so:

1. When you reach the last two loops of the last stitch before the color change, yarn over with the new color.
2. Pull the new color through the last two loops to complete the stitch and secure the new color.
3. Continue crocheting with the new color, leaving a few inches of both old and new yarn tails.
4. Once you've finished crocheting, use a sewing thread and needle to stitch the old and new yarn tails together. This will prevent any loose ends from unraveling.

Remember to place the color change in a spot where it will blend naturally with the pattern of your blanket. By following this method, you can create smooth and seamless color transitions.

Managing Yarn Tails

Throughout the crocheting process, you will accumulate yarn tails from changing colors or starting new skeins. It's important to manage these yarn tails to ensure a neat and finished look. Here's how:

1. Overlap the yarn tails by approximately two inches.
2. Thread a sewing thread through your needle, and pass the needle through both yarn tails.
3. Create a few stitches to secure the yarn tails together.
4. Tie a knot at the end of the stitched section to prevent unraveling.
5. Trim any excess yarn tails, ensuring they blend seamlessly with the surrounding stitches.

By following this method, you can keep your yarn tails securely attached and avoid any lumps or loose ends in your finished blanket.

Controlling Tension

Maintaining consistent tension is essential for creating an even and professional-looking blanket. Here are some tips to help you control your tension:

1. Take frequent breaks: Crocheting with thick yarn and a larger hook can strain your hands and arms. Take regular breaks to rest and relax your muscles.
2. Adjust your grip: Experiment with different ways of holding the crochet hook to find the most comfortable and efficient grip for you.
3. Loosen up: When making double crochet stitches, aim to pull up the loop slightly higher than usual. This will create slightly looser stitches, ensuring your blanket doesn't become too tight.

Don't be discouraged if it takes some time to find your rhythm and tension. Practice, patience, and self-awareness will help you improve and crochet your blanket with confidence.

Finishing Touches

Once you've completed all the rows of double crochet stitches, you're ready for the finishing touches. Here's what you can do:

1. Check for consistency: Take a moment to review your work and ensure that your stitches are even and consistent throughout the entire blanket.
2. Adjust tension if needed: If you notice any areas where your tension may have changed, gently adjust the stitches to match the overall tension of the blanket.
3. Weave in loose ends: Using a yarn needle, weave the loose yarn tails into the stitches of the blanket to secure them and create a clean finish.
4. Block your blanket (optional): If desired, you can block your finished blanket to shape it and improve the drape. Follow the instructions provided with your yarn to determine the appropriate blocking method.

By following these steps, you can create a beautiful and cozy blanket that you can be proud of.

Final Result

After putting in the time and effort, it's time to see the fruits of your labor. Take a step back and admire your finished blanket. The hard work and attention to detail have paid off, and you now have a handmade blanket that will bring warmth and comfort for years to come.

Remember to take care of your blanket by following the care instructions provided with the yarn. With proper care, your blanket will remain in excellent condition and continue to bring you joy.

So, grab a cup of tea, snuggle up in your cozy blanket, and enjoy the comfort of your handmade creation.

Highlights

• Step-by-step guide on making a Bernard blanket bag
• Detailed instructions for creating the foundation chain and double crochet stitches
• Tips for managing yarn tails and changing yarn colors seamlessly
• Techniques for controlling tension and achieving even stitches
• Final touches and care instructions for your finished blanket

FAQ

Q: How long does it take to crochet this blanket? A: The time required to crochet the Bernard blanket bag will vary depending on your skill level and the amount of time you can dedicate to the project. On average, it may take several weeks to complete.

Q: Can I use a different yarn weight or hook size? A: While this tutorial is specifically designed for a 25-millimeter hook and thick yarn, you can adjust the materials according to your preference. Keep in mind that different yarn weights and hook sizes will result in different finished sizes and textures.

Q: Can I customize the size of the blanket? A: Absolutely! You can adjust the width and length of the blanket by increasing or decreasing the number of chains in the foundation chain. Keep in mind that this will also affect the amount of yarn needed for the project.

Q: Can I use this tutorial to make a different type of blanket? A: While this tutorial focuses on making a Bernard blanket bag, the techniques and tips provided can be applied to a variety of crochet blanket projects. Feel free to adapt the instructions to suit your desired blanket style.

Q: How do I join additional skeins of yarn? A: When you run out of yarn, simply attach a new skein by overlapping the yarn tails and stitching them together using a sewing thread and needle. The process is explained in detail in the tutorial.

Q: Can I crochet this blanket if I am a beginner? A: This tutorial assumes basic knowledge of crochet stitches and terminology. If you are a beginner, it may be helpful to familiarize yourself with basic crochet techniques before attempting this project. However, with patience and practice, beginners can successfully crochet this blanket.

Q: Can I make this blanket using different stitch patterns? A: The Bernard blanket bag is specifically designed to be made using double crochet stitches. While you can certainly experiment with different stitch patterns, using a different stitch pattern may result in a different look and texture for your blanket.