Learn to Crochet a Knitted-Look Blanket

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Materials Needed
3. Creating a Slip Knot
4. Foundation Half Double Crochet
5. Working the First Row
6. Changing Colors
7. Creating a Stacked Stitch
8. Extended Half Double Crochet
9. Working Across the Swatch
10. Finishing the Swatch
11. Conclusion

How to Make a Simple Swatch for a Crochet Blanket

Crocheting is a popular and creative hobby that allows you to make beautiful and functional items using yarn and a crochet hook. One of the essential skills to learn in crocheting is how to create a swatch, which is a small sample of stitches that lets you practice a specific pattern or stitch before starting a larger project. In this tutorial, I will guide you through the process of making a simple swatch for a crochet blanket using the braided crochet stitch.

1. Introduction

Before we begin, let's gather our materials. For this project, you will need:

• Worsted weight yarn
• A 6mm crochet hook
• A pair of scissors

2. Materials Needed

To create the swatch, we will use skin tones worsted weight yarn from Lion Brand. This type of yarn is known for its softness and durability, making it perfect for creating cozy blankets. The 6mm crochet hook is the ideal size for working with the chosen yarn, giving you a consistent and even stitch. Lastly, keep a pair of scissors handy for cutting the yarn as needed.

3. Creating a Slip Knot

To start the swatch, we need to create a slip knot. This knot will secure the yarn to the crochet hook and allow us to begin working. Follow these steps to create a slip knot:

1. Take the end of the yarn and form a loop.
2. Insert the crochet hook through the loop.
3. Pull the yarn to tighten the loop around the hook.

The slip knot should be tight enough to hold the yarn in place but loose enough to allow for easy movement.

4. Foundation Half Double Crochet

The first row of our swatch will consist of foundation half double crochets. This stitch creates a solid base for the rest of the pattern. To make a foundation half double crochet, follow these steps:

1. Chain two.
2. Yarn over and insert the hook into the first chain made.
3. Yarn over and pull up a loop.
4. Yarn over and pull through one loop.
5. Yarn over and pull through all three loops.

Repeat these steps to create the desired number of foundation half double crochet stitches. For this tutorial, let's make 11 stitches.

5. Working the First Row

Once you have your foundation half double crochet row, chain one and turn your work. We will now begin working in the front loops of the stitches. The front loops are the loops that are facing towards you.

To work the first row, follow these steps:

1. Chain one and turn your work.
2. Working only in the front loops, slip stitch across the row.

To slip stitch, insert your hook into the designated front loop, yarn over, pull through, and pull through the loop on your hook. Repeat this process until you have slip stitched across the desired number of stitches.

6. Changing Colors

If you want to introduce a new color into your swatch, now is the time to do so. To change colors, follow these steps:

1. Finish the last slip stitch of the previous row, leaving a tail of the old color.
2. Insert the hook into the first stitch of the new row with the new color.
3. Yarn over with the new color and pull through, securing the new color.

Continue working with the new color, following the pattern instructions.

7. Creating a Stacked Stitch

To create a clean edge on your swatch, we will incorporate a stacked stitch at the end of each row. The stacked stitch is formed by working a single crochet into the front loop of the first stitch, followed by a single crochet into the front bar.

Follow these steps to create a stacked stitch:

1. Yarn over and insert the hook into the front loop of the first stitch.
2. Yarn over and pull up a loop.
3. Yarn over and pull through two loops.
4. Insert the hook into the front bar of the same stitch.
5. Yarn over and pull up a loop.
6. Yarn over and pull through both loops.

Repeat these steps at the end of each row to create a neat and sturdy edge.

8. Extended Half Double Crochet

For the main body of the swatch, we will be using the extended half double crochet stitch. This stitch provides a dense and textured fabric that is perfect for blankets. Follow these steps to create an extended half double crochet:

1. Yarn over and insert the hook into the front loop of the next stitch.
2. Yarn over and pull up a loop.
3. Yarn over and pull through one loop.
4. Yarn over and pull through all three loops.

Continue working extended half double crochets across the row until you reach the end.

9. Working Across the Swatch

Repeat the process of row 8, working extended half double crochets in the front loops of each stitch until you reach the desired length for your swatch. Remember to chain one and turn your work at the end of each row.

This stitch pattern does not require a specific number of stitches, so feel free to experiment with different stitch counts to achieve your desired size and gauge. You can easily adapt this stitch for larger projects like blankets by increasing the number of initial stitches.

10. Finishing the Swatch

To finish your swatch, cut the yarn, leaving a tail long enough to weave in. Yarn over and pull through the final loop to secure it. Weave in the loose ends using a yarn needle or hook to ensure a tidy and polished finish.

Take a moment to admire your completed swatch. You can see how the braided crochet stitch creates a textured and knitted-like look that adds both beauty and functionality to the fabric.

11. Conclusion

Congratulations! You have successfully made a simple swatch using the braided crochet stitch. This versatile and visually appealing stitch can be used for various projects, including blankets, scarves, and even garments. Now that you have mastered the basic technique, feel free to explore different color combinations, stitch variations, and pattern designs to create unique and personalized crochet projects.

Remember to practice your crochet skills regularly to improve your technique and expand your creative repertoire. Happy crocheting!

Pros

• The braided crochet stitch creates a textured and knitted-like look.
• The swatch allows you to practice the stitch before starting a larger project.
• The extended half double crochet stitch provides a dense and sturdy fabric.
• The stacked stitch adds a clean and neat edge to the swatch.

Cons

• The braided crochet stitch may require some practice to master.
• The stitch pattern does not have a specific number of stitches, making it more flexible but also requiring experimentation to achieve the desired results.

Highlights

• Learn how to make a simple swatch for a crochet blanket using the braided crochet stitch.
• Gather the necessary materials, including yarn and a crochet hook.
• Create a slip knot to secure the yarn to the hook.
• Work foundation half double crochet stitches for the first row.
• Change colors if desired.
• Use a stacked stitch for a clean edge.
• Work extended half double crochet stitches for the main body of the swatch.
• Experiment with different stitch counts and sizes.
• Finish the swatch by weaving in the ends.
• Admire your completed swatch and explore more crochet projects using the braided stitch.

FAQ

Q: Can I use a different weight of yarn for the swatch? A: While the tutorial specifically mentions worsted weight yarn, you can use any weight of yarn for the swatch. Just ensure that you adjust your hook size accordingly to achieve the desired gauge.

Q: How can I change the size of the swatch? A: To change the size of the swatch, you can increase or decrease the number of initial stitches. Experiment with different stitch counts to achieve your desired dimensions.

Q: Can I use the braided crochet stitch for other projects besides blankets? A: Absolutely! The braided crochet stitch can be used for various projects, including scarves, shawls, and even garments. Feel free to explore different possibilities and let your creativity shine.

Q: Is the braided crochet stitch suitable for beginners? A: While the braided crochet stitch may require some practice to master, it is still suitable for beginners who are willing to learn and experiment. Take your time, follow the instructions, and don't be afraid to make mistakes along the way.

Q: Where can I find more crochet tutorials? A: There are numerous online resources, video tutorials, and crochet communities where you can find more crochet tutorials. YouTube, crochet blogs, and social media platforms are great places to start your search for inspiration and guidance.