Upgrade Your Crochet Skills with Modern Dash Blanket Tutorial

Table of Contents:

• Introduction
• Materials Needed
• Base Chain Calculation
• Starting the Blanket
• Working the Wide Half Double Crochet Cluster
• Alternating Colors
• Adding the Border
• Conclusion
• FAQ
  • Q: What size is the finished blanket?
  • Q: What yarn and hook size are used?
  • Q: How do I calculate the base chain?
  • Q: How do I switch colors?
  • Q: Can I add a different border pattern?

Introduction

In this video tutorial, I will be showing you an updated version of the modern dash blanket pattern by Daisy Farm Crafts. The original version of this blanket was made a few years ago with different colors and yarn, but since the original yarn is no longer available, we will be using Bernat Bundle Up yarn for this updated version. The finished size of the blanket is approximately 33 inches by 37 inches, making it perfect for a baby blanket. So let's gather our materials and get started!

Materials Needed

To make the modern dash blanket, you will need the following materials:

• Bernat Bundle Up yarn (100% polyester)
• Size I (5.5 millimeter) crochet hook
• Tapestry needle for weaving in ends

Base Chain Calculation

Before we start crocheting, we need to calculate the base chain for the blanket. To do this, we will multiply five by an odd number and then add two. For example, if we want to make a practice swatch, we can multiply five by 3 (an odd number) and then add two, resulting in a base chain of 17. Remember, the pattern repeat is 5 times an odd number, plus two.

Starting the Blanket

To start the blanket, we will begin in the third chain from the hook, working what we call a half double crochet cluster. To do this, yarn over, insert your hook into the third chain, yarn over again, and pull up a loop. Repeat this process once more in the same space. Then, yarn over and pull through all five loops on your hook. Continue making one half double crochet cluster into each chain across the row.

After completing the last stitch, chain two and turn your work. We will now be working the wide half double crochet cluster.

Working the Wide Half Double Crochet Cluster

For the wide half double crochet cluster, we will be inserting our hook into the spaces between the clusters from the previous row instead of into the tops of the stitches. This will create a slightly wider stitch. Repeat the process of yarn over, insert hook, yarn over and pull up a loop, and then yarn over and pull through all five loops. Continue working wide half double crochet clusters across the row.

Chain two and turn your work. From now on, we will only be working wide half double crochet clusters for the blanket.

Alternating Colors

To create the modern dash pattern, we will be alternating colors every five stitches. For example, you will work five stitches with one color, then switch to the other color and crochet over the carried yarn to carry it along the row. Repeat this alternating pattern every five stitches.

After completing a row with one color, cut the yarn and switch to the other color for the next row. Don't forget to crochet over the carried yarn to keep it hidden within your stitches.

Continue working rows in the alternating color pattern, with five rows of one color between each row of the other color. This will create the modern dash pattern for the blanket.

Adding the Border

Once you have completed the main body of the blanket in the modern dash pattern, you can add a border to finish it off. The border shown in the video tutorial is a front and back post double crochet ribbing border.

To add the border, start by pulling up a loop in one corner of the blanket and chain three. Then, work one round of double crochet around the edge of the blanket, making sure to work five double crochets in each corner space.

For the ribbing border, you will be alternating front and back post double crochets. Insert your hook behind the post of the stitch, either in the front or back, and work a double crochet. Continue alternating front and back post double crochets along the sides of the blanket, and work three front and back post double crochets around the middle post of the corner stitches.

After completing the first round of the border, continue working additional rounds of alternating front and back post double crochets, adjusting the number of stitches around the corners as needed.

Conclusion

Congratulations on completing your modern dash blanket! This updated version is not only beautiful but also soft and cozy with Bernat Bundle Up yarn. The alternating colors create a unique dash pattern that adds interest to the design. Don't forget to weave in all your ends with a tapestry needle before enjoying your finished blanket.

So grab your materials and start crocheting your own modern dash blanket today. Happy crocheting!

FAQ

Q: What size is the finished blanket?

The finished size of the modern dash blanket is approximately 33 inches by 37 inches, making it perfect for a baby blanket.

Q: What yarn and hook size are used?

For this blanket, we use Bernat Bundle Up yarn, a 100% polyester yarn, and a size I (5.5 millimeter) crochet hook.

Q: How do I calculate the base chain?

To calculate the base chain, multiply five by an odd number and then add two. This will ensure the pattern repeat works correctly.

Q: How do I switch colors?

To switch colors in the modern dash pattern, work five stitches with one color and then switch to the other color, crocheting over the carried yarn to carry it along the row. Repeat this alternating pattern every five stitches.

Q: Can I add a different border pattern?

Yes, you can add a different border pattern if desired. Feel free to get creative and customize your blanket with a border design that you love.