This is a series of eight grid patterns for knitted blocks, which can be sewn together into larger panels such as blankets. The gables of the building blocks have been designed on the canal buildings (grachtenpanden) of Amsterdam.

You can make each of the panels in a variety of colours, but the grids are also designed so that you can mix and match features, adjust building heights and create new building blocks. By making small adjustments to the number and type of features, you can easily make a dozen different blocks with each pattern.

Included at the end of the patterns are nine bonus features that you can use to add further variety to your streetscape, PLUS a guide for adding a year in Roman numerals.

All blocks have been worked in 4-ply cotton using 3mm needles (UK: 11, US: 2½).

Each finished block will take 20-30 grams of yarn in total, and will measure approximately 11 x 18 cm or 14 x 18cm.

Rather than trying to buy an exact number of balls at once, I suggest beginning with a handful of colours you love, then adding in new colours as you work. As a rough guide, the following formula will make at least 8 blocks:

50gm dark grey (pavement, windows)
50gm blue-white (sky)
100gm light/medium colours (facades)

PLEASE NOTE: The photographed blocks are made with a variety of brands of cotton. It’s a good idea to shop around for a set of colours that you like and begin with those. There is no obligation to work in 4-ply cotton. If you prefer a different weight yarn and larger needles, these will work just as well.