I designed this easy pattern for a class I teach for new knitters.
This pattern goes beyond garter stitch, teaching knit & purl, recognizing the difference between these stitches, using stitch markers, counting stitches and rows.
Nothing too complicated, but enough to keep a newer knitter challenged.
Also, good TV knitting for those more experienced!

You will need to know “seed stitch”, which is used for the borders and sides. Any stitch dictionary or online search will give these instructions.
Blanket is knit with seed stitch borders, and stockinette “blocks”, consisting of 10 stitches x 10 rows, then switching to the opposite (if you just completed a block of “knit” stitches facing you in the first block, now you will complete a block of “purl” stitches facing you)The blocks of knit & purl will alternate across the row every 10 sts.
You can knit more “blocks” to make it both wider and longer if desired.
For “newbies” picking out yarn, I kept it simple…any # 4 yarn, worsted weight, no boucle or “fuzzy” yarns, too difficult to see your stitches if you are a new knitter. Size 10 needles which will make it a looser gauge since most newer knitters tend to be tight.
Simple finishing, bind off, sew in ends, steam block lightly so the blocks lay a little flatter.