During these uncertain times we find ourselves in I am finding that I am spending more time than ever losing myself in the joys of my creative pastimes. The happiness I find in creating these crocheted squares of colour is immeasurable. I have found myself daydreaming of a new blanket design, something large and soft, with lots of happy colour. A blanket to get wrapped up in, like a big cosy hug, probably something we could all do with right now…

Here you will find a selection of afghan blocks to create this soft and colourful throw. I give hints and tips on joining techniques as well as finishing ideas to make the blanket your own

I don’t like to be too prescriptive with my yarn instructions. This is a chance to get really creative with what you have in your stash. I like to save every little odd and end of wool as you never know when a meter or two will come in handy. It might just give that square the ‘POP’ of colour it needs.
You may want to combine wools by holding two strands together? This can give some lovely tonal effects. Play with different weights to get some really interesting variation in your blanket. I will often hold a lace weight mohair with a fingering weight yarn giving a fuzzy halo to each stitch. This is a chance to unleash the creative in you. Experiment is key.

There is no specific gauge for this blanket, but I recommend making a square or two playing with different sized hooks before deciding which one to use for the overall blanket. I like a looser blanket with a lot of drape so I use a larger hook size, but you may prefer a thicker, chunky style wrap so work with a smaller hook. It’s your blanket, go with the flow.

Lastly, just a word about meterage. Crochet EATS yarn! You will need a fair amount to make this blanket, probably between 2000 and 3000 meters or more. However, if you don’t have too much yarn in your stash why not make a lap blanket?

I hope you’ll join me in my crochet a long.