The amount of yarn depends on the size you want to make. For the size I made (baby blanket size), I used 4 different colors so I got 4 skeins. If you make it bigger, be sure to get enough yarn for your blanket.

A note on color:
I decided to use 4 different colors for mine. You can use as many or as few colors as you like. I chose these colors to accentuate the design and look more garden-like. You can absolutely do this blanket with just one color if you choose. In fact, I originally made a sample using one color. I tried to include on most every round directions for where to start the round whether or not you change colors.

Hook size is not terribly important as this can be made any size simply by increasing the number of round repititions. To make as shown, use a size K hook.

The square pattern is the first 12 rounds of the blanket pattern. I have included it as a separate file. In the photo, round 12 is the solid pink round.