Welcome to the ultimate guide to crochet stitches for blankets. This list of unique blanket stitches will give you the inspiration to start a new crochet afghan or blanket project.
You’ll also learn what makes stitch blanket-worthy, and how to combine different crochet stitches into a sampler afghan.
Simple Crochet Stitches for Blankets
In general, crochet blankets can be good projects for beginners. Making a blanket can be soothing and meditative with the right easy stitch pattern.
But if your pattern is too complicated, you may struggle to keep track of repeated rows, getting frustrated when your complex stitches don’t look the way they do in the video tutorials.
Remember, simple doesn’t have to mean boring. This list’s unique and easy stitches will give your blanket density, texture, and style.
Jump to:
- Simple Crochet Stitches for Blankets
- What’s the Best Stitch for a Crochet Blanket?
- 40 Best Crochet Stitches for Blankets and Afghans
- How to Use These Stitch Patterns
- Combining Different Crochet Stitches in One Blanket
- How big does my blanket need to be?
- What Kind of Yarn do I Need to Crochet a Blanket?
- Blanket Stitch FAQs
- Invitation to our Facebook group
Why You’ll Love These Blanket Stitches
- Easy: You can work on your project quickly and without getting stuck
- Cozy: These stitches will create a warm, comfy blanket
- Textured: Your finished product will feel satisfying to snuggle
What’s the Best Stitch for a Crochet Blanket?
Here are some things to consider when choosing the best crochet blanket stitch patterns.
Simplicity
Can you remember the stitches while you work, or will you risk losing your place?
Stitches that are easy to memorize make an afghan more meditative and soothing to work on. Look for stitches with one or two rows in the stitch repeat for the easiest blanket pattern.
Density
Will your project be cozy, or will it be too mesh-like and airy?
The best blanket stitches tend to be “closed,” meaning there are no large gaps between the stitches.
Color Work
Will you need to spend much time weaving in ends, or is there a workaround?
Sometimes you can use a self-striping yarn to create a colorful striped blanket without fastening off each color. For example, these patterns use Lion Brand Mandala yarn and a beautiful stitch to create surprisingly simple blankets:
- Mesa Easy Ripple Pattern Blanket
- Chroma Stripes Blanket
- Tributary Easy Baby Blanket
Stitch Multiples
A stitch multiple refers to the number of stitches required to complete a pattern repeat.
For example, if a pattern says to chain a multiple of 6 plus 2, this means that you’ll chain any number of stitches that is a multiple of 6, and then add 2 additional chains. The multiple of 6 is the stitch multiple, while the additional 2 chains allow for the turning chain in the foundation row.
When combining different stitches into a blanket design, paying attention to the stitch multiple is even more important. Choosing stitches with the same multiple will eliminate hassle as you build your sampler blanket pattern.
More Tutorials for Designing Afghans
If you like the idea of designing your perfect blanket project, here are some tutorials you won’t want to miss.
- 33 Crochet Borders and Edgings for Blankets – Free Patterns
- How To Design Your Own C2C Crochet Graph Patterns
- How To Design a Temperature Blanket + 25 Free Patterns
- How To Change Colors in Crochet Without Cutting Yarn
40 Best Crochet Stitches for Blankets and Afghans
Whether you’re looking for a cool stitch to try or you want to design a crochet blanket with various stitches, you’ve come to the right place. I hope this collection of different blanket crochet stitches inspires your next project!
Easy Blanket Stitches
These afghan stitches are perfect for beginner crocheters learning how to crochet their first blanket. They’re easy to grasp but produce a satisfying texture and look. You can also use them in smaller projects, like baby blankets or granny squares, before you start a bigger project.
makeanddocrew.com
Corner to Corner Crochet
Corner to corner (C2C) crochet is unique – rather than working in regular horizontal rows, you’ll work diagonally from corner to corner. This stitch guide (complete with video tutorial) shows you how to work a C2C stitch, along with tips and tricks for changing color and adding borders to your work.
This is a cool way to make a fast blanket, and it can also help you to construct your own blankets with designs in them – also known as graphgans.
Get the Pattern
Related: Free Corner to Corner Crochet Patterns
www.mamainastitch.com
Blanket Stitch
This simple repeat only uses single crochet (sc) and double crochet (dc) stitches. As long as you start with a chain in a multiple of three, it’s hard to go wrong. If you want a casual project for watching a movie or long car drives, this is the easy blanket stitch to choose!
makeanddocrew.com
Griddle Stitch
The griddle stitch creates an amazing texture, and it’s much less complicated than it looks. It’s the ideal stitch for a sophisticated throw blanket, but it can also add a unique flair to a cardigan or a scarf.
Get the Pattern
persialou.com
Shell Stitch
The best thing about the shell stitch is how intricate and beautiful it looks. You’d never guess it’s one of the easiest crochet blanket stitches Use this stitch to make an afghan with a scalloped shape, or add it to an existing project as a border.
makeanddocrew.com
Moss Stitch
The moss stitch goes by many names – you may have seen it called the linen stitch, the granite stitch, or the woven stitch. But whatever you call it, it’s a simple and elegant stitch that’s one of the easiest crochet stitches for blankets.
Be aware, it grows more slowly than other stitches on this list, but it’s gorgeous when used in striped projects. The moss stitch is also a favorite for temperature blanket patterns.
Get the Pattern
Related: How to Design a Temperature Blanket + 25 Free Patterns
www.mamainastitch.com
Wattle Stitch
The wattle stitch (not to be confused with the waffle stitch) is guaranteed to work up into a beautiful, satisfying texture. It’s perfect for a baby blanket, or even for simple baby garments like cardigans or skirts.
makeanddocrew.com
Braided Crochet Stitch
This stitch may look like knitting, but don’t be fooled – it’s actually crochet! It uses a simple combination of slip stitches and extended half double crochet to create a striking braided look. Try it in a larger afghan, or even a cozy winter scarf.
Get the Pattern
makeanddocrew.com
Suzette Stitch
If you want a stitch that looks fancy but doesn’t take too much to learn, the Suzette stitch is for you! You can make an entire blanket using this single stitch, and it will still look adorable. This easy stitch pattern comes with a video tutorial and is appropriate for confident beginners.
Get the Pattern
Related: Free Suzette Stitch Beginner Bag Pattern
makeanddocrew.com
Boxed Block Stitch
You can work this simple stitch in the round to create a unique, striking two-tone effect! Keep going long enough and you'll create a big square afghan that looks beautiful draped over your couch. This pattern comes with a step-by-step photo tutorial, so you'll always know what to do next.
Get the Pattern
persialou.com
Lemon Peel Stitch
This basic stitch works up into a sturdy, textured fabric that makes a great blanket. But if you want to start with something smaller, this is the perfect stitch for cold-weather accessories like headbands or hats.
makeanddocrew.com
Side Saddle Stitch
If you want a blanket that looks lightweight but feels substantial, it’s hard to go wrong with the side saddle stitch. You can make this gorgeous geometric pattern using single crochet, double crochet, and chain stitches. There’s even a video tutorial to help you get started.
Get the Pattern
theunraveledmitten.com
Tulip Stitch
If you love the texture of corner-to-corner crochet, the tulip stitch is for you! This unique stitch produces a scalloped border and a cool zigzag pattern. Its simplicity makes it a great beginner-friendly stitch for blankets of all kinds.
naztazia.com
Granny Cluster Stitch
This is a straightforward variation of the classic granny stitch. All you have to do is alternate between a row of simple moss stitch and a row of three double-crochet cluster stitches.
This stitch pattern allows for plenty of color variation to create a brightly-colored baby blanket in no time. Try using self-striping yarn to eliminate the need to weave in lots of ends.
Related: More Granny Stitch Patterns
makeanddocrew.com
Finger Knitting
Finger knitting isn't quite the same as regular crochet – but it's a simple route to making blankets, especially for total beginners. You don't need any tools except loop yarn.
If you're nervous to branch into knitting or crochet, this is the perfect way to start making DIY blankets by hand. I’ve found that most children about age 8+ can learn these basic finger knitting skills, making this an ideal craft to do with kids.
Get the Pattern
Our Latest Crochet Inspiration:
Here are a few more free crochet patterns and tutorials that are hot off the presses.
- How to Add Beads to Crochet to Make a Weighted Blanket
- Viral Crochet Tools to Make From Stuff in Your Junk Drawer
- 27 Easy Crochet Vest Patterns for Year-Round Style
- How to Crochet a Flower Granny Square – Daisy Tutorial
Cool Stitches for Blankets
Looking for a totally unique crochet stitch for your next throw project? These cool stitches will make any blanket or afghan look fantastic. Follow along with these stitch tutorials and learn how to make something fresh and fun.
www.dreamalittlebigger.com
Larksfoot Stitch
This easy crochet stitch uses chain (ch) and double crochet stitches to create a simple but effective pattern. It’s perfect for a chunky afghan that needs a little extra pizazz, but you can also use it in simple scarves or shawls. If you have a lot of scrap yarn, this could be a stunning way to use up your stash.
Related: Scrap Yarn Crochet Blanket Patterns
mypicot.com
Picot Stitch
Picot stitches create a striking Art Deco effect that looks great on afghans, scarves and shawls. It looks intricate, but the techniques involved are simple and easy to learn.
finecraftguild.com
Harlequin Stitch
This technique is also known as the Catherine wheel stitch. Don't be fooled by its sophisticated effect. This beautiful crochet blanket stitch is easier to learn than you think, especially with the help of the video guide.
www.hopefulhoney.com
Granny Stripe Stitch
If you love the look of a classic granny square, but you hate weaving in your ends, this is the pattern for you. It’s a great way to practice your color work, too. Use it to make an adorable baby blanket, or even a simple dishcloth.
Related: More Free Crochet Patterns That Use the Granny Stitch
www.hookedbyrobin.com
Cluster V-Stitch
This easy crochet stitch is a great way to turn your scrap yarn into a bright, colorful blanket. It grows quickly into a striking zigzag pattern, and it's really simple to learn and remember. If you like to crochet while watching TV, you'll want to try this simple blanket stitch pattern.
www.woolandthegang.com
Arcade Stitch
This stitch creates a repeating fan pattern that looks elegant and sophisticated. It’s great for a lightweight blanket or throw, or even for a lacy-looking shawl.
www.1dogwoof.com
Jasmine Star Stitch
The jasmine star stitch can create a blanket that looks like a field of overlapping six-pointed flowers. Its compact, reversible texture is a great fit for a cozy winter blanket. You can also use it to make dense, sturdy accessories like potholders and cowls.
Related: Double Thick Free Crochet Pot Holder Pattern
Ripple Afghan Stitches
A rippling zigzag pattern can liven up any blanket, and it’s one of the most classic crochet motifs. These free, simple ripple stitches add some color and energy to your easy crochet afghan projects.
www.yarnplaza.com
Zigzag Stitch
The zigzag look isn't strictly a stitch pattern – it's a process you can apply to almost any basic stitch. Use single, double or even treble crochet, depending on how fast you want your blanket to grow. This means it's an easy crochet stitch for any blanket project.
Related: Mesa Easy Ripple Blanket Pattern
www.bhookedcrochet.com
Chevron Stitch
The chevron stitch is a fresh, modern twist on the ripple stitch. It’s also reversible, which makes it a ideal choice for blankets and afghans of all sizes.
Textured Stitches for Afghans
The texture and feel of a blanket can be just as important as how it looks. That’s where these stitch patterns come in. Each of these stitches works up into an afghan that looks as incredible as it feels.
makeanddocrew.com
Basket Weave Stitch
This gorgeous stitch looks just like its namesake, and it feels just as satisfying to the touch. It’s the perfect stitch pattern for chunky afghans and throw blankets that you want to have a weighted feel. You can use a larger hook to create more drape.
Get the Pattern
Related: Lineage Basketweave Lapgan Free Pattern
makeanddocrew.com
Herringbone Double Crochet
If you’re working on a larger project, you’re lucky – this blanket stitch is based on double crochet, so it works up quickly. Use DK or worsted weight yarn for a modern, lightweight throw. Follow the video tutorial and your afghan will be finished in no time.
Get the Pattern
oombawkadesigncrochet.com
Pretty Pebbles Stitch
This variation on the cluster stitch creates a dense, bobbly surface that’s super satisfying to touch. The step-by-step photo guide will help you pick it up easily. Use it as part of a baby blanket pattern, or for smaller projects like washcloths or scarves.
craftinghappiness.com
Alpine Stitch
The alpine stitch gets its name from the pointy diamond pattern it creates, just like a mountain range. Its textured front side and smooth back side means it works up into comfortable clothes, as well as beautiful blankets. Follow along with the video tutorial to learn this unique afghan stitch quickly.
www.bhookedcrochet.com
Textured Wave Stitch
The textured wave stitch creates a beautiful ridged pattern on a dense, stretchy fabric. It looks wonderful on blankets, but it isn’t reversible, so only one side will get the pattern. It’s even better as part of non-reversible projects like tote bags or pillow cases.
daisyfarmcrafts.com
Half Double Crochet Clusters
Half double crochet is a popular basic stitch in blanket patterns, because it’s simple to learn and it works up fast. This variation creates clusters that feel satisfyingly bobbly to the touch and aren’t difficult to master. Its texture makes it ideal for a baby blanket project.
www.hopefulhoney.com
Diamond Stitch
Use the diamond stitch for a neat square grid pattern. It’s simple to learn, so you can start making beautiful textured afghans and throws with just a little practice.
jewelsandjones.com
Lotus Stitch
If you're already familiar with the puff stitch, then the lotus stitch will be a breeze to learn. It creates a beautiful floral pattern that will look beautiful on anything you make. It does use up a lot of yarn, so this stitch is best for smaller projects like baby blankets or placemats.
daisyfarmcrafts.com
Berry Bobble Stitch
This stitch is named after wintertime berries because of its tight, berry-like clusters. It's a great fit for a baby blanket, but you can also use it to add some texture to accessories like hats and scarves as well.
Related:27+ BestCrochet Hat Patternsfor Winter
www.hopefulhoney.com
Cluster Stitch
The cluster stitch is based on simple double crochet, which makes it one of the easiest blanket stitches around. It works up into a pretty, bobbly texture that will make any blanket a little more cozy.
www.mooglyblog.com
Grit Stitch
The name ‘grit stitch’ is used for two different patterns – and this tutorial will show you both. They’re simple to learn, and they both create blankets with surprisingly intricate textures.
nordichook.com
Trinity Stitch
You can work the trinity stitch in either rows or rounds, and it looks a little different each way. As long as you know the single crochet stitch, you’ll have an easy time with this blanket stitch. Its gorgeous texture makes it the perfect choice for an afghan or a scarf.
nordichook.com
Feather Stitch
The feather stitch looks a lot more complex than it is. It’s a simple stitch that creates a reversible texture, ideal for any type of blanket or throw. You can also use it to make scarves, hats, or even larger garments.
Tunisian Crochet Afghan Stitches
Tunisian crochet blends crochet with knitting, keeping all your stitches on the crochet hook as you work. It also produces a dense, sturdy fabric that’s perfect for cozy afghans. Try these stitches on washcloths or dish towels to get the hang of them on a smaller project if you’d like.
makeanddocrew.com
Tunisian Crochet Simple Stitch
If Tunisian crochet is totally new to you, this is the place to start. This video tutorial will show you exactly how to get started, whether you’re right-handed or left-handed. This simple stitch may only be the beginning of your Tunisian adventure, but it’s one of the most popular Tunisian crochet stiches for afghans.
Get the Pattern
makeanddocrew.com
Woven Tunisian Stitch
This variation on the simple Tunisian crochet stitch creates fabric that looks like it was woven! All you have to do is change color between every other forward pass and return pass. The technique is surprisingly easy. This is the best crochet stitch for a blanket that looks like loom-woven cloth.
Get the Pattern
makeanddocrew.com
Tunisian Brick Stitch
This easy crochet stitch pattern uses the Tunisian simple stitch and some basic stripes to create a stunning brick effect. With just two contrasting balls of yarn, you can make a totally unique blanket or afghan without lots of tails to weave in. Follow along with the photo guide or video tutorial for step-by-step support.
Get the Pattern
Obsessed with finding the best free crochet patterns?
Check out these collections of handpicked patterns to find your next project.
You must use the category name, not a URL, in the category field.
How to Use These Stitch Patterns
Combining these stitches into a crochet blanket pattern is easier than you might think.
- First, make a gauge swatch using your stitch, yarn, and hook of choice. This will help you determine the number of stitches per inch of your blanket. From there, you can work out how many stitches you’ll need to make a blanket that’s as wide as you need it to be.
- Remember, some stitches have a specific multiple you must follow for the foundation chain. You may not be able to nail a precise blanket width measurement, so try to aim for an ideal range of blanket widths instead.
- You can also use your gauge swatch to decide the length of your blanket. But adding more rows as you work is much easier than adding more stitches per row. You can always keep adding rows until you’re happy with your blanket’s length.
Here is a video tutorial that covers how to design a crochet blanket pattern, including calculating the measurements.
Combining Different Crochet Stitches in One Blanket
A sampler-style blanket is a fantastic way to combine several different crochet blanket stitches into one beautiful project. But how do you make all those stitch patterns work together?
There are two straightforward ways to make a blanket that combines multiple stitches.
Work in rows. Choose stitches with the same multiple so you can move between them easily as you add more rows. Our sampler afghan pattern is a great example of this type of blanket.
Work in squares. Alternatively, using different stitches, you can make a range of individual afghan squares. As long as the squares have the same measurements, you can easily join them together.
The traveling afghan square is an example of a motif that became part of a larger design.
Joining Crochet Pieces
There are many ways to join individual blanket squares, hexagons, or other shapes.
- Seaming: Sewing pieces together with a yarn needle can allow you to create invisible seams. I like to leave a long seaming tail at the end of each finished square or motif to weave in my ends while joining my blanket together.
- Join as you go: This technique is often used to join granny squares. I love it because it tends to be quicker than seaming with a tapestry needle, and there are fewer ends to weave in when you’re finished. Learn how to join as you go.
- Joining with crochet stitches: Motifs can also be joined with single crochet or slip stitches. This is an easy way to avoid the fuss of a tapestry needle, while creating a decorative border around each piece. Watch how to join pieces with single crochet stitches.
How big does my blanket need to be?
You can make your blanket as large or as small as you want. Here are some common crochet blanket sizes.
| Blanket Size | Dimensions (in) | Dimensions (cm) |
|---|---|---|
| Baby blanket | 42 x 52 | 107 x 132 cm |
| Throw blanket | 52 x 60 | 132 x 152 cm |
| Twin blanket | 66 x 90 | 168 x 229 cm |
| Full/double blanket | 80 x 90 | 203 x 229 cm |
| Queen blanket | 90 x 100 | 229 x 254 cm |
| King blanket | 108 x 100 | 274 x 254 cm |
What Kind of Yarn do I Need to Crochet a Blanket?
When designing your project, it’s worth thinking carefully about the type of blanket you want to make.
Here’s a guide to the different yarn weights commonly used to make blankets
| Blanket consideration | Medium/worsted weight | Chunky/bulky weight |
|---|---|---|
| Advantages | Makes a blanket with plenty of drape Your blanket won’t be too heavy | Works up quickly Creates a warm, cozy blanket |
| Disadvantages | Works up more slowly than chunkier yarn | Your blanket may lose some drape |
| Recommendations | Lion Brand Pound of Love | Wool-Ease Thick & Quick |
Blanket Stitch FAQs
Here are answers to common questions about planning a beginner-friendly crochet blanket design.
Is it better to knit or crochet a blanket?
Knitting and crocheting are similar skills, but they aren’t the same. If you prefer one approach over the other, then that’s the best way to approach making a blanket.
Here are some points to keep in mind as you decide:
• Crochet blankets grow faster, but also use more yarn
• Knit blankets usually need to be made with circular needles, or composed of smaller pieces that you join at the end
How long does it take to crochet an afghan?
The exact time to crochet a blanket depends on your level of experience, the size of your project, and the complexity of the pattern you’re using. By using easy stitches and chunky yarn, you can crochet a fast blanket in as little as 4.5 hours! Here are a few of our fastest blanket patterns
• One Day Blanket Pattern – about 8 hours
• Sedona Fringed Throw – about 7 hours
• Bungalow Chunky Blanket – about 8-12 hours
• Done in a Weekend Baby Blanket – about 10-12 hours
Free Crochet Blanket Patterns
If you love crocheting afghans, we’ve got enough free blanket patterns to keep your hands busy for the rest of time.
- Throw Blankets
- Baby Blankets
- Scrap Yarn Blankets
- Fast Crochet Blankets
- Beginner Blankets
- Unique Blankets
- Chunky Blankets
Learn a New Skill
When you’re ready to master a new skill, check out our detailed guides that include everything you need to know to level up your crochet game.
- How to Corner to Corner (C2C) Crochet for Beginners – with video tutorials to get you started
- How to Crochet a Beginner Hat – make an entire beanie in 1.5 hours!
- How to Crochet Amigurumi for Beginners – the ultimate guide to making your own toys and plushies
- How to Tunisian Crochet – learn with this video and a standard hook
That was so fun! Now what?
- Pin this post: Save this to your Pinterest crochet board so you can easily find it again.
- Share your work on Instagram or Facebook: Tag @MakeAndDoCrew and use #MakeAndDoCrew to show us your stitchin’!
- Leave a comment: Say hello and share your feedback below.
Invitation to our Facebook group
Come discuss the best crochet blanket stitches and lots of other projects and techniques in our Make & Do Crew Facebook group. Here thousands of helpful crocheters answer each other’s questions and share their stitches. Join us!
