Crochet old fashioned throw blankets have a magical way of transforming a house into a cozy home, don’t they? Are you tired of seeing those bare spots on your sofa or those chilly drafts that make movie nights a little less comfortable? This beautiful, textured blanket is the perfect antidote! Imagine snuggling under a lovingly handmade creation, its warmth embracing you, adding a touch of timeless charm and personality to any room. You can make this in twelve different sizes, from a small lapghan to a generous bedspread, and it’s surprisingly affordable to make – think just a few skeins of yarn! Plus, it’s a project that doesn’t take an eternity; a few evenings of relaxed crocheting will see you through. In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to create your own heirloom-worthy throw, even if you’re a beginner!
Crochet an Old-Fashioned Throw Blanket: 12 Sizes, Free Pattern, and Timeless Charm
There’s something incredibly comforting about a handmade crochet blanket. It whispers tales of cozy evenings, shared stories, and the simple beauty of creating something with your own two hands. Today, I want to share my absolute favorite design: an old-fashioned throw blanket that’s not only beautiful but also incredibly versatile, available in 12 different sizes, and best of all, the pattern is completely free! This isn’t just a blanket; it’s an heirloom in the making, a warm hug woven with yarn.
Why This Old-Fashioned Design?
This particular pattern uses a simple, classic stitch that creates a lovely drape and a pleasing texture. It’s repetitive enough to be meditative as you crochet, but interesting enough to keep you engaged. The beauty of this design is its timelessness. It won’t go out of style, making it a perfect addition to any home, whether your decor leans modern, farmhouse, or eclectic. And the fact that it comes in 12 sizes means you can create a perfect fit for any need, from a small lapghan to a generous bedspread.
What You’ll Need and Roughly What it Costs
Let’s talk yarn. For this blanket, I recommend a good quality worsted-weight acrylic or a wool blend. Acrylic is wonderfully durable, machine washable, and budget-friendly. Wool blends offer a bit more luxury and warmth.
For a standard throw size, approximately 50 inches by 60 inches, you’ll need roughly 1,500 to 2,000 yards of yarn. The exact amount will vary slightly depending on your tension and the specific stitch pattern.
* **Yarn:** Worsted weight acrylic yarn can range from $5 to $10 per skein (typically 200-350 yards per skein). For a 50×60 inch throw, you might need 6-10 skeins. This puts the yarn cost at roughly $30 to $100. A wool blend might increase this cost.
* **Crochet Hook:** You’ll need a hook appropriate for your yarn weight. For worsted weight, a size H-8 (5.0mm) or I-9 (5.5mm) hook is usually recommended. These hooks are inexpensive, typically $3 to $7.
* **Scissors:** Any sharp scissors will do, but fabric scissors are great for a clean yarn cut. ($5-$15)
* **Yarn Needle:** For weaving in ends. A pack of these is usually around $5.
So, for a medium-sized throw, you’re looking at an estimated total cost of $43 to $127, depending on your yarn choice. Of course, you can often find yarn on sale, which can significantly reduce the overall price.
Measuring and Planning Before You Start
Before you cast on, let’s plan. The beauty of this pattern is its adaptability. Here’s how to figure out the perfect size for your needs:
1. **Measure Your Space:** If you have a specific piece of furniture in mind, measure it. For a sofa throw, measure the width and length of the seating area, then decide how much overhang you’d like. For a bed, measure the mattress dimensions and consider how far down you want the blanket to drape.
2. **Consider the Purpose:** Is it a decorative accent piece, or will it be actively used for snuggling? A more substantial size might be better for active use.
3. **Refer to the 12 Sizes:** The free pattern I’m using provides measurements for various needs. For example, it includes:
* Baby Blanket: Approx. 30×40 inches
* Lapghan: Approx. 36×48 inches
* Throw: Approx. 50×60 inches
* Twin Bedspread: Approx. 70×90 inches
* King Bedspread: Approx. 100×100 inches
* And several sizes in between!
4. **Gauge Swatch (Optional but Recommended):** While this pattern is quite forgiving, making a small swatch (say, 6×6 inches) with your chosen yarn and hook can give you a good idea of your tension and how closely your finished piece will match the pattern’s dimensions. If your swatch is smaller than the pattern suggests, you might need a slightly larger hook. If it’s larger, a smaller hook might be better.
A Clear Walkthrough of the Process
This pattern is designed to be approachable, even for beginners. The core stitch is a simple single crochet or double crochet variation, creating a solid, dense fabric.
1. **Ch (Chain) the Foundation Row:** Begin by chaining a specific number of stitches. This number is determined by the desired width of your blanket. The pattern will provide the exact chain count for each of the 12 sizes. For example, for a 50-inch width, you might chain approximately 170-180 stitches, depending on your yarn and hook.
2. **Row 1:** Work your first row of stitches into the second chain from the hook. This is usually a standard stitch like single crochet or double crochet. This row establishes the width of your blanket.
3. **Subsequent Rows:** Continue crocheting back and forth, row after row, using the same stitch. The pattern will specify which stitch to use. For an “old-fashioned” look, I often favour a simple double crochet or a modified double crochet that creates a slightly tighter fabric. The key here is consistency.
4. **Turning Chain:** At the end of each row, you’ll make a turning chain (usually 1 or 2 chains) before turning your work. This brings your yarn up to the correct height for the next row.
5. **Repeat:** Keep repeating the stitch pattern for each row until your blanket reaches the desired length. Again, the pattern will give you approximate row counts or lengths for each of the 12 sizes.
6. **Finishing:** Once you’ve reached the desired length, fasten off your yarn, leaving a tail of about 6-8 inches. Use your yarn needle to carefully weave this tail through several stitches on the wrong side of the blanket to secure it. Repeat for any other starting tails.
Adapting for a Small Space or Rental
Don’t have a dedicated craft room? No problem! This crochet blanket is perfect for small spaces and rentals where drilling holes for hanging art isn’t an option.
* **Folded on a Chair or Ottoman:** A smaller lapghan or throw size is ideal for draping over the back of a sofa, the arm of a chair, or an ottoman. It adds instant texture and warmth without taking up much visual space.
* **Layered on a Bed:** Even in a small bedroom, layering a beautifully crocheted throw at the foot of the bed can add significant style and coziness.
* **Basket Storage:** For a tidy, no-fuss storage solution, keep your folded throws in a stylish woven basket. This keeps them accessible and adds a decorative element.
Styling Notes: Colour, Texture, and Placement
The beauty of this crochet blanket is its inherent texture, which adds visual interest to any room.
* **Colour Palette:**
* **Neutrals:** Cream, beige, soft grey, or even a muted navy are timeless and versatile. They blend seamlessly with most decor styles and create a calming atmosphere.
* **Pops of Colour:** If your room is already quite neutral, consider a bolder colour! A mustard yellow, a deep teal, or even a rich burgundy can become a stunning focal point.
* **Multi-Coloured:** If you’re feeling adventurous, you could use multiple shades of the same colour family, or even a variegated yarn for a truly unique look.
* **Texture:** The crochet stitch itself provides texture. When styling, think about contrasting textures. Pair your crochet blanket with smooth leather, polished wood, or sleek metal for a balanced look.
* **Placement for Style and Function:**
* **Sofa:** Drape it artfully over one arm, letting it fall naturally down the side. Alternatively, fold it neatly at one corner.
* **Armchair:** Folded and placed on the seat, or draped over the back for a cozy, inviting look.
* **Bed:** At the foot of the bed, folded in half or thirds, or spread across the entire bed for a layered look.
* **Entryway:** A small lapghan size can be draped over a bench or a console table, adding a welcoming touch.
* **Don’t Overdo It:** One or two well-placed blankets is usually enough to add warmth and style without making a space feel cluttered.
Keeping it Tidy After Week One
A crochet blanket is surprisingly low-maintenance. After the initial week of enjoying its coziness:
* **Regular Folding:** After use, take a moment to refold the blanket neatly. This prevents it from becoming a permanent fixture on the floor and keeps your space looking intentionally styled.
* **Occasional Shaking:** If it’s been in a high-traffic area, a good shake outdoors can help remove dust and debris.
* **Wash According to Yarn Instructions:** Most acrylic yarns are machine washable and dryable on a low setting. Check your yarn label for specific care instructions. Washing every few months, or as needed, will keep it fresh. Avoid harsh detergents or high heat, which can damage the fibers.
Mistakes That Make This Fail
Even with a simple project, a few common mistakes can lead to a less-than-satisfactory result.
* **Inconsistent Tension:** This is the biggest culprit. If your stitches are too tight in some areas and too loose in others, your blanket will have an uneven texture and shape. Practicing your tension before you start and being mindful as you crochet is key.
* **Incorrect Stitch Count:** Forgetting to chain the correct number at the beginning, or accidentally adding or skipping stitches during a row, will lead to a skewed or narrower/wider blanket than intended. Always double-check your stitch count at the end of each row.
* **Using the Wrong Hook Size:** As mentioned in the planning section, your hook size significantly impacts the drape and size of your finished piece. If your yarn feels too stiff or too loose with your chosen hook, try a different size.
* **Not Weaving in Ends Securely:** While this is a finishing step, it’s crucial. If you don’t weave in your yarn tails properly, they can unravel over time, leaving holes in your beautiful blanket.
* **Over-stuffing with Yarn:** While it’s tempting to have a giant blanket, if you try to make a bedspread size with only a few skeins of yarn, the fabric will be thin, prone to stretching, and might not have the desired weight or warmth. Stick to the recommended yardage for your chosen size.
Creating this old-fashioned crochet throw blanket is a rewarding journey. It’s a project that brings warmth, comfort, and a touch of handmade charm to your home, and the free pattern makes it accessible to everyone. Happy crocheting!
Conclusion
Bringing the warmth and charm of a handmade crochet old fashioned throw blanket into your home truly makes a difference day to day. Imagine cozying up on a chilly evening, the soft yarn a comforting embrace. It’s more than just decor; it’s a feeling of home. Your smallest first step today could be simply choosing your favorite color yarn and practicing a few stitches to refresh your memory. For a pop of color in a child’s room, try a vibrant ombre. On a tighter budget, consider using up leftover scraps for a delightful patchwork effect. We invite you to explore more of our home decor and organization ideas to continue infusing your living space with comfort and personality!