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    Home » Throw Blankets

    Updated: Mar 3, 2023 by Jess Coppom ·

    40+ Free Crochet Blanket and Afghan Patterns

    Welcome to the mecca of modern free crochet blanket patterns! This thoughtfully organized guide introduces you to our dozens of throw blankets, quick afghans, easy baby blankets and c2c crochet graphgans.

    You'll also learn how to choose the right blanket or afghan for your skill level, what supplies you'll need, and which crochet stitches are best for blankets.

    A collection of 6 crochet blanket patterns for all skill levels.

    This guide to crochet blanket patterns contains affiliate links.

    Free Crochet Blanket Patterns

    In this ultimate guide to free crochet blanket patterns you will learn:

    • How to choose the right afghan pattern for your skill level
    • 8 types of crochet blankets you can start today
    • Beginner blanket tips for your first project
    • Supplies needed for your blanket
    • How to use unique crochet stitches to design your own blanket pattern
    Jump to:
    • Free Crochet Blanket Patterns
    • Crocheting a Blanket for Absolute Beginners
    • Afghan + Blanket Patterns for All Skill Levels
    • Throw Blanket and Afghan Patterns
    • Recommended Supplies for Crochet Blankets
    • Choosing a Crochet Blanket Size
    • What is the Best Crochet Stitch for a Blanket?
    • Best Tips for Crocheting Blankets + Afghans
    • What to Look for In a Crochet Afghan Pattern
    • Crochet Blanket Video Tutorials
    • FAQ about Crochet Afghan Blankets
    • More Free Crochet Patterns
    • Learn More Crochet Skills
    • Invitation to our Facebook group

    Crocheting a Blanket for Absolute Beginners

    No matter your skill level, we've got a free crochet blanket pattern for you!

    But if you are just learning how to crochet–like, as you read this–my best suggestion would be to skip all these patterns at first. Instead, choose a chunky yarn you like and pair it with the hook size on the label for your very first blanket crochet project.

    Start Simple

    An example blanket combo for beginner crocheters might be picking up some Lion Brand Wool-Ease Thick & Quick and a size N crochet hook. Then crochet a small square or rectangular blanket in half double crochet or double crochet stitches.

    The point here is not to create the best crochet blanket of all time, but rather to practice your stitch tension on a low-stakes project. Once your stitches are fairly even, you can move right on to more advanced-beginner level patterns and concepts.

    Many of the crochet blanket patterns in the collection below will be perfect for expanding your skills!

    A tan-colored chunky crochet blanket draped on a blanket ladder.

    Afghan + Blanket Patterns for All Skill Levels

    Alright, let's dive into our favorite free crochet blanket patterns. You'll find this collection of patterns organized by blanket or afghan type, but many of these patterns fit into more than one category. Enjoy!

    Easy Crochet Blanket Patterns for Beginners

    If you're fairly new to crochet, you might be wondering – can a beginner crochet a blanket? My answer is an enthusiastic yes! As a beginner crocheter, you can complete your first blanket using simple stitches and easy-row repeats.

    Here are three basic types of crochet blanket patterns for beginners to try out:

    • baby blankets - they’re generally a smaller project
    • granny square blankets - they can often be worked in smaller, portable pieces
    • chunky blankets - they tend to be fast projects to crochet

    The following crochet blanket patterns for beginners make for relaxing crochet projects for experienced crocheters as well.

    See all our free beginner crochet blanket patterns →

    Free Modern + Chunky Crochet Blanket
    makeanddocrew.com

    Free Modern + Chunky Crochet Blanket

    This free chunky crochet blanket pattern makes a perfect timeless baby gift, but once you feel how soft it is, you’ll want one for yourself too!
    Get the Pattern
    Tributary Free Beginner Crochet Baby Blanket
    makeanddocrew.com

    Tributary Free Beginner Crochet Baby Blanket

    Whip up a beginner crochet baby blanket with this easy free pattern. Thanks to Mandala, you’ll have very few ends to weave in and unlimited color options!
    Get the Pattern

    Unique Crochet Blankets

    If you're looking for a beautiful crochet blanket pattern that offers a little something different, you'll love these free patterns. Each either uses creative construction or techniques to create a true show-stopper of a crochet blanket.

    See all our free unique crochet blanket patterns →

    The Ultimate Crochet Hexagon Blanket
    makeanddocrew.com

    The Ultimate Crochet Hexagon Blanket

    This free crochet afghan pattern uses hexagon blocks, so you can make a modern crochet baby blanket or customize the pattern to whatever size you’d like.
    Get the Pattern
    Flower Crochet Hexagon Quilt Pattern
    makeanddocrew.com

    Flower Crochet Hexagon Quilt Pattern

    Inspired by vintage quilt patterns, this crochet hexagon blanket pattern is perfect to make from yarn cakes or yarn scraps. Free pattern + video tutorial.
    Get the Pattern
    Crochet Panda Hooded Baby Blanket
    makeanddocrew.com

    Crochet Panda Hooded Baby Blanket

    This free crochet panda hooded child’s blanket pattern is customizable to make a polar bear or koala as well. Make a set for a new baby and older sibling!
    Get the Pattern
    A crochet 8 point star blanket draped over a wooden bed.
    makeanddocrew.com

    Modern Crochet Star Blanket

    Learn how to take a traditional eight point crochet star and turn it into a modern piece of art! Crochet a baby blanket, couch throw or add borders to customize an afghan any size you wish.
    Get the Pattern

    C2C Crochet Blanket Patterns

    Corner to corner (C2C) crochet blanket patterns may seem difficult at first. But once you learn the basics of how to C2C crochet, you'll understand the endless possibilities of this technique.

    Fair warning though, you may even find that you get so into C2C crochet that you want to learn how to design your own corner to corner crochet graph patterns!

    Modern C2C Crochet Deer Afghan
    makeanddocrew.com

    Modern C2C Crochet Deer Afghan

    This corner to corner crochet deer afghan is perfect for your favorite baby, hipster or hunter! Free pattern in two sizes--baby blanket and larger throw.
    Get the Pattern
    Graphic, Modern C2C Crochet Blanket
    makeanddocrew.com

    Graphic, Modern C2C Crochet Blanket

    This modern c2c crochet blanket + pillow will be right at home in your minimalist decor. Get the free pattern + tutorial to crochet your own corner-to-corner crochet graphgan pillow set! Guest design by Fly the Distance Co.
    Get the Pattern
    C2C Crochet Monstera Leaf Blanket
    makeanddocrew.com

    C2C Crochet Monstera Leaf Blanket

    Crochet this C2C crochet monstera leaf blanket for a baby nursery or your living room--the iconic tropical leaves will lend a fresh, modern vibe! Free pattern + video.
    Get the Pattern
    Modern, Rustic C2C Crochet Bear Blanket
    makeanddocrew.com

    Modern, Rustic C2C Crochet Bear Blanket

    This modern corner to corner crochet bear blanket pattern will warm your holidays, your cabin, or your favorite hunter! Free c2c graph pattern. Guest design by E'Claire Makery.
    Get the Pattern
    Modern C2C Lapghan Pattern
    makeanddocrew.com

    Modern C2C Lapghan Pattern

    This modern “X Marks the Spot” corner to corner crochet blanket adds a graphic touch to any room. Make it in black and white or soften the colors for a modern nursery. Free graphgan pattern and tutorial! Guest design by Fly the Distance Co.
    Get the Pattern
    Modern, Rustic C2C Deer Blanket
    makeanddocrew.com

    Modern, Rustic C2C Deer Blanket

    This deer-themed C2C crochet graphgan is perfect for Christmas, a rustic nursery or as a gift for your favorite hunter. Free pattern + video tutorials.
    Get the Pattern
    Alpaca (or Llama!) C2C Crochet Blanket
    makeanddocrew.com

    Alpaca (or Llama!) C2C Crochet Blanket

    Make this adorable alpaca (or llama!) C2C crochet blanket using the free graph pattern and video tutorials. Perfectly sized for a baby blanket or adult throw.
    Get the Pattern
    C2C Crochet Bunny Blanket
    makeanddocrew.com

    C2C Crochet Bunny Blanket

    The colors in this plaid C2C crochet bunny blanket free pattern are easily customizable or crochet the entire rabbit in a solid color.
    Get the Pattern
    C2C Crochet Africa Blanket Pattern
    makeanddocrew.com

    C2C Crochet Africa Blanket Pattern

    This corner to corner crochet map blanket showing a map of Africa is perfect for geography-lovers, teachers or children. Get the free pattern and even learn how to design your own map crochet project.
    Get the Pattern

    More Free C2C Crochet Patterns

    • C2C crochet rainbow blanket with puff stitch clouds.
      Muted, Modern Rainbow C2C Crochet Blanket Pattern
    • An overhead view of a c2c crochet blanket with a crescent-shaped Santa face.
      C2C Crochet Santa Blanket - Free Pattern
    • Intarsia crochet pattern that uses repeating modern snowflakes to form a nordic design. Free super scarf pattern!
      Nordic Crochet Super Scarf Free Pattern
    • Corner to corner crochet (c2c) short sleeved cardigan with triangle, tribal stripes on back. Free pattern featuring Lion Brand ZZ Twist yarn.
      Easy C2C Crochet Sweater Made from Rectangles - Free Pattern

    See more free c2c crochet patterns →

    Crochet Christmas Afghan Patterns

    Many of us are willing to invest extra time and energy into Christmas crochet patterns because we know they'll bring joy for seasons to come. The following Christmas blanket patterns are perfect for making your next heirloom.

    My family looks forward to pulling out each of these holiday blankets every December!

    C2C Crochet Santa Blanket
    makeanddocrew.com

    C2C Crochet Santa Blanket

    This corner-to-corner crochet Santa blanket is sure to become a holiday season favorite! C2C crochet puff stitches add a fun twist to Santa's beard. You'll love the bobble stitch edging and 3D pom pom as well!
    Get the Pattern
    Modern C2C Crochet Christmas Afghan
    makeanddocrew.com

    Modern C2C Crochet Christmas Afghan

    Make an heirloom your family can snuggle up with year after year with this free corner to corner crochet Christmas afghan pattern!
    Get the Pattern
    Hygge Holiday Beginner Crochet Blanket
    makeanddocrew.com

    Hygge Holiday Beginner Crochet Blanket

    Infuse a little Scandinavian style in your home with this hygge beginner crochet blanket pattern. Free crochet pattern and video tutorial!
    Get the Pattern

    Chunky Crochet Afghan Patterns

    Chunky crochet blankets are perfect for beginners or for those that want to finish an entire crochet blanket pattern in a weekend.

    Many people love crocheting blankets with bulky yarn because they can often be finished in a matter of hours! Plus, they often use simple stitches and easy row repeats.

    See all our free chunky crochet blanket patterns →

    Beautiful Crochet Sampler Blanket
    makeanddocrew.com

    Beautiful Crochet Sampler Blanket

    Master five unique stitches in this easy crochet sampler blanket. Longer stretches of each stitch make this a relaxing and creatively satisfying afghan to crochet.
    Get the Pattern
    Free Crochet Bobble Stitch Afghan
    makeanddocrew.com

    Free Crochet Bobble Stitch Afghan

    Follow this free crochet bobble stitch afghan pattern to add the perfect handmade touch to your modern farmhouse decor. Joanna Gaines would approve! Guest design by Simply Made by Erin.
    Get the Pattern
    Modern Crochet Basketweave Blanket
    makeanddocrew.com

    Modern Crochet Basketweave Blanket

    This free crochet basket weave blanket pattern is blooming with texture and makes a perfect lapghan-sized afghan. Gorgeous modern throw blanket!
    Get the Pattern

    Throw Blanket and Afghan Patterns

    Crochet throw blankets and afghans are generally larger than lapgans and baby blankets. They can vary quite a bit in style, stitches and techniques used and time investment.

    Don't feel obligated to create a large afghan if it's your first time crocheting a blanket. If you fall in love with an afghan pattern that includes information on the stitch multiple, you can easily make a lap blanket by reducing the number of foundation stitches and total row repeats.

    TIP: With large crochet blanket patterns, it’s especially important to read through the pattern ahead of time. This will help determine if it matches your skill level, yarn budget and attention span. If so, go for it!

    See all our free crochet throw blanket patterns →

    Four Color Modern Crochet Square Blanket
    makeanddocrew.com

    Four Color Modern Crochet Square Blanket

    Yay tassels! Easy and free four color crochet square blanket pattern with baby and adult afghan sizes included. Perfect for modern nurseries or decor.
    Get the Pattern
    Best In Show C2C Crochet Dog Blanket Pattern
    makeanddocrew.com

    Best In Show C2C Crochet Dog Blanket Pattern

    Nine unique C2C patterns come together to create this corner to corner crochet dog blanket. Crochet a doodle, frenchie, lab, poodle, golden retriever and more!
    Get the Pattern

    Fast Blankets + Afghans

    We love fast crochet patterns around here. They can make perfect crochet gifts and they're just really satisfying! The following quick crochet blanket patterns can be finished in a day or two (or less!) and use simple crochet stitches.

    See all our free fast crochet blanket patterns →

    Presto! 4.5 Hour Fast Afghan
    makeanddocrew.com

    Presto! 4.5 Hour Fast Afghan

    This is the fastest crochet afghan ever! You can make the entire blanket, including tassels in less than five hours. Free pattern perfect for beginners!
    Get the Pattern
    One Day Crochet Blanket
    makeanddocrew.com

    One Day Crochet Blanket

    Need a quick, cozy gift? Look no further than this one day crochet blanket pattern. Have it finished and ready for snuggles in less than a day! Guest design by Crochet Dreamz.
    Get the Pattern
    Fast + Easy Crochet Baby Blanket Pattern
    makeanddocrew.com

    Fast + Easy Crochet Baby Blanket Pattern

    Crochet an entire baby blanket this weekend! This modern baby blanket is quite easy and works up in a couple days, making it great for a last-minute baby shower gift or charity donation.
    Get the Pattern

    Granny Stripes + Granny Squares Blanket Patterns

    There are very few crochet motifs quite as iconic as the almighty granny square. Many crocheters love granny square blanket patterns because they can be built in small portable sections. If you do find yourself with a pile of squares, be sure to learn how to join crochet granny squares as you go to avoid extra seaming.

    TIP: Granny stripe and granny square projects can be an excellent way to use up leftover scrap yarn.

    See all our free granny square crochet blanket patterns →

    Modern Crochet Granny Stitch Blanket
    makeanddocrew.com

    Modern Crochet Granny Stitch Blanket

    This modern crochet granny stitch blanket uses bold stripes, easy stiches and cheerful tassels to create a look that’s perfect for kids’ rooms and living rooms alike.
    Get the Pattern
    Continuous Join Crochet Dahlia Scrap Blanket
    makeanddocrew.com

    Continuous Join Crochet Dahlia Scrap Blanket

    Free crochet scrap blanket pattern that can be made in stash yarn in various weights. This pattern is quite easy to create in different sizes because you can combine as many or as few granny squares as you'd like. You’ll love this seamless, join as you go pattern with video tutorials!
    Get the Pattern

    Free Crochet Baby Blanket Patterns

    Learning about a new pregnancy is often what sends us searching for the perfect baby blanket to crochet.

    Baby blanket patterns don't have to be reserved for newborns and baby showers though. These smaller blanket patterns often work perfectly as adult lapgans and afghans for toddlers and older kids.

    See all our free beginner crochet blanket patterns →

    Join As You Go Hexagon Blanket
    makeanddocrew.com

    Join As You Go Hexagon Blanket

    This modern join as you go crochet hexagon blanket pattern is a great way to use up scraps. You can change the look significantly by choosing bold colors or more neutral options. Perfect for a baby or throw blanket. Includes step-by-step tutorial.
    Get the Pattern
    Crochet Boxed Block Stitch Blanket
    makeanddocrew.com

    Crochet Boxed Block Stitch Blanket

    Crochet a design that radiates from the center outward in this crochet boxed block stitch blanket pattern. Personalize your own unique and subtle rainbow!
    Get the Pattern
    Furry Bear Crochet Blanket Rug
    makeanddocrew.com

    Furry Bear Crochet Blanket Rug

    Perfect as a cozy couch throw, child’s play mat or baby nursery rug, this cuddly crochet bear blanket pattern is sure to keep you cozy while you hibernate. This unique pattern even makes a perfect gift for people who love to hunt. And don't feel intimidated by the furry yarn, we've got you covered with a tutorial on how to easily feel for your stitches.
    Get the Pattern
    Modern Gender Neutral Crochet Baby Blanket
    makeanddocrew.com

    Modern Gender Neutral Crochet Baby Blanket

    Put a modern twist on the traditional ripple afghan with this gender-neutral crochet baby blanket pattern! This free ripple pattern is easy and rewarding and the DK weight yarn creates great stitch definition.
    Get the Pattern
    Loop Yarn Finger Knitting Blanket
    makeanddocrew.com

    Loop Yarn Finger Knitting Blanket

    Alright, this isn't technically a crochet blanket pattern, but it is easy and perfect for babies. Made with Lion Brand Off the Hook loop yarn and a very simple technique, this finger knitting blanket is a breeze to “knit,” even for absolute beginners. This can serve as a great crafting option when you haven't quite learned how to crochet a blanket yet.
    Get the Pattern

    Recommended Supplies for Crochet Blankets

    Many of us choose blankets as our first beginner crochet pattern because they are quite easy to source supplies for. I still remember standing in Walmart picking out giant skeins of orange economy yarn as a ten-year-old planning the coolest crochet blanket EVER. Ha.

    Soft Blanket Yarn

    For most crochet projects choosing the right yarn is very important. Read the pattern to see which yarn is suggested. That is always a good place to start. Yarnsub.com can be really helpful in sourcing a suitable replacement if the yarn a pattern calls for isn't available to you.

    While many types of yarn can be used to crochet a blanket, some work better than others. If you are designing your next afghan project yourself instead of following a pattern, here's a brief summary of why you might want to choose one yarn weight over another.

    Worsted Weight Yarn (Category 4)

    This yarn weight can be a nice balance between making fast progress on large projects while not sacrificing drape. And if you live a warmer climate, worsted weight yarn can make for a great blanket to keep in the living room that won't make you sweat if you decide to use it.

    Chunky / Bulky Weight Yarn (Categories 5, 7, 8)

    If you are looking to create a blanket in the afternoon or weekend, look for patterns that use chunky/super chunky yarn. Thicker yarn is also perfect for crocheting a cozy blanket that has the giant squishy stitches that are on-trend right now. You will sacrifice a bit of drape when using a thick yarn, but often that doesn't make the biggest difference in crochet afghans.

    Lion Brand Wool-Ease Thick & Quick in "wheat" being used for a chunky crochet blanket pattern.

    Crochet Hooks for Blankets

    A crochet blanket is a relatively large project. This means you'll be holding the hook for long periods of time. Be sure to find a crochet hook that will be comfortable to hold. 

    Some of my favorite inexpensive, yet very comfortable hooks can be found at Hobby Lobby.

    TIP: Be mindful of your posture and take stretching breaks if you're working on a crochet blanket pattern for long periods. Your shoulders and back will thank you!

    Blocking Supplies

    Crochet blocking is a process where steam is applied to crochet fabric to allow the stitches to become more even and uniform. 

    Blocking is generally optional for blankets. However, seaming together any smaller blanket pieces like granny square or hexagons will be easier if they are first blocked. 

    You will need the following supplies to block your crochet pieces: 

    • Blocking board - or create a blocking board yourself
    • Steamer - a spray bottle can also work
    • T-pins
    Unusual crochet granny squares made with puff stitches pinned to a blocking board.
    Blocking your crochet blanket pieces before joining can go a long way to making your final project look tidy.

    Choosing a Crochet Blanket Size

    Many patterns will give you instructions on how to adjust the blanket or afghan size. Typically the blanket width is modified by changing the the number of stitches in your foundation chain. The blanket height is then modified by changing the number of rows crocheted.

    Modifying Given Pattern Measurements

    Therefore, to adapt the size of a crochet afghan, you will usually need to know something called the stitch multiple. This simply means how many stitches you need in the foundation chain for one repeat of the pattern, plus how many extra stitches you need to add to the foundation chain to accommodate the turning chain.

    For Example: If a pattern said the stitch multiple was 10 + 3, you could use any multiple of 10 stitches (20, 50, 100) and then add 3 stitches the foundation chain (23, 53, 103 total chains).

    Not every crochet blanket pattern you come across will include notes on the stitch multiple, but it is definitely helpful when they do.

    Common Blanket + Afghan Sizes

    Here is a guide to the most common crocheted blanket sizes. (Keep in mind these are general guidelines and many crochet blankets will fall somewhere between these measurements.)

    Blanket TypeL x W (inches)L x W (centimeters)
    Baby Blanket38 x 38"97 x 97 cm
    Lap Blanket36 x 48"92 x 122 cm
    Throw/Afghan54 x 68"137 x 173 cm
    Twin65 x 90"165 x 229 cm
    Double85 x 90"216 x 229 cm
    Queen90 x 90-100"229 x 229-254 cm
    King108 x 90-100"274 x 229-254 cm

    What is the Best Crochet Stitch for a Blanket?

    Almost any crochet stitch can be used to create a blanket, depending on how cozy or airy you want the blanket to feel. Pairing a chunky yarn with a single or double crochet stitch can be a ideal crochet blanket project for beginners.

    For intermediate crocheters, consider creating a blanket using Tunisian crochet. It creates a dense, cozy blanket and has a simple row repeat.

    RELATED: 16 Tunisian Crochet Stitches

    Basic Crochet Stitches

    Here are a few basic stitches used in blankets and afghans:

    Note: These are US terms for crochet.

    Single Crochet (sc) 

    Single grochet stitches create a dense, cozy fabric. However, a single crochet blanket will take longer to create. Single crochet is often used for classic crochet ripple blanket patterns.

    Half Double Crochet

    Half double crochet stitches are slightly taller than a single crochet but not as tall as a double crochet stitch. This is a great stitch for creating a ribbed knit look with crochet. 

    Double Crochet

    Double crochet (dc) stitches are taller, and therefore faster than both half-double crochet and single crochet. This stitch can be a fantastic workhorse crochet blanket stitch that’s slightly more open than the shorter, denser options.

    Any combination of these three basic stitches can create a beautiful beginner crochet blanket. 

    Design a Blanket with Unique Crochet Stitches

    Looking to create a crochet blanket design that's all your own? Consider these unique crochet stitches for your next blanket or afghan pattern. We've chosen these specifically because they work well for blankets. Each of theses stitches includes a tutorial as well.

    Beautiful Crochet Stitches For Blankets and Afghans
    makeanddocrew.com

    Beautiful Crochet Stitches For Blankets and Afghans

    This collection of modern crochet stitches for blankets and afghans is sure to provide inspiration for your next project!
    Get the Crochet Stitches

    Best Tips for Crocheting Blankets + Afghans

    You'll pick up many tips and techniques the more blankets you crochet. Here are a few of my favorite suggestions for crocheting an afghan you're proud of.

    Block Your Pieces Before Joining

    If you're crocheting a blanket pattern that is built from smaller pieces, it is extremely helpful to block these individual motifs before joining them together.

    One of the most important reasons to block your crochet blanket pieces is to ensure each motif is the same size. Whether you join the pieces with crocheting or with invisible seams, blocking them will make your final blanket "puzzle" fit together much better.

    Finish Your Blanket with a Border

    Many crochet afghans look good enough without a border. But I tend to find that adding a simple edging makes a big different to how polished the finished blanket looks.

    My absolute favorite simple crochet blanket border is the crab stitch (AKA reverse single crochet). We use this often on our corner to corner blankets and any other patterns where we don't want the border design to detract from the main focus of the crochet blanket.

    What to Look for In a Crochet Afghan Pattern

    A crochet blanket or afghan is a large project that can take several hours or days to create. Before you begin, you'll want to read through the entire pattern.

    Looking closely at these elements in a pattern will help you pick a project that is suitable for your skill. The following details are things to take note of when reading through a crochet blanket pattern.

    Skill Level

    Choosing a pattern that matches your skill level will make the process of crocheting a blanket fun and enjoyable. An afghan pattern with basic crochet stitches and simple row repeats will be easier and faster to complete.

    Look at the type of stitches used in the pattern and ask yourself:

    • Is the stitch pattern common or does the pattern use complex or unique stitches? 
    • Can I easily memorize the pattern repeats (aka will you repeat the same 1-2 rows over and over or will you have to learn a new row instruction often)?
    • Does the pattern require counting throughout?
    • Will there be seaming needed to join pieces at the end?

    Crocheting a blanket that uses more complicated techniques and repeats can be very satisfying. But it’s also good to know what you’re getting into before you begin so that you can be sure it’s a match for your skill level. 

    Granny ripple stitch crochet baby blanket pattern using Lion Brand Baby Soft Boucle and Feels Like Butta.

    Color Changes

    A colorful blanket is very beautiful once complete. However, there can be more work involved depending on how the colors are used . 

    Look at how colorwork is handled in the pattern. How many color changes are there? Do the color changes happen at the end of the row (easier) or mid-row (slightly harder). Perhaps the blanket uses a two color crochet stitch, in which case you'll have more yarn to wrangle, but likely not have to cut it at the end of each row.

    Techniques like mosaic crochet and corner-to-corner crochet graphgans create the most stunning blankets. Although they often include more yarn wrangling because of the number different colors involved.

    Prefer to avoid the extra work of changing colors, but still love the look of colorful crochet blankets? (Me too!) Lion Brand Yarn Mandala crochet patterns can be a perfect solution.

    RELATED: How to plan your dream temperature blanket project

    Yarn Tails to Weave In

    Do you dislike weaving in many ends at the end of a project? 

    Fewer color changes and less intricate designs usually mean fewer ends to weave in. If you really want to minimize any finishing work, choose an easy blanket pattern that can be worked in a single color.

    Portable vs Seamless

    The wonderful thing about a crochet blanket is that it can be created as a single large piece or in smaller pieces and joined at the end. 

    A blanket that is created in motifs (aka pieces) is more portable. You can work on a small section anywhere, at any time. 

    However, a crochet blanket pattern worked in pieces will likely need to be blocked and joined together with crochet or sewing.

    Yellow crochet hexagons pinned to a blocking board sitting next to Lion Brand Feels Like Butta.
    Crochet hexagons and half hexagons make great portable modern crochet blanket motifs.

    Crochet Blanket Video Tutorials

    If you prefer to learn how by video, these crochet afghan patterns include helpful video instructions to get you on your way.

    • The Hygge Holiday Throw uses the Suzette Stitch Video Tutorial
    • The Dahlia Scrap Blanket includes step-by-step video tutorials
    • Many of our crochet stitch tutorials are also perfect for simple blankets

    FAQ about Crochet Afghan Blankets

    What's the difference between blankets, throws, and afghans?

    An afghan is a blanket or throw and is usually knitted or crocheted. So technically, there is no difference between crochet aghans, blankets or throws. They are one in the same.

    Afghans date back to at least the 15th century and can be made from a variety of fibre types. Afghans, blankets, and throws can come in a variety of designs, weights and sizes.

    Wondering why a crocheted blanket is called an afghan? Learn more about the history and origins of afghans here.

    Based on a large granny square, the "Granny Gives Back" crochet hooded blanket pattern makes an easy and inexpensive project to donate to children's charities. The oversized hood and playful tassels will give any kid a safe, warm place to escape to. Click for the free pattern using Lion Brand Pound of Love yarn in Oxford Grey!

    How long does it take to crochet a blanket?

    A crochet blanket can be finished in a day or it can take dozens of hours to complete. 

    The time it takes to crochet a blanket will depend on the blanket size and yarn thickness. Reading through the crochet pattern to understand what is involved and the type of yarn needed will help you to determine the time it will take to create a blanket.

    TIP: To find out how long it will take to finish crocheting a blanket do this: 
    1. Time yourself crocheting one row
    2. Multiply that time by the number of rows in the pattern
    3. This will give you the estimated time it will take to complete the blanket

    Is it faster to knit or crochet a blanket?

    In general, it's faster to crochet a blanket than knit a blanket. Crocheting uses only one hook and one main hand so it’s very fast and easy to create any size of fabric. Most crochet stitches are larger than most knitting stitches, meaning the afghan can grow faster. Crocheting also creates a thicker, textured fabric making it ideal for blankets.

    How many skeins of yarn do you need for a blanket? 

    The amount of yarn it takes to crochet a blanket depends on the pattern and type of yarn. Any crochet blanket pattern should suggest a type of yarn and explain how much you’ll need. 

    If you plan to modify a pattern's size, yarn type and/or hook size be sure to create a gauge swatch. This will help you to calculate the amount of yarn needed to crochet a blanket. 

    What size crochet hook do I need to make a blanket?

    Check the pattern and yarn for the hook size needed to crochet a blanket. A large hook with super chunky yarn will make for a faster crochet blanket than a small hook with lighter-weight yarn. 

    How to start a crochet blanket?

    A blanket begins with a series of chain (ch) stitches. If you plan to crochet a large blanket, the chain can be very long. Place a stitch marker every 10 stitches to help you keep count. 

    How much does it cost to crochet a blanket?

    The price of yarn will vary greatly depending on the type of fiber, dye and quantity needed. There are many affordable yarns to use for crochet blankets. Consider blanket yarns such as: 

    • Lion Brand Pound of Love - a light worsted weight yarn with tons of yardage. Awesome for holding multiple strands together to create an economical chunky yarn.

    • Lion Brand Mandala - beautiful, DK weight yarn that does the color changing for you, meaning there are fewer ends to weave in.

    • Lion Brand I Wanna Make a Blankie. - enough blanket yarn to crochet an entire blanket.

    Can you crochet a blanket in one day?

    Yes! Look for a pattern that uses simple stitches, easy row repeats and super chunky yarn for a blanket that can be created in a day! Here are our fastest crochet blanket patterns.

    A woman holding a folded chunky crochet ripple blanket made with Bernat Blanket yarn.

    What is the average size of a crochet blanket?

    Crochet blankets can be made in almost any size imaginable. That said, 54" x 68" (137cm x 173cm) is a good size range to aim for with a crocheted afghan, blanket or throw.

    More Free Crochet Patterns

    We've got lots more free patterns for all sorts of crochet projects. Here are a few of the popular.

    • Easy Crochet Sweater Patterns - our readers' favorites

    Learn More Crochet Skills

    Are you ready to expand your crochet skills even further? Here are a few step-by-step guides crocheters love most. You can always find all our crochet tutorials here.

    • How to Corner to Corner Crochet for Beginners - everything you need to know
    • How to Tunisian Crochet - get started with a regular hook and our video tutorials
    • How to Crochet Amigurumi for Beginners - crochet your own stuffed animals and cute toys

    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.

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    Come discuss crocheting blanket patterns and lots of other crochet projects and techniques in our Make & Do Crew Facebook group. Here thousands of helpful crocheters answer each others questions and share their stitches. Come join us here.

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    Jess Coppom of the crochet blog, Make & Do Crew, wearing the Cleo Fedora crochet sun hat.

    Hi, I'm Jess! My mom taught me to crochet when I was 8-years-old. Now I work alongside my mom and sisters to bring you free patterns + tutorials that make crochet modern, approachable and fun!

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