Some notes before we get into the project:

• The stitch used in the original pattern is called ‘moss stitch’. It is also known as ‘linen stitch’ (what I am used to calling it). This is just a case of there being multiple names for one stitch- if you have done linen stitch before, you have done moss stitch and vice versa!
• When I have used linen stitch before, I have frequently run into problems with my tension. Because of the chain 1 in between every double crochet, the overall tension within the blanket can vary massively. I’ve yet to find a solution to this when using linen stitch for larger projects (e.g. baby blankets that are worked straight, as opposed to c2c). However, I did not run into this problem when using linen stitch in a c2c format (much to my relief!). If, like me, you love the stitch but struggle with your tension when working it straight, I would definitely recommend giving it a try with c2c. Having said that, if you have any tips for maintaining a consistent tension with linen stitch normally, please let me know!
• Finally, just a heads up that the original pattern uses American crochet terms. Keep this in mind if you use British terms (like me) and want to try this pattern out for yourself.

Now we have covered that, let’s get into the materials I used for this project:

• 4mm crochet hook
• 2x100g balls of Stylecraft Special DK in Claret (1123)*
• 2X100g balls of Stylecraft Special DK in Cream (1005)*
• Darning needle

*I did not use the full amount of yarn- my finished blanket was 61cm square and weighed about 240g, including the border. I used about 120g of each colour.

Right! Into the action!

I used the instructions provided in the original pattern to make a square blanket, as opposed to a rectangular one. I did also extend my blanket slightly, completing 14 stripes while increasing and another 14 while decreasing (the original pattern calls for 11 for each). This was just to make my blanket a little bigger, because I felt it was a little too small as it was. Other than this, I followed the original pattern to the letter, alternating between claret and cream for my stripes.

For the edging, I opted for a very simple double crochet border. I achieved this by placing 1dc at the end of each row along the sides and (dc, ch1, dc) in each of the corners. This provided a simple edging that gave the blanket a neat finish, but did not detract from the striking impact of the modern stripes.

Overall, I really love this baby blanket. I think it looks beautifully festive, without being too overtly Christmassy or (dare I say it?!) tacky. Plus, it was a real joy to make! Let me know if you try it out for yourself!

Gemma

xxx