It seems like there’s always somebody who’s having a baby. What’s a girl to do with an inbox full of baby shower invitations and a stash full of yarn? Make some of these super cute free knit baby blanket patterns – that’s what!
![25+ Free Baby Blanket Knitting Patterns (1) 25+ Free Baby Blanket Knitting Patterns (1)](https://i0.wp.com/lovelifeyarn.com/wp-content/uploads/Knit-Baby-Blanket-Patterns-1024x819.png)
Do you want to know why I like to make things for babies? Because the baby doesn’t care what it looks like haha! Seriously, if you are a beginner knitter who is stressing out over how to knit a baby blanket – don’t sweat it! The baby isn’t going to notice if the stitch count is off or if the edges aren’t quite straight. They are going to love it and snuggle it no matter what!
We’ve got an excellent variety of patterns for you today. There are free knit baby blanket patterns for beginners, and some for more experienced knitters too. We’ve got monochrome baby blankets, two-color baby blankets, and multicolor baby blankets too! And you might be surprised at all the modern options for color schemes there are out there. (Hint: baby blankets aren’t all pastel anymore!)
What is a good type of yarn to use for a baby blanket? Some of the patterns use thinner weight yarns like DK and there are some that use thicker weight yarns too like super bulky. So whatever you’ve got in your stash, we’ve got the pattern for you! Heck, we’ve even got a few patterns that are perfect for scrap busting!
So what are you waiting for? Scroll down and prepare to be inspired by all of these amazing free-knit baby blanket patterns. Also scroll for the cute baby pictures, because they are freaking adorable!
In this article...
How to Knit a Baby Blanket
There are tons of knitting patterns out there for adorable knit baby blankets. They all use different colors, stitch patterns, and designs. You’ll find a great collection of them below, but here is how to knit a basic baby blanket.
Step One: Pick out your yarn and the size knitting needles you want to use (I typically will go up a size or two from the recommended size on the ball band for better drape).
Step Two: Cast on as many stitches as needed for the size blanket you want to make (this is where a gauge swatch comes in handy).
Step Three: Work in your desired stitch pattern until the blanket is the size you like. This can be as simple as knitting garter stitch or as complex as you’d like.
Step Four: Bind off the last row and add a border if you prefer.
Best Yarns for Baby Blankets
When choosing a yarn to knit a baby blanket, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, the fiber content. I typically stay away from wool since it can be scratchy and some people have a reaction to it, so I wouldn’t want the baby to be uncomfortable.
Second, I think of how easy it is going to be to care for the blanket. You want a machine washable yarn because babies are messy!! The blanket will probably need to be washed, at least if it gets any use. I have four kids and I remember how messy they were, so I stick to an easy-care yarn.
So look for yarns that are easy to care for and made from premium acrylic (no scratchy yarns here!), a cotton or cotton blend, or another animal fiber (maybe a great alpaca blend or something similar).
Here are some of my favorite yarns for knitting baby blankets:
Premium Acrylic and Blends
- Knit Picks Brava Worsted (you can also get this in different yarn weights)
- Knit Picks Comfy Worsted (another great choice also in many different yarn weights)
- Lion Brand Vanna’s Choice (a super popular yarn for years!)
Cotton and Blends
- Knit Picks Shine Worsted (a cotton blend available in many different yarn weights)
- Lion Brand Oh Baby (an organic cotton made for babies!)
How many skeins of yarn will you need to knit a blanket?
This depends on the yardage per skein and the size of the blanket you are making, but you can count on three to four skeins of an average 3.5oz weight.
Be sure to check the pattern you are making to see how many yards were used in the sample, especially if you are substituting the yarn called for in the pattern. So if the yarn used in the pattern needed 3 skeins at 250 yards each, you know you need around 750 yards.
Learn how to start knitting with a Love Crafts knitting kit!
Knit Baby Blanket Sizes
These sizes are the same for both knit and crochet blankets and are a general guide. Don’t feel bound to any one of these sizes – I typically like my blankets 24″ x 36″ for babies, and that size doesn’t really “fit” into any of these categories. Smaller blankets can be used for car seats and strollers, or even loves or security blankets, while larger blankets can be used for bed (with supervision or for older babies!) or to spread on the floor for playtime.
![25+ Free Baby Blanket Knitting Patterns (2) 25+ Free Baby Blanket Knitting Patterns (2)](https://i0.wp.com/lovelifeyarn.com/wp-content/uploads/image-75.png)
Photo Credit:www.cascadeyarns.com
Herringbone Blocks Blanket
Bright sunny yellow is a great choice for a new summer baby, especially if the gender is going to be a surprise! This lovely herringbone design has a satisfying geometric repetition that is both playful and sophisticated. It is also nice that the recommended yarn is machine washable because babies are messy!
Designer: Shannon Dunbabin
Yarn: Cascade Yarns Nifty Cotton (Worsted Weight #4)
Photo Credit:mypoppet.com.au
Pretty Blooms Baby Blanket
Work smarter, not harder, especially when looking for free knitting patterns for baby items! You’ve probably heard of self-striping yarn, but have you heard of self-striping yarn that also creates floral motifs? This magical yarn will save you so much time and effort. You don’t have to worry about switching colors or weaving in extra ends; you can just get into the knitting zone with your favorite show and start creating adorable baby items with ease!
Designer: My Poppet
Yarn: Premier Yarns Bloom Chunky (Bulky Weight #5)
Photo Credit:www.yarnspirations.com
Honeycomb Stripes Baby Blanket
Of course, you don’t have to spend an arm and a leg on good quality yarn to create an amazing knit baby blanket! If you're on the lookout for free baby blanket patterns, the honeycomb stripes blanket is a fantastic option. It uses a very budget-friendly yarn, but you can’t tell by looking at it. The modern color scheme and geometric hexagon design are an absolute delight. You can make the design using garter stitch and slip stitch, ensuring a beautiful and cost-effective creation for your little one.
Designer: Yarnspirations
Yarn: Caron One Pound (Aran Weight #4)
Photo Credit:www.yarnspirations.com
Shore-to-Shore Baby Blanket
Soothing hues of greens and blues are a lovely pick for the new bundle of joy, especially when used in knitted baby blankets. This design, perfect for those just starting to explore the world of knitted baby blankets, uses a self-striping yarn, so there’s no need for changing colors or weaving in extra ends. It also just so happens to be a very budget-friendly yarn as well, making it a fantastic choice for a thoughtful and cost-effective gift. It’s a win-win! The pattern, a staple in the collection of knitted baby blankets, uses only basic knitting stitches and yarn over eyelets, and it’s worked on the bias for a unique and charming finish.
Designer: Red Heart Design Team
Yarn: Red Heart Super Saver Stripes (Aran Weight #4)
Photo Credit:www.lionbrand.com
Textured Baby Afghan
Here’s another one of our free-knit baby blanket patterns that features a self-striping yarn. I just love the effortless color blending and all the time I save from not having to weave in extra ends! This design features a textured stitch pattern that uses knit stitches, yarn overs, and stitches that are passed over. It’s an easy stitch pattern to memorize and it’s interesting enough to keep you engaged all project long.
Designer: Bobbie Fitzgerald for Lion Brand Yarn
Yarn: Lion Brand Ice Cream Big Scoop (DK Weight #4)
Photo Credit:www.garnstudio.com
Terracotta Dreams
You can easily add interest to a monochrome blanket with a bit of texture! This textured stitch pattern uses stitches that are knit together along with slipped stitches, stitches that are passed over, and long knit stitches. I like how the work forms a sea of little fans. Yes, this is definitely a free-knit baby blanket pattern that you can sink your teeth into!
Designer: DROPS Design
Yarn: Garnstudio DROPS Merino Extra Fine (DK Weight #3)
Photo Credit:www.garnstudio.com
Honey Honey
Zig zags and easy lace are the hallmarks of this stunning baby blanket design from Garnstudio DROPS. It is a beautiful and timeless blanket that is sure to be treasured for years to come. Plus, it is a unisex design that can be gifted regardless of the baby’s gender. Both written and charted instructions are available for the stitchwork.
Designer: DROPS Design
Yarn: Garnstudio DROPS Kid-Silk and Garnstudio DROPS Baby Merino
Held double (Lace Weight #0 and Sport Weight #3, respectively)
Photo Credit:www.ravelry.com
Sunset Baby Blanket
Move over pastel colors! You shouldn’t feel restricted to lighter colors for your free knit baby blanket patterns. I mean, just look at the bold colors in this beautiful sunset design! One benefit of a more sophisticated color palette is that the baby won’t outgrow the blanket. This design is knit diagonally in a garter stitch and finished off with cord edging.
Designer: Hudson + West Co
Yarn: Hudson + West Co Weld (Fingering Weight #1)
Photo Credit:berroco.com
Baby Fern Lake
Here’s a neat new spin on an old trick: you can use the mosaic color change technique to make a super cool blended ombre effect. Teal fades to brown and brown fades to white in this beautiful celebration of transitions. The design calls for knit and slip stitches. Switching between holding your yarn in front or in the back gives the project a subtle texture.
Designer: Berroco
Yarn: Berroco Vintage Baby (DK Weight #3)
Photo Credit:www.yarnspirations.com
Luxe Log Cabin Blanket
You might be wondering what makes this free knit baby blanket pattern feel so luxurious. The secret is the ridiculously soft velvet yarn, ensuring that the baby feels like they’re being swaddled in clouds. The design is knit in the traditional log cabin style using garter stitch, and at the same time, new sections of color are seamlessly added by picking up stitches. This method creates a stunning visual effect and a cozy blanket, all while keeping the knitting process straightforward and enjoyable.
Designer: Yarnspirations
Yarn: Bernat Baby Velvet (Aran Weight #4)
Photo Credit:www.purlsoho.com
Colorblock Jute Stitch Blanket
Here’s a fun and engaging way to make a knit baby blanket using the purl stitch, along with two colors. This blanket design creatively features two solid-colored sections and one mixed-color section in the middle, showcasing the versatility of the purl stitch. The jute stitch, a unique pattern for this project, incorporates knit, purl, and slip stitches to create a rich texture. When you alternate between rows of two different colors, utilizing the purl stitch effectively, you achieve a really cool effect that almost looks like weaving, adding an extra layer of visual interest to the blanket!
Designer: Purl Soho
Yarn: Purl Soho Linen Quill Worsted (Worsted Weight #4)
Photo Credit:www.ravelry.com
Triss Baby Blanket
To create this beautiful Triss Baby Blanket, you'll need nothing more than the basics - just knit and purl! This design is a great option for those who prefer simplicity, as it features textured triangles and bold stripes without requiring any fancy knitting tricks. The result is so stunning that no one has to know just how easy it was to make. I really like the look of this one, and I bet the recipient will love it too, making it a great option for a heartfelt gift.
Designer: Creple Knits
Yarn: we are knitters The Pima Cotton (DK Weight #3)
Photo Credit:www.ravelry.com
Zoe Baby Blanket
A beautiful knit baby blanket covered in colorful hearts is the perfect way to shower the new baby with love. This is such a cute design, and it’s pretty easy too! The pattern is worked in stockinette stitch using the intarsia color-change technique. I think this project would also be a great choice for scrap yarn!
Designer: Lillie Larsen
Yarn: Lang Yarns Cashmerino for Babies & More (Sport Weight #3)
Photo Credit:www.lionbrand.com
Summer Daisy Blankie (Knit)
This one’s for all the purl stitches out there, and if you're searching for patterns for baby blankets, all you need is right here! Yes, we have free knit baby blanket patterns that are perfect for you too. I particularly love using garter stitch for baby items because it results in a fabric that is so squishy and soft, ideal for delicate skin. This pattern, a standout among our patterns for baby blankets, is ingeniously constructed from 2 triangles and requires 4 colors of yarn. Both asymmetric and geometric styles are on trend right now, and this blanket beautifully embodies both characteristics!
Designer: Lion Brand Yarn
Yarn: Lion Brand Softball (Bulky Weight #5)
Photo Credit:www.yarnspirations.com
Mosaic Stitch Blanket
Just look how striking this knit baby blanket is with chains of diamonds all in a line. This design uses the mosaic colorwork design which calls for slipped stitches. It’s a really neat technique that’s not nearly as tricky as it looks, and it’s made even easier by the super bulky weight yarn. Beginner knitters - definitely give this cute pattern a try!
Designer: Yarnspirations
Yarn: Bernat Baby Blanket (Super Bulky Weight #6)
Photo Credit:www.ravelry.com
Half Moon Baby Blanket
Just wow! This abstract half-moon blanket is so striking, don’t you think? I love the bold colors of the half moons, and the neutral-colored heather background too. The design is worked in garter stitch and it uses the intarsia colorwork technique. I think it’s just lovely, and it would make a perfect present for either a girl or a boy!
Designer: Maura Jacobi
Yarn: Malabrigo Yarn Rios (Worsted Weight #4)
Photo Credit:ravelry.com
Emmy’s Blanket
Free knit baby blanket patterns, like this one that is worked from the center or the corner, are generally perfect if you’re looking for convenience and ease. There’s no long cast-on required, and if you refer to a baby blanket size chart, you can easily adjust the dimensions to suit your needs. This design features stripes that radiate outward from the corner at a right angle, creating a visually appealing effect. The basic stitchwork is nicely elevated by the eyelet rows, and it looks good with a lot of different colors. Plus, if you’re lucky, you might even find some free yarn options to make this project even more budget-friendly!
Designer: Weaving Tales
Yarn: La Droguerie Fleur de Coton Bio (DK Weight #3)
Photo Credit:www.whiletheydream.com
Cute as a Button Baby Blanket
Raise your hand if you like a knitting challenge, but also appreciate having access to free knitting patterns and helpful tutorials! This super cute baby blanket design, quick to capture attention, is named after the Estonian button stitch that the pattern uses for the main part of the blanket. If you're new to this technique, don't worry—there are plenty of tutorials available to guide you through the process. The border is worked using the Latvian braid stitch, adding an extra layer of texture and interest. Talk about texture! What a great way to make a monochrome blanket more interesting and unique. With these free knitting patterns and tutorials, you'll master these stitches in no time and create a quick and stunning project.
Designer: While They Dream
Yarn: Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton (Worsted Weight #4)
Photo Credit:www.yarnspirations.com
Mini Stripes Blanket
One of the reasons I love easy baby blanket knitting patterns, and free-knit baby blanket patterns in particular, is that the baby yarn used is usually so deliciously soft and smooth—it’s just so easy to work with! Combine that inherent ease of use with the simplicity of an eye-catching chevron design, and you’ve got a recipe for knitting bliss with this cute Mini Stripes Blanket. It’s a perfect example of how easy baby blanket knitting patterns can lead to stunning results, usually without the need for complex techniques.
Designer: Yarnspirations
Yarn: Bernat Baby Blanket (Super Bulky Weight #6)
Photo Credit:www.joann.com
Hooded Bear Blanket
What could be cuter than a handmade baby blanket? How about one with a hood and bear ears, created using knitting patterns for baby blankets? Photography opportunities abound with this adorable design from Bernat, a standout choice in order to make a truly memorable gift. The pattern uses a knit stitch for the main blanket, a garter stitch for the border, and a ribbed stitch for the edge of the hood, showcasing a variety of techniques in order to achieve a charming final product.
Designer: Bernat Design Studio
Yarn: Bernat Giggles (Aran Weight #4)
Photo Credit:www.ravelry.com
Seachange Baby Blanket
Want to know how to achieve the marled effect in your knitting projects, drawing some crochet inspiration into your work? It’s easy - just work with two different colors of yarn held together, a technique that’s considered one of the best ways to add depth and interest to your pattern baby blanket. This method is also a great way to gradually fade from one color to the next for an on-trend ombre effect. With this approach, you can make this knit baby blanket in a jiffy using just a garter stitch, creating a pattern baby blanket that’s as stylish as it is cozy!
Designer: Wooly Bear Knits
Yarn: Wool and the Gang Shiny Happy Cotton (Bulky Weight #5)
Photo Credit:www.leeleeknits.com
Hope Baby Blanket
Studies have shown that knitting is one of the most beneficial activities for your mental health and can significantly help relieve stress. If you need a therapeutic and calming activity, easy knits like this design are a great way to get through tough times while fostering hope for the future. The pattern features a nice, relaxing, and repetitive combination of stockinette and seed stitch, making it one of the most accessible and soothing projects you can choose.
Designer: Leelee Knits
Yarn: Knit Picks CotLin (DK Weight #3)
Photo Credit:www.alpacadirect.com
Kisses and Hugs Reversible Baby Blanket
If the perfectionist in you hates the look of the back sides of all your knitting projects, then this reversible pattern, great for those who appreciate meticulous yarn patterns, is the perfect solution! The cute and simple design, reminiscent of free scarf knitting patterns with its accessibility, is accented by a row of cablework Xs and O’s. It’s cute, it’s relatively easy, and it’s totally giftable too, making it one of the great yarn patterns to choose for a heartfelt present. What a sweet and thoughtful way to let the new baby know she is loved.
Designer: Kelley Hobart for Alpaca Direct
Yarn: Berroco Vintage Chunky (Bulky Yarn, Weight #5)
Photo Credit:www.chicorysticks.com
Astrophil Blanket
The beautiful Astrophil Blanket features simple cabling and an easy-to-remember 4-row repeat. The design is named after the sea of stars that the cables form. I love the 3-dimensional effect, don’t you? The border of the blanket is knit as you go so you don’t have to mess around with picking up stitches.
Designer: Chicory Sticks
Yarn: Malabrigo Yarn Rios (Worsted Weight Yarn #4)
Photo Credit:www.michaels.com
Sweet Snuggles Pinstripe Baby Blanket
Not all free-knit baby blanket patterns, even those considered among the best baby blanket knitting patterns, have to be colorful. This particular design, which could easily be adapted to a receiving blanket size, stands out as a must-try for anyone looking to create a chic, minimalist addition to a modern nursery. I really like this black-and-white design; its simplicity is its strength. The pattern calls for a broken garter stitch, and it works up lightning fast thanks to jumbo-weight yarn and a big ol’ pair of knitting needles, making it one of the best baby blanket knitting patterns for a quick and stylish project.
Designer: Raw Blackledge for Michaels
Yarn: Loops & Threads Sweet Snuggles (Jumbo Weight #7)
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Common Questions about Knitting Baby Blankets
How many stitches do you need for a baby blanket?
When knitting a baby blanket, you will use a different number of stitches depending upon your pattern. Typically you will cast on over 120 stitches depending upon the weight of the yarn you are using. The lighter the weight of the yarn used, the more stitches you will need to cast on.
What is the best knitting stitch for a baby blanket?
There really is no “best” stitch as there are so many amazing ones out there. You can use simple garter stitch where you knit every row or a combination of knit and purl stitches for texture. I would stay away from simple Stockinette unless you are planning on adding a substantial border as it tends to curl. Also, stay away from lace patterns with lots of holes, as little fingers and toes can get caught in them.
Can you knit a baby blanket with straight needles?
Most baby blanket sizes should be able to fit on 14″ long needles. Circulars just give more room for the stitches to spread out and you work them the same as straight needles, but if you have sets of straight needles and don’t want to invest in circulars, you can definitely knit a baby blanket with straight needles.
How long does it take to knit a baby blanket?
This will depend upon several factors: the weight of yarn used, the size of your knitting needles, and how fast you are at knitting. I’m much faster at crocheting a baby blanket, so I typically will use that craft, but you can knit a baby blanket in several hours with super bulky weight yarn, or it can take weeks with lighter yarn.
Final Thoughts on Free Baby Blanket Knitting Patterns
I just can’t get enough of these free-knit baby blanket patterns. It’s cuteness overload! I see a lot of happy and snuggly babies in the future, wrapped in hand-knit blankets. I hope you’ve enjoyed these simple knit blanket patterns for babies. An easy blanket is a sweet gift for new parents and it’s a wonderful project for a knitter, too!
Don’t forget, that sharing is caring! Send this free knitting pattern round-up to all your knitting friends so they can join in on the fun too! Bookmark this page or save the link to your Pinterest board for amazing knitting patterns.
I’ll see you next week for another free knitting pattern round-up. Make sure to follow the blog so you never miss a post. <3
Happy Knitting!
Amanda