This soft baby blanket is made from one simple rectangular panel worked back and forth, finished with a neat border. It’s an easy, beginner-friendly project using just one basic stitch throughout.
What You Need
- Soft baby-safe yarn, worsted or DK weight (main color, plus an optional contrast color for the border)
- Crochet hook (Suggested: 4–5 mm, matched to your yarn)
- Yarn needle (for weaving in ends)
- Measuring tape
- Scissors
- Stitch marker
How to Make It
Step 1: Make the Foundation Chain
Chain a length of stitches to match your desired blanket width (Suggested: measure your chain flat and stop once it reaches the width you want, keeping in mind it may stretch slightly once you start stitching rows). This chain becomes the base for your first row.
Step 2: Work the First Row
Starting in the second chain from your hook, work single or half double crochet stitches across the entire chain, one stitch into each chain space. When you reach the end, you’ll have your first completed row.
Step 3: Build the Body of the Blanket
Turn your work at the end of each row, chain one or two stitches (depending on your stitch type) to start the next row, and work the same stitch across again, placing one stitch into each stitch from the row below. Repeat this process row after row until the blanket reaches your desired length (Suggested: keep checking the length against a folded baby blanket you already own, or measure as you go).
Step 4: Add Stripes (Optional)
If you want a striped design, switch to a contrast color at the start of a new row every so often, carrying or weaving in the unused color as you go, then switch back to the main color for the next set of rows.
Step 5: Add a Border
Once the blanket body is the length you want, work one or two rounds of single crochet all the way around the outer edge of the blanket, working extra stitches into each corner so the border lies flat instead of curling. This gives the blanket a neat, finished edge on all four sides.
Finishing
- Fasten off after completing the border and weave in all loose ends securely with the yarn needle so nothing can be tugged loose.
- Lightly steam or block the blanket flat if it looks uneven, following the care instructions for your yarn.
- Check all edges for any missed stitches or gaps and close them with a few extra stitches if needed.
Helpful Tips
- Count your stitches at the end of every few rows to make sure you haven’t accidentally added or dropped any, since even one extra stitch can cause the edges to curl.
- Choose a soft, machine-washable yarn labeled as baby-safe, since baby blankets need frequent washing.
- Work extra stitches into each corner of the border round so the blanket lies flat instead of cupping or rippling at the edges.
Final Result
A soft, evenly stitched baby blanket with a clean border — a cozy handmade gift for a new little one.
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