Fisherman Rib Blanket in Loopy Mango Big Cotton Cone - Downloadable PDF

Fisherman Rib Blanket in Big Cotton

What Is Being Made

The Fisherman Rib Blanket is a chunky knit throw blanket designed for beginner-level knitters. This project creates a cozy, textured blanket available in three finished sizes: Medium (32" × 60"), Large (38" × 76"), and X-Large (40" × 86"). The blanket is worked in a classic fisherman rib stitch pattern that produces a dense, dimensional fabric with excellent drape and warmth.

Materials Required

This pattern uses Loopy Mango Big Cotton Cone yarn, a 100% cotton yarn supplied in large cones. The project requires 2 cones for the Medium size, 3 cones for Large, and 4 cones for X-Large. Each cone contains 240 yards (210 meters) and weighs 17.5 ounces (500 grams). Knitters will also need US Size 19 (15 mm) circular needles measuring 32 inches (80 cm) in length to accommodate the blanket's width as it grows.

Techniques Used

The Fisherman Rib Blanket employs straightforward knitting techniques suitable for beginners. The pattern uses a simple two-row repeat that alternates between purl rows and combination rows. The primary technique featured is knit one below (K1B), which creates the characteristic texture of fisherman rib by knitting into the stitch below the current row. This technique, combined with regular purling, builds the dense, cushioned fabric that defines the blanket's appearance and feel.

Stitches Used

• Purl (P): Used to create the first row and alternating stitches throughout the pattern, forming the base structure of the fisherman rib.
• Knit One Below (K1B): The signature stitch that distinguishes fisherman rib. This stitch is worked by inserting the needle into the stitch one row below the current working row, creating the textured, layered appearance characteristic of this stitch pattern.

Pattern Structure

The blanket begins with a cast-on of 38 stitches for Medium, 42 for Large, or 48 for X-Large. Row 1 is worked entirely in purl stitches to establish the foundation. Row 2 introduces the fisherman rib pattern: knitters alternate one purl stitch with one knit one below stitch across the entire row. This two-row sequence is then repeated continuously until the yarn is nearly exhausted, leaving sufficient yardage (approximately 4 times the blanket's width) for casting off and finishing.

Gauge and Sizing

The pattern specifies a gauge of 3 stitches and 6 rows per 3 inches when worked in the fisherman rib stitch. This chunky gauge, combined with the large 15 mm needles and thick cotton yarn, allows the blanket to grow quickly, making it an ideal beginner project that produces impressive results in a reasonable timeframe. The three size options accommodate different preferences and spaces, from a cozy throw to an oversized bed blanket.

Yarn Characteristics

The Big Cotton yarn used in this pattern is a chunky-weight, 100% cotton fiber ideal for warm-weather blankets and throws. Cotton's breathability and natural moisture-wicking properties make it an excellent choice for blankets intended for use year-round or in warmer climates. The yarn's substantial weight and the fisherman rib stitch combine to create a blanket with excellent structure and a luxurious, substantial feel.