Bernat Patterns

A blanket library, mostly

Look down the list and the pattern is obvious: Bernat designs are built for big, practical, washable makes. Around a quarter are blankets and throws, from super chunky weekend blankets to ripple afghans and pram blankets. The rest are the things people make as gifts, in quantity: hats, cowls and scarves, cushions, baby cardigans, ponchos and simple jumpers. Every pattern here is a free download, so you can start the same day.

Knitting or crochet

The collection splits almost evenly between the two crafts. If you only do one, go straight to the Bernat knitting patterns or the Bernat crochet patterns and skip the other half. For more of the same kind of project from every designer, browse the crochet blanket patterns and knitted blanket patterns.

Choosing a yarn for a Bernat pattern

Each pattern names the Bernat yarn it was written for. Any yarn that matches its weight and tension will work, so match on those rather than the brand:

• Super chunky blankets and throws: any super chunky yarn, or a chenille yarn if you want the same plush pile.
• Quick hats, cowls and chunky knits: a chunky yarn worked to the pattern tension.
• Afghans and everyday jumpers: an aran or worsted acrylic, which is what the Super Value and Satin patterns are written for.
• Baby garments and pram blankets: a soft, machine-washable baby yarn or DK.
• Stripes and gradients: a self-striping yarn does the colour work for you.

Swatch first and go by metres, not ball count: ball sizes vary a lot between brands, so work out the total metres the pattern calls for and buy to that.

Working chenille and velvet patterns

Many Bernat blanket patterns are written for chenille, which behaves differently from smooth yarn. It has almost no stretch and the pile hides your stitches, so place a stitch marker every twenty stitches and count as you go. Keep your tension firm; too loose and loops work out of the surface. Simple stitches such as double crochet, half treble, garter stitch and ribbing show up best, while lace and cables get lost. Weave ends in by splitting the yarn, and seam with a firm whip stitch in a smooth matching yarn.

Bernat pattern questions

Are these Bernat patterns free? Yes. Every pattern in this collection is a free download.

Can I use a different yarn? Yes. Match the weight and tension on the pattern, swatch, and buy by total metres rather than number of balls.

Are Bernat blanket patterns good for beginners? Most are. They use basic stitches on large hooks and needles, so they grow quickly and are forgiving.

Where are the knitting-only or crochet-only patterns? In the Bernat knitting patterns and Bernat crochet patterns collections.