Big Softie Blanket - Free Knitting Pattern For Kids in Paintbox Yarns Chenille by Paintbox Yarns

Big Softie Blanket – Free Chunky Knitting Pattern for Kids by Paintbox Yarns

The Big Softie Blanket is a free, downloadable knitting pattern designed by Paintbox Yarns for crafting a cosy, oversized children's blanket with a beautifully textured cable detail. Worked flat to a finished size of approximately 29in/74cm wide by 33in/84cm long, this blanket is perfectly proportioned for little ones — large enough to snuggle under, yet compact enough to tuck into a pram, cot, or favourite reading nook. The pattern is rated easy, making it an ideal project for beginner knitters who want to try their hand at cables without feeling overwhelmed.

What Is Being Made

This pattern produces a single knitted blanket intended for children. Its generous dimensions and plush yarn choice make it a practical and giftable project. The finished piece is soft, tactile, and visually appealing thanks to the combination of a smooth stockinette background and raised cable panels running through the fabric.

Techniques Used

• Worked flat: The blanket is knitted back and forth on straight needles rather than in the round, keeping the construction straightforward and accessible for beginners.
• Cables: Classic cable twists are incorporated into the design, creating a raised, rope-like texture. Cables are formed by temporarily holding stitches on a cable needle while working the stitches behind or in front, then knitting the held stitches. This technique adds visual interest and a handcrafted, heirloom quality to the blanket without requiring advanced skills.

Stitches Used

• Stockinette stitch (stocking stitch): The foundation stitch of the blanket, worked by alternating knit rows on the right side and purl rows on the wrong side to create a smooth, even fabric. The gauge is measured over this stitch at 10 stitches and 19 rows to a 4in/10cm square.
• Cable stitches: Worked over designated stitch panels to create the decorative twisted rope effect characteristic of traditional cable knitting.

Materials Required

• Yarn: Paintbox Yarns Chenille in Sky — a chunky weight chenille yarn, exclusively available at lovecrafts.com. You will need 4 balls of 3½oz/100g. Chenille yarn has a distinctive velvety, pile-like texture that gives the finished blanket an exceptionally soft, plush feel — perfect for a children's project where comfort is a priority. Note that Paintbox Yarns cannot accept responsibility for the finished item if a yarn other than the recommended yarn is used, as gauge and drape may vary.
• Needles: Two sizes of knitting needles are required — US 9 (5.5mm) and US 10 (6mm) straight knitting needles.
• Cable needle: A cable needle is essential for crossing the cable stitches correctly throughout the pattern.
• Large-eyed needle: Used for weaving in yarn ends neatly upon completion.

Pattern Notes and Format

The pattern is written using US terminology, with UK terminology provided in italics within round brackets throughout. Instructions follow standard knitting conventions: figures in square brackets [ ] indicate repeats, and yarn quantities listed are approximate, based on average requirements. The pattern is available as a free downloadable PDF, making it easy to print or reference on a device while knitting.

Whether you are a beginner looking to expand your skills with a first cable project, or an experienced knitter seeking a quick and satisfying make in luxurious chunky chenille, the Big Softie Blanket by Paintbox Yarns delivers a rewarding knit with a wonderfully cosy result.