Gingham Picnic Blanket

Gingham Picnic Blanket by Chloe Bailey

What is Being Made

The Gingham Picnic Blanket is a practical summer throw designed by Chloe Bailey for outdoor gatherings. This crochet blanket features a classic gingham pattern created through tapestry crochet techniques, making it an ideal project for intermediate crocheters or adventurous beginners looking to expand their colorwork skills. The finished piece is substantial enough for picnics and outdoor events while remaining portable and functional.

Crochet Techniques Used

Tapestry crochet is the primary technique featured in this pattern. Tapestry crochet is a colorwork method that allows crafters to create intricate patterns by carrying non-working yarn inside the stitches as they work, eliminating the need for color changes that would create loose ends. The pattern includes photo tutorials specifically designed to guide crocheters through the process of changing colors and managing non-working yarn, making the technique accessible to those new to colorwork.

Stitches Used

This pattern utilizes fundamental crochet stitches appropriate for blanket construction:

• Chain (CH) – used for foundation and turning chains
• Double crochet (DC) – the primary stitch for building the blanket fabric
• Half treble crochet (HTR) – provides additional texture and structure
• Slip stitch (SLST) – used for joining and finishing

Materials Required

The Gingham Picnic Blanket is worked in Paintbox Yarns Simply Aran, a 100% acrylic yarn offering excellent durability and ease of care for a frequently-used outdoor blanket. The yarn weight is aran, which works quickly and creates a fabric with good drape and structure. The pattern requires 500g of Colour A, 250g of Colour B, and 250g of Colour C, totaling 1000g of yarn. The photographed blanket uses Paintbox Yarns Simply Aran in Daffodil Yellow (221) for Colour A, Champagne White (202) for Colour B, and Buttercup Yellow (222) for Colour C, creating a cheerful gingham aesthetic suitable for summer entertaining.

A 4.5 mm crochet hook and 5 mm crochet hook are required, allowing for gauge adjustments and different sections if needed. A tapestry needle and scissors complete the essential tools for finishing the blanket.

Difficulty Level

This pattern is rated as intermediate difficulty, making it suitable for crocheters with foundational skills who are ready to explore colorwork techniques. The inclusion of detailed photo tutorials for tapestry crochet techniques ensures that adventurous beginners can successfully complete the project with patience and practice.