Crochet Pattern Collection 1

Colour Block Granny Blanket by Eight-by-Six

What is Being Made

The Colour Block Granny is a crochet blanket designed by Amanda Hurrell for Eight-by-Six. This project creates a vibrant, striped throw blanket using a classic granny square construction enhanced with a multi-coloured colour-blocking technique. The finished piece is suitable for use as a decorative throw or functional blanket for any room.

Crochet Techniques and Stitches

This beginner-friendly crochet pattern employs fundamental crochet techniques that make it accessible for those new to the craft. The main construction uses granny square motifs, a traditional crochet foundation technique that builds fabric through repeated geometric units.

The stitch work incorporates several core crochet stitches:

• Half treble crochet (htr) – used throughout the main body rows and in the first row of the border, creating a medium-height stitch that provides good drape and structure
• Double crochet (dc) – featured in the fourth row of the border for added texture and definition
• Picot stitches – decorative stitch elements used in the fifth row of the border to create a finished, ornamental edge

The colour-blocking technique involves changing yarn colours at regular intervals (every two rows), creating bold horizontal stripes that showcase the contrast between shades. This method requires careful yarn management and colour sequencing but remains simple enough for beginners to execute successfully.

Colour Sequence and Design

The blanket features an extensive 21-colour palette using Stylecraft Special DK yarn. The colour progression moves through warm tones into cool tones, creating a gradient effect across the finished piece. Colours include Lipstick, Bright Pink, Fuscia Purple, Boysenberry, Plum, Magenta, Wisteria, Lavender, Violet, Parma Violet, Bluebell, Lobelia, Denim, Aster, Cloud Blue, Sherbert, Duck Egg, Storm Blue, Petrol, Sage, Cypress, and Meadow. Parchment serves as the alternate row colour throughout the main body, providing visual separation between colour blocks. The border incorporates Parchment, Lime, Boysenberry, and Storm Blue for a coordinated finishing frame.

Materials and Yarn Specifications

This pattern uses Stylecraft Special DK yarn, a double knit weight that offers excellent stitch definition and drape. Each 100g ball contains 322 yards (295 metres), allowing crafters to work with generous yardage. The total yarn requirement is approximately 200g including the border, with small amounts of each colour needed. A UK 4mm crochet hook is recommended for working with DK-weight yarn, creating appropriately sized stitches and a cohesive fabric. Additional materials include scissors and a darning needle for weaving in ends and finishing the blanket.

Care Instructions and Practicality

The finished blanket is machine washable at 40 degrees, making it practical for regular use and maintenance. Care options include cool tumble drying, cool iron pressing, or professional dry cleaning. The designer notes a preference for line drying, which helps preserve the yarn's integrity and colour vibrancy over time. This durability makes the Colour Block Granny suitable for both decorative display and functional everyday use.

Difficulty Level

Rated as a beginner pattern, the Colour Block Granny is designed for crocheters new to the craft or those seeking a straightforward project. The use of basic stitches, clear colour sequencing, and traditional granny construction methods ensure accessibility while producing a visually impressive finished blanket.