RAINBOW GRANNY

RAINBOW GRANNY Baby Blanket by SUSAN J WARD

Project Overview

The RAINBOW GRANNY is a vibrant crochet baby blanket measuring approximately 70x70 centimetres (28x28 inches). This intermediate-level project uses a classic granny square construction technique, building outward in rounds with a striking colour-change pattern that creates a rainbow effect. The finished piece works beautifully as a baby blanket or decorative throw.

What Is Being Made

This is a square baby blanket constructed using the traditional granny square method. The blanket is worked in continuous rounds from the centre outward, with each complete round worked in a different colour to create a bold rainbow striping effect. The design combines classic crochet aesthetics with modern colour blocking for visual impact.

Crochet Techniques Used

The RAINBOW GRANNY employs several fundamental crochet techniques suitable for intermediate crafters:

• Granny square construction: The blanket is built using the traditional granny square method, starting from a centre ring and expanding outward in rounds
• Colour changing: Each round is worked in a different colour, requiring fastening off and securing new yarn at the beginning of each round
• Ring foundation: The pattern begins with a chain ring created by chaining and slip stitching to form a circle
• Popcorn stitch clusters: The design features popcorn stitch elements that create textural interest and definition within the pattern

Stitches Used

The pattern utilises a focused selection of crochet stitches:

• Chain (ch): Used for foundation chains and spacing between stitch groups
• Treble crochet (TC): The primary stitch used throughout the blanket, providing height and structure to each round
• Slip stitch (Sl): Used to join rounds and create the initial ring foundation
• Popcorn stitch: A decorative cluster stitch created by working 5 treble crochets into the same space, removing the hook, reinserting it into the top of the first treble, and pulling through to create a raised, dimensional effect

Materials and Tools

The RAINBOW GRANNY requires minimal materials, making it an accessible project for intermediate crocheters:

• Yarn: Baby soft Aran weight yarn; the pattern specifically references James C Brett Baby Aran as the yarn used in the design. Four 100-gram balls are required, one for each colour in the repeating sequence
• Colours: The pattern uses four colours worked in sequence: lemon, lilac, pink, and green, which repeat throughout the blanket to create the rainbow effect
• Crochet hook: One 5.5mm crochet hook
• Finishing tool: A darning needle for weaving in ends and securing yarn

Pattern Structure

The pattern is written in UK crochet terminology and includes a comprehensive abbreviations guide. Instructions begin with creating a chain ring and proceed through sequential rounds. Each round introduces the popcorn stitch as a key design element, with spacing created by chain stitches. The colour-change method is explained at the beginning, with yarn fastened off and new colours secured at the start of each round to maintain clean transitions between the rainbow stripes.

Difficulty Level

Rated as intermediate, this project is suitable for crocheters with foundational skills. The main techniques—treble crochet, slip stitches, and chain stitches—are standard, but the popcorn stitch requires careful attention to technique. The colour-changing aspect adds a small management element, though the process is straightforward once established. First-time granny square makers will find this pattern approachable with basic crochet experience.