Shelly blocks blanket

Shelly Blocks Blanket by Crochet Sanity Sanctuary

Project Overview

The Shelly Blocks Blanket is an intermediate-level crochet design created by independent designer Crochet Sanity Sanctuary. This downloadable PDF pattern produces a beautiful, adjustable blanket featuring a repeating block motif that can be customized to any desired finished size. The sample blanket measures 62cm x 62cm (24.5 inches x 24.5 inches) before the border is added, making it a versatile project suitable for throws, baby blankets, or larger afghans depending on how many pattern repeats you choose to work.

What Is Being Made

This pattern creates a crochet blanket constructed from modular blocks arranged in a grid formation. The design features a repeating stitch pattern that builds both horizontally and vertically, allowing crafters to adjust the final dimensions by simply increasing or decreasing the number of pattern repeats. The blanket includes a border worked around the completed block section, adding a finished edge to the project. The sample version was created using 15 stitch pattern repeats by 15 row pattern repeats, yielding a square blanket before the border was applied.

Crochet Techniques Used

The Shelly Blocks Blanket employs fundamental crochet techniques suitable for intermediate-level crafters. The pattern utilizes post stitches, which are worked around the post of stitches from previous rows rather than into the top loops, creating texture and dimensional interest. Front post and back post variations are incorporated to build the distinctive block pattern. The repeating nature of the stitch pattern makes this project ideal for developing consistency and rhythm in your crochet work, as you'll be repeating the same sequence multiple times across and up the blanket.

Stitches Used

• Chain (ch) – The foundation stitch used to create the base of the pattern
• Single Crochet (sc) – A short, tight stitch that may be used for shaping or joining sections
• Double Crochet (dc) – A taller stitch that forms the main fabric of the blanket blocks
• Treble Crochet (Tr) – An even taller stitch that adds height and openness to the pattern
• Front Post Stitches (fp) – Stitches worked around the front of the post, creating raised texture
• Back Post Stitches (bp) – Stitches worked around the back of the post, adding dimensional contrast to the front post stitches

Materials and Tools

The pattern is written in English U.S.A. crochet terminology and is designed with flexibility in mind regarding yarn selection. The sample blanket shown in the pattern was created using Elle Gold DK weight yarn in four coordinating colors: 033 Lily, 206 Blossom, 003 Spritz, and 015 Lavender. One skein of each color was used to complete the 15-repeat by 15-repeat sample. However, the pattern is fully adaptable to any yarn weight and any appropriate hook size, allowing you to customize the blanket to your preferences and available materials.

A 4mm crochet hook was used with the DK weight yarn in the sample project. Since the pattern is adjustable and works with any yarn weight, you should select a hook size appropriate to your chosen yarn according to the yarn label recommendations.

Additional items that may be helpful for completing this project include stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats and row progress, scissors for cutting yarn, and a large eye needle for weaving in the ends created by color changes throughout the blanket. These tools are optional but recommended for achieving a polished finished product.

Pattern Structure

The pattern uses standard crochet abbreviations and notation conventions. Parentheses indicate stitches worked into the same space, which is particularly useful for corner increases that shape the blanket. Asterisks surrounding instructions (indicated by the *...* notation) show sections that should be repeated the specified number of times, making it easy to work multiple pattern repeats across each row and down each column of the blanket.