Football Blanket & Rattle

Football Field Blanket and Rattle by DACcrochet

Project Overview

This downloadable crochet pattern from independent designer DACcrochet creates a coordinating set featuring a football-themed blanket and matching rattle. The blanket measures 32 inches by 36 inches, making it an ideal size for newborn photography props, baby gifts, or decorative throws. The accompanying football rattle measures 5 inches long and provides a soft, safe toy component to complement the blanket set.

What is Being Made

The pattern includes two separate projects: a large rectangular blanket with a football field design and a small football-shaped rattle. The blanket serves as a versatile piece suitable for photography backdrops, nursery decor, or as a functional baby blanket. The rattle adds an interactive element and makes this set particularly appealing for newborns and infants.

Crochet Techniques and Construction

This beginner-friendly pattern employs fundamental crochet techniques accessible to crafters new to the hobby. The construction relies on basic stitch work combined with color changes to create the football field aesthetic. The blanket uses a larger hook size for quicker work, while the football rattle and field markings utilize smaller hook sizes for detailed definition and precision.

Stitches Used

• Single Crochet (SC) – provides a tight, dense fabric
• Double Crochet (DC) – creates a taller stitch for varied texture
• Half Double Crochet (HDC) – offers a medium-height stitch option
• Slip Stitch (SL ST) – used for joining rounds and securing stitches
• Chain (CH) – forms the foundation and increases

Materials and Yarn Specifications

The pattern calls for worsted weight yarn, specifically Red Heart Super Saver in 7-ounce skeins. The color palette includes 2 skeins of spring green and 1 skein of white for the main blanket construction, creating the football field appearance. Small amounts of brown and white yarn (either Red Heart Super Saver or Sugar & Cream Cotton) are needed for the football details.

Crochet Hooks Required

• Size J crochet hook – for the main blanket body
• Size E crochet hook (with acrylic yarn) or Size F crochet hook (with cotton yarn) – for creating the field numbers
• Size G crochet hook – for constructing the football rattle

Gauge and Finished Dimensions

The pattern specifies a gauge of 13 stitches and 7 rows over 4 inches, which helps ensure the blanket reaches its intended finished size of 32 inches by 36 inches. Maintaining proper gauge is essential for achieving the correct proportions and drape of the finished blanket.

Design Features and Applications

The football field blanket design makes it particularly suitable for newborn photography sessions, allowing photographers to create themed portraits with coordinating props. The pattern's beginner difficulty level makes it accessible to crocheters of varying experience, while the finished set appeals to sports enthusiasts, new parents, and gift-givers seeking handmade baby items.