GRACE baby blanket knitting pattern

GRACE Baby Blanket Knitting Pattern

What is Being Made

The GRACE baby blanket is a corner-to-corner knitted blanket designed by Susan J Ward, measuring approximately 30 x 26 inches (77 x 66 centimeters). This intermediate-level knitting project includes two knitted appliques—a unicorn and a teddy bear—that add decorative charm to the finished blanket. The pattern is presented as a downloadable PDF suitable for knitters seeking a personalized baby gift or nursery accessory.

Knitting Techniques

The GRACE blanket employs the corner-to-corner knitting method, a technique that builds the fabric diagonally from one corner to the opposite corner using just two needles. This approach creates a dynamic construction process and allows for interesting stitch pattern development as the blanket grows. The pattern includes detailed instructions for creating the two appliques, which are knitted separately and then attached to the finished blanket. Embroidery techniques are also incorporated to add facial features to the appliques using black yarn, bringing character and dimension to the teddy bear and unicorn designs. Optional ribbon decoration can be added for further personalization.

Stitches Used

The GRACE pattern utilizes fundamental knitting stitches appropriate for an intermediate skill level. Core stitches include:

• Knit (K) – the basic stitch forming the primary fabric
• Purl (P) – used to create texture and pattern variation
• Yarn Forward (Yfd) – creates openwork and decorative elements
• Slip, Slip, Knit (Psso) – pass the slipped stitch over technique used for decreasing
• Knit 3 Over 2 (*K3 over 2*) – a specialized decrease technique where three stitches are knitted, then the first of these three stitches is lifted over the needle and off, creating a distinctive textured decrease

These stitches combine to create the blanket's overall structure while the appliques use similar fundamental techniques adapted for smaller-scale decorative elements.

Materials and Yarn Specifications

The GRACE blanket pattern calls for double knit (DK) weight yarn, a lightweight yet durable choice ideal for baby blankets. The material requirements include:

• Main blanket: 200 grams of baby soft double knit yarn
• Unicorn applique: Approximately 20 grams of double knit yarn (the designer used Ice Lurex yarn for sparkle and visual interest) plus oddments in assorted double knit colors for added detail
• Teddy bear applique: Approximately 20 grams of double knit yarn (the designer used King Cole Cuddles for softness and texture)
• Embroidery details: Black yarn for embroidering the noses and eyes on both appliques
• Optional decoration: Ribbon for additional embellishment

Knitting Needles

The pattern requires two pairs of needles in different sizes to accommodate the yarn weight and create appropriate fabric tension:

• 5mm knitting needles – the primary needles for the main blanket construction
• 4.5mm knitting needles – used for the appliques or sections requiring tighter gauge

The combination of needle sizes allows the knitter to adjust fabric density and create definition between the main blanket and its decorative appliques. This intermediate-level project combines accessible knitting fundamentals with creative embellishment techniques, making it suitable for knitters with some experience seeking to expand their skills while creating a cherished heirloom baby blanket.