Sideways Throw

Sideways Throw by Samantha Paya

What is Being Made

The Sideways Throw is a large knitted afghan or throw blanket designed by Samantha Paya of Starsam Designs. This project creates a finished blanket measuring approximately 65 inches by 65 inches, making it an ideal size for draping over furniture or using as a cozy lap blanket. The throw is constructed using a sideways knitting technique, meaning the blanket is worked horizontally from one side to the other rather than from top to bottom.

Knitting Techniques Used

This beginner-friendly project employs several fundamental knitting techniques. The throw utilizes sideways construction, which involves casting on a small number of stitches and progressively increasing stitches on the right side rows to build the width of the blanket. This method creates a unique directional quality to the finished piece. The pattern incorporates increases at the beginning and end of rows on the right side to gradually expand the stitch count from the initial 5 stitches to a final 275 stitches on the needle. The design also features a garter stitch border that frames the central pattern area, providing a finished edge and structural stability.

Stitches Used

• Garter Stitch: Created by knitting every row, this stitch forms the 10-stitch borders on either side of the throw and provides a textured, reversible fabric
• Stockinette Stitch: The primary stitch used in the central section, created by alternating knit rows on the right side with purl rows on the wrong side, producing a smooth, classic knitted appearance
• Yarn Over or Stitch Increases: Used to add stitches at the beginning and end of right-side rows to gradually expand the blanket's dimensions

Materials Required

The Sideways Throw requires 2 skeins of Scheepjes Hannah yarn, each weighing 350 grams, in colorway No. 27. The yarn is an aran weight, which is a medium-weight yarn ideal for creating blankets with good drape and warmth without excessive bulk. A circular needle measuring 5.5mm in diameter and at least 80 centimeters in length is essential for this project. Although the throw is knitted in rows rather than in the round, the long circular needle is necessary to accommodate the large stitch count that builds up during construction, eventually reaching 275 stitches on the needle.

Tension and Sizing

The pattern specifies a tension of 13 stitches by 16 rows over 4 inches by 4 inches (10 centimeters by 10 centimeters) in stockinette stitch. Achieving the correct tension is important for obtaining the intended finished dimensions of approximately 65 inches by 65 inches. Knitters should swatch before beginning to ensure their tension matches the pattern specifications.

Difficulty Level

This project is rated as beginner-friendly, making it an excellent choice for knitters new to blanket construction. While the final piece is large and requires sustained knitting over many rows, the stitch techniques employed are fundamental and straightforward. The sideways construction method, combined with simple increases and basic stitch patterns, allows beginners to develop their skills while creating a substantial, satisfying finished project.