Striped Out. C2C Baby blanket

Striped Out Corner to Corner Baby Blanket

What is Being Made

The Striped Out is a corner to corner crochet baby blanket designed by Rosina Northcott. This project creates a finished blanket measuring approximately 48 x 71cm (19 x 28 inches), making it the perfect size for use with a pram or as a portable baby blanket. The design features vibrant horizontal stripes created through the strategic use of multiple coordinating yarn colors worked in sequence.

Crochet Techniques

This pattern utilizes the Corner to Corner (C2C) crochet technique, a popular method for creating blankets and afghans that works diagonally from one corner to the opposite corner. The C2C method is particularly effective for creating geometric patterns and color work, as it naturally builds blocks of stitches that can be easily modified to incorporate different colors. The pattern includes a dedicated "How To C2C" guide to help crafters understand and execute this technique successfully, making it accessible to intermediate-level crocheters.

Stitches Used

The Striped Out blanket is constructed using fundamental crochet stitches appropriate for the C2C technique. The pattern employs:

• Chain stitches (ch) – used to create the foundation and structure of each block
• Treble stitches (tr) – referred to as US double crochet in American terminology, these form the main body of each stitch block
• Slip stitches (sl st) – used for joining and finishing techniques
• Chain spaces (ch-sp) – the gaps created between stitches that define the block structure

Each block within the pattern is defined as 3 chain stitches and 3 treble stitches, creating a consistent modular unit throughout the blanket. The pattern is written in UK crochet terminology.

Materials and Yarn

The Striped Out blanket pattern calls for King Cole Paradise Beaches DK yarn, a premium blend containing 70% acrylic and 30% polyamide. This yarn weight classification is DK (double knit), which is a medium-weight yarn ideal for creating fabric with good drape and structure. Each ball contains 100g of yarn with yardage of 255m (278 yards).

The pattern specifies six coordinating color shades from the King Cole Paradise Beaches collection, with one ball of each color recommended:

• Blue Jamaica
• Electric Lemonade
• Pina Colada
• Silver Martini
• Strawberry Daiquiri
• White Lady

The actual yardage used varies by color: Blue Jamaica (34g), Electric Lemonade (18g), Pina Colada (56g), Silver Martini (22g), Strawberry Daiquiri (36g), and White Lady (50g). This color combination creates the distinctive striped effect that gives the blanket its name.

Tools and Equipment

The pattern requires a 3.5mm crochet hook (US size E/4), which is appropriately sized for working with DK weight yarn. This hook size ensures that the stitches work up at a consistent gauge while maintaining the intended drape and flexibility of the finished blanket.

Pattern Features and Difficulty

Classified as an intermediate-level project, the Striped Out blanket is suitable for crocheters with some experience who are ready to tackle the Corner to Corner technique. The pattern is described as "quick and easy," indicating that despite the intermediate classification, the construction process is straightforward once the C2C method is understood. Notably, tension is not critical for this project, making it forgiving for crafters still developing consistent stitch tension.

The pattern includes both a color chart and written instructions, allowing crafters to follow their preferred method. The color chart provides a visual reference for where each color should be placed, while the written instructions offer step-by-step guidance. Crafters are advised to use the written pattern in conjunction with the color chart for optimal results.