'Train Tracks' Textured Blanket

'Train Tracks' Textured Blanket Pattern by I Love My Blanket

What Is Being Made

The 'Train Tracks' Textured Blanket is a knitted throw blanket designed by Reena Belford of I Love My Blanket. This intermediate-level knitting project creates a finished blanket measuring approximately 46 inches by 46 inches (117 cm by 117 cm), making it an ideal size for a cozy throw or lap blanket. The blanket features distinctive textured patterning that creates visual interest through varied stitch techniques.

Knitting Techniques Used

The 'Train Tracks' pattern employs textured knitting techniques that take advantage of loop yarn's unique construction. The design creates dimensional surface effects through strategic stitch placement and manipulation of the yarn's natural loops. This approach allows crafters to build visual complexity and tactile interest without requiring advanced colorwork or intricate stitch combinations. The pattern is specifically engineered to showcase the characteristics of bulky loop yarn, where the yarn's loops themselves become part of the design element.

Stitches and Stitch Work

While specific stitch names are not detailed in the pattern excerpt, the 'Train Tracks' design utilizes fundamental knitting stitches adapted for super chunky loop yarn. The textured effect is achieved through selective use of knit and purl stitches or similar basic techniques that work with the oversized loops characteristic of this yarn weight. The pattern's intermediate skill level indicates that crafters should be comfortable with basic stitch execution and reading pattern instructions, though advanced techniques are not required.

Materials and Yarn Specifications

The 'Train Tracks' Textured Blanket pattern calls for 6 balls of Bernat Alize Blanket-EZ yarn, with each ball containing 6.4 ounces (180 grams). The yarn featured in the pattern photographs is shown in the colorway 'Burgundy'. This is a super chunky weight loop yarn, also known as blanket yarn or puffy yarn, which creates quick results and dramatic texture.

The pattern is designed to work with any brand of loop yarn, though crafters should be aware that loop size and ball weight vary between manufacturers. Different brands of loop yarn will produce variations in the final blanket dimensions. Alize Puffy yarn is mentioned as an alternative option that will yield different results based on its specific loop construction and yardage per ball.

Yarn Weight and Project Scale

At super chunky weight, this yarn creates a substantial, cozy blanket using just 6 balls of yarn. The super chunky classification means the yarn works up quickly on appropriately sized needles, making this an efficient project for intermediate knitters seeking a finished blanket in a reasonable timeframe. The loop yarn construction provides inherent softness and drape ideal for blanket applications.

Skill Level and Suitability

This pattern is rated at intermediate difficulty, making it suitable for knitters who have mastered basic knit and purl stitches and are comfortable following written pattern instructions. The project does not require advanced techniques such as complex colorwork, cable stitches, or intricate shaping, but does assume familiarity with fundamental knitting mechanics and pattern reading.

Pattern Format and Usage Rights

The 'Train Tracks' Textured Blanket pattern is provided as a downloadable PDF, allowing crafters to access and reference the instructions digitally. This is an original design by I Love My Blanket and Reena Belford. Products created using this pattern are permitted for both personal and commercial use, provided that credit is given to I Love My Blanket and Reena Belford, with a link to the original pattern listing included when sharing finished projects.