Peek-A-Boo Blanket

Peek-A-Boo Blanket by Esther Thompson

What Is Being Made

The Peek-A-Boo Blanket is a crocheted throw blanket designed by Esther Thompson. This project creates a cozy blanket suitable for wrapping, decorating, or gifting. The blanket features a textured construction that showcases the beauty of super chunky yarn, making it an ideal project for beginners looking to complete a substantial finished piece relatively quickly.

Craft and Primary Technique

This project uses crochet as the primary craft method. The blanket employs a specialized technique of crocheting in the third loop only, which is used to replicate the first rows of the pattern. This technique creates a distinctive texture and visual interest while maintaining the structural integrity of the piece. The third-loop method is particularly effective for creating defined rows and achieving the desired drape in the finished fabric.

Stitches Used

The Peek-A-Boo Blanket incorporates the following crochet stitches:

• Foundation half double crochet (fhdc) – used to establish the foundation of the blanket
• Half double crochet (hdc) – a primary stitch throughout the pattern, worked in the third loop to create texture
• Single crochet (sc) – used for shaping and finishing details
• Double crochet (dc) – incorporated for varied stitch heights and visual texture
• Slip stitch (sl st) – used for joining and finishing edges

Materials and Tools

The Peek-A-Boo Blanket is constructed using Size 6 yarn, classified as super chunky weight. The designer used 6–7 skeins of Bernat Blanket in Country Blue (10.5 oz per skein), though crafters may substitute other super chunky yarns of similar weight and yardage. A US Q hook (15.75 mm) is recommended for this project. Additional tools needed include a yarn needle for weaving in ends and scissors for cutting yarn.

Gauge and Customization Notes

The pattern specifies a gauge of 4 inches = 5 half double crochets and 4 rows, measured in the third loop only to match the pattern's construction method. The designer notes that her personal gauge is tighter than average, which is why she selected a size Q hook to achieve the desired fabric drape. Crafters who crochet more loosely have two options: go down one or two hook sizes to match the intended gauge, or adjust the hook size based on personal preference for fabric drape and finished dimensions.

Pattern Structure

An important pattern note is that starting chains do not count as stitches in this design. This means the chain-1 or chain-2 at the beginning of each row should not be included in the stitch count for that row. This convention is common in many crochet patterns and helps maintain accurate stitch counts throughout the project.

Difficulty Level

Rated as a beginner project, the Peek-A-Boo Blanket is accessible to new crocheters while still offering the satisfaction of completing a large, functional piece. The use of basic stitches and straightforward techniques makes it an excellent choice for building foundational crochet skills.