Paralleloghan

Paralleloghan Knitted Blanket by Deb Boyken

What Is Being Made

The Paralleloghan is an advanced knitted blanket or throw designed by Deb Boyken (happysmom). Rather than following traditional rectangular block construction, this blanket features a dynamic collection of parallelogram-shaped blocks arranged to create visual interest and movement across the finished piece. The design incorporates chevron elements that intentionally deviate from standard angled chevron patterns, instead creating organic lines that resist rigid right angles and straight edges. This unconventional approach to blanket construction results in a sophisticated, modern throw that challenges traditional afghan design.

Design Features and Construction

The Paralleloghan showcases several distinctive design elements that set it apart from conventional blanket patterns. Diagonal accent lines run throughout the blanket to add definition and visual structure to the parallelogram blocks. Rather than using a single accent color across the entire piece, the designer employed a gradient technique where the accent colors transition from dark to light as they progress across the blanket. This color-shifting approach adds depth and complexity to the overall composition, creating a dynamic visual effect that draws the eye across the finished blanket.

Knitting Techniques Used

• Cast-on methods: The pattern employs cast-on (CO) techniques to establish the foundation stitches for the blanket sections
• Increases and decreases: Strategic increasing (inc) and decreasing (dec) stitches shape the parallelogram blocks and create the angled, non-rectangular forms
• Knit stitches: Standard knit (k) stitches form the base fabric throughout the blanket
• Knit two together: The k2tog decrease technique is used to shape the parallelogram edges and create definition

Stitches and Stitch Work

The Paralleloghan is constructed using fundamental knitting stitches combined in creative ways to achieve the parallelogram block structure. The primary stitch work involves knit stitches (k) combined with strategic increases and decreases to form the geometric shapes. The knit two together (k2tog) decrease is particularly important for shaping the angled edges of the parallelogram blocks. The pattern is organized by columns (col), with increases and decreases strategized throughout each column to create the intended geometric forms. This approach requires careful attention to stitch placement and counting, making it suitable for advanced knitters who are comfortable working with shaping techniques.

Materials and Yarn

The Paralleloghan pattern calls for Juniper Moon Herriot Heathers yarn, a luxurious fiber composed of 100% Baby Alpaca. The yarn is specified at a yardage of 218 yards per 100-gram skein. The blanket requires 4 skeins each of two colorways: Color A in #1003 Dark Harbor (a deep, dark shade) and Color B in #1009 Iceplant Green (a lighter, softer green tone). The baby alpaca fiber contributes to the blanket's described softness and drape, making it an ideal choice for a luxury throw. The color combination of dark harbor and iceplant green creates a sophisticated, nature-inspired palette that supports the gradient accent technique used throughout the design.

Difficulty Level

This pattern is rated as advanced, appropriate for experienced knitters. The complexity arises not from difficult individual stitches, but from the geometric construction required to create the parallelogram blocks and maintain proper shaping throughout. Knitters must be comfortable with increases, decreases, and stitch counting, and should have experience working with shaping techniques. The designer notes that the assembly and construction process is engaging and never boring, suggesting that the pattern requires active attention and problem-solving throughout the knitting process.