Rainbow Ladders Blanket

Rainbow Ladders Blanket by Helen McLean

What is Being Made

The Rainbow Ladders Blanket is a colorful square crochet throw designed by Helen McLean of Sew Sew Baby. This finished blanket measures 110x110cm (44x44in), making it a generous size suitable for use as a lap blanket, decorative throw, or baby blanket. The design features a vibrant rainbow color palette created through interlocking blocks that form a ladder-like visual pattern across the fabric.

Craft and Techniques

This project is created using crochet, specifically the interlocking blocks technique. This construction method produces a structured, geometric appearance with distinct color blocks that interlock to create the ladder pattern. The interlocking blocks technique is a popular method in crochet that allows for clean color transitions and dimensional texture. One important note for crafters: this technique produces many yarn ends that require finishing, so the pattern recommends weaving in ends as you progress through the work rather than waiting until completion.

Stitches Used

The Rainbow Ladders Blanket employs fundamental crochet stitches suitable for beginners:

• Chain (ch) – the foundation stitch used to create the base of the pattern
• Treble Crochet (tr) – the primary stitch used throughout the blanket, which creates height and drape in the fabric
• Double Crochet (dc) – used as a supporting stitch in the construction
• Slip Stitch (sl st) – used to join rounds and secure stitches

The pattern uses UK crochet terminology. The gauge is 18 stitches and 11 rows measured over 10x10cm (4x4in) when worked in treble crochet.

Materials and Tools

The Rainbow Ladders Blanket is worked in Stylecraft Special DK yarn, a 100% acrylic fiber available in 100g balls with 295 meters of yardage per ball. This DK (double knit) weight yarn is an excellent choice for beginners as it works up quickly while remaining easy to handle.

The color palette consists of eight coordinated shades:

• Yarn A: Silver (3 balls)
• Yarn B: Lipstick (1 ball)
• Yarn C: Spice (1 ball)
• Yarn D: Citron (1 ball)
• Yarn E: Aspen (1 ball)
• Yarn F: Lapis (1 ball)
• Yarn G: Violet (1 ball)
• Yarn H: Emperor (1 ball)

The project requires a 4mm crochet hook, which is the appropriate size for DK weight yarn and produces the correct gauge for this pattern. Additional tools include a yarn needle for weaving in ends and finishing seams, and a 2-inch pompom maker for adding decorative embellishments to the blanket.

Skill Level

This blanket is rated as a beginnerlevel project, making it an ideal choice for crocheters who are new to the craft or looking to build foundational skills. The straightforward stitch combinations and geometric interlocking blocks structure provide a manageable learning experience while producing a visually impressive finished piece.