Sirius Blanket in Berroco Vintage Handpaint - Downloadable PDF

Sirius Blanket in Berroco Vintage Handpaint

What is Being Made

The Sirius Blanket is a rectangular throw blanket measuring approximately 38½ inches by 54 inches (98 cm x 137 cm). This knitted blanket is designed as an accessible beginner-level project that creates a finished piece suitable for home décor or personal use. The blanket features a striped color design using two coordinating colorways from the Berroco Vintage Handpaint yarn line.

Knitting Techniques Used

This blanket is constructed using a straightforward rectangular knitting method, worked from one short end to the other. The design incorporates slip stitch pattern work, which creates visual texture and interest while remaining manageable for knitters new to patterned projects. A key construction technique involves carrying yarn up the side between stripes, allowing crafters to work with multiple colors without cutting the yarn, which simplifies color changes and reduces finishing work.

Stitches and Pattern Details

The Sirius Blanket is worked primarily in slip stitch pattern, a fundamental knitting technique that produces a dense, textured fabric. Slip stitches are created by moving stitches from one needle to another without working through them, which adds visual dimension to the finished piece. This stitch pattern is worked on the larger needles and creates the gauge of 18 stitches and 28 rows per 4 inches (10 cm) when measured after blocking.

Materials: Yarn and Needles

The Sirius Blanket calls for Berroco Vintage Handpaint yarn in worsted weight. This yarn choice provides durability and drape suitable for a throw blanket. The color palette consists of:

• 7 hanks of #5213 Royal Amethyst (primary color, designated as C1)
• 2 hanks of #5230 Blushing Rose (secondary color, designated as C2)

Each hank weighs 100 grams. The project requires 40-inch circular needles in two sizes: size 5 (3.75 mm) needles and size 7 (4.5 mm) needles. The larger size 7 needles are used for working the pattern stitch and establishing the project gauge, while the smaller needles may be used for ribbing or edge work. Circular needles are recommended for this project to accommodate the width of the blanket comfortably during knitting.

Skill Level and Gauge Information

Designed by Åsa Buchta, the Sirius Blanket is rated as an Easy skill level, making it an excellent choice for beginner knitters. The pattern emphasizes the importance of checking gauge before beginning, as accurate gauge ensures the finished blanket reaches the intended measurements. The gauge measurement of 18 stitches and 28 rows equaling 4 inches is taken after blocking, which is the standard finishing process that sets the yarn and stabilizes the fabric dimensions.