Persian Dreams

Persian Dreams Throw Blanket by Jenise Hope

Project Overview

Persian Dreams is a generously sized throw blanket designed by Jenise Hope and inspired by the intricate patterns and aesthetics of Persian rugs. This advanced knitting project combines innovative knitting techniques with charted colorwork to create a complex, visually stunning blanket that showcases the skill and artistry of the maker. The finished blanket features a modular hexagon construction, making it an impressive heirloom-quality piece that will captivate both knitters and admirers alike.

Construction and Design

The blanket is constructed from 24 individual hexagons that are knit separately and then grafted together to form the complete throw. This modular approach allows for manageable knitting sessions while building toward an impressive final product. The design incorporates six different charts or designs for the hexagons, providing visual variety and complexity throughout the blanket. The outer edge hexagons feature borders that are knit directly onto the outer sides before the entire blanket is grafted together, creating a finished, polished appearance.

Knitting Techniques and Stitches

This advanced project employs several sophisticated knitting techniques. Each hexagon begins with a circular cast on of 12 stitches, which creates the foundation for the geometric shape. Knitters work in the round, repeating the charted pattern six times around to complete each hexagon. The pattern includes increases in round 1 that shape the hexagon form. For knitters who find circular cast-ons challenging or experience twisting, the pattern offers the option to knit a preliminary round of all knit stitches before beginning the increases.

The blanket utilizes charted colorwork as its primary design element, allowing knitters to follow visual representations of the intricate patterns inspired by Persian rug designs. After completing each hexagon chart, knitters reference a provided table to determine whether borders need to be knit on specific sides. Border stitches are cast off after completion, and a long tail of white yarn is left for grafting the hexagons together once all pieces are finished.

Materials

This project is worked in 4-ply yarn weight, which provides excellent stitch definition for the detailed charted patterns and creates a fabric with good drape suitable for a throw blanket. Circular needles are required for the in-the-round construction of each hexagon, and the pattern specifies the use of white yarn for the grafting tails that join the finished hexagons together.

Skill Level

Rated as an advanced project, Persian Dreams is best suited for experienced knitters who are comfortable with charted colorwork, circular knitting, increases, and grafting techniques. The complexity of the design and the precision required to create uniform hexagons that fit together seamlessly make this an excellent project for knitters looking to challenge their skills and create a truly remarkable finished piece.