Aran Criss Cross Blanket

Aran Criss Cross Blanket by Nicola Taylor

What is Being Made

The Aran Criss Cross Blanket is a cosy throw designed to keep little ones snug and warm in their prams. This downloadable knitting pattern creates a finished blanket featuring a beautifully simple yet visually striking design that works equally well for beginners learning fundamental techniques and experienced knitters seeking a relaxing project.

Craft and Construction Method

This is a knitting project worked in the intermediate difficulty range. The blanket is constructed using a straightforward approach that combines only knit and purl stitches, making it an ideal starter blanket for those new to knitting while remaining engaging for more experienced crafters. The pattern grows in multiples of 17 stitches, with 6 stitches on either side reserved for the border, allowing crafters to easily customize the blanket size by increasing the stitch count in increments of 17.

Stitches and Techniques

• Knit stitch
• Purl stitch
• Cable pattern work (criss cross design)
• Border construction

Materials and Tools

This pattern is designed to work with Aran weight yarn, which provides the appropriate thickness and drape for a cosy blanket. The designer recommends using circular needles rather than straight needles, as the circular construction carries the weight of the growing blanket more comfortably and makes the knitting process significantly easier on the hands and wrists during extended crafting sessions. However, straight needles can be substituted if preferred. Paintbox yarns are suggested for this project and come in numerous colour options to suit different preferences and nursery décor schemes.