Cuddlesaurus Blanket

Cuddlesaurus Blanket by Karin Burkart

What is Being Made

The Cuddlesaurus Blanket is a charming dinosaur-themed baby and toddler blanket designed by Karin Burkart. This crocheted blanket measures approximately 90 x 110 cm and features a playful dinosaur design that appeals to young children. The pattern is versatile and can be worked using a single solid color yarn or with color-changing yarn to enhance the visual interest of the dinosaur motif.

Craft and Technique

This project uses filet crochet, a classic openwork technique that creates a decorative fabric through the strategic placement of blocks and spaces. Filet crochet is ideal for creating pictorial designs and detailed patterns, making it perfect for rendering the dinosaur image in this blanket. The pattern provides two methods for working: a detailed row-by-row written explanation for those who prefer step-by-step instructions, or a graphical chart for crocheters with filet crochet experience who can read and follow visual representations of the design.

The blanket is rated as a beginner-friendly project, making it accessible to newer crocheters while still offering engaging work. The filet crochet technique, while appearing intricate, relies on fundamental stitches and straightforward block-and-space construction that beginners can master with the provided guidance.

Stitches Used

The Cuddlesaurus Blanket employs essential crochet stitches written in US terminology:

• Double crochet (dc) – the primary stitch used to build the filet crochet blocks
• Chain stitch (ch) – used to create spaces and foundation chains; always counts as the first stitch
• Half double crochet (hdc) – used as needed throughout the pattern
• Slip stitch (sl st) – used to join rounds and secure stitches at the end of rows
• Chain space (chsp) – the openwork areas between blocks where double crochets are worked into chain spaces

In filet crochet construction, each block consists of 4 double crochets. Double crochets are worked either one in each previous double crochet or as 2 double crochets in each chain space, depending on whether the area should be filled (block) or open (space).

Materials and Gauge

The Cuddlesaurus Blanket requires approximately 350 grams of yarn in either DK (double knitting) or Aran weight, offering flexibility for yarn selection and substitution. The designer used Knitting Essential yarn in Double Knitting weight from Seven Days for the pictured version.

A 4 mm crochet hook is required to achieve the correct gauge. The pattern specifies a gauge of 16 double crochets by 8 rows over a 10 x 10 cm swatch when using the 4 mm hook with the recommended yarn weight. Achieving proper gauge is essential for the blanket to reach its intended finished dimensions and drape correctly.

Before beginning the project, crocheters should carefully read all pattern information and work a gauge swatch to ensure their tension matches the pattern specifications, which will guarantee accurate sizing of the finished blanket.