Over The Rainbow Throw

Over The Rainbow Throw by Helen Gipson

Project Overview

The Over The Rainbow Throw is an intermediate-level knitting and crochet project designed by Helen Gipson as a practical way to use up yarn scraps. This bright and cheerful blanket combines multiple knitting techniques with crochet joining methods to create a vibrant, textured throw suitable for home décor or personal use.

What Is Being Made

This is a rectangular throw blanket measuring approximately 3 feet by 5 feet (92 cm by 152 cm) in the sample version, with the option to create a longer finished piece at 65 inches (165 cm) when following the pattern as written with consistent yarn quantities. The throw features a distinctive construction combining wide and narrow strips in contrasting yarn weights.

Construction and Design Structure

The Over The Rainbow Throw uses a modular construction approach combining two primary components:

• Wide Rainbow Strips: Three wide strips worked in approximate aran weight yarn create the main color bands of the throw
• Narrow Block Strips: Two narrow strips composed of individually knit blocks worked in approximate bulky or chunky weight yarn add textural variety and visual interest

Knitting Techniques Used

This project employs fundamental knitting skills appropriate for intermediate crafters. The wide strips utilize standard knitting construction in aran weight yarn, while the narrow strips feature individually knit blocks that are worked separately before being joined together. The pattern includes helpful guidance on avoiding common mistakes, making it accessible for knitters developing their skills.

Crochet Joining Method

The blocks and strips are joined using single crochet (US terminology) or double crochet (UK terminology) with wrong sides facing together. This joining technique creates an intentional textured ridge in the border color, adding a distinctive design element to the finished throw. The pattern notes that sewn seams are an acceptable alternative for crafters who prefer that finishing method.

Yarn and Materials

The Over The Rainbow Throw accommodates multiple yarn weights, making it ideal for scrap yarn projects. The pattern utilizes:

• Approximate aran weight yarn for the three wide strips
• Approximate bulky or chunky weight yarn for the individual blocks in narrow strips
• Multi-stranding techniques to adjust yarn weights as needed

The pattern includes a comprehensive guide to multi-stranding, providing conversions for combining lighter weight yarns to achieve desired thicknesses. Lace weight, light fingering, 4-ply (fingering), sport, DK, and worsted weight yarns can be combined in specific quantities to create the required aran and bulky weights.

Color and Composition

The throw is designed around a rainbow color scheme, with each wide strip representing a different color in the spectrum. The narrow block strips and joining color create additional visual definition and texture throughout the finished piece. This design makes excellent use of leftover yarn from other projects, allowing crafters to incorporate multiple colors and yarn types into a cohesive, functional blanket.

Skill Level and Suitability

Rated as intermediate difficulty, this project is suitable for knitters with foundational skills who are ready to tackle multi-component construction and finishing techniques. The inclusion of pattern notes addressing common mistakes makes this an educational project that helps crafters refine their techniques while creating a practical, beautiful finished object.