Passion Flower Circular Lace Baby Blanket

Passion Flower Circular Lace Baby Blanket by Terry Morris

Project Overview

The Passion Flower Circular Lace Baby Blanket is a knitted circular lace coverlet designed by Terry Liann Morris (SailingKnitter) that creates a beautiful floral appearance resembling a passion flower bloom. This intermediate-level knitting project produces a finished blanket measuring approximately 36 inches in diameter, making it an ideal size for wrapping and displaying as a decorative baby blanket or throw.

Construction Technique and Pattern Structure

This blanket is constructed using a circular knitting method that begins at the center and expands outward in concentric rounds. The design features three distinct lace sections that work together to create the passion flower aesthetic. The pattern begins with a swirl motif at the center, which serves as the foundation for the entire blanket. From this central swirl, the design transitions into a pointed lace section that adds definition and visual interest. The blanket concludes with an expanding Old Shale lace pattern, which creates the characteristic scalloped edges and flowing lines that enhance the floral appearance.

Stitches and Techniques

The primary stitch used throughout this project is stockinette stitch, which serves as the base gauge measurement of 5.25 stitches per inch. The lace elements incorporate various decreases and yarn overs to create the openwork patterns characteristic of lace knitting. The Old Shale lace pattern, also known as feather and fan, creates the distinctive wave-like texture and scalloped edges that define the outer portion of the blanket. The pattern notes recommend the Emily Ocker cast on technique for creating a tighter, more refined center, demonstrating attention to finishing details in this intermediate project.

Yarn and Materials

This blanket requires 1200 yards of worsted weight yarn, providing substantial yardage for the expansive circular design. The sample blanket was knit using Caron Simply Soft, a 100% acrylic yarn, in three coordinating colors: Bone (1 skein), Violet (1 skein), and Sage (2 skeins). The use of three colors adds visual depth and enhances the passion flower appearance, though the pattern can be adapted to single or alternative color combinations.

Needles and Tools

This project requires multiple needle sizes and types to accommodate the expanding circumference as the blanket grows:

• Set of US Size 6 (4.00 or 4.25mm) double point needles for working the tight center rounds
• 24-inch circular US Size 6 (4.00 or 4.25mm) needle for transitioning from double points to circular knitting
• 24-inch circular US Size 7 (4.50mm) needle for the middle sections of the blanket
• 36-inch circular US Size 7 (4.50mm) needle for the final expanding rounds
• Set of US Size 5 (3.75mm) double point needles for potential ribbing or finishing details
• Stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats and increases
• Crochet hook size 5 or F for binding off or finishing edges

Skill Level and Suitability

Rated as an intermediate difficulty project, this blanket is suitable for knitters with foundational skills who are ready to tackle lace patterns and circular knitting techniques. The progression from a tight center through multiple lace sections provides an engaging learning experience while creating a heirloom-quality finished piece.