Stratus Baby Blanket

Stratus Baby Blanket Crochet Pattern

What Is Being Made

The Stratus Baby Blanket is a beginner-friendly crochet project designed by Heather Moore Makes. This blanket creates a cozy, finished piece measuring approximately 36 inches by 28 inches, making it an ideal size for a baby blanket or small throw. The design combines two complementary yarn colors to create visual interest and texture in a straightforward construction suitable for crocheters of all skill levels.

Crochet Techniques and Construction

This project uses fundamental crochet techniques that make it accessible to beginners. The blanket is constructed using basic single crochet stitches worked in rows, creating a dense, sturdy fabric. The pattern incorporates working in the back ridge of the foundation chain and working in the back loop only (blo) on subsequent rows, which adds subtle texture variation to the finished piece. These techniques are essential skills for building a strong foundation in crochet work.

Stitches Used

• Single Crochet (sc): The primary stitch used throughout the blanket, worked in rows to create the main fabric
• Chain Stitch (ch): Used for foundation chains and turning chains between rows
• Back Ridge Technique: Working through the back ridge of the foundation chain on the first row
• Back Loop Only (blo): Working through only the back loop of stitches on selected rows for textural variation

Materials and Tools

The Stratus Baby Blanket requires super bulky yarn, which works up quickly and creates a substantial, cozy finished piece. The recommended yarn is Bernat Blanket in two colorways: Country Blue (A) and Ivory Tweed (B), with one skein of each color needed to complete the project. A 9mm crochet hook is used to work with the super chunky yarn weight, and a tapestry needle is included for finishing and weaving in yarn ends. Gauge is not critical for this project, making it even more forgiving for beginners.

Pattern Details

The pattern begins with a foundation chain of 67 stitches using color A, establishing the width of the blanket. The first row consists of 66 single crochet stitches worked in the back ridge of the foundation chain, followed by a turning chain. Subsequent rows continue with 66 single crochet stitches, with some rows worked in the back loop only to create subtle textural interest. The straightforward row-by-row construction makes this an excellent project for beginners learning to maintain consistent tension and stitch count.

Designer and Pattern Source

This pattern is created by Heather Moore Makes and is available as a downloadable PDF for personal use. The designer offers video tutorials, stitch abbreviations, and additional resources on HeatherMooreMakes.com. Products made from this pattern are intended for personal use; those interested in selling finished items should visit the designer's policies page for commercial use inquiries.