This cozy baby blanket project is perfect for beginners, utilizing the beautiful moss stitch to create a high-end texture with ease. Using soft Bernat-style yarn, this pattern is designed for comfort and simplicity, making it an ideal first project for anyone looking to master the art of crochet.
Materials Needed
To achieve the best results, you will need the following materials:
- Yarn: 3 skeins of Bernat Baby Blanket yarn (or a similar super bulky velvet/chenille yarn).
- Crochet Hook: 8.0 mm (Size L/11). Note: Although the yarn may recommend a 6.0 mm hook, using an 8.0 mm hook ensures the blanket remains soft and drapey rather than stiff.
- Tools: A pair of sharp scissors and a tapestry needle for weaving in the ends.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. The Foundation Chain
Start by making a slip knot and placing it on your hook. To begin the foundation, create a chain of 70 stitches.
- Tip: For this specific moss stitch pattern, it is important to maintain an even number of chains. You can adjust the width by adding or subtracting chains, as long as the final count is even.
2. Row 1: Establishing the Pattern
Once your chain of 70 is complete, you will start working back across the chain:
- Identify the fourth chain from your hook (do not count the loop on the hook).
- Insert your hook into the fourth chain and complete a single crochet (sc).
- Chain 1, then skip the next chain on your foundation row.
- In the following chain, work another single crochet.
- Repeat the sequence: Chain 1, skip one stitch, single crochet in the next until you reach the end of the row.
- Finish the row with a single crochet in the very last chain.
3. Row 2: Building the Moss Stitch
To turn your work, chain 2. This serves as your turning chain.
- Instead of working into the top of the stitches, you will work into the chain-1 spaces (the gaps) created in the previous row.
- Insert your hook into the first gap, work a single crochet, and then chain 1.
- Skip the next single crochet stitch and work a single crochet into the next gap.
- Continue this “sc, ch 1, skip 1” pattern across the entire row.
- The final single crochet of the row should be worked into the space created by the turning chain of the previous row.
4. Continuing the Blanket
Repeat the instructions for Row 2 for the remainder of the project. The beauty of this pattern is that you are always crocheting into the “gaps” (the “V” shapes), which makes it very easy to see where your hook should go, even with fuzzy or bulky yarn.
Continue until you have used approximately three skeins of yarn or until the blanket reaches your desired length.
Finishing Your Project
Once the blanket is long enough:
- Cut the yarn, leaving a 6-inch tail.
- Pull the tail through the last loop on your hook to secure the knot.
- Use a tapestry needle to weave the yarn ends back into the fabric of the blanket so they are invisible and secure.
Why the Moss Stitch?
The moss stitch (also known as the granite or linen stitch) is highly recommended for Bernat yarn because it creates a reversible, breathable fabric that isn’t too heavy. It provides a modern look that mimics woven fabric, making it a timeless choice for nursery decor or gifts.