Knitting Rectangles Pt 2: Classic Pom Pom Baby Blanket

And now for the 2nd posting of our Knitting Rectangles series!
The Classic Pom Pom Baby Blanket!

This adorable baby blanket looks so modern and special, and it is so simple! If you are expecting or know someone who is, this is the perfect project.  It is made using only the knit stitch- aka garter stitch. You can do this watching tv or in bed and don't have to think too much while doing it.

Size 

Approx 28" x 32"

Materials

1 skein each of 4 colors of your choice-  Lion Brand Yarn Wool-Ease, or similar weight yarn (medium, 4)

Small amount of coordinating yarn for pom poms

Pair of size 8US needles

Tapestry Needle

Pom Pom maker

Instructions

Cast on 85 sts

Color 1:

Knit in garter stitch (all knit) for 8"

Switch to Color 2:

Knit in garter stich for 8" or count same number of rows as Color 1

Switch to Color 3:

Knit in garter stich for 8" or count same number of rows as Color 1

Switch to Color 4:

Knit in garter stich for 8" or count same number of rows as Color 1

Weave in all loose ends. Steam block to shape.

Make 4 coordinating pom poms using a pop color of yarn. Secure with knots to each corner.

Done! Gorgeous gift for baby.

To purchase the Classic Pom Pom Baby Blanket all ready to go (in this color or custom color combo), visit our etsy shop: www.etsy.com/shop/modernnestshop

Thanks for looking!

Knitting Rectangles Pt 1: Vintage Baby Bonnet

The first pattern in our Rectangular Knitting Series is this sweet sweet sweet baby bonnet!

I am in LOVE with the Loops & Threads Impeccable Yarn at Michael's. The color palette is bright and fun. This yarn inspired the fun color combos for these bonnets!

Size 

Approx 6 3/4" x 6 3/4" fits Newborn to 6 months

Materials

1 skein Loops & Threads Impeccable Yarn, color of choice or similar weight yarn (medium, 4)

Small amount of coordinating yarn for ties and tassel (or pom pom)

Pair of size 10US needles

Tapestry Needle

Gauge

13 stitches and 18 rows is 4 inches square with stockinette stitch using 10US needles

Instructions

Cast on 43 sts

Rows 1-4 (K1, P1) Across

Row 5.   Knit Across

Row 6.   K1, Purl to last stitch, K1

Row 7.   K3, P1, (K5, P1) to last 3 stitches, K3

Row 8.   K1, Purl to last stitch, K1

Row 9.   Knit Across

Row 10. K1, Purl to last stitch, K1

Row 11. K6, (P1, K5) to last stitch, K1

Row 12. K1, Purl to last stitch, K1

Repeat Rows 5-12 until piece measures 6 1/2". 

Cast Off leaving enough tail to sew back seam.

Fold rectangle in half, right sides out. Stitch along cast off edge using preferred finishing method. Weave in all loose ends.

Ties

Cut 6 strands of yarn (desired color, matching or contrast) 20" each

With 3 strands, use tapestry needle to thread strands through one chin corner of bonnet.

Tie to secure. Separate strands into 3 sections, 2 strands each. Braid and tie knot at bottom to secure.

Repeat at 2nd chin corner.

Tassel

Make a tassel in coordinating color, wrapping 12-15 times to desired thickness of tassel.

(we love Real Purdy's version!)

Use tapestry needles to thread tassel tie at point on top of bonnet, tie inside the bonnet and trim.

Block the bonnet with a few blasts of steam from the iron (Do not apply iron directly if using synthetic yarn). Lay flat to shape.

Voila!! 

Knitting as Meditation

To me, knitting is rhythmic. It is like a heartbeat. Knit, Purl, Knit, Purl, Knit...
I don't want to think too much while I am knitting.

Though I have been knitting as a hobby for many many years, I don't choose difficult patterns or advanced fairisle designs. I enjoy making scarves and cowls-- anything rectangular where I don't have to think while I knit. I just recently knit a giant queen size blanket made of long strips. It's gorgeous. I was completely relaxed as I knit it.

But every time I begin a new project, I wish I had something new to knit. But because I just want to get some stitches on my needles and go, I end up knitting another baby blanket. Another cowl scarf. Another dish cloth.

So I am putting together a series of knitting patterns using only squares and rectangles but with new and modern results.

The results of our knitting can be just as rewarding as the process. I promise.