Blankets With Holes

The gift of giving is a wonderful plus for the crocheter and knitter.  Special friends and family get to enjoy the art and appreciate the work and skill that went into such a thoughtful gift.  I recently had the opportunity to present a family friend with a crocheted baby blanket for her third son.  She had many clothes and blankets from her older boys, but she was delighted to receive my “blanket with holes.”   Most physicians recommend that babies should not be left to sleep  in heavier blankets until the little one is at least one year old.  The presence of soft blankets, and pillows in the crib can be a danger to the baby who may suffocate in the coverings (like fleece) which are too warm and not very breathable.  Wanting to find a happy medium between safety and comfort, many new mothers are finding the best compromise in the crocheted blanket.  The crocheted blanket provides comfort and security without overheating.  Consult your physician when making these decisions.
 
This blanket was crocheted with an extended granny square design in the colors, white, blue, and gray.  Although I like to plan out most of my designs, bands of color in this blanket grew from the colors I had on hand.  I enjoy using the extended granny square as it works up quickly and evenly.  Also, I do not have the painstaking task of assembling many smaller units.  My favorite pattern is from allfreecrochet.com.
Na na’s Favorite Baby Blanket). 
 
Most patterns call for worsted weight yarn, #4.  However, these yarns can vary in thickness and weight.  I prefer to use a slightly thicker worsted yarn.  Some of the yarns on the mass market are too rough and scratchy for a baby’s skin.  I recently discovered Babyhugs by Red Heart.  The yarn is certified free of harmful levels of over 300 substances and is available in pastel and vibrant colors in medium and light weights.  For baby blankets, I use the medium weight .  Instead of the I hook, I crocheted with a J hook to achieve the look and texture that I wanted. The manufacturer claims that the fiber is colorfast and easy to machine wash and dry.  As with any handmade item I would use the gentle cycle.  Also I prefer to block dry and flat on a large towel.

The white, grey, and yellow blanket is an ideal neutral gift  for the baby whose gender has not been identified.  I just donated the jewel toned blanket to an organization called Threads of Love.  This Connecticut based group's mission is to provide a comforting blanket or shawl for children or adults with cancer or other significant health challenges. Currently I am in the middle of crocheting a pink and white blanket for my new granddaughter. It will be several months before she is ready for the blanket.  However, I smile with joy, every time I pick up my hook and yarn. 
 
Please note, my recommendations and endorsements of various instructions and products are based on my own experiences and preferences.  

---