I chose single crochet for this blanket because it makes a dense, gap-free fabric, ideal for a cooler-climate nursery. It is also the single most beginner-safe stitch there is, since there is no special technique to learn. The trade-off is time. Single crochet grows more slowly than taller stitches like hdc or dc, so plan on a multi-evening project rather than a single sitting.
Materials
- 3 skeins worsted weight (#4) yarn, about 630 yards total
- 5mm (H-8) hook
- Yarn needle, stitch markers
- Finished size: 32 by 32 inches
Since single crochet fabric is denser than hdc or dc, this pattern uses slightly more yardage per square inch than my other blanket patterns. A gauge swatch here matters more than usual, since single crochet tension varies a lot between crocheters.
Abbreviations and stitches used
This pattern uses only ch (chain) and sc (single crochet). No special technique is required, which is exactly what makes this the most beginner-safe technique-named blanket on the site.
Pattern instructions
Foundation chain and row 1 setup
Chain 97. Row 1: sc in the second chain from the hook and each chain across (96 sc). Keep this chain count even so the finished square comes out true on both sides.
Main body
Row 2 to 96: ch 1, turn, sc in each stitch across. With a 5mm hook, my gauge runs about 3 stitches per inch in single crochet, which is why this blanket takes noticeably longer than the hdc-based patterns on this site. Most crocheters finish over 4 to 5 evenings rather than a single weekend.
To resize, add or remove 3 chains per inch of width change, since the sc repeat has no multiple-of-X requirement.
Border and edging
Join yarn in any corner. Single crochet evenly around all 4 sides, working 3 sc in each corner. This matching border keeps the whole blanket in one texture rather than introducing a new stitch at the very end. I have tried a shell border on this same blanket before, and honestly the plain sc edge suits the dense single crochet body better.
Frequently asked questions
How many skeins of yarn for a baby blanket?
This pattern uses 3 skeins, about 630 yards, more than my hdc-based patterns since single crochet fabric is denser per square inch. Buy a 4th skein if you want extra for a contrast border.
What size should a crochet baby blanket be?
This pattern finishes at 32 by 32 inches. See our blanket size chart for other common sizes.
Can beginners crochet a baby blanket?
Yes, this is genuinely the easiest technique-named blanket on the site, since single crochet requires no special stitch beyond the basics. It just takes longer to finish than taller-stitch patterns.
Want a different look?
Try our Crochet Shell Stitch Baby Blanket, or check the blanket size chart to resize this one.
See the shell stitch pattern