The year 2021 has been full of ups and downs, but one of the most exciting ups has been working on a special project for Breann from Hooked on Homemade Happiness! She is featuring my crochet pattern for the Silas Summer Baby Blanket as part of her 2021 Summer Guest Designer Roundup! This is my first baby blanket design, and I’m so excited to share it with you!
Why Design a Baby Blanket?
The pattern came to fruition after my best friend had her second baby, a little boy named Silas. (Side story: we became friends our freshman year in college when she brought leftover pizza to my dorm room and introduced herself! Even now that we live states apart, we always pick up right where we left off 🙂 ) Making him a beanie or some booties didn’t make much sense since he was born in April. I decided a lightweight blanket would be perfect. The size is big enough for swaddling, but also great for tummy time!
What I Love about the Pattern
My favorite thing about this blanket is easily the yarn. I used Yarn Bee Fresh Haven, which is a Tencel yarn. Tencel is a natural fiber made out of Eucalyptus. It’s similar to Bamboo, but sturdier, more absorbent, and just as soft! It’s also very lightweight and breathable, which is great for summer!
Last but not least, I wrote this pattern with the intention that even a first-time crocheter would be able to make it easily and feel proud! The Alternate Spike stitch is a super simple stitch, but creates an absolutely breathtaking texture. Plus, it’s one of those stitches that can be mindless and meditative when you’re crocheting. I love it!
I was lucky enough to have a real live baby to take pictures with the finished blanket, and she looks pretty darn cute, if I do say so myself 🙂 I will also say she really seemed to like the feel of it! Let’s hope little baby Silas likes it just as much!
I’d love it if you would give this blanket a try, and tag me @sweetgumspot in your pictures on Instagram! This is a great pattern for beginner crocheters (or anyone interested in starting!). Also, feel free to reach out to me via the contact page if you need help starting! I’d love to talk you through the first few steps. I can suggest crochet hooks, yarn, and other supplies that will make your crocheting experience a success!
Head on over to Breann’s blog to check out the FREE pattern. Visit my shop to purchase an ad-free PDF version!