Crocheting A Bavarian Baby Blanket: A Step-By-Step Guide

The Bavarian stitch is one of the most decorative stitches in crochet and is perfect for creating a baby blanket. The stitch creates fantastic effects, especially when using ombre yarn, but can also be used with more subdued colours like pastels or naturals. The skill level for this project is intermediate, and the finished blanket will measure 31 1/2 inches square.

Choosing yarn colours

Choosing the right yarn colours for your Bavarian baby blanket is an important step in the crocheting process. The Bavarian stitch is one of the most decorative stitches in crochet, so you'll want to select colours that complement each other and create a visually appealing combination.

When selecting yarn colours, you can go for a more subtle approach with pastels or natural tones. Alternatively, you can create a vibrant and colourful blanket by choosing several different colours. For example, you could use shades of cream, baby yellow, grey, cool green, teal, blue orchid, light olive, and prairie green, as suggested by Ravelry.com.

If you want to make your blanket even more eye-catching, consider using ombre yarn, which will create fantastic effects. You can also mix and match colours to make unique combinations. For instance, pink and green are not commonly seen together but can create a beautiful springtime blanket.

Another option is to use random yarn colours for each square of the blanket, creating a scrappy look. You can use leftover yarn from other projects in different shades and amounts to form interesting patterns. This approach allows you to be creative and use up any yarn you have on hand.

Finally, consider the purpose of the blanket. If it is a gift for new parents, you may want to choose more universal colours such as blues, which are suitable for any baby. For a baby shower, pastel colours in pink, green, white, and grey can be a lovely choice.

Getting the right crochet hook

To crochet a Bavarian baby blanket, you will need to get the right crochet hook. The size of the crochet hook you need will depend on the weight of the yarn you are using and the size of the blanket you want to make. For example, if you are using light (DK) weight cotton yarn to make a 31 1/2-inch square blanket, a Size F/5/3.75mm crochet hook is recommended. However, you can also use a different size crochet hook to obtain the desired gauge.

When choosing a crochet hook, you should consider the material it is made of. Crochet hooks can be made of different materials such as aluminium, plastic, bamboo, or wood. Each material has its own advantages and disadvantages. Aluminium crochet hooks are smooth and durable, but they can be slippery and may not work well with all types of yarn. Plastic crochet hooks are lightweight and inexpensive, but they may not be as durable as other materials. Bamboo and wood crochet hooks have a natural grip and are warm to the touch, but they may not be as smooth as aluminium or plastic hooks.

In addition to the material, you should also consider the shape and comfort of the crochet hook. Some hooks have a more tapered throat, which can make it easier to insert the hook into stitches. Other hooks may have a more rounded throat, which can be more comfortable for some crocheters. You may want to try out different brands and types of crochet hooks to find the one that feels most comfortable in your hand.

Another factor to consider when choosing a crochet hook is the type of handle it has. Some crochet hooks have a straight handle, while others have a padded or ergonomic handle. If you have arthritis or hand pain, you may find that a crochet hook with a padded or ergonomic handle is more comfortable to use.

Finally, you should also think about the size of the head of the crochet hook. The head of the hook is the part that is inserted into the stitches. A smaller head may be easier to insert into tight stitches, while a larger head may be better for looser stitches. Ultimately, the best crochet hook for you will depend on your personal preferences and the specific project you are working on.

Learning the Bavarian stitch

The Bavarian stitch is a decorative crochet stitch that creates fantastic effects, especially when using ombre yarn or more subdued colours like pastels or naturals. It is worked in a square, with raised edges, giving it the appearance of puzzle tiles that fit together.

To begin, you will need to chain (ch) 6 and slip stitch (sl st) to form a ring. Then, ch 1 and single crochet (sc) into the ring. Next, you will ch 5, and then treble crochet (tr) into the ring, leaving the last loop on the hook. You will do this a total of four times, so that you have five loops on your hook. Yarn over and pull through all five loops on your hook. Ch 5, and then sc into the ring. Repeat these steps three more times, and then join the beginning sc.

Ch 1, sc in the same stitch, ch 2. Now, you will work into the top of the treble crochet cluster. There is a small "eye" where you will crochet into. Tr four times into the top of the cluster, and then ch 1, and tr four times again into the top of the cluster. Ch 2, sc into the sc from the previous round. Repeat these steps three more times, and then fasten off.

Join the next colour in any chain 1 space from the previous round. Ch 1, sc into the chain 1 space. Ch 5, and then back post treble crochet (bptr) four times together. You will bptr around the tr from the previous round, leaving the last loop on the hook. You should now have two loops on your hook. Repeat this step three more times, so that you have five loops on your hook. Yarn over and pull through all five loops on the hook. Ch 5, sc into the chain 1 space from the previous round. Ch 5, bptr eight times together. Ch 5, sc into the next chain 1 space. Repeat these steps all the way around, and then join the beginning sc.

Ch 1, sc into the same stitch, ch 2. Tr four times into the top of the cluster, ch 1, and then tr four times again into the top of the cluster. Sc into the sc from the previous round. Repeat these steps three more times.

You can continue this pattern, changing colours as you go, until you have reached your desired size. The Bavarian stitch is created by working in rounds, and each round adds a new layer of stitches to create the raised, textured effect.

Joining squares together

Firstly, you will need to decide on the arrangement of your squares. For a balanced look, it's common to join the squares in a grid pattern, aligning them in rows and columns. You can play around with different layouts until you find one that appeals to you. Once decided, you can start the joining process.

Take two squares and place them with their wrong sides facing each other. Using a slip stitch, carefully work through each corresponding stitch on both squares, starting from the corner stitch. Continue this process until you reach the corner stitch at the end of the first edge.

Now, add the next set of squares by repeating the same steps. Keep going until you have joined four squares in a horizontal direction to form a row. Repeat this process to attach the remaining rows to your blanket.

After completing the horizontal joins, it's time to move on to the vertical connections. Work your way through the squares, joining them in the same manner as before. Remember that the corner stitches of the squares will now contain stitches from both the horizontal and vertical joining directions.

Once all the squares are joined, you can add a final round of edging to enhance the overall appearance. Using your main colour, attach your yarn to any corner stitch with a slip stitch. Then, chain one (this doesn't count as a stitch), and work three single crochets into the same corner stitch.

Next, move along the edge, working one single crochet into each stitch until you reach the next corner. In the corner stitch, work three single crochets, and then continue along the adjacent edge. Repeat this process all around the blanket, closing with a slip stitch at the end.

Finally, to finish your blanket, fasten off and weave in any remaining yarn tails. Block your blanket if desired for a neater finish. And there you have it—your Bavarian baby blanket is now complete and ready to be snuggled in!

Blocking your blanket

Materials Needed:

• A flat surface larger than your blanket: This could be a table, a clean floor, or a blocking board designed specifically for blocking crochet projects.
• Straight pins: Choose rust-proof pins suitable for delicate fabrics, as you will be pinning your blanket to the blocking surface.
• Measuring tape: This will help you ensure your blanket is blocked to the correct size and that the edges are straight and even.
• Water spray bottle: Fill it with plain water.

Steps to Block Your Blanket:

• Prepare your blocking surface: Clear a large, flat space and cover it with a clean sheet or towel. If using a blocking board, set it up according to the manufacturer's instructions.
• Pin the centre of the blanket: Place your blanket on the blocking surface and find the centre. Use your measuring tape to ensure the centre is correctly identified. Then, pin the centre point of the blanket to the blocking surface.
• Pin the rest of the blanket: Starting from the centre, gently stretch your blanket outward and pin it to the blocking surface at regular intervals. Work your way around the blanket, pinning it evenly and smoothly. Use the measuring tape to ensure the edges are straight and the blanket is blocked to the desired size.
• Spray the blanket with water: Once your blanket is pinned in place, lightly and evenly spray it with water. This will help the yarn relax and settle into the blocked shape.
• Allow the blanket to air-dry completely: Leave the pinned blanket undisturbed until it is completely dry. This step is crucial, as removing the pins too soon can cause your blanket to lose its shape.
• Remove the pins: Once the blanket is dry, carefully remove all the pins. Your Bavarian baby blanket is now beautifully blocked and ready to be used or gifted!

By taking the time to block your crocheted blanket, you will enhance its appearance and ensure it maintains its shape for years to come.

Frequently asked questions