purlJam

# Simple Garter Stitch Blanket

A classic, beginner-friendly blanket knitted in simple garter stitch. Perfect for learning basic knitting skills while creating a cozy, reversible blanket. The garter stitch creates a fabric that lies flat and won't curl, making it ideal for blankets.

## Finished Measurements
- **Width**: 30 inches (76 cm)
- **Length**: 30 inches (76 cm)

## Materials
- **Yarn**: Worsted weight (Weight 4) yarn, approximately 1,200-1,400 yards (1,100-1,280 m)
  - *Suggested yarns*: Lion Brand Vanna's Choice, Red Heart With Love, Caron Simply Soft, Paintbox Yarns Simply Worsted, or any worsted weight yarn
- **Needles**: US 7 (4.5 mm) straight or circular needles (circular needles recommended for comfort when holding many stitches, but knit back and forth in rows)
- **Notions**: 
  - Yarn needle for weaving in ends
  - Stitch markers (optional, for marking progress)
  - Row counter (optional, but helpful)

## Gauge
**18 stitches and 36 rows = 4 inches (10 cm) in garter stitch** (knit every row)

*Gauge is important!* Take time to check your gauge. If you have more stitches per 4 inches, try larger needles. If you have fewer stitches per 4 inches, try smaller needles.

### How to Check Gauge:
Cast on 24 stitches. Knit every row for 5 inches. Bind off. Lay flat and measure the middle 4 inches. Count your stitches and rows.

## Pattern Notes
- **Garter stitch**: Knit every row (both right side and wrong side rows)
- The blanket is worked flat in one piece from bottom to top
- First and last stitches of every row create the selvage edge
- Slip the first stitch of every row purlwise for a neater edge (optional)

## Abbreviations
- **k**: knit
- **st(s)**: stitch(es)

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## PATTERN INSTRUCTIONS

### Cast On
Cast on **135 stitches** using your preferred cast on method.
- *Recommended*: Long-tail cast on for a stretchy edge

**Math check**: 135 sts ÷ 18 sts per 4" = 7.5 × 4" = 30" ✓

### Body of Blanket
**Row 1**: Knit all stitches. (135 sts)
**Row 2**: Knit all stitches. (135 sts)

**Repeat Rows 1-2** until piece measures **30 inches** (76 cm) from cast on edge, or until you have worked approximately **270 rows**.

**Math check**: 270 rows ÷ 36 rows per 4" = 7.5 × 4" = 30" ✓

*Tip*: Measure your work laid flat on a table. Gently smooth but don't stretch. Use a row counter or make a mark on paper every 10 or 20 rows to track your progress.

### Bind Off
When blanket measures 30 inches, knit one final row, then bind off all stitches loosely in knit.
- *Tip*: Bind off loosely to keep the edge stretchy. Consider using a needle one size larger for the bind off row if your bind off tends to be tight.

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## Finishing

1. **Weave in ends**: Thread yarn tails onto yarn needle and weave through several stitches on the wrong side of the work. Weave in opposite direction for security. Trim excess.

2. **Blocking** (optional but recommended): 
   - Soak blanket in cool water with wool wash for 15-20 minutes
   - Gently squeeze out excess water (do not wring)
   - Roll in a towel to remove more moisture
   - Lay flat on blocking surface (blocking mats, clean towels, or carpet)
   - Gently pat and smooth into shape, measuring to ensure 30" × 30"
   - Allow to dry completely (24-48 hours)

3. **Care**: Follow yarn label instructions. Most worsted weight acrylic yarns are machine washable and dryable. Wool and wool-blend yarns require gentle hand washing and flat drying.

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## Optional Variations

### Simple Border
If you'd like to add a simple border after completing the main blanket:
1. With right side facing, pick up and knit stitches evenly along one side edge (approximately 135 stitches)
2. Knit 6-8 rows for border
3. Bind off loosely
4. Repeat on remaining three sides, working corners neatly

### Color Stripes
Create simple stripes by changing colors every 10, 20, or 30 rows. Carry unused color up the side or cut and weave in ends.

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## Helpful Tips for Beginners

- **Keep tension consistent**: Your stitches should slide easily on the needles but not be so loose they fall off. Practice makes perfect!

- **Count your stitches**: Count every 10-20 rows to make sure you still have 135 stitches. If you've gained or lost stitches, it's easier to fix early.

- **Mark your progress**: Place a safety pin or stitch marker every 5 inches, or use a row counter.

- **Take breaks**: Your hands may tire when learning. Take breaks to stretch.

- **Don't worry about perfection**: Small irregularities add handmade charm and will become less noticeable as you gain experience.

- **Garter stitch is forgiving**: The textured surface hides minor mistakes well.

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## Yarn Amount Details

Approximate yardage needed: **1,200-1,400 yards**

**Calculation**: 
- Area: 30" × 30" = 900 square inches
- Garter stitch uses approximately 1.3-1.5 yards per square inch
- 900 × 1.4 (average) = 1,260 yards
- Add 10% safety margin

*Tip*: Purchase an extra skein to ensure you don't run short. Most shops accept returns of unused skeins with receipt.

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## Customization Options

**Size Adjustments**:
- For a smaller blanket: Cast on fewer stitches in multiples that work with your gauge (e.g., 108 sts = 24")
- For a larger blanket: Cast on more stitches (e.g., 162 sts = 36"), but note this exceeds the 30" × 30" requirement

**Stitch Pattern**:
This pattern uses simple garter stitch, perfect for beginners. The repetitive nature helps build confidence and muscle memory.

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**Pattern Design**: Classic garter stitch blanket adapted for 30" × 30" square dimensions with worsted weight yarn.

**Skill Level**: Beginner - requires only knit stitch knowledge

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*Happy Knitting!*