A loop yarn blanket can be a delightful addition to your home or a thoughtful gift for someone special. The process is therapeutic and the result is a plush, warm blanket perfect for snuggling on the couch or adding an extra layer of warmth to your mattress. This guide covers everything from selecting your yarn to the final stitches of your project.
How Many Yards of Loop Yarn to Make a Blanket?
When planning to create a blanket out of loop yarn, one of the first questions that arises is how much yarn is needed. The amount of yarn required depends on several factors including the size of the blanket, the stitch or loop size, and the density of the yarn. Here’s a more detailed breakdown to help you estimate the amount of yarn you’ll need:
Estimating Yarn Requirements by Blanket Size
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Baby Blanket (Approximately 40” x 40”): A typical baby blanket requires about 3-4 skeins of loop yarn, with each skein generally comprising about 18 yards. This translates to approximately 54-72 yards of loop yarn in total.
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Throw Blanket (Approximately 50” x 60”): For a standard throw, which is larger and ideal for snuggling on the couch, you would need about 7-8 skeins of loop yarn. This amounts to around 126-144 yards of yarn, ensuring there is enough to complete the project without interruptions.
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Twin Size Blanket (Approximately 65” x 88”): This larger size, suitable for covering a twin bed, typically requires around 10-12 skeins of loop yarn, which equates to about 180-216 yards. It’s always a good idea to have a little extra to account for any mistakes or adjustments.
How to Make a Blanket with Loop Yarn
Making a blanket with loop yarn is straightforward and enjoyable, making it an ideal project for beginners or those looking for a quick craft. Here’s how you can make one:
Materials and Setup
- Select Your Yarn: Choose your loop yarn in desired colors and ensure you have enough based on your blanket size calculations.
- Tools: You’ll need scissors for cutting yarn and a large, flat surface to lay out your work.
Constructing the Blanket
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Start the Foundation Row: Determine the width of your blanket and lay out a row of loops that matches this width. For example, for a throw, you might start with 54 loops across.
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Building the Rows:
- First Row: Skip the first loop to start your foundation. Pull the second loop through the first loop from behind to front to begin connecting your yarn.
- Continue the Process: Continue this process across the row, pulling each subsequent loop through the previous one from behind. This creates a secure and even row of loop stitches.
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Creating Subsequent Rows:
- Turn Your Work: At the end of each row, turn your work to start the next row in the opposite direction.
- Repeat the Looping Process: Just as in the first row, continue pulling each loop through the loop from the previous row to build height and create the body of the blanket.
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Finishing the Blanket:
- Closing Off: Once your blanket reaches the desired length, cut the yarn, leaving a tail. Weave this tail through the remaining loops to secure them and prevent unraveling.
- Final Touches: Smooth out your blanket and trim any irregularities for a clean finish.
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How to Make a Finger Loop Blanket
A finger loop blanket involves creating loops with your fingers instead of using traditional knitting or crochet tools. This method is especially appealing for those who enjoy tactile projects and offers a fun way to engage in crafting without needing specialized skills or equipment. Here’s how you can create a plush, textured finger loop blanket:
Materials Needed
- Chunky Loop Yarn: Choose a soft, bulky yarn that is easy to work with and comfortable to touch. The loops should be large enough to easily fit your fingers through.
- Scissors: For cutting the yarn as needed.
Step-by-Step Instructions
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Plan Your Size: Decide on the dimensions of your blanket. A standard throw might measure approximately 50” x 60”.
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Starting Your Project:
- Create the First Row: Lay out the yarn and count out the number of loops across that will form the width of your blanket. For a throw, you might start with 50 loops.
- Form the Foundation Row: Take the second loop and pull it through the first loop from back to front using your fingers. This action forms the edge of the blanket.
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Building the Body of the Blanket:
- Continue the Process: Repeat the process for the entire row, always pulling the next loop through the previous loop from back to front.
- Start the Next Row: Once you reach the end of your row, turn your work around to start the next row. Pull each loop through the loop directly below it from the previous row, continuing the pattern.
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Securing the Edges:
- Final Row: When you reach the desired length of your blanket, cut the yarn, leaving a tail. Weave this tail through the last row of loops to secure them.
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Finishing Touches:
- Inspect Your Work: Go over the blanket, adjusting any loops that may appear too tight or too loose to ensure a uniform appearance.
This method is not only simple but also incredibly satisfying, as it quickly comes together to form a cozy blanket perfect for personal use or as a gift.
Pairing a handmade blanket with the adaptive comfort of a Puffy Lux Mattress ensures that your home is not just stylish, but also incredibly inviting.
How to Make a Baby Blanket with Loop Yarn
Creating a baby blanket with loop yarn is a delightful project that results in a soft and safe item for little ones. Here’s how to make a small, warm blanket suitable for a baby:
Materials Needed
- Soft Loop Yarn: Opt for baby-friendly yarn that is extra soft and non-irritating to delicate skin. Pastel colors or light shades often work well for baby items.
- Scissors: For cutting the yarn.
Instructions
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Determine the Size: A typical baby blanket might measure around 30” x 40”. Gather enough yarn to accommodate this size, generally about 3-4 skeins of loop yarn.
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Starting the Blanket:
- Lay Out the Loops: Start by laying out the loops that will determine the width of your blanket. For a baby blanket, 30 loops across is a good starting point.
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Forming Rows:
- Build the Rows: Similar to the finger loop method, pull each loop through the previous loop from back to front, and continue this pattern across the row.
- Continue the Rows: Build each subsequent row by looping through the loops from the row before, maintaining consistent tension to ensure the blanket is soft and even.
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Finishing Up:
- Secure the Final Row: Cut the yarn, leaving a tail that you can weave through the last row to prevent unraveling.
- Inspect and Adjust: Make sure the loops are evenly spaced and the edges are straight.
How Often Should I Wash My Loop Yarn Blanket?
- Regular Use: Wash your blanket every few months, depending on usage, or if a spill occurs.
- Care Instructions: Follow the yarn’s care label, typically recommending a gentle wash cycle with cold water and a low-heat tumble dry or air dry.
Making a loop yarn blanket turned into a fun weekend project for my family. We each chose our own yarn colors and worked together to create a multi-colored throw that now has a special place draped over our living room sofa.
It’s not only a comfy addition for movie nights but also a great way to add a pop of color to our home décor, much like our vibrant Puffy Lux Mattress does for our bedroom.
Conclusion
Loop yarn blankets are an easy, enjoyable DIY craft that can yield beautiful and practical results. Whether you’re making a small baby blanket or a large throw for your bed, the process is the same—simple, fun, and incredibly rewarding.
With the tips provided, you’re ready to start your own project and create something wonderful for your home or as a gift.
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