This shell-stitch blanket creates a lacy yet cozy design, making it perfect for baby blankets, throws, or even full-size afghans. The pattern is easy to adjust in size and works beautifully with soft or variegated yarns.
Materials Needed:
- Yarn: Worsted-weight yarn or DK-weight yarn (choose a soft and warm fiber like cotton, acrylic, or wool blend)
- Hook: 5.0mm (H-8) or 6.0mm (J-10), depending on your yarn choice
- Scissors
- Tapestry needle (for weaving in ends)
- Measuring tape (optional, for checking dimensions)
Stitch Guide (US Terminology):
- ch = chain
- sc = single crochet
- dc = double crochet
- shell = 5 dc in the same stitch
Pattern Notes:
- The foundation chain should be a multiple of 6 + 1 (e.g., 61, 121, 181, etc.).
- This pattern is a two-row repeat, making it easy to memorize.
- You can use one solid color or alternate colors for a striped effect.
Instructions:
Foundation Chain:
Chain a multiple of 6 + 1 until you reach the desired width.
For example:
- Baby Blanket (30″ width) → 121 chains
- Throw Blanket (50″ width) → 181 chains
- Large Afghan (60″ width) → 211 chains
Row 1: (Setup Row)
- Sc in second chain from the hook and across the row.
- Turn.
Row 2: (First Shell Row)
- Ch 3 (counts as first dc), skip 2 stitches, work 5 dc in the next stitch (this creates a shell).
- Skip 2 stitches, sc in next stitch.
- Repeat (skip 2, shell stitch, skip 2, sc in next stitch) across the row.
- End with a dc in the last stitch.
- Turn.
Row 3: (Second Shell Row)
- Ch 3, 2 dc in the first stitch (this creates a half-shell).
- Skip 2 stitches, sc in the center stitch of the shell from the previous row, skip 2 stitches, and work 5 dc in the next sc.
- Repeat (skip 2, sc in center stitch, skip 2, shell in next sc) across the row.
- At the end, work 3 dc in the last stitch to complete the half-shell.
- Turn.
Row 4 and Beyond:
- Repeat Row 2 and Row 3 until the blanket reaches your desired length.
Edging (Optional):
Once the blanket is the right size, you can add a decorative border:
- Single Crochet Border: Work sc evenly around the blanket, placing 3 sc in each corner.
- Shell Border: After a round of sc, work shells (5 dc in one stitch, skip 2 stitches, sc in next stitch) around.
- Picot Edge: Work sc around and every 3rd stitch, make (ch 3, sc in the same stitch) for a delicate finish.
Final Touches:
- Fasten off and weave in all ends with a tapestry needle.
- Block the blanket (optional) by lightly spraying it with water and pinning it into shape.
Size Adjustments:
You can adjust the width by adding or removing multiples of 6 chains in the foundation row.
To adjust the length, simply continue repeating the rows until it reaches your desired size.
Pattern Variations:
- Striped Version: Change colors every few rows for a striped effect.
- Lacy Shells: Use a larger hook or lightweight yarn for a more delicate look.
- Denser Shells: Use a smaller hook for a tighter stitch.
Access The Free Pattern Here: Beautiful Shells Blanket
Video Tutorial:
Certainly! To assist you in creating a Beautiful Shells Blanket, here’s a highly recommended video tutorial that provides step-by-step instructions:
This tutorial by Jonna Martinez is well-regarded for its clarity and comprehensive guidance, making it accessible for both beginners and experienced crocheters. Additionally, you can find the written pattern for the Beautiful Shells Blanket by Lahoma Jayne Nally on Ravelry:
Combining the visual guidance from the video with the detailed written pattern should provide you with all the resources you need to create your own Beautiful Shells Blanket. Happy crocheting! 😊
