This cozy baby blanket features the puff stitch, which creates a soft, puffy texture perfect for keeping babies warm and snug. Ideal for gifting or personal use, this project is beginner-friendly but looks beautifully intricate.
📐 Finished Size (Customizable)
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Approx. 30″ x 36″
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You can adjust the size by increasing or decreasing the initial chain (foundation chain in a multiple of 2 + 1).
🧵 Materials Needed
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Worsted weight yarn (Medium #4) – Approx. 1000–1200 yards
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Choose a soft baby yarn such as Bernat Baby Blanket, Caron Simply Soft, or Lion Brand Baby Soft.
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Crochet Hook: 5.5 mm (I-9)
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Scissors
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Yarn needle (for weaving in ends)
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Stitch markers (optional, helpful for marking row beginnings)
📖 Abbreviations & Terms (US Terms)
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ch – chain
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st – stitch
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sc – single crochet
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dc – double crochet
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ps – puff stitch
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YO – yarn over
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rep – repeat
💡 How to Make the Puff Stitch (ps)
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Yarn over (YO), insert hook into stitch, YO, pull up a loop (3 loops on hook)
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YO, insert hook into same stitch, YO, pull up a loop (5 loops on hook)
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YO, insert hook into same stitch, YO, pull up a loop (7 loops on hook)
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YO and pull through all 7 loops on the hook.
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Ch 1 to close the puff stitch.
👉 You can adjust the puff to be bigger (more loops) or smaller, depending on the look you prefer.
🧶 Pattern Instructions
Foundation Chain:
Chain 101 (or any even number + 1 for the desired width).
Row 1:
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In the 3rd ch from the hook, work 1 puff stitch (ps).
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Skip 1 chain, ps in next chain.
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Repeat from * to the end of the row.
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You should end with a puff stitch in the last stitch.
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Ch 2, turn.
Row 2:
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In the first ch-1 space of the previous row (between puff stitches), make a puff stitch.
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Continue to work 1 ps in each ch-1 space across the row.
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When you reach the end, dc in the last stitch to create a smooth edge.
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Ch 2, turn.
Row 3 and Beyond:
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Repeat Row 2 until the blanket reaches your desired length (e.g., 36″ long).
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Each row will stack puff stitches above the previous ones, with lovely texture and structure.
Final Row (Optional):
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Work 1 row of single crochet (sc) across for a clean, flat edge.
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Ch 1, turn and work across if needed for symmetry.
🎀 Optional Border (Simple & Clean)
Single Crochet Border:
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With a new yarn or the same color, join the yarn in any corner.
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Work 1 sc in each stitch along all four sides of the blanket.
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Place 3 sc in each corner, stitch to help the border lie flat.
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You can repeat this round 2–3 times for a thicker border.
Shell Border (Decorative):
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Skip 1st, 5 dc in next st, skip 1 st, sc in next — repeat around for a scalloped shell border.
🌈 Customization Ideas
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Stripes: Alternate yarn colors every few rows.
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Ombre Effect: Use gradient or self-striping yarns.
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Personalization: Add a monogram using surface slip stitch or embroidery.
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Matching Accessories: Make a matching hat or booties.
🧺 Washing Instructions
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Use baby-safe yarns that are machine-washable.
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Wash in cold water, gentle cycle.
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Lay flat to dry or tumble dry low if yarn allows.
🔚 Finishing Touches
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Weave in all ends using a yarn needle.
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Block the blanket lightly if needed (especially if using cotton).
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Wrap with ribbon for gifting or fold for nursery storage.
✅ Final Notes
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Don’t worry if your puff stitches aren’t perfect right away — it takes a few rows to get into a rhythm.
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This blanket is designed to be soft, stretchy, and warm.
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Make sure to check your stitch count every few rows to keep your edges straight.
