Are you dreaming of a cozy, textured blanket to snuggle up with on chilly evenings? Then look no further! This easy crochet bubble blanket tutorial is perfect for beginners, requiring only basic crochet stitches and a little patience. Forget complicated patterns and frustrating techniques – this project is designed to be accessible and enjoyable, even if you're just picking up a crochet hook for the first time. You'll be amazed at how quickly you can create a beautiful and unique blanket, perfect for gifting or adding a touch of handmade charm to your home.
This tutorial will guide you through every step, from choosing your yarn and hook to finishing off your stunning creation. We’ll break down the process into manageable sections, complete with clear instructions and helpful photos to ensure you succeed. Ready to transform simple stitches into a gorgeous, puffy masterpiece? Let's dive into the step-by-step process!
Preparation and Safety Guidelines
Tools Needed
- Walk with Love yarn (or similar worsted weight yarn)
- 5 mm crochet hook
Safety Guidelines
- Use sharp scissors to avoid accidental cuts or snags. Keep them away from your working area when not in use.
- Always check your tension regularly to maintain consistent bubble size and prevent unevenness in the finished blanket.
- If you are using a hook size significantly different from the pattern's recommendation, be prepared for a different finished size and potentially altered stitch definition.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Foundation Chain
- Make a slipknot and chain 103 (multiple of 4 + 3). This is for a newborn size (approx. 70 cm). For larger sizes, add chains in multiples of 4.
Foundation Chain Initial Double Crochet Row
- Double crochet in the 4th chain from the hook, *skip 3 chains, double crochet in the next chain*. Repeat from * to * across. Chain 1 and turn.
Initial Double Crochet Row Bubble Stitch Row
- *2 single crochet, yarn over, insert hook into the next stitch, yarn over, pull through 2 loops. Make 1 more single crochet in the same stitch. Yarn over, insert hook into the same stitch, yarn over, pull through 2 loops, leaving loops on hook. Repeat twice more (for a total of 5 loops on hook). Yarn over, pull through all loops on hook. This completes 1 bubble.* Single crochet in the next stitch. Repeat from * to * across. Chain 1 and turn.
Bubble Stitch Row Repeating Bubble Stitch Pattern
- The video shows slight variations in bubble size throughout the project, but consistency isn't critical to the blanket's overall look.
- Repeat Row 2 (Bubble stitch) for the next row.
- Continue alternating between Rows 2 and the finishing row (double crochet) to complete the blanket.
Repeating Bubble Stitch Pattern Finishing Double Crochet Row
- Double crochet in each stitch across. Chain 1 and turn.
Finishing Double Crochet Row Shell Edging
- 3 chains, double crochet in the same stitch. *2 double crochets, 3 triple crochets, 2 double crochets* in the next stitch. Skip the next 2 stitches and repeat from * to * across the row, adjusting for corners as needed. This forms the shell edging.
Shell Edging Finishing and Weaving in Ends
- Fasten off and weave in ends.
Finishing and Weaving in Ends
Read more: Easy Color Block Crochet Blanket Tutorial for Beginners
Tips
- You can use any worsted weight yarn for this project.
- Adjust the number of chains to change the blanket size.
- Slight variations in bubble size are acceptable; focus on consistent spacing.
- Adapt the edge technique based on your stitch count; the video demonstrates a method to address variations in stitch number.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
1. Inconsistent Tension
Reason: Varying tightness of your stitches creates an uneven and bumpy blanket, not the smooth bubbles you're aiming for.
Solution: Practice maintaining even tension throughout the entire project by crocheting at a consistent pace and tightness.
2. Incorrect Bubble Stitch Count
Reason: Miscounting stitches within each bubble can lead to oddly shaped bubbles or a distorted overall blanket shape.
Solution: Carefully count your stitches at the end of each row and adjust as needed to maintain consistent bubble sizes.
3. Skipping or Adding Stitches
Reason: Accidentally skipping or adding stitches can result in holes or puckers, ruining the smooth look of the blanket.
Solution: Use stitch markers to track your progress and double-check your work at the end of each row to ensure the correct stitch count.
FAQs
What type of yarn is best for a bubble blanket?
A medium-weight (worsted weight) yarn is ideal for bubble blankets. It creates a good texture and works up at a reasonable speed. Avoid anything too bulky, as it can make the bubbles less defined, and anything too thin, which would make the project take much longer.
I'm a complete beginner, will I be able to make this?
Absolutely! This tutorial focuses on very basic crochet stitches. As long as you know how to chain, single crochet, and double crochet, you'll be able to follow along. Take your time, and don't be afraid to unravel and redo if needed – it's all part of the learning process!