Embrace the cozy charm of handmade comfort with this ultimate tutorial on creating a chunky, color-block Squishy Molly Waffle blanket! This delightful crochet project is perfect for both seasoned crafters seeking a new challenge and beginners eager to tackle a satisfyingly large piece. Imagine the soft texture against your skin, the vibrant color combinations, and the undeniable pride of creating such a luxurious throw entirely by hand. The unique waffle stitch adds a delightful dimension, creating a truly squishy and irresistible finished product. This blanket will quickly become a cherished addition to your home, a cozy companion on chilly evenings, or a thoughtful, handmade gift.
Prepare to be amazed as we guide you through each step of this exciting project, transforming simple yarn into a stunning, chunky masterpiece. Let's dive into the detailed, step-by-step instructions below, complete with helpful photos and tips to ensure your Squishy Molly Waffle blanket turns out perfectly!
Preparation and Safety Guidelines
Tools Needed
- 9 mm crochet hook
- Lion Brand Hue and Cry yarn (or similar)
- scissors
- tapestry needle
- steam blocking supplies
Safety Guidelines
- Always use sharp scissors to cut your yarn to prevent fraying and ensure clean edges for your color changes. Dull scissors can snag the yarn and make it difficult to work with.
- Pay close attention to your stitch counts at the end of each row and before color changes to maintain the pattern's integrity and prevent unexpected shaping issues.
- When working with bulky yarn, ensure your hook size is appropriate; using too small a hook can lead to tight stitches, hand fatigue, and a less squishy, more rigid finished blanket.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Foundation Row
- Create 90 foundation single crochet stitches (adjust as needed for desired blanket size). This creates a stretchier and more easily sized foundation than chaining.
Foundation Row Initial Double Crochet Rows
- Chain 1, then double crochet in each stitch across.
Initial Double Crochet Rows Establishing the Waffle Stitch Pattern
- Chain 1, turn. Double crochet in the first stitch. Then, repeat: front post double crochet, double crochet 2, front post double crochet across the row. End with a double crochet in the last stitch.
- Chain 1, turn. Double crochet in each of the next two stitches. Then, repeat: front post double crochet 2, double crochet 1 across the row. End with a double crochet in the last stitch.
Establishing the Waffle Stitch Pattern Repeating the Waffle Stitch Pattern and Color Changes
- Repeat rows 2 and 3 until you have 7 rows in each color section (for a total of 8 rows including the foundation row). Change yarn colors by completing the last stitch of one color, leaving two loops on the hook, and pulling through with the new color.
- Create sections of 8 rows each in three colors (A, B, C), repeating the A-B-C sequence three times. Finish with one more section of color A.
Repeating the Waffle Stitch Pattern and Color Changes Adding the Border
- Chain 1, turn. Single crochet in each of the next two stitches. Then, repeat: pico (chain 3, slip stitch into the first chain), single crochet in each of the next two stitches. Continue around the blanket, using 3 single crochets for each corner. Finish with a slip stitch into the first stitch and fasten off.
Adding the Border Finishing Touches
- Steam block the finished blanket to relax the stitches and flatten the edges.
Finishing Touches
Read more: Knitting a Reversible Basketweave Blanket: A Customizable Guide
Tips
- Use a foundation single crochet for a stretchier, easier-to-size blanket.
- Don't pull chains too tight when creating the foundation single crochet.
- For color changes, leave two loops on the hook before switching colors.
- Steam blocking helps relax the stitches and create a more even texture.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
1. Inconsistent Tension
Reason: Varying yarn tension throughout the project leads to an uneven and misshapen blanket.
Solution: Maintain consistent tension by practicing your crochet stitches and using a tension square as a reference.
2. Incorrect Color Changes
Reason: Improperly joining new yarn colors can create gaps or bulky joins, disrupting the clean lines of the color blocks.
Solution: Use a neat join-as-you-go method to seamlessly blend colors and avoid visible knots.
3. Skipping or Adding Stitches
Reason: Losing or gaining stitches leads to significant size discrepancies and an uneven final product.
Solution: Count your stitches regularly at the end of each row to ensure accuracy and correct any mistakes immediately.
FAQs
What type of yarn is best for this Squishy Molly Waffle Blanket?
A super bulky (weight 6) yarn is recommended for achieving that truly chunky, squishy texture. Look for yarns that are soft and have good drape. Acrylic or a blend of acrylic and wool works well.
How can I avoid uneven stitches in my waffle pattern?
Consistent tension is key! Practice your stitches before starting the blanket to get a feel for the rhythm. Use stitch markers to help you keep track of your rows and ensure you're working the same number of stitches in each section.
Can I change the color blocking pattern? What about the size?
Absolutely! The color blocking is completely customizable. Feel free to experiment with different color combinations and sequences. You can also easily adjust the size of the blanket by adding or subtracting rows and stitches. Just be sure to maintain the same stitch count per color section for a balanced look.