Why It Is Important To Correctly Size A Crocheted Blanket (+ a FREEBIE)
Have you ever thought about crocheting a blanket for a friend or family member? Is there a new baby in your life, or has someone crochet-worthy mentioned that they would like to have you make them a crocheted blanket that covers their bed like a bedspread or duvet for extra warmth?
If you are like me, there are so many sizes out there for blankets sometimes you don’t know where to start to make it the right size!
But it is really important to make the blanket the right size for whatever the use is. If it isn’t the right size, chances are that the beautiful blanket you made won’t be used, and that is the point, right?
Here are 4 reasons why you need to crochet the blanket to the right size.
Comfort and Functionality
A blanket that is the right size will provide the recipient with the desired level of warmth and comfort. An oversized blanket may be too heavy and suffocating, while a too-small blanket won’t provide adequate coverage.
For example, maybe the blanket is for a new mom who wants to have a blanket that works in a stroller. Having crocheted the blanket too wide, may cause the edges of the blanket to get caught in the wheels causing issues when going for the daily walk. Or maybe it’s a blanket to snuggle under while watching TV. If it isn’t long enough to cover the toes, your recipient will struggle to find a position to sit and watch comfortably.
Aesthetics
A blanket that fits well with the recipient’s bed or furniture will have a more pleasing and visually appealing appearance. An oversized blanket can look bulky and out of place, while an under-sized blanket may look like it was an afterthought.
When making a blanket for the bed, you are going to think about a couple of things:
- Colors
- Do you want the crocheted blanket to work as a coverlet or duvet or is it just for display and added warmth when needed?
Cost, Time Efficiency & Personalization
If you are working to the right size the recipient needs, AND you are crocheting to the right gauge (I know – that is a dirty word to crocheters) you can accurately calculate the amount of yarn you will need and can budget your costs and time effectively.
Imagine that you are asked to crochet a blanket that is for a niece’s single-sized bed. You think that it is to be just for added warmth so you make a blanket that is roughly sized from a chart that shows an average body structure for her age, with a couple of extra inches to make sure it is something that she can snuggle under. Once it is presented to her, you discover she was looking for a bedspread! That means you have to take it back, and buy more yarn, possibly even rip it out and start again.
BUT – if you ask the questions and make it to the niece’s specifications, you have not only saved yourself some time, but you have personalized it to her needs, and that shows her how much you thought about her and the blanket becomes a much more meaningful gift from you.
How do you know the right size?
(I’m so glad you asked that question! )
I have created a special PDF just for you! This Blanket Sizing Chart lists the top 17 sizes of blankets – from Lovey to California King – in both inches and centimeters. (All you followers who use the metric system measurements – I am always thinking of you too!)
It is the perfect size to print out, laminate and place in your project bag to help you decide where to start.
To get your free Blanket Sizing Chart, use the form below and I will send you your copy!
Got Questions?
Drop me a line below! I am happy to help!
