Ripple knit blankets are a timeless favorite in the knitting world. Known for their soothing wave-like patterns and rhythmic stitches, ripple blankets are the perfect blend of beauty and meditative knitting. If you’re a beginner, don’t worry—these patterns are approachable, flexible, and full of creative possibilities.

In this tutorial, we’ll walk through 5 unique ripple knit blanket designs—each with detailed instructions, materials, and ideas for customization. Whether you love subtle texture or bold colorwork, you’ll find a ripple blanket pattern here to inspire your next cozy creation.

Pattern 1: Classic Ripple Knit Blanket (Beginner Level)

Materials

• Worsted weight yarn in two or three contrasting colors
• US Size 8 (5mm) knitting needles (straight or circular for larger size)
• Scissors
• Tapestry needle for weaving ends

Gauge

• 18 stitches x 24 rows = 4″ (10 cm) in stockinette stitch

Finished Size

• Approx. 40” x 50” (easily adjustable for larger or smaller sizes)

Pattern Overview

The Classic Ripple Blanket is the perfect starting point for beginners. It uses simple knit and purl stitches, along with basic increases and decreases, to create gentle wave-like ripples across the fabric. Alternating two or three colors highlights the ripple effect beautifully.

This blanket is worked flat, back and forth in rows, making it easy to adjust the length and width depending on your preference.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Ripple Stitch Pattern (multiple of 18 + 2 stitches):

1. Row 1 (Right Side): Knit across.
2. Row 2: Purl across.
3. Row 3: *(K2tog) 3 times, (YO, K1) 6 times, (K2tog) 3 times, repeat from * to last 2 sts, K2.
4. Row 4: Purl across.

To Knit the Blanket:

1. Cast on 182 stitches (or any multiple of 18 + 2 for your desired width).
2. Work 4 rows in garter stitch (knit every row) for a neat border.
3. Begin working the Ripple Stitch Pattern.
4. Alternate yarn colors every 8–10 rows for a bold striped effect.
5. Continue until the blanket reaches your desired length.
6. Finish with 4 rows in garter stitch and bind off loosely.

Customization Ideas

• Use ombre or gradient yarn cakes for a stunning ripple effect without frequent color changes.
• Add a crochet border in a solid contrasting color for a polished look.
• Try a baby blanket size with pastel shades for a modern nursery accessory.

Styling Tips

This blanket drapes beautifully over a sofa or reading chair. Pair it with neutral-toned furniture to let the ripples stand out, or use it as a cheerful pop of color in a minimalist space.

Pattern 2: Bold Color Block Ripple Blanket (Beginner–Intermediate)

Materials

• Bulky weight yarn in 4–5 bold colors
• US Size 10.5 (6.5mm) circular knitting needles (to hold large stitch counts)
• Stitch markers

Gauge

• 14 stitches x 20 rows = 4” (10 cm) in ripple stitch

Finished Size

• Approx. 50” x 60” (throw size)

Pattern Overview

The Color Block Ripple Blanket makes a bold statement with wide stripes of color. Instead of alternating colors every few rows, you’ll knit large blocks of rippling waves, giving the blanket a modern, graphic appeal.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Ripple Pattern (multiple of 30 + 2 stitches):

1. Row 1: Knit.
2. Row 2: Purl.
3. Row 3: *(K2tog) 5 times, (YO, K1) 10 times, (K2tog) 5 times, repeat from * to last 2 sts, K2.
4. Row 4: Purl.

To Knit the Blanket:

1. Cast on 182 stitches.
2. Work 6 rows in garter stitch for the border.
3. Begin Ripple Pattern.
4. Knit 40 rows (or about 6”) in Color A, switch to Color B, and continue.
5. Repeat until you have 5–6 wide color blocks.
6. Finish with 6 rows of garter stitch and bind off.

Customization Ideas

• Use neutral tones for a chic, modern living room throw.
• Choose bright rainbow colors for a fun and playful version.
• Add tassels or fringe to the short edges for extra texture.

Styling Tips

This design looks especially striking folded at the end of a bed, letting each color block peek out. Perfect for modern interiors or kids’ rooms.

Pattern 3: Ripple Baby Blanket (Beginner Friendly)

Materials

• Soft DK weight baby yarn (3 colors recommended)
• US Size 6 (4mm) knitting needles
• Yarn needle

Gauge

• 22 stitches x 28 rows = 4” (10 cm)

Finished Size

• Approx. 30” x 36”

Pattern Overview

This blanket is delicate, lightweight, and oh-so-soft for babies. Using DK yarn makes it less bulky and ideal for nurseries. Gentle color transitions in pastels enhance the soothing ripple effect.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Ripple Stitch (multiple of 12 + 2 stitches):

1. Row 1: Knit.
2. Row 2: Purl.
3. Row 3: *(K2tog) twice, (YO, K1) 4 times, (K2tog) twice, repeat across, K2 at end.
4. Row 4: Purl.

To Knit the Blanket:

1. Cast on 122 stitches.
2. Work 4 rows garter stitch.
3. Begin Ripple Stitch.
4. Alternate colors every 12 rows for a playful striped effect.
5. Knit until the blanket measures approx. 36”.
6. Finish with 4 rows garter stitch and bind off.

Customization Ideas

• Use self-striping yarn cakes to minimize color changes.
• Add a soft picot edge with crochet for a sweet finish.
• Knit in neutral creams and grays for a gender-neutral gift.

Styling Tips

A ripple baby blanket is perfect as a stroller throw, crib accent, or tummy-time mat. Fold neatly and tie with ribbon for a thoughtful handmade baby shower gift.

Pattern 4: Textured Ripple Blanket (Beginner–Intermediate)

Materials

• Aran weight yarn in one solid color (texture shows best in solids)
• US Size 9 (5.5mm) knitting needles
• Row counter (optional)

Gauge

• 16 stitches x 22 rows = 4” (10 cm)

Finished Size

• Approx. 48” x 60”

Pattern Overview

Instead of relying on color changes, this blanket uses texture to make the ripple effect stand out. By alternating knit and purl sections within the ripple stitch, the waves pop in three-dimensional ridges.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Ripple Texture Pattern (multiple of 18 + 2 stitches):

1. Row 1: Knit across.
2. Row 2: *(K2tog) 3 times, (YO, K1) 6 times, (K2tog) 3 times, repeat from * to last 2 sts, K2.
3. Row 3: Knit across.
4. Row 4: Purl across.

To Knit the Blanket:

1. Cast on 182 stitches.
2. Knit 6 rows garter stitch for border.
3. Work Ripple Texture Pattern until desired length.
4. End with 6 rows garter stitch and bind off.

Customization Ideas

• Add thin stripes of a contrasting color every 20 rows for a subtle highlight.
• Make it in cotton yarn for a breathable summer throw.
• For a luxurious option, use wool blends for warmth and drape.

Styling Tips

The textured ripples add elegance, making this blanket suitable as a decorative throw on a couch or the foot of a bed. Works beautifully in neutral shades for modern décor.

Pattern 5: Chevron Ripple Knit Blanket (Beginner Friendly)

Materials

• Worsted or bulky yarn in multiple colors
• US Size 9 (5.5mm) knitting needles
• Measuring tape

Gauge

• 18 stitches x 24 rows = 4” (10 cm)

Finished Size

• Approx. 45” x 60”

Pattern Overview

The Chevron Ripple Blanket is a bold, angular take on the ripple design. Instead of soft waves, this pattern creates crisp zig-zag chevrons, perfect for modern spaces. It’s surprisingly easy—just increases and decreases placed strategically.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Chevron Pattern (multiple of 14 + 2 stitches):

1. Row 1: (K2tog) twice, (YO, K1) 4 times, (K2tog) twice, repeat across, K2 at end.
2. Row 2: Purl across.

To Knit the Blanket:

1. Cast on 144 stitches.
2. Work 4 rows garter stitch.
3. Begin Chevron Pattern.
4. Change colors every 6–8 rows for bold stripes.
5. Continue until desired length is reached.
6. Finish with 4 rows garter stitch and bind off.

Customization Ideas

• Work in black and white for a striking graphic look.
• Use earth tones for a cozy, rustic feel.
• Knit it in chunky yarn for a fast weekend project.

Styling Tips

Chevron ripple blankets make a bold statement—drape over a modern sofa, or fold neatly at the foot of the bed for a crisp, geometric accent.

Final Thoughts

Ripple knit blankets are endlessly versatile—whether you prefer gentle waves, bold chevrons, or textured ridges, there’s a ripple design to match your style. These five beginner-friendly patterns will give you a strong foundation, while offering plenty of room for creativity through colors, textures, and finishing touches.

Pick your favorite pattern, grab your yarn, and let the ripples flow!