Garter stitch is the simplest and most versatile stitch in knitting, yet it produces beautifully textured and timeless blankets. These 7 garter stitch blanket patterns are designed for knitters of all skill levels, from beginners to intermediate enthusiasts.
Each pattern includes:
- Skill level
- Finished size (with guidance for adjustment)
- Materials (yarn type, needle size, and optional tools)
- Stitch multiples & foundation
- Row-by-row instructions
- Finishing & assembly tips
- Optional variations
These patterns allow you to create blankets that are not only functional and cozy but also visually appealing, whether for gifts or home décor.
1) Classic Garter Stitch Baby Blanket
Skill level: Beginner
Finished size: Approximately 30″ × 40″ (adjustable by changing yarn or needle size)
Materials
- Worsted weight (#4) soft acrylic or cotton yarn: ~600–700 yd
- US 8 (5.0 mm) knitting needles, straight or circular
- Yarn needle for weaving in ends
- Optional: blocking pins or light spray for shaping
Stitch Multiple & Foundation
- Multiple: 1 stitch for garter stitch
- Foundation: Cast on 120 stitches (adjust for width)
Row-by-Row Instructions
Rows 1–80: Knit all stitches (garter stitch).
- Repeat until blanket reaches ~40″ (adjust row count for desired length).
Optional Border: Knit first and last 5 stitches of every row in seed stitch (K1, P1) for subtle textured edge.
Finishing
- Bind off loosely in pattern.
- Weave in all ends.
- Block lightly for even edges.
Tips:
- Keep tension consistent to avoid curling.
- Use machine-washable yarn for baby-friendly blankets.
2) Chunky Garter Stitch Throw
Skill level: Beginner–Intermediate
Finished size: 50″ × 60″
Materials
- Super bulky yarn (#6), ~900–1000 yd
- US 15 (10 mm) knitting needles
- Yarn needle
Stitch Multiple & Foundation
- Multiple: 1 stitch (garter stitch)
- Foundation: Cast on 100 stitches
Row-by-Row Instructions
Rows 1–60: Knit all stitches (garter stitch).
- Optional: Alternate colors every 10 rows for stripes.
Finishing
- Bind off loosely.
- Weave in ends.
- Lightly block to smooth edges.
Tips:
- Bulky yarn grows fast—perfect for quick projects.
- Loose bind-off prevents tight, restrictive edges.
3) Garter Stitch Gradient Blanket
Skill level: Intermediate
Finished size: 40″ × 60″
Materials
- Worsted weight (#4) gradient yarn or 3 coordinating colors
- US 8 (5 mm) circular needles
- Yarn needle
Stitch Multiple & Foundation
- Multiple: 1 stitch
- Foundation: Cast on 150 stitches
Row-by-Row Instructions
Rows 1–80: Knit all stitches in first color.
Rows 81–160: Knit all stitches in second color.
Rows 161–240: Knit all stitches in third color.
- Adjust rows for smoother gradient transitions.
Optional Texture
- Slip first stitch of each row for a subtle edge rib.
Finishing
- Bind off loosely.
- Weave in ends carefully.
- Block lightly to even stitches and smooth color transitions.
4) Garter Stitch Basket Weave Blanket
Skill level: Intermediate
Finished size: 36″ × 50″
Materials
- Worsted weight (#4) yarn, 800–900 yd
- US 8 (5 mm) needles
- Yarn needle
Stitch Multiple & Foundation
- Multiple: 8 stitches for pattern + 0 extra for edges
- Foundation: Cast on 120 stitches
Row-by-Row Instructions
Rows 1–4: Knit all stitches (garter stitch).
Rows 5–8: Purl all stitches (reverse side of blocks).
- Repeat Rows 1–8 until desired length (~50″).
Optional Border
- First and last 4 stitches in garter stitch for frame.
Finishing
- Bind off loosely.
- Weave in ends.
- Block lightly for square edges.
5) Garter Stitch Striped Throw
Skill level: Beginner
Finished size: 45″ × 60″
Materials
- Worsted weight (#4) yarn in 3–4 colors
- US 8 (5 mm) needles
- Yarn needle
Stitch Multiple & Foundation
- Multiple: 1 stitch
- Foundation: Cast on 150 stitches
Row-by-Row Instructions
Rows 1–12: Knit all stitches in Color A.
Rows 13–24: Knit all stitches in Color B.
- Repeat color sequence until blanket reaches ~60″.
Optional Border
- Crochet edge or seed stitch for a polished finish.
Finishing
- Bind off loosely.
- Weave in ends.
- Block lightly.
6) Garter Stitch Baby Lap Blanket
Skill level: Beginner
Finished size: 28″ × 36″
Materials
- Soft worsted weight yarn (#4), ~500 yd
- US 7 (4.5 mm) needles
- Yarn needle
Stitch Multiple & Foundation
- Multiple: 1 stitch
- Foundation: Cast on 100 stitches
Row-by-Row Instructions
Rows 1–72: Knit all stitches.
- Optional: First and last 6 stitches in seed stitch for border.
Finishing
- Bind off loosely.
- Weave in ends.
- Lightly block for even shape.
7) Garter Stitch Cozy Blanket with Fringe
Skill level: Beginner–Intermediate
Finished size: 40″ × 60″
Materials
- Worsted weight yarn (#4), ~900–1000 yd
- US 8 (5 mm) needles
- Yarn needle, scissors
Stitch Multiple & Foundation
- Multiple: 1 stitch
- Foundation: Cast on 150 stitches
Row-by-Row Instructions
Rows 1–80: Knit all stitches (garter stitch).
Optional Fringe
- Cut yarn into 12″ pieces.
- Fold in half, pull through edges every 2–3 stitches along shorter sides.
- Knot securely.
Finishing
- Bind off loosely.
- Weave in ends.
- Lightly block to settle fringe.
Professional Finishing Tips (All Blankets)
- Blocking: Even for garter stitch, blocking evens out edges and relaxes stitches.
- Weaving in ends: Weave at least 2–3 inches to secure yarn.
- Borders: Seed stitch, I-cord, or crochet edge adds professional look.
- Sizing: Adjust cast-on and row count based on desired dimensions; garter stitch stretches slightly.
Conclusion
These 7 garter stitch blanket patterns provide a range of cozy, stylish, and versatile options for knitters at any level. By following stitch multiples, row-by-row instructions, and finishing tips, you can create blankets that are perfect for gifting, home décor, or personal use.
The structured pattern style ensures that every blanket can be reproduced exactly, with options for borders, stripes, gradients, and fringe for added customization.
