Understanding the Block Style Blanket Process
One of the most fun and creative ways to crochet a blanket is by making a block-style blanket.
Instead of crocheting one large blanket all at once, a block blanket is created by making smaller individual crochet blocks and then sewing or joining them together using yarn. This makes crochet feel more manageable, flexible, and beginner-friendly.
Each block in Crochet by the Block is designed to be just over 8" x 8". Once your blocks are completed, you can arrange them in many different ways to create a blanket that is completely unique to you.
How a Block Blanket Works
The process is simple:
Crochet individual blocks
Arrange the blocks into a layout you like
Join the blocks together
Add a border to finish the blanket
That’s it!
You can make your blanket as large or as small as you want by simply adding more blocks.
Use One Stitch or Many
One of the best parts about a block blanket is flexibility.
You can:
• Use the same stitch for every block
• Mix multiple crochet stitches together
• Combine textured blocks and simple blocks
• Use solid colors or colorful layouts
• Repeat your favorite patterns
Some crocheters love the look of a blanket made from all one stitch pattern, while others enjoy mixing many different blocks together to create texture and variety.
There is no right or wrong way to design your blanket.
Blanket Size Options
Because the blanket is made from individual blocks, you can easily customize the size.
For example:
• A few blocks can make a washcloth or small baby blanket
• Medium-sized blankets may use 12–20 blocks
• Larger afghans can use many more blocks
You can continue adding blocks until your blanket reaches the size you want.
Color Choices and Layouts
You can use any colors or color combinations you enjoy.
Some ideas include:
• Solid color blankets
• Checkerboard layouts
• Diagonal color patterns
• Ombre or gradient colors
• Multi-colored yarn mixed with solids
• Seasonal or themed color palettes
Planning your colors ahead of time can help create a balanced look, but experimenting can also lead to beautiful results.
Joining and Finishing
After your blocks are completed, they are joined together using yarn and a yarn needle or crochet joining method.
Once assembled, a border is added around the outside edges of the blanket to give it a finished look.
Borders can be:
• Simple and clean
• Decorative and textured
• Thick or thin
• Made in one or multiple colors
The border helps tie the entire blanket together and gives your project a polished finish.
Where to Find Instructions
Step-by-step instructions for:
• Joining blocks together
• Blanket layouts
• Borders and edging
• Finishing techniques
can all be found in the Build-a-Blanket section.
Instructions for:
• Individual crochet blocks
• Stitch tutorials
• Practice swatches
• New stitch patterns
can be found in the Block Patterns section.
Printable Patterns
Printable PDF versions of patterns, layouts, and lessons are available inside the Premium Pattern Vault through a monthly or yearly membership.
The Pattern Vault includes:
• Downloadable patterns
• Printable PDFs
• Archived blocks
• Blanket layouts
• Organized access to the growing pattern library
Final Thoughts
Block-style blankets are a wonderful way to learn crochet while creating something beautiful and personal.
Working in blocks allows you to:
• Learn new stitches one step at a time
• Complete smaller, manageable pieces
• Easily take projects with you
• Create endless blanket designs
Most importantly, your blanket does not have to be perfect.
Every block you create helps build your skills, confidence, and creativity — one stitch at a time.