I just finished repairing a baby blanket that had a hole in it. The owner was anxious to get it back, so it was a rush job. Oh, and the owner of the blanket is 14 years old! Isn't that great? It shows how important these blankies can be for children of all ages.

Shop owners Kelley and Jim are expecting their second grandchild, and Kelley has baby blankets on her mind. I thought I'd share a few options for those of you who need a shower gift or are expecting a baby of your own.

Kisses & Hugs Reversible Baby Blanket by Kelley Hobart

This Kisses & Hugs Blanket is named after the X and O cables that Kelley incorporated into the design. It looks great on both sides thanks to the ribbed cables, which is a great skill to learn! The garter-stitch and cable combo creates soft ripples on the edge of the blanket. Whether you're creating a baby blanket or you just want a cute throw, you'll enjoy knitting this project.  

Twinkle Star Baby Blanket by Kelley Hobart

Kelley brought the pretty star stitch and a scalloped edging together to make this truly beautiful baby blanket. If you're looking to create an heirloom blanket for the baby in your life, the Twinkle Star Baby Blanket is it (and it's a free pattern). 

The star stitch is fun to knit and creates such a pretty texture!

Mermaid Tail Blanket by Lena Fedotova

Here's one for the crocheters! Use Tunisian crochet to make this darling mermaid-tail cocoon. Bright and cheery, this blanket will keep your little one's legs and feet warm and cozy. So much fun. And if you want one for yourself (and who wouldn't?), Lena designed the Mermaid Tail Blanket in three sizes.

Garden Patch Baby Blanket by Verybusymonkey

This stunner was inspired by a shawl that had a quilted look. Stephanie (Verybusymonkey) designed the Garden Patch Baby Blanket for a quilter friend's grandchild, incorporating blocks of different stitch patterns. It's truly beautiful, isn't it? This one will be treasured forever.

Garden Patch is knit from the corner outward and can be worked as either a square blanket or a rectangular blanket. The pattern includes both charted and written instructions, so don't be intimidated by any of the stitch patterns!

Bonbon Blanket by Lena Fedotova

Get out your crochet hook and brighten up the nursery with this pop of fun! The Bon Bon Blanket uses the simplest geometric shapes, stripes and circles, to bring together colors in an exciting way. Simple to work, this baby blanket is modern and original. 

I hope you'll make one of these knit and crochet baby blankets! 

Cheers,