Special Features

1. Mix of Textured Stitches:
   • The pattern alternates between berry stitch, front post single crochet, single crochet, and the even moss stitch for a visually appealing finish.
2. Straight Edges:
   • Cindy introduces a clever technique using slip stitches on the edges to keep rows straight, avoiding uneven ends often caused by textured stitches like front post single crochets.
3. Stretchy and Durable Foundation:
   • The starting chain is specifically designed to be bouncy and flexible, accommodating a wide range of uses.
4. Customizable Size:
   • The foundation chain length can be adjusted as long as you use an even number of chains.
5. Berry Stitch Borders and Fringe:
   • The blanket features borders with berry stitches and optional fringe, adding decorative elegance to the design.

Level of Difficulty

Intermediate
This project combines different textured crochet stitches, requiring attention to detail and an understanding of stitch techniques like the berry stitch and front post single crochet. While beginners can attempt the project, mastering the textured rows and maintaining alignment may require more practice.

Tutor's Suggestions

1. Slip Stitch Technique:
   • To avoid uneven edges, end each row with a slip stitch and begin the next row with another slip stitch. This method acts as a built-in stitch marker for consistent edges.
2. Attention to Detail:
   • Pay close attention to alternating single crochets between berry stitches, as it’s easy to accidentally miss stitches when focusing.
3. Meditative Approach:
   • The berry stitch rows require extra focus. Cindy recommends slowing down and avoiding distractions during these rows to avoid errors.
4. Counting Stitches:
   • After completing critical rows, like the front post single crochet row or even moss stitches, count your stitches to ensure accuracy and alignment.
5. Yarn Choice:
   • Cindy loves the Erin color of Red Heart Super Saver, but the project works beautifully with other yarn variations like Caron One Pound.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Foundation Chain

• Crochet an even number of chains based on the desired blanket width. For Cindy’s project, she chained 130 stitches for a six-foot-wide blanket.
  

  Save

2. Row 1: Single Crochet

• Insert your hook into the second chain from the hook.
• Work single crochets into each chain across the row.
• End the row with a slip stitch, chain 1, and turn.
  

  Save

3. Row 2: Berry Stitch Row

• Start with a slip stitch, then alternate berry stitches and single crochets:
  • Berry Stitch: Yarn over, insert your hook, pull through a loop, pull through one loop, yarn over again, then pull through all five loops on the hook.
  • Single Crochet: Insert the hook into the next stitch, pull up a loop, yarn over, and pull through both loops.
• End with a slip stitch, chain 1, and turn.

Tip: Double-check your berry stitch rows by ensuring you’ve alternated correctly between berry stitches and single crochets, as mistakes can easily happen here.

Save

4. Front Post Single Crochet Rows

• Begin with a slip stitch, then work front post single crochets across the row:
  • Skip the first post and insert your hook around the second post (from front to back). Pull up a loop and complete the single crochet as usual.
• Work all rows into the posts, reaching the last stitch as a regular single crochet.
• End with a slip stitch, chain 1, and turn.

5. Even Moss Stitch Rows

• Begin with a slip stitch. Alternate between half double crochets and slip stitches across the row:
  • Half Double Crochet: Yarn over, insert your hook, pull up a loop, yarn over, and pull through all three loops on the hook.
  • Slip Stitch: Insert your hook into the next stitch, pull up a loop, and pull straight through.
• Repeat this pattern for 10 rows.
  

  Save

6. Final Repeat

• Alternate rows of berry stitch, single crochet, and front post single crochet, as outlined in Cindy’s pattern.
• Ensure the blanket ends with a berry stitch row to create a symmetrical berry stitch border.
  

  Save

7. Adding Borders and Fringe

• Add Single Crochet Borders:
  • Work two rows of single crochet around the edges of the blanket.
• Berry Stitch Border:
  • Add one row of berry stitches for a decorative finish.
• Create Fringe:
  • Chain 10 for each fringe strand, slip stitch back down the chain, and attach it to the border edge spacing. Repeat this process for a dense or sparse fringe, depending on preference.

Uses and Benefits

1. Functional Blanket:
   • Perfect for cozying up on the couch, layering on a bed, or gifting to friends and family.
2. Home Decor:
   • The intricate stitching makes it an elegant addition to any living space.
3. Customizable Design:
   • Adjust the chain length, yarn type, and colors for versatility.

Tip

To avoid frustration with uneven rows, always count your stitches after completing a textured row (like front post single crochet or even moss). Additionally, stitch loosely on slip stitches as tight stitches will make working the next row harder and distort the edges.

Conclusion

The Even Moss Berry Ridge Throw Blanket is a delightful project that combines aesthetic appeal and texture-rich design. Creator's thoughtful approach to keeping rows straight and integrating meditative techniques for working complex stitches ensures success for crochet enthusiasts of all levels. Whether for personal use or as a gift, this cozy throw blanket is sure to impress and bring joy.

Save