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The Stitch Sampler Autumn Rhapsody Crochet Blanket is a delightful project that celebrates the beauty of autumn with a range of different stitch patterns. Featuring rich, earthy tones and a variety of crochet stitches, this blanket is perfect for keeping cozy during the cooler months while adding a splash of fall-inspired color to your home. The stitch sampler format allows you to practice and perfect several different techniques, making this project both fun and educational.

This pattern is ideal for intermediate crocheters who want to explore new stitches, but confident beginners can also tackle it by taking it one section at a time. The combination of texture and color captures the essence of autumn, and the result is a beautiful, tactile masterpiece that you’ll be proud to display.

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Materials Needed for the Stitch Sampler Autumn Rhapsody Blanket

Before starting your Stitch Sampler Autumn Rhapsody blanket, gather the following materials:

  • Yarn: Choose worsted weight yarn in fall-inspired colors. You’ll need several shades for the stitch sampler sections and borders.
    • Main Color (MC): About 1,200-1,500 grams (earthy tones like mustard, brown, rust, or deep red).
    • Accent Colors (AC1, AC2, AC3, etc.): 200-300 grams each in complementary autumnal shades (e.g., orange, gold, burgundy, olive green).
  • Crochet Hook: Size 5mm (H-8) or 5.5mm (I-9), depending on your tension and desired drape.
  • Tapestry Needle: For weaving in ends.
  • Scissors: For trimming yarn at the end of each section.
  • Stitch Markers: Optional but helpful for keeping track of stitch patterns and row counts.

When selecting yarn, choose soft, cozy fibers like wool blends, acrylic, or cotton blends that are easy to care for and comfortable against the skin.

Stitches Used in the Autumn Rhapsody Blanket

  • Chain (CH)
  • Single Crochet (SC)
  • Half Double Crochet (HDC)
  • Double Crochet (DC)
  • Puff Stitch (PS)
  • Shell Stitch (SHS)
  • Bobble Stitch (BS)
  • Crossed Double Crochet (XDC)

This blanket incorporates a variety of stitches, making it perfect for showcasing your skills and giving the finished product plenty of texture and interest.

Step-by-Step Instructions for the Stitch Sampler Autumn Rhapsody Blanket

This blanket is worked in sections, with each section showcasing a different stitch pattern. You can use as many or as few colors as you like for each section, but alternating colors will help emphasize the different stitch textures and give the blanket a cohesive autumnal feel.

Foundation Chain

  1. Chain (CH) 150 (or your desired width)
    The foundation chain sets the width of your blanket. For a medium-sized throw blanket, 150 chains will create a width of approximately 45-50 inches, depending on your yarn and hook size. You can adjust this based on your desired blanket size.

Section 1: Double Crochet Base (Color 1)

  1. In the 3rd chain from the hook, work 1 double crochet (DC). Work 1 DC in each chain across.
    • Turn your work.
  2. Rows 2-8: Chain 2 (counts as the first DC), work 1 DC in each stitch across. Turn at the end of each row.
    • Fasten off at the end of Row 8.

This section establishes the foundation of your blanket with a solid base of double crochet stitches. It also allows you to get comfortable with the yarn and tension.

Section 2: Puff Stitches (Color 2)

  1. Attach Color 2 to the beginning of Row 9 by slip stitching into the first stitch. Chain 2 (counts as the first DC), work 1 puff stitch (PS) into the next stitch, skip 1 stitch, and work 1 DC into the following stitch.
    • Repeat this pattern across the row. Turn your work.
  2. Rows 10-16: Continue alternating between puff stitches and double crochets to create texture in this section.
    • Fasten off at the end of Row 16.

The puff stitch adds a soft, textured look, reminiscent of the cozy warmth of fall.

Section 3: Shell Stitches (Color 3)

  1. Attach Color 3 to the beginning of Row 17. Chain 3 (counts as the first DC), skip 2 stitches, work 5 double crochets into the next stitch (shell made), skip 2 stitches, work 1 double crochet into the following stitch.
    • Repeat this pattern across the row. Turn your work.
  2. Rows 18-24: Continue working shell stitches across each row, creating a wavy, textured look.
    • Fasten off at the end of Row 24.

The shell stitch section brings a graceful, flowing element to the blanket that mimics the falling leaves of autumn.

Section 4: Bobble Stitches (Color 4)

  1. Attach Color 4 to the beginning of Row 25. Chain 2 (counts as the first HDC), work 1 bobble stitch (BS) into the next stitch, skip 1 stitch, and work 1 HDC into the following stitch.
    • Repeat this pattern across the row. Turn your work.
  2. Rows 26-32: Continue alternating bobble stitches and half double crochets to create a playful, raised texture.
    • Fasten off at the end of Row 32.

Bobble stitches add a playful, three-dimensional texture that makes this section stand out.

Section 5: Crossed Double Crochet (Color 5)

  1. Attach Color 5 to the beginning of Row 33. Chain 3 (counts as the first DC), skip 1 stitch, work 1 DC into the next stitch, then go back and work 1 DC into the skipped stitch (crossed double crochet made).
    • Repeat this pattern across the row. Turn your work.
  2. Rows 34-40: Continue working crossed double crochet stitches across the row. This stitch adds a subtle, diagonal texture to the blanket.
    • Fasten off at the end of Row 40.

Crossed double crochets create a visually dynamic texture, representing the crisscrossing branches or pathways in an autumn forest.

Adding a Border to the Stitch Sampler Autumn Rhapsody Blanket

To give the blanket a finished, polished look, add a simple border in one of your accent colors or the main color.

Step 1: Single Crochet Border

  1. Attach the chosen border color to any corner of the blanket by slip stitching into the corner stitch.
  2. Chain 1 and work single crochet (SC) stitches evenly around the entire edge of the blanket. In each corner, work 3 SC to maintain the blanket’s shape.
    • Slip stitch to the first SC to close the round.

Step 2: Optional Decorative Border

For a more intricate border, consider adding a shell or picot edge:

  • Picot Edge: After completing the SC round, chain 3, slip stitch into the first chain (picot made), skip the next stitch, and SC into the following stitch. Repeat this pattern around the edge.
  • Shell Border: For a scalloped edge, work 5 DC into the same stitch, skip 2 stitches, and slip stitch into the next stitch. Repeat this pattern around the edge.

Finishing Touches

Weaving in Ends

After completing the blanket, use a tapestry needle to weave in all loose ends, especially where you’ve changed colors. Be sure to secure them tightly to prevent unraveling over time.

Blocking the Blanket

Blocking helps even out the stitches and ensures the blanket lies flat. To block the blanket:

  • Lightly dampen it with water or use a steamer.
  • Lay the blanket flat on a blocking mat or a clean towel.
  • Gently stretch the blanket to even out the stitches and straighten the edges.
  • Pin the edges in place and allow the blanket to dry completely before removing the pins.

How to Use the Stitch Sampler Autumn Rhapsody Blanket

The Stitch Sampler Autumn Rhapsody Blanket is versatile and can be used in several ways to bring warmth and seasonal charm to your home.

1. Cozy Throw for the Living Room

Drape the blanket over your sofa or armchair to add a touch of autumn-inspired color and texture to your living room. The variety of stitches creates a cozy, inviting vibe perfect for fall.

2. Bedspread

Use the blanket as a decorative bedspread or throw at the foot of your bed. The warm, earthy tones and rich textures will transform your bedroom into a cozy retreat for the colder months.

3. Outdoor Blanket

Bring the blanket outdoors for picnics, camping trips, or enjoying a crisp autumn evening. The blanket’s combination of texture and color makes it perfect for outdoor use while staying cozy.

4. Handmade Gift

The Stitch Sampler Autumn Rhapsody Blanket makes a thoughtful and personal handmade gift for birthdays, holidays, or housewarmings. Its unique stitch sampler design and rich colors will be appreciated by anyone who receives it.

Customizing Your Stitch Sampler Autumn Rhapsody Blanket

One of the best aspects of the Stitch Sampler Autumn Rhapsody Blanket is that it’s easy to customize. Here are a few ways to make this pattern your own:

Change the Color Scheme

While the pattern uses autumnal colors, you can experiment with any color palette that suits your style. Try using wintery blues and whites, spring pastels, or bold, summer brights to give the blanket a completely different feel.

Adjust the Size

You can easily adjust the size of the blanket by adding or subtracting stitches from the foundation chain and working more or fewer rows in each section. You can also add more stitch sections to make the blanket larger.