2020 Temperature Tile Crochet Blanket

The 2020 Temperature Tile Crochet Blanket is a creative project that combines the beauty of crochet with the fascinating concept of tracking daily temperatures throughout the year.

Each tile represents the high (or low) temperature of a specific day, and by the end of the year, you’ll have a stunning blanket that visually reflects the changing weather patterns of 2020.

This project is perfect for those who want to commit to a year-long crochet journey, but it can also be adapted for shorter periods or special events.

Temperature blankets are a great way to experiment with color, learn consistency, and create a meaningful keepsake.

The idea is simple: choose a range of colors to represent different temperature ranges, and then crochet one tile per day (or week) based on the daily high or low temperature. This pattern uses individual tiles, which are later joined together, making it a manageable and fun project to work on throughout the year.

Materials Needed for the 2020 Temperature Tile Blanket

To create your 2020 Temperature Tile Crochet Blanket, gather the following materials:

• Yarn: Choose a variety of colors to represent different temperature ranges. You’ll need multiple colors to capture the full range of temperatures experienced in your location.
  • Approximately 100-200 grams of each color (depending on your temperature data).
  • You’ll need at least 7-10 different colors to cover the temperature spectrum.
• Crochet Hook: Size 4mm (G-6) or 4.5mm (7), depending on your yarn and tension.
• Tapestry Needle: For weaving in ends and joining tiles.
• Scissors: For trimming yarn after completing each tile.
• Notebook/Weather App: To record the daily high or low temperatures in your area.

When choosing yarn, opt for colors that have a strong contrast between temperature ranges so the temperature changes will be visually distinct. You can use acrylic or cotton yarn for durability and ease of care, especially since the blanket will cover an entire year’s worth of crocheting.

Choosing Your Temperature Color Ranges

Before starting, assign a specific color to each temperature range. Here’s an example of how to divide the colors:

You can adjust these temperature ranges and color choices depending on the climate of your area. The goal is to assign one color to each temperature range and use that color to crochet the tile for the day’s high (or low) temperature.

Stitches Used in the Pattern

• Chain (CH)
• Single Crochet (SC)
• Double Crochet (DC)
• Slip Stitch (SL ST)

This pattern uses a simple tile or square that is worked in rounds. You can use a basic granny square or a solid square pattern, depending on the look you want for the blanket.

Step-by-Step Instructions for the Temperature Tiles

Each tile will represent one day, and at the end of the year, you’ll have 365 (or 366 for a leap year) tiles to join together.

Foundation Ring

1. Chain 4, join with a slip stitch to form a ring.
   This creates the center of your tile.

Round 1: Creating the Center of the Tile

2. Chain 3 (counts as the first double crochet). Work 2 double crochets (DC) into the ring. Chain 2, work 3 DC into the ring.
   • Repeat from * to * two more times, for a total of 4 clusters of 3 DC.
   • Chain 2 and slip stitch to the top of the chain 3 to close the round.

This creates the foundation for a classic granny square, with 4 corner spaces.

Round 2: Expanding the Tile

3. Chain 3 (counts as the first DC). Work 2 DC into the same corner space, chain 2, work 3 DC into the next corner space.
   • Repeat from * to * around, working 3 DC into each corner and chaining 2 between each set of DC clusters.
   • Slip stitch to the top of the chain 3 to close the round.

Round 3: Final Round for the Tile

4. Chain 3 (counts as the first DC). Work 2 DC into the same corner space, chain 2, work 3 DC into the same space. In the next chain space, work 3 DC, and then in the next corner, work 3 DC, chain 2, 3 DC.
   • Repeat this pattern around until you have completed the square.
   • Slip stitch to the top of the chain 3 and fasten off.

Each tile should be approximately 4×4 inches, but you can adjust the size by adding more rounds or using a different square pattern. The important part is that each tile represents the daily temperature and color you’ve assigned to that range.

Recording the Daily Temperatures

Each day, check the high (or low) temperature in your area using a weather app or website. Record the temperature and the corresponding color in a notebook or chart. Crochet one tile per day using the color that matches the temperature range for that day.

Joining the Tiles Together

After completing all 365 tiles, it’s time to join them to form the blanket. There are several methods you can use to join the tiles:

Option 1: Join-As-You-Go Method

If you prefer to join the tiles as you complete them, you can slip stitch the tiles together during the final round of each tile. This method ensures that you don’t have to wait until the end of the year to assemble the blanket.

Option 2: Sew the Tiles Together

1. Lay out the completed tiles in the order they were made, grouping them into weeks or months if desired.
2. Use a tapestry needle and the same yarn (or a contrasting color) to whip stitch the tiles together.
   • Work in rows or sections to ensure that the blanket stays even.

Option 3: Continuous Join

You can also use a continuous join method where you crochet a round that connects each tile as you go. This method creates a seamless look and reduces the number of yarn tails to weave in.

Adding a Border to the Blanket

To finish off the blanket, add a simple border to give it a clean, polished look.

Step 1: Single Crochet Border

1. Attach your yarn to any corner of the blanket and chain 1.
2. Work single crochet stitches evenly around the entire edge of the blanket, placing 3 SC in each corner to keep the edges square.
   • Slip stitch to the first SC to close the round.

Step 2: Optional Decorative Border

For a more decorative finish, you can add a shell or picot border around the edge of the blanket.

• Shell Border: Work 5 double crochets (DC) into the same stitch, skip 2 stitches, and slip stitch into the next stitch. Repeat this pattern around the blanket for a scalloped edge.
• Picot Border: Chain 3, slip stitch into the first chain (picot made), skip the next stitch, SC into the following stitch. Repeat this pattern around for a more delicate finish.

Finishing Touches

Weaving in Ends

Once the blanket is fully assembled, use a tapestry needle to weave in all loose ends from joining the tiles and adding the border. Secure them tightly to prevent unraveling.

Blocking the Blanket

Blocking is important to ensure that the blanket lays flat and all tiles are even. To block the blanket:

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

How to Use the 2020 Temperature Tile Blanket

The 2020 Temperature Tile Blanket is more than just a cozy throw—it’s a unique, personalized piece that captures an entire year of memories. Use it as a throw, a bedspread, or a wall hanging to showcase the temperature data of your location.

1. As a Year-Long Keepsake

Display the blanket in your home as a reminder of the year 2020. Each tile will evoke memories of the changing seasons and reflect the weather patterns of your location.

2. Cozy Throw for the Couch

Use the blanket as a functional throw for your sofa or armchair. The different colors and textures make it a vibrant and comfortable addition to any room.

3. A Gift or Heirloom

This blanket can also be a special gift or heirloom for a loved one, especially if the temperature data holds sentimental value (such as the year a baby was born or a significant family event).