About This Aspen Blanket Crochet Pattern
The finished blanket measures approximately 36x36 inches, making it the perfect size for babies and toddlers. The thick, plush fabric provides extra cushioning for tummy time and playtime adventures.
Why You'll Love This Aspen Blanket Crochet Pattern
I absolutely love this pattern because it's the perfect introduction to textured crochet work! The alternating stitch pattern creates such a beautiful, chunky fabric that feels luxurious in your hands. I appreciate how quickly it works up with super bulky yarn—there's nothing more satisfying than seeing rapid progress on a project. The self-checking feature built into the pattern (sc in dc, dc in sc) means you'll always know if you're on track, which gives beginners so much confidence. Plus, the finished blanket is incredibly practical and makes a thoughtful handmade gift that parents will treasure for years.
Switch Things Up
I love experimenting with this pattern! While the original uses a beautiful emerald green, I've made versions in soft pastels for baby showers, rich autumn colors for fall décor, and even bold rainbow stripes for a playful twist. The chunky texture really makes any color choice shine.
For a fun variation, try using two contrasting colors and switching between them every few rows to create bold stripes. The alternating stitch pattern adds enough texture that even simple color blocking looks sophisticated. I've also made larger throws for adults by increasing the starting chain—just remember to buy extra yarn!
If you want to add a special touch, consider crocheting a simple border around the finished blanket. A round of single crochet followed by a shell stitch border elevates the look and helps the edges lay flat. You could also personalize it by adding a crocheted name or initial in a contrasting color sewn onto one corner.
Common Mistakes & How to Fix Them
✗ Skipping the gauge swatch can result in a blanket that's much smaller or larger than intended—always check your gauge first
✗ Forgetting to chain 1 and turn at the end of each row will throw off your stitch count and pattern alignment
✗ Placing stitches in the wrong locations breaks the alternating pattern—remember sc goes in dc and dc goes in sc
✗ Not maintaining consistent tension with super bulky yarn can create uneven texture—practice finding your comfortable grip