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Duchess Baby Blanket – Free Crochet Pattern

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By amanda

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The duchess baby blanket is a free crochet pattern that uses the duchess lace stitch and a lacy edging for a sophisticated baby gift.

Duchess Baby Blanket

Design Story and Inspiration for the Duchess Baby Blanket

My youngest son is really loving blankets and stuffed animals – something that my older two boys never did.  I really think he is going to be my animal lover because of how excited he gets whenever he sees animals.  He will find a blanket or lovie and just squeal with delight and cuddle with it.

That’s what he did when I gave him this blanket to model.  This blanket was intended as a gift for a friend having a girl but I think my little guy has claimed it as his own, just like this other blanket I created.

Looks like I’ll be making more blankets and stuffed animals in my future!!

About the Yarn

I really enjoy using Red Heart Yarns and this Soft yarn was wonderful to work with. I chose a nice neutral off-white and I am very happy with how it turned out.

I really enjoy making this pattern for baby shower gifts. It’s gender neutral and can really make an heirloom blanket you can pass down. The Soft yarn washes well and feels good on the skin so it passes the test for yarns I like for baby blankets.

Like this post?  Pin it for later by clicking on the picture:

This pattern is amazing! It looks great with either border option and the video tutorial guides you every step of the way with this free crochet pattern. Crochet baby blanket!

Pattern Details

This blanket uses an easy stitch called the Duchess Lace Stitch to give it a lacy feeling with no large holes.  I love this stitch – it’s really one of my favorites and I’ve also used it on a scarf and washcloth.

If you can double crochet, chain and slip stitch, then you can make the body of this blanket.  The border uses a combination of double crochet, single crochet and chains, or there is an option to use the duchess lace stitch as a simple border if you prefer.

Keep scrolling down for the simple border option.

Duchess Baby Blanket Video Tutorial

I decided to create a video tutorial for this blanket when I was on maternity leave and had to break it into two parts.  Both videos are linked below to help if you get stuck!

How to Crochet: Duchess Baby Blanket Part I

Click here for the left handed tutorial video

Duchess Baby Blanket Pattern

Want the ad-free PDF? Get this blanket pattern in 8 sizes here!

What You’ll Need

Yarn: 3 Skeins Red Heart Soft

Hook: J/10 (6.5mm)

Notions: Yarn Needle, Scissors

Gauge: Not crucial for this project

Finished Size: Approximately 24″ x 36″

Want to download the border chart? Sign up for my FREE resource library via the link at the bottom of the post!

PATTERN

Ch 121.

Row 1: (2 dc, ch 3, sl st) in 4th ch from hook, *sk next 2 ch, (2 dc, ch 3, sl st) in next ch; repeat from * across; turn.

Row 2: Ch 3, *(2 dc, ch 3, sl st) in next ch-3 sp; repeat from * across, ending with dc in top of turning ch; turn.

Rows 3-42: Repeat row 2.

Row 43: Ch 1, *2 sc in ch-3 sp, dc in 2nd dc; repeat from * to last ch-3 sp, 2 sc in ch-3 sp, dc in top of turning ch; turn.

How to Crochet: Duchess Baby Blanket Part 2

Click here for left handed video tutorial for border

Border

Round 1: Ch 3, 2 dc in same st, *sk 2 sc, sc in dc, sk 2 sc,  7 dc in next dc; repeat from * to corner, sc in last dc before corner, 7 dc in corner st, [*(sc in next ch-3 sp, 7 dc in next ch-3 sp); repeat from * to last ch-3 sp, sc in last ch-3 sp, 7 dc in corner st] across side and bottom, repeat from * across other side to last ch-3 sp, sc in last ch-3 sp, 4 dc in same st as beginning; join with sl st to top of ch-3.

Round 2: Ch 1, sc in top of ch-3, ch 3, sk dc, sc in next dc, *ch 3, sk sc, sc in dc, (ch 3, sk dc, sc in next dc) three times; repeat from * to last dc, ch 3, join with sl st to beginning.

Round 3: Ch 1, (sc, ch 3, sc) in next ch-3 sp, (sc, ch 3, sc) in each three ch-3 space, join to first sc with slip st.

Fasten off.

Get the ad-free PDF in 8 sizes here!

Want a chart for the border?  Find it in the FREE resource library!  Enter your info in the form below for access to this and more!

Option for Border:

I tried just using the same pattern stitch for the border which worked well but I was going for a lacier look.  If you would like a simple one round border, work pattern to row 42, then work row 2 of pattern along sides, and bottom, leaving the top as is.  To turn the corners, simply work (2 dc, ch 3, sl st) into corner ch-3 space.

You can also check out this amazing list of over 25 crochet borders for more options here!

Free Crochet Pattern - Duchess Baby Blanket
Duchess Baby Blanket - Free Crochet Pattern

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Filed Under: Free Patterns Tagged With: crochet blankets

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Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Leila

    June 16, 2016 at 8:09 pm

    Thank you for this pattern! He’s beautiful! Looks like you!

    • amanda

      June 17, 2016 at 1:21 am

      Thank you! I think he looks like me, too. 🙂
      I’m so glad you like the pattern!

      • Donna

        July 28, 2018 at 1:09 am

        If I wanted to make this bigger. What is the multiple for stitches?

        • amanda

          August 2, 2018 at 3:19 pm

          Hi Donna,

          It is a multiple of 3 + 1. 🙂

          • Carol

            February 3, 2019 at 7:24 pm

            Thank you! Now I don’t have to ask! I like to have this info when I write out patterns. I use a steno sized note book. I find it easier to follow than a print out. I print larger.

      • Cheyenne

        March 2, 2020 at 12:47 am

        It keeps getting bigger then. Inches help what am i doing wrong

        • amanda

          March 7, 2020 at 4:37 am

          If a blanket is getting bigger then you are probably adding stitches to it as you go. Count your stitches every few rows if you are having this problem and make sure you still have the same number.

      • Laurz

        April 12, 2020 at 5:32 pm

        The pattern is beautiful I did it in baby green and the fancy pattern

  2. Jane

    June 17, 2016 at 10:02 am

    Love this so pretty, thank for sharing.

    • amanda

      June 18, 2016 at 3:10 pm

      You are so welcome! I’m glad you like it ☺️

    • Pam

      September 23, 2020 at 2:59 pm

      What is the weight of each skein for the duchess blanket? 10oz. or the 5.5 ?

      • amanda

        September 23, 2020 at 4:59 pm

        These were the smaller skeins. I don’t know if they’ve changed a bit since I made mine, but a few people have said that they needed an extra skein to complete the project, so I would order one more.

  3. Danielle

    June 17, 2016 at 7:11 pm

    This is beautiful!

    • amanda

      June 18, 2016 at 3:10 pm

      Thank you!

      • Diane

        May 24, 2017 at 8:09 pm

        Thank you for sharing such a simple but elegant baby blanket! It is absolutely gorgeous! <3 🙂

        • amanda

          May 26, 2017 at 8:13 pm

          You are so welcome! 🙂

  4. Ruth

    June 29, 2016 at 5:05 pm

    oh, your little guy is SOOOO cute!! Thanks for the pattern. It’s very pretty. We’re expecting out first two great grands so this will be perfect

    • amanda

      June 30, 2016 at 7:01 pm

      Thank you so much Ruth!! He is our third boy and our little guys really favor each other. Our oldest is over 6 now and I can’t believe how much he has grown. I’m so glad you like the pattern. Congrats on the great grandbabies!!

    • Tiffany

      December 16, 2020 at 3:34 pm

      You’re little blanket model is adorable! Thank you for sharing this pattern, it came at the perfect time as I just found out my childhood best friend is expecting a new bundle in June. She never thought this would happen for her, so it will be my pleasure to make all kinds of baby items to spoil the new baby with.

      • amanda

        December 16, 2020 at 3:42 pm

        Oh that’s wonderful!! I’d love to see what you make! This is a favorite pattern on my website <3

  5. Karen

    June 30, 2016 at 5:58 pm

    Hi!
    It’s a lovely blanket.
    Is the pattern in US or UK terms please?
    I’m fairly new to crochet xxx

    • amanda

      June 30, 2016 at 7:00 pm

      Hi Karen!
      All patterns on my site are in US terms. Thanks for asking – I should clarify. 🙂

      • Janet Berruex

        September 23, 2019 at 3:06 am

        Hi, I’m a complete newbie and would like to make this blanket. I’m in Australia so what are the conversions for the yarn and the hook please? I do have Aus 3 ply baby yarn at hand, can I use this? And if so what size crotchet hook would I use.. thankyou…

        • amanda

          September 25, 2019 at 1:15 pm

          Hi Janet. I’m not exactly sure of the conversions to Austrialian crochet. This yarn is a worsted (size 4). These are all US crochet stitches (the UK terms for crochet are different). From what I can tell, a 3 ply baby yarn is considerably thinner than the yarn used in the pattern, so if you follow these pattern directions with it you will get a much smaller blanket. If you want it to turn out the size shown, I would recommend getting a thicker yarn. 🙂

          • beryl fletcher

            November 1, 2019 at 8:24 am

            Hi Janet Get 4ply wool and a size 6 hook if you find his leaves your work too loose try a half size up or down ie, 5.5 or 6.5 good luck with your first time.. Oh yes to get the size you want just knit two rows of the pattern then if you make a mistake there is not too much to undo.
            Regards
            Beryl Fletcher

  6. Carolyn Edwards

    July 1, 2016 at 12:20 pm

    I love you baby. He looks like such fun. how could you not give him this blanket? Thank you for the pattern.

    • amanda

      July 1, 2016 at 6:35 pm

      Aww thanks Carolyn. 🙂 He is definitely a fun little guy! The blanket is all his – as is the next one I designed (you can see him with it here!). I’m so glad you like the pattern.

  7. mary

    July 1, 2016 at 4:22 pm

    I tried to print your pattern a few times but the left side of the print is cut off. What am I doing wrong?

    • amanda

      July 1, 2016 at 6:34 pm

      Hi Mary!

      Sometimes it can be hard to print straight from the website. If you want an ad-free version you can find it on Etsy. 🙂

      • mary

        July 2, 2016 at 4:07 pm

        Thank you. I got the pattern and can’t wait to work it.

        • amanda

          July 4, 2016 at 2:32 pm

          Great! 🙂

  8. Cecelia

    July 4, 2016 at 8:13 pm

    What does so mean

  9. Cecelia

    July 4, 2016 at 8:13 pm

    Sp sorry

    • amanda

      July 4, 2016 at 11:32 pm

      Hi Cecelia!

      Sp stands for space. When you chain 3 there will be a noticeable space there that is referred to as the ch-3 sp. This abbreviation is often used in crochet any time you chain and leave an open space in your work. Hope that clears it up. 🙂 Let me know if you have any other questions!

  10. Darlene P.

    July 5, 2016 at 3:52 am

    I am currently making this blanket for a friend who is expecting a wee little one in August. I love this stitch and pattern!! The blanket has lovely drape yet has a spongy, squishy feel, pillow like. Thank you so much for offering it for free!! I appreciate your had work and creativity!!

    • amanda

      July 6, 2016 at 12:56 am

      Yay! I’m so glad you like it. 🙂 I had a really great time making this blanket and love the Duchess Lace stitch, too!

    • AA

      November 5, 2019 at 11:36 am

      Hello . This is beautiful. Many thanks
      Did you block the work to have it more open in appearance. My work doesn’t appear as open as in your picture.

      • amanda

        November 6, 2019 at 6:18 pm

        I did not block this project. It could be due to many things: the yarn used, how tight we crochet, etc. A lot of people don’t want their baby blankets too open where tiny fingers and toes might get in, so I’m sure yours is fine. 🙂

  11. Carla

    July 5, 2016 at 6:59 pm

    Beautiful. I must try it. I have a great niece on the way. This will be the perfect baby shower gift. Thanks for posting.

    • amanda

      July 6, 2016 at 12:57 am

      You are so welcome!

  12. Linda Alonzo

    July 12, 2016 at 5:58 pm

    Beautiful blanket!! But I would like the option of making bigger/smaller.
    Multiples of what please?
    Sure would appreciate it!

    • amanda

      July 12, 2016 at 7:13 pm

      Hi Linda! This stitch is a multiple of 3 plus 1. 🙂

      • Linda Alonzo

        July 13, 2016 at 2:20 am

        Thank you sooooo much!!!

  13. Jaena Mann

    July 22, 2016 at 9:22 pm

    This looks like a great blanket! I can’t wait to start making it!

    • amanda

      July 23, 2016 at 12:50 pm

      Thanks! So glad you like the pattern 🙂

    • Nancy

      March 12, 2019 at 11:15 pm

      The link for the yarn no longer works so…. How many yards of yarn is needed for this blanket, please? I have a coworker who is in the hospital as her symbiotic fluid started leaking at five months pregnant. I thought I’d make her one or two of this blanket while we all wait.

      • amanda

        March 13, 2019 at 1:46 am

        Hi Nancy! I’m sorry the link is broken – I will fix it ASAP. I used 3 skeins and they are 256 yards each – so around 750 yards should be enough. 🙂

  14. Atsuko

    July 23, 2016 at 11:41 am

    Thank you very much for the beautiful pattern, fell in love with it and completed one just yesterday. Only regret is us Japanese are so used to diagrams here in Japan that I was unable to decipher the “lacier border” instructions so went with the simpler border. Just wondering if it’s a diagram you would be posting later on when you say “chart of the border”? Thank you.

    • amanda

      July 23, 2016 at 12:48 pm

      Yes, it is! I have been meaning to put one up so that everyone who uses diagrams would be able to make it easier. I have been out of town but I will work on that and have it up soon. 🙂

      • Atsuko

        July 25, 2016 at 7:18 am

        Awwww, that is just perfect, thank you SO much!
        Have a nice summer, and best to your lovely family.

        • amanda

          July 25, 2016 at 4:09 pm

          Thank you! You too 🙂

      • Jacki

        August 20, 2016 at 3:20 pm

        That would be great. I like a diagram just to make sure I’m on the right track.

        • amanda

          August 21, 2016 at 3:16 am

          I will get it up on the site soon!

  15. Becky

    August 6, 2016 at 4:36 am

    I love this pattern!!! So beautiful & reminds me of a rustic/antique blanket!

    I do have a question, on rows 2-42 are the edges suppose to go in at an angle?

    Where is says “ending with dc in top of turning ch; turn.” You end with just the 2 dc & not the ch 3, slst, right?

    • amanda

      August 6, 2016 at 1:16 pm

      Thanks Becky!

      At the end you only do one dc so it stays even. Here is a great video that shows how. 🙂

  16. susan owen

    August 16, 2016 at 3:14 am

    Hi Amanda ! The blanket is beautiful and so is your son ! I just printed your pattern and was wondering how many yards this blanket takes so vintage and want to make one for a gift. I must say you have great talent. I appreciate your help and the thank you!

    • amanda

      August 16, 2016 at 8:50 pm

      Thank you Susan!
      I used 3 skeins of Red Heart Soft for my blanket and they are about 250 yards each, so if you have 750 yards you will have plenty. I had a little left over but didn’t get the exact yardage before I got rid of the extra. Hope that helps 🙂

    • Linda Redpath

      September 29, 2019 at 12:15 am

      I’ve just finished a blanket for my new grandchild in a cotton yarn. It’s so beautiful and I’ve had so many comments on it. Thank you so much for sharing this pattern. I’m a crochet beginner and it was so easy.

      • amanda

        September 29, 2019 at 3:35 am

        I am so glad this pattern worked out so well for you! Thank you for sharing that. 🙂 It also makes me so happy that you are a beginner and were able to make this blanket!! These are the reasons I share my free patterns – comments like this make my day!

  17. Becky

    August 19, 2016 at 1:05 pm

    I loved this pattern!! I used I love this yarn sport weight from hobby lobby.
    I’m pretty sure I goofed somewhere because my edges are like a zig zag!
    I’m working on the first row of the border. When you get to the bottom, do you work into the starting chain?
    Thanks for any help!

    • amanda

      August 21, 2016 at 3:15 am

      Glad to hear you like the pattern! Sorry I haven’t gotten up the diagram I planned on but I can do my best to help you with the border. At the bottom you should still be able to see ch-3 spaces on the other side of the starting chain where you made the first row of the duchess lace stitch. The stitches on this round should look like large shells of 7 dc, then the other rows work into those shells. I’m going to try and move the diagram up on my to-do list. Any other questions, feel free to ask! I usually respond sooner but it’s been crazy busy here lately. 🙂

  18. Stacey Allen

    September 28, 2016 at 5:39 pm

    Love the pattern! Thank you for sharing!!! I’m working on the border, question on row 1 is one side gonna be different then the other three? I’m working the first side of row one so when I get to corner I start the second part of first row? And continue for the remaining 3 sides right? Hope my question makes sense! Thank you!!!

    • amanda

      September 29, 2016 at 6:30 pm

      Hi Stacey! The sides should all be the same pattern but you will work fewer repeats on the shorter sides. You should have 7 dc in each corner space, then work the repeat pattern. Let me know how it works out!

  19. Evelyn Conlon

    October 2, 2016 at 2:36 am

    This is such a beautiful blanket. So looking forward to making it. Thanks so much for sharing. Would you be able to send the pattern to my email address ? If not, I understand

    • amanda

      October 4, 2016 at 1:46 am

      I emailed you last night. Let me know if you didn’t get it!

  20. Ruth Loutchan

    October 8, 2016 at 1:13 am

    Looking forward to making the blanket, as I just found out 2 ladies that do foot care for me are pregnant, one in March, the other in April. so I decided to make a blanket for each of them.

  21. Nora

    October 13, 2016 at 6:00 am

    Love, love, LOVE this! I have two questions for you… 1. Do you know the name of he specific stitch you used and 2. If I wanted to alter the size of the blanket what multiples do I need to use to keep the pattern accurate?

    Thank you SO much for this beautiful idea!!

    • amanda

      October 13, 2016 at 6:39 pm

      Hi! You can check out an awesome tutorial of the Duchess Lace Stitch here. Let me know if you have any other questions.

  22. Diana

    October 18, 2016 at 1:30 am

    Beautiful pattern, beautiful, sweet baby!

    Sadly, this Red Heart Yarn is splitting like crazy. I will have to try a different yarn. Is anyone else having a problem with the yarn splitting?

  23. Zora

    April 7, 2017 at 3:26 pm

    No problem with understanding the border, however, I just can’t seem to get the sl st part of the pattern (2dc, chain3, sl st)

    • amanda

      April 9, 2017 at 8:50 pm

      Hi Zora! There is an excellent video for this stitch here: Duchess Lace Stitch.

      Hope this helps 🙂

  24. Debra

    April 17, 2017 at 3:58 pm

    Hi. Your son is so adorable. I made your blanket in Bright Neons from I Love This Yarn. It came out beautiful. It’s for my cousin Jaxton. Next time I will try the option border. Is there a way to exit or move the P, F, Tweeter, G+, Mail from the side? I have to enlarge the text to read and those things cover the pattern. Thank you for sharing. Debra

    • amanda

      April 18, 2017 at 2:32 am

      Hi Debra! I’m not sure how to move them but I will look into it to see what I can do! 🙂

  25. Rachel

    August 5, 2017 at 4:16 pm

    This blanket is gorgeous, thank you so much, I’m making it for my best friend who is due her 7th in December.

    • amanda

      August 6, 2017 at 1:17 am

      You are so welcome! Wow, 7!! People think we are crazy for expecting #4! I love big families. 🙂

  26. Becky

    August 24, 2017 at 9:47 am

    I’m new to crocheting but I’m Just about to start this blanket, yours looks truly beautiful! I’m going to choose yarn from a bag of yarn that I’ve accumulated, what weight yarn should I be looking for.? I’m guessing a DK? Thank you for sharing this, I’ll update you as I go along 😊

    • amanda

      August 24, 2017 at 2:26 pm

      Hi Becky! Welcome to the crochet world 🙂 It’s really addictive! The weight of this yarn in the US is a 4 or worsted weight, which I believe is DK in the UK. I’d love to see pictures and you can always add your project to ravelry, too, where I can see it. I love checking out what other knitters and crocheters make with my patterns! Let me know if you have any questions!

      • Becky

        August 24, 2017 at 3:08 pm

        Hi Amanda!
        Thank you for your helpful reply, I’ve started my blanket and I’m just in love with the stitch pattern. Also, it’s so easy to follow, even for a newbie like me 😉
        I have to agree with you when you say it’s addictive, I’m totally addicted to the point where I’m blitzing all my household chores just to be able to sit and Crochet 😂😂 and being a first time grandma to identical twin girls born 6 weeks ago, I’ve plenty of ideas to keep me busy!
        Thank you for a fab website and for sharing . I’ll be sure to add some pictures of my finished results.
        💖💖✂️✂️💖💖

  27. Michelle Nixon

    September 24, 2017 at 5:32 pm

    Hi
    Could you advise me what the * means in the pattern. I am eager to begin but am un sure as it’s only my second crotchet project.
    Many thanks
    Michelle

    • amanda

      September 24, 2017 at 9:39 pm

      Hi Michelle! The * is often used in patterns to indicate that you will repeat from the * until the instructions say to do differently. It’s just an easy way to write out a pattern repeat without having to write it over and over again. 🙂

  28. Anna

    February 6, 2018 at 6:03 pm

    Dear Amanda! Thank you for such a lovely blanket idea and a very good video explanation. I used to do a little crochet when I was a child and now picking it up again 30 years on while waiting for our baby to arrive 🙂 Since it is my first time I am not so good at reading the instructions, hence rely heavily on videos. Do your videos cover all the steps or would I miss anything unless I understand the written instruction? I am a little worried about the border. The main body seems to be going fine and I am already on row 21. Thank you ! Anna

    • amanda

      February 8, 2018 at 3:28 am

      Hi Anna! I think you will be fine doing the border! I don’t think you will miss any steps and there is the simpler border option if the other one seems too difficult. 🙂

  29. Alex

    March 30, 2018 at 1:42 am

    Hi! I love your blanket! Will the border work out the same if I do more than 43 rows? I’m not sure why, but my blanket is looking more like a scarf, deminsion wise, and I’m already on row 35.

    • amanda

      March 30, 2018 at 1:53 am

      Yes it should work out fine! As long as you end up with a shell in each corner it doesn’t matter how wide or long it is. 🙂

  30. Nancy

    April 11, 2018 at 12:51 am

    I am new to crochet and I just made this blanket! Thanks for sharing and especially for tutorials- even for lefties!
    Much appreciated!
    P.S. Enjoy those precious little boys!

    • amanda

      April 12, 2018 at 8:35 pm

      Hi Nancy!

      I’m so glad you were able to make this blanket! Welcome to the addiction we like to call crochet… 😀

      My boys are a handful but I’m trying to savor this time as it flies by.

  31. Tammy

    May 18, 2018 at 1:07 pm

    Just what I was looking for!! Can’t wait to get started! Since you said the beginning chain “I know it’s a lot!” 🙂
    is the longest edge, I’m assuming this blanket is worked “sideways”…I want to make mine more of a crib size …so, I wanted to double-check before I start!!

    Thank you for sharing this beautiful pattern!

    • amanda

      May 26, 2018 at 1:17 am

      Hi Tammy! Sorry, the end of the school year is always crazy here and I haven’t had time to check up on the blog! You are right – this is worked sideways 🙂

  32. Rida

    June 19, 2018 at 5:05 pm

    Hi, I have a question about the lacy border. Normally, you skip the 2 sc then either do 1 sc or 7 dc in the next one, but on the starting ch side, I’m not really sure how to do that side because it’s a little different and it doesn’t seem to work out to the same number of shells as the opposite side.

    • amanda

      June 22, 2018 at 1:17 am

      Hi Rida,

      There should be the same number of sts on the starting chain side as the top. If you have to only skip one or even skip three to make it work out on that edge it should be fine. Sometimes blanket borders can be weird like that. 🙂

  33. Mary

    July 4, 2018 at 5:53 pm

    Hi Amanda

    I’m new at knitting (2 years about) and crochet (3 months). My problem with crochet is the foundation chain and
    ending rows. I saw this blanket on youtube and wanted to make it — and I’m so glad I came across it because
    I like the way you make your foundation chain!!! This totally works for me! I have a project not completed
    because the foundation chain was all over the place and knew I needed to begin again. I can’t wait to start that over. Thank YOU!!

    Now about the ending rows — I have to use place markers to end my rows. I used a different yarn and
    used my place makers: however, when you said the first chain in the 3 chain — I mistook it for the 3rd i f you
    know what I mean!! So after 32 rows I had to tear it all out and start again, but I’m glad I did as I used
    the Red Heart Soft yarn this second time and the feel and look of it is so much better than what I had used earlier. I would love
    if you could put a photo up of the blanket spread out with no border so that I know I am on the right track.
    So to be clear — when you make your ending 3 chain the the first stitch is actually the 3rd?

    I am hooked on crochet — and despite some frustrations — bound and determined to conquer this!!

    Thanks!
    Mary

    • amanda

      July 5, 2018 at 5:23 pm

      Hi Mary! I’m so glad you like the blanket! This foundation chain has always worked the best for me and it’s what I always use. I know some people can’t stand crocheting into the back of the chain but I say whatever works for you is the best way! I can just more easily see the stitches that way, especially when I was new to crocheting.

      Unfortunately I don’t have a photo of the blanket without its border but it should be an even rectangle – there should be no gaining or losing stitches and it should be the same consistent size. I’m not completely clear what part you are referring to with the ending 3 chain but I will try to answer how to finish a row and start a new one – if I don’t answer your question please feel free to ask again. 🙂 You work all of the shells into the previous row’s chain 3 spaces (sp)- not into any of the chains themselves. The only chain you will work into is the starting chain from the previous row – after you get across a row of shells you will work a double crochet into the starting chain to keep your rows even. You work into the third chain of the starting chain, so if you want to mark it on that row as you go it actually is the third chain you create when you work across. So, you can chain one, two, three (mark this third chain), then continue the pattern and end with a double crochet in the chain you marked. (Sometimes it can be confusing to work into chains when you are new – I totally remember this!!)

      It takes a little while to really “see” the stitches and everything, but you will get there!! So glad you started this wonderful hobby and I can’t wait to hear how this turns out. Let me know if you have any other questions!

  34. Mary Sharpe

    July 9, 2018 at 7:08 pm

    Thanks so much for your response! I am on the right track — using placemarkers is working really well. It is nice to know I am on the right track. If I am using the same yarn could you tell me how many chains I would need to make a 41 x 42 blanket that includes the pretty lacey border?

    I absolutely love the pattern, thickness, antique color of this yarn! I would like to make “Heirloom” baby blankets for my nieces and nephews. 🙂

    Mary

  35. Wendy

    October 3, 2018 at 4:17 am

    I love this adorable blanket!…
    Also fairly new to crochet…I am currently on the border middle row on the second turn…the stitching that it’s attaching to is different and I’m having trouble..the shells do not look even..some look bunched and some are spread farther apart..this is my third try..
    In the video you start this row then it’s paused to allow to go all the way around to start…
    Sorry..not sure what to do
    Thank you in advance for any suggestions

    • amanda

      October 5, 2018 at 1:33 am

      Hi Wendy, I’m not sure why you’re having trouble with the shells. If it isn’t working with the stitch pattern of the blanket try using the size of the shells themselves to guide you. When you are on the last dc of the shell lay it down by the last row and see where it looks like it won’t bunch up or spread out – even if it’s not exactly where it “should” go – and attach it there. I hope that makes sense – let me know how it goes!

  36. Lorraine

    November 7, 2018 at 1:15 am

    Hi Amanda

    I recently made the dutchess blanket in off white for my granddaughters Christening . It turned out great but I needed to go with the simple border because when I started row 43 there was no chain 3 space to do 2 sc in from row before. I was at the end where a dc had been made in top of turning chain after turning.

    I really loved the Lacey border and that was why I selected the “dutchess blanket with Lacey border”. I am doing another blanket for a friend and need to do it correctly from the start.

    The blanket looked beautiful and just like yours but I got to 24 x 36 way before 42 rows. Calling it row 43 as it represents last row.

    Where did I go wrong?

    • amanda

      November 7, 2018 at 7:31 pm

      Hi Lorraine,
      When you turn from the last row you should have completed a row of (2 dc, ch 3, sl st) across. Turn for the last row (43 on the pattern), skip that first dc and work the 2 sc into the ch-3 space of the (2 dc, ch 3, sl st) from the row below. I made a video tutorial for both the blanket and the border that hopefully will help this time. 🙂

  37. Roma McCreanor

    January 3, 2019 at 5:40 pm

    Hi Amanda,

    I came across the Duchess blanket and your web site by accident last April. I just want to say many thanks
    for all your free patterns and ideas being new to crochet i have learned so much from you and have just
    made your shawl as well as the Heirloom and Ombre and Duchess blankets. Without you this would not
    have been possible. Many thanks and Happy new Year to you and your family.

    • amanda

      January 3, 2019 at 7:50 pm

      Roma – thank you so much for the kind words!! Inspiring others to create is one of the main reasons I do what I do. 🙂 Your comment made my day! Looking forward to sharing new patterns with you this year.

  38. Badia

    January 12, 2019 at 8:54 pm

    Hi, this will be my first ever crochet. Love the look of the blanket. Please could you send me what the abbreviations mean? Thank you so much. Happy new year.

    • amanda

      January 19, 2019 at 1:39 pm

      Hi Badia!

      Ch = chain, sl st = slip st, sk=skip, dc= double crochet, sc= single crochet 🙂

      • Badia

        February 23, 2019 at 9:52 pm

        Thank you so much. I have done 15 lines, but I don’t understand why it’s getting smaller! I looked several times and think I’m doing the right thing. I do the double chain in the last space, then turn and do 3 chain, then start the row with double chain. I know I’m doing something wrong.. please tell me how can I fix this, and what am I doing wrong?
        Best wishes,
        Badia

  39. Patty Hansen

    May 9, 2019 at 8:34 pm

    I’m just about finished with this blanket. I have really enjoyed making it and the instruction was perfect! ~ I’m just curious if you wash your blanket when finished?

    • amanda

      May 10, 2019 at 2:50 pm

      I have washed mine! It depends on the yarn how you wash it – just follow the instructions on the ball band. 🙂

    • Zora

      May 10, 2019 at 7:43 pm

      I generally wash all new baby items in Dreft.

  40. Rebecca Browand

    June 28, 2019 at 12:53 pm

    This pattern is amazing. I made a blanket for my daughter and put a regular shell border around it. Looks really nice. Thank you.

    • amanda

      June 28, 2019 at 4:50 pm

      Thank you so much Rebecca! I’m so glad this turned out well. It’s one of my favorite patterns 🙂

  41. Victoria

    August 16, 2019 at 10:16 am

    Hello! Thank you for sharing! I can’t wait to try this! I’m new to crocheting and was wondering if it mattered that the link to the yarn says a different size for the crochet hook you recommend. The yarn says for a 5.5-mm crochet hook. Thanks!!

    • amanda

      August 16, 2019 at 1:41 pm

      Hi Victoria!! Welcome to the world of crochet! 😀 The yarn has a recommended hook but designers often go either up or down depending upon the feel of the fabric that creates. For blankets I like to work with a larger hook because it makes for a softer fabric with a better drape. I love it when I hear that someone is learning crochet. I hope the video tutorial helps – let me know if you run into any questions!

      • Victoria

        August 16, 2019 at 1:59 pm

        Thank you so much! I just wanted to make sure I got the right yarn haha! I will definitely let you know how this turns out! The fact that you included a video was the only reason why I’m attempting to learn! Thank you fir the inspiration!! <3

      • Victoria

        August 21, 2019 at 1:01 pm

        Hi again Amanda! I’m so sorry to be a bug and it’s because I’m a complete newbie. I got the yarn and the crochet needle, but since I would like to make this bigger, I have been trying to research for the last 2 days how to since you mentioned “multiples of 3 + 1.” Any advice on what this means? The videos I have been watching seem really advanced and seem to focus on how to determine the multiples rather than what I need to do to make the blanket bigger when you have so kindly given the multiples already. I am just going cross-eyed! Any advice would be so appreciated!!

        • amanda

          August 22, 2019 at 1:42 am

          It’s no problem! When a pattern mentions multiples, that means you can make the pattern larger or smaller by adjusting the numbers. The pattern itself is a multiple of 3, so any number that is divisible by 3 will work, then you add 1 st for the starting ch. (So, let’s say you decide you like 150 sts wide, which is 3×50. You would chain 151 so that you have that one stitch extra as a turning chain and the stitch pattern would turn out correctly using all of the chains). I hope this helps 🙂

          • Victoria

            August 22, 2019 at 1:47 am

            Oh my goodness you have made my day! That was so incredibly helpful! Thank you so so much!!!!!

  42. Bridget R

    September 12, 2019 at 12:03 pm

    Thank you for the pattern! I just finished my first blanket with it and it’s beautiful! The pattern was so easy and worked up so very quickly! I used the new Ferris Wheel yarn by LionBrand and it came out soft and lovely. Thanks for sharing. Can’t wait to start another one!

    • amanda

      September 12, 2019 at 4:46 pm

      That’s so wonderful!! I love hearing of projects made from these patterns – it’s the reason I keep designing. 😀 I’ll have to check out the Ferris Wheel yarn!

  43. Mary

    October 19, 2019 at 4:48 pm

    Back again! Last time I was pretty much a beginner and didn’t tackle your Lacey border! This time I think I can do it! One question before I get started — I have the Red Heart Soft yarn but it says to use a 5.5 hook and you used a 6.5 hook. Just wondering if the yarn has changed and that’s the reason? Thank you again for sharing your lovely pattern!

    Mary

    • amanda

      October 19, 2019 at 6:38 pm

      Hi Mary! I like to use a larger hook for blankets than what the yarn calls for because it gives a looser fabric with a better drape. You will find as you continue crocheting that designers go up or down from the suggested hook size depending upon the look they are going for. 🙂

  44. Katherine

    October 19, 2019 at 8:53 pm

    Although I can’t read a pattern for squat, I’m hoping I will be able to do your pattern justice 😃 Most people have shown me stitches and I just go from there or I just figure it out. Anyways, I’ve been asked to make a longer than usual prayer shawl and would love to try this pattern using a Caron yarn 🧶 with an “I” or “J” hook…how many would would you chain as to not make it obnoxiously long…I’ve always had a problem with figuring that out…

    • amanda

      October 19, 2019 at 8:56 pm

      Hi Katherine! How wide do you want it to be? If you chain the number recommended in the pattern it will be about 34″ and then you would work until you think it is long enough for a shawl. Hopefully the videos will help you with this pattern 🙂

  45. Rachel Cox

    November 11, 2019 at 6:54 pm

    I just finished this for my niece that is due any day now and it’s is LOVELY! Thank you so much for this pattern and the very very helpful videos, it was so nice to have a visual as I was working! This may be my new favorite baby blanket pattern!

    • amanda

      November 12, 2019 at 7:00 pm

      I’m so happy this turned out well!! Makes my day when I hear that someone loves my patterns. 🙂 Thank you!

  46. mieke

    November 18, 2019 at 3:42 am

    Tkx.

  47. Sally Ann

    February 26, 2020 at 3:16 pm

    I am done with the body of the blanket, I would like to put straight edge around the entire blanket follow by a simple edge since I’m low on yarn and prefer to make the blanket less stretch to it. The edge that concerns me the most is the bottom or the first row. I really love the pattern, great design! Thanks

  48. DIXIE MITCHELL

    March 28, 2020 at 12:01 am

    I WANT TO MAKE THE DUCHESS BLANKET – AS SIZE 34 X 56 THE AMOUNT YARN IS NOT LISTED – WOULD YOU HELP? I AM USING ONE COLOR FOR THE BODY AND ONE COLOR FOR THE BORDER IS THERE ANYWAY I COULD HAVE THE AMOUNT FOR THE TWO DIFFERENT DIFFERENT COLORS – THANK YOU

    I REALLY APPRECIATE ANY HELP YOU CAN GIVE ME – I LOVE THE BLANKET – SO DOES MY NIECE AND THE DADDY. THANK YOU

  49. Debra R Hemmingway

    April 5, 2020 at 6:11 pm

    HI, I am looking for a border pattern of a blanket you have on your website but I do not see it
    anywhere on your site. I saved a picture of it but cannot attach it to this message.

    • amanda

      April 6, 2020 at 1:39 am

      Hi Debra. All of my published patterns are here on the site. Maybe try searching “blanket” in the search bar on any page. It should show you all the blankets I have published, and there aren’t any sneak peeks out there right now so it has to be a published pattern. 🙂

  50. Allie

    April 26, 2020 at 1:35 am

    I made this blanket for my little sister after she announced her first pregnancy! Our friends and family loved it so much I’ve had people ask for one of their own, is it okay with you if I were to sell blankets using your pattern? So long as I credit you of course.

    • amanda

      May 3, 2020 at 2:08 pm

      Hi Allie!!

      I’m so glad you all loved the pattern! Absolutely, I allow the sale of physical products made from my patterns! I remember when I was starting out and I would see a disclaimer that you weren’t supposed to sell finished objects from a pattern and it was such a bummer. Once I started designing I knew I would never do that. Make away 😀

      • Allie

        May 5, 2020 at 1:07 am

        Thank you so much!

        • beanah

          February 24, 2021 at 11:56 am

          I love the video tutorial. I am a beginner and would not be able to manage without it! My question is: I am doing the lacy border. It keeps coming out “curly” – I think the problem is too many shells. I have pulled out the border twice! what am I doing wrong?

          • amanda

            February 24, 2021 at 3:01 pm

            It does sound like you have too many stitches around the border. This will make it curl. Try spacing your shells farther apart and see if that helps. It might help to work a round of single crochet evenly around the border (if these are spaced properly there won’t be any curling or ruffling) and work (sc, ch 1, sc) in each corner space, then you should be able to work a shell in that ch-1 space when you do the border round.

  51. Robyn

    May 6, 2020 at 3:08 pm

    This looks to be a beautiful pattern. Thanks for sharing! I’ve made a few “beginner” blankets, but I still feel very new to the crochet world. If I wanted to make a sofa/chair throw using a size 6 chunky yarn with a N-9mm hook do you think tripling the pattern would be too big? I see the pattern calls for a multiple of 3+1, but trying to convert to a chunkier yarn with a bigger hook is throwing me off! 🙃 Please advise.

    • amanda

      May 7, 2020 at 2:29 am

      Hi Robyn!

      That does sound like it would be pretty big! The blanket as written is 36″ wide with that many chains. Maybe try doubling it? You can get a rough idea of how big the blanket is going to be from the starting chain. 🙂

  52. Bictoria

    September 9, 2020 at 10:19 pm

    Love the pattern so easy to work with. Making a baby shower gift. I changed the Lacy border to a ruffled border instead. Thank you so much would like to send you pictures of the blanket. God bless you and your family:)

    • amanda

      September 10, 2020 at 2:36 am

      That’s wonderful! So glad to hear you liked the pattern. 😀

  53. Mary Sharpe

    January 10, 2021 at 6:41 pm

    Hey Amanda

    Just letting you know that I am about to start my 6th Duchess Baby Blanket!
    It’s for my nephew’s baby expected next month!

    Hoping that the one I make after this will be for MY first Grandchild!

    Thanks for a GREAT pattern!
    Mary

  54. Mary F Wheeler

    January 13, 2021 at 4:36 pm

    Thank you so much Amanda for all the beautiful patterns you’re sharing with us. I can’t wait to start making the baby ombre blanket. I’m so excited LoL. You’re such a sweet person for sharing you’re talent with us. Ty and I wish you and your family a very special Happy New Year!!♥️✌️🥰

    • amanda

      January 14, 2021 at 4:17 am

      Thank you for the kind words!! 🙂 I can’t wait to see your blanket!

  55. Beanah

    February 24, 2021 at 8:27 pm

    Thank you so much! I will try your suggestions!

  56. Myra Jerozal

    February 23, 2022 at 11:11 pm

    Hi Amanda. I’m new at this and just joined your site. Just finished the “Wattle” st baby blanket. I used your video but would like to learn to read a pattern. Could you advise as to how to print the pattern?
    Thanks
    Myra

    • amanda

      February 24, 2022 at 7:28 pm

      Hi! This pattern can be purchased in a printable form from one of the links on this page, or if you are a subscriber to my newsletter you can print out some other great patterns to practice with. 🙂

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