Chevron Afghan Blanket Knitting Pattern

Chevron Afghan Blanket Knitting Pattern

Project Overview

The Chevron Afghan Blanket is an Easy Level 2 knitting pattern from Lion Brand Yarn, designed to create a finished blanket measuring approximately 42 x 66 inches (107 x 168 cm). This downloadable PDF pattern offers crafters a classic throw blanket featuring a distinctive zigzag chevron design achieved through strategic increases and decreases worked across multiple color strips.

Construction Method and Techniques

This afghan is constructed using a strip-based assembly method, where ten individual strips are knitted separately and then sewn together to form the complete blanket. This modular approach makes the project more manageable and allows for easier color transitions throughout the design. Each strip features a dynamic zigzag pattern created through the strategic use of increases and decreases worked within the garter stitch fabric.

The primary increase technique used in this pattern is the M1 (make 1) increase, which is worked by lifting the horizontal strand lying between needles and placing it onto the left needle, then knitting this new stitch through the back loop. This method creates a subtle, nearly invisible increase that maintains the integrity of the fabric. Decreases are worked using k2tog (knit two together), a standard decrease that leans to the right and pairs visually with the M1 increases to form the chevron points.

Stitches and Stitch Pattern

The entire afghan is worked in Garter Stitch (knit every row), which creates a reversible, textured fabric with horizontal ridges. Garter stitch is an ideal choice for this project as it is beginner-friendly, lies flat, and provides excellent drape for a blanket. The chevron effect emerges not from complex stitch variations, but from the placement of increases and decreases within the garter stitch base, making this pattern accessible to knitters with basic skills while still producing a visually striking result.

Materials and Yarn Specifications

This pattern calls for Lion Brand Homespun Yarn, a bulky-weight yarn composed of 98% Acrylic and 2% Polyester. Each ball contains 185 yards (169 meters) and weighs 6 ounces (170 grams). The pattern utilizes six coordinating colorways to build the chevron design:

• Mixed Berries - 2 balls (Color A)
• Tulips - 2 balls (Color B)
• Bourbon - 1 ball (Color C)
• Purple Haze - 1 ball (Color D)
• Barks - 2 balls (Color E)
• Wild Fire - 1 ball (Color F)

The total yardage requirement is approximately 790 yards, distributed across these six distinct colors to create visual interest and movement throughout the blanket.

Tools and Equipment

Knitters will need Lion Brand Knitting Needles in Size 10.5 (6.5 mm), which are appropriate for the bulky-weight Homespun yarn. Additionally, a Lion Brand Large-Eye Blunt Needle Set (Set of 6) is recommended for seaming the ten strips together and weaving in yarn ends throughout the project.

Gauge and Sizing

The pattern specifies a gauge of 11 stitches and 16 rows equals 4 inches (10 cm) when worked in Garter Stitch. Achieving proper gauge is essential to ensure the finished afghan matches the intended dimensions and that the yardage provided is sufficient. Knitters who work more loosely may need to switch to smaller needles, while those who work more tightly should consider using larger needles to match the specified gauge.

Pattern Notes

Each of the ten strips begins with a cast-on of 16 stitches and is worked with two coordinating colors per strip. The pattern provides specific color assignments for Strips 1 through 10, allowing crafters to follow a predetermined color sequence or customize the arrangement to suit their preferences. The combination of garter stitch texture with the chevron shaping created by increases and decreases produces a dynamic, dimensional blanket suitable for a bedroom throw or living room accent piece.