Country Cousins Blanket - Red Barn Colorway in Lion Brand Homespun

Country Cousins Blanket - Red Barn Colorway in Lion Brand Homespun

Project Overview

The Country Cousins Blanket is a beginner-friendly knitting project that creates a charming 30 x 30 inch [76 x 76 cm] throw blanket. This design showcases the distinctive texture of Lion Brand Homespun yarn through a simple yet effective patchwork construction method.

What Is Being Made

This blanket is constructed from nine individual knitted squares that are sewn together to create a finished throw. The Red Barn Colorway features a warm, rustic color palette with five squares in Boston Rose and four squares in Coral Gables, arranged in an alternating pattern with a Deco-colored border accent.

Knitting Techniques and Construction

The blanket uses a straightforward modular construction approach, where each square is knitted independently before being assembled. This method makes the project manageable and allows crafters to work on portable pieces. The squares are arranged in three rows of three squares each, with alternating colors and directional orientation of the stitch pattern to create visual interest.

Assembly involves whipstitching the squares together using a large-eye blunt needle, which is ideal for working with the textured yarn. The same technique is used to finish the outside edges, creating a polished perimeter.

Stitches Used

• Garter Stitch - The sole stitch used throughout the project, created by knitting every row. This fundamental stitch produces a reversible fabric with horizontal ridges and is perfect for beginners.
• Whipstitch - Used for seaming squares together and finishing edges, providing a secure and neat join.

Materials and Yarn

The pattern calls for Lion Brand Homespun, a uniquely-textured bulky weight yarn composed of 98% acrylic and 2% polyester. The yarn is packaged in 6 oz/170g pull skeins with 185 yards/167 meters per skein, allowing projects to work up quickly and easily.

The Red Barn Colorway includes:

• Boston Rose (Color A) - 2 skeins
• Coral Gables (Color B) - 2 skeins
• Deco (Color C) - 1 skein for finishing

Knitting needles required are Size 10 [6 mm], paired with a set of large-eye blunt needles for assembly and finishing work.

Gauge and Sizing

The pattern is worked at a gauge of 13 stitches and 26 rows equaling 4 inches [10 cm] in Garter stitch. Each individual square measures 10 x 10 inches [25.5 x 25.5 cm] when completed. Checking gauge before beginning ensures the finished blanket achieves the intended dimensions.

Skill Level

Rated as a Beginner project, this blanket is ideal for knitters new to the craft or those seeking a straightforward, satisfying make. The repetitive nature of Garter stitch and the modular design build confidence while producing a beautiful, functional finished piece.