Debbie Bliss Tumbling Blocks Blanket Knitting Pattern

Debbie Bliss Tumbling Blocks Blanket

Project Overview

The Tumbling Blocks Blanket is an intermediate-level knitting project that creates a finished blanket measuring approximately 80cm (31½ inches) wide by 110cm (43¼ inches) long. This design showcases a sophisticated geometric pattern using the tumbling blocks motif, worked flat on knitting needles to produce a substantial, finished textile suitable for home décor or gifting.

Materials Required

This blanket is crafted using Debbie Bliss Cashmerino Chunky yarn, a premium blend that combines the warmth of cashmere with the durability of merino wool. The project requires:

• 12 balls of 50g (1¾oz) in Pearl 23 (Color A) for the main blanket body
• 3 balls of 50g (1¾oz) in Gold 10 (Color B) for accent details and edgings
• One pair of 6mm (US 10) knitting needles for flat working
• One circular 6mm (US 10) knitting needle for holding stitches and working certain sections

Techniques and Construction Method

The blanket is worked flat, meaning it is knitted back and forth in rows rather than in the round. This construction method is ideal for creating rectangular blankets and allows for straightforward pattern management. The project incorporates multiple knitting techniques to build complexity and visual interest:

The pattern utilizes chart-based colorwork, where knitters follow a visual grid to place colors in the correct positions. When reading the chart, odd-numbered rows represent right-side rows and are read from right to left, while even-numbered rows represent wrong-side rows and are read from left to right. This directional reading is essential for accurate pattern reproduction. The chart uses a large dot symbol to indicate purl stitches on right-side rows and knit stitches on wrong-side rows, creating the textured surface that defines the tumbling blocks design.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The blanket employs two primary stitch patterns:

• Stocking Stitch (Stockinette Stitch) forms the main body of the blanket, created by alternating knit rows on the right side with purl rows on the wrong side. This produces the smooth, flat surface characteristic of classic knitted blankets.
• Moss Stitch (Seed Stitch) is used for the side edgings, creating a textured border. Moss stitch is formed by alternating knit and purl stitches within each row, then reversing the pattern on the following row. This creates a bumpy, woven-like texture that frames the blanket and adds structural definition.

Pattern Structure and Gauge

Achieving the correct gauge is critical for this project. The pattern specifies a gauge of 15 stitches and 20 rows to 10cm (4 inches) when working stocking stitch using 6mm (US 10) needles. Knitters should swatch before beginning to ensure their tension matches this specification, as variations will affect the final blanket dimensions.

The blanket construction involves creating a center piece worked from a chart, then adding side edgings in moss stitch. The circular needle is used to hold stitches temporarily during construction, allowing the knitter to work sections in sequence without casting off intermediate edges. This technique maintains live stitches for seamless integration of the side edgings, resulting in a polished, professional finish.

Difficulty Level

Rated as intermediate, this project is suitable for knitters with foundational skills who are comfortable reading charts, managing multiple colors, and working various stitch patterns. The combination of stocking stitch, moss stitch, and colorwork from a chart provides an engaging challenge without requiring advanced techniques such as cables or complex shaping.