Multidirectional Afghan Blanket Knitting Pattern

Multidirectional Afghan Blanket Knitting Pattern by Lion Brand

Project Overview

This downloadable knitting pattern from Lion Brand Yarn creates a multidirectional afghan blanket measuring 42 x 50 inches (106.5 x 127 cm). The blanket is constructed using a modular square design that allows for efficient assembly with minimal seaming, making it an excellent project for knitters seeking a structured yet flexible approach to blanket creation.

Skill Level and Difficulty

Rated as Easy + (Level 3), this pattern is accessible to intermediate knitters who have mastered basic knitting techniques. The straightforward construction method and repetitive nature of the square-based design make it manageable for those building their knitting skills while still offering visual interest through color work and directional changes.

Materials and Yarn Specifications

The afghan requires Lion Brand Homespun Yarn, a blend of 98% acrylic and 2% polyester. Each skein provides 185 yards (169 meters) and weighs 6 ounces (170 grams). The pattern calls for six coordinating colorways:

• Edwardian (Color A): 2 balls
• Shaker (Color B): 1 ball
• Cream (Color C): 1 ball
• Desert Mountain (Color D): 1 ball
• Sand Dune (Color E): 1 ball
• Barley (Color F): 1 ball

Total yardage needed is approximately 790 yards. Knitters will also need Lion Brand Knitting Needles in Size 10 (6 mm) and a set of Lion Brand Large-Eye Blunt Needles for finishing and weaving in ends.

Gauge and Tension

The pattern specifies a gauge of 12 stitches and 18 rows, measuring approximately 4 inches (10 cm) in pattern. Achieving proper gauge is essential for obtaining the correct finished dimensions and ensuring that the yardage provided is sufficient. Knitters should create a gauge swatch before beginning and adjust needle size accordingly—using smaller needles if the swatch produces more stitches and rows than specified, or larger needles if fewer stitches and rows result.

Construction Technique

The afghan employs a modular construction method composed of 30 individual squares worked according to a provided diagram. Rather than creating all squares separately and seaming them together, this pattern uses an efficient pickup method where stitches for new squares are picked up directly across one edge of previously completed squares. This technique significantly reduces the number of seams requiring finishing, streamlining the assembly process and creating a more cohesive final product.

Stitch Techniques and Pattern Elements

The pattern incorporates several key knitting techniques. The M1 (Make 1) increase is used throughout the design, created by lifting the horizontal strand lying between needles, placing it onto the left needle, and knitting through the back loop to create one additional stitch. This increase method produces a neat, nearly invisible addition to the fabric.

Each square features three distinct stripes separated by slip stitch patterns, creating visual texture and color variation. The slip stitch pattern between stripes adds subtle dimensionality and helps define the square sections. The phrase wyif (with yarn in front) appears in the instructions, referring to positioning the yarn on the side of the work facing the knitter, a fundamental technique for slip stitches and certain stitch variations.

Pattern Notes and Updates

As of March 8, 2014, there were no corrections listed for this pattern. Knitters are encouraged to check for any later updates or errata before beginning their project to ensure they are working from the most current version of the pattern.