Noro Perfectly Square Throw Blanket Knitting Pattern

Noro Perfectly Square Throw

What is Being Made

The Noro Perfectly Square Throw is an intermediate-level knitted blanket measuring 48 x 48 inches (122 x 122 centimeters). This throw is constructed from multiple modular squares that are knitted individually and then joined together to create the finished piece. The modular construction method allows crafters to build the throw systematically, with each square worked from the outside edge inward toward the center.

Techniques Used

This project employs several key knitting techniques that define its construction method:

• Worked Flat: Individual squares are knitted flat using straight needles rather than in continuous rounds, allowing for easier manipulation and shaping of each modular unit.
• Worked in the Round: Circular needles are utilized throughout the project, enabling the knitter to work with larger stitch counts and transition between different needle sizes as needed.
• Seamed Construction: Squares are joined together using seaming techniques. The pattern notes that crafters can minimize seaming by picking up and knitting along the cast-on edge of previously completed squares, creating a modular join that reduces the need for extensive finishing work.
• Decreasing to Center: Each square is worked from the outside edge with decreases worked toward the center point, creating the geometric square shape.
• Pick Up and Knit: This technique is used to join squares together by picking up and knitting or purling into loops along an edge, allowing for seamless integration of new squares into the growing throw.

Stitches Used

The Noro Perfectly Square Throw is primarily worked in stockinette stitch (St st), which creates a smooth, classic fabric with a distinctive V-pattern texture on the knit side. The pattern incorporates standard decreasing methods including slip, slip, knit (ssk) to shape the squares as they progress toward the center. Selvage stitches are worked at the edges to facilitate easier seaming during the assembly process. Yarn overs may be incorporated to add textural interest and help define the geometric structure of each square.

Materials and Gauge

The Noro Perfectly Square Throw requires 9 skeins of Noro Taiyo yarn in colorway #124, with each skein weighing 100 grams. The project calls for multiple needle sizes in US 8/5mm: one pair of straight needles, one set of five double-pointed needles, one 24-inch circular needle, and one 40-inch circular needle. Four stitch markers are needed to track pattern repeats and construction points. The recommended gauge is 14 stitches and 20 rows over 4 inches (10 centimeters) in stockinette stitch using size US 8/5mm needles. Checking gauge before beginning is essential to ensure the finished throw meets the specified dimensions.

Construction Notes

The modular design of this throw offers flexibility in the construction process. The pattern recommends starting each individual square with a different color section of the Noro Taiyo yarn to take advantage of the yarn's variegated color properties, creating visual interest and color variation throughout the finished blanket. The strategic use of pick-up-and-knit techniques allows crafters to join squares as they work, minimizing the amount of seaming required during finishing.