Paintbox Yarns Union Jack Patchwork Blanket Knitting Pattern

Paintbox Yarns Union Jack Patchwork Blanket

What Is Being Made

The Paintbox Yarns Union Jack Patchwork Blanket is a 48in x 48cm (122cm x 122cm) knitted throw blanket featuring a classic Union Jack flag design created through a patchwork of colored squares. The blanket combines multiple color variations to represent the iconic British flag pattern, making it a striking decorative piece suitable for home décor or as a gift.

Project Overview

This is an intermediate-level knitting project worked in a flat construction method. The blanket is assembled from individual knitted squares that are seamed together to create the final patchwork design. Two versions are available: a Classic version and a Party version, each with different color combinations to suit various aesthetic preferences.

Knitting Techniques Used

The pattern employs several key knitting techniques:

• Garter stitch as the primary stitch throughout the project, providing a textured, reversible fabric
• Corner-to-corner knitting for individual squares, with 2 sides picked up to create the centre cross detail
• Seaming to join completed squares into the final blanket structure
• Stripe work incorporated into the design to create the Union Jack pattern
• Shaping techniques including knit 2 together (k2tog) and slip, slip, knit (ssk) decreases, as well as make 1 (m1) increases for constructing the corner-to-corner squares
• Flat knitting throughout, working back and forth in rows rather than in the round

Stitches and Abbreviations

The pattern uses standard knitting abbreviations and stitches including: knit (k), purl (p), knit 2 together (k2tog), slip, slip, knit (ssk), and make 1 stitch (m1). The foundational stitch is garter stitch, created by knitting every row, which produces the characteristic bumpy texture and provides excellent drape for a blanket.

Materials and Specifications

Yarn: Paintbox Yarns Simply Aran weight yarn is required. The Classic version requires 5 balls of Midnight Blue, 4 balls of Paper White, and 8 balls of Pillar Red. The Party version uses 3 balls of Paper White, 2 balls each of Spearmint Green, Bubblegum Pink, Daffodil Yellow, Marine Blue, Peach Orange, and Dusty Lilac, plus 2 additional balls of Paper White. Each ball weighs 3½oz/100g.

Needles: US 8 (5mm) knitting needles are required to achieve the correct gauge.

Gauge (Tension): The pattern specifies 18 stitches and 32 rows measured over 4in/10cm of garter stitch using US 8 (5mm) needles. Achieving the correct gauge is essential for the blanket to reach its intended finished dimensions.

Finished Dimensions

The completed blanket measures 48in x 48in (122cm x 122cm). Individual squares measure 8¼ x 8¼in (21cm x 21cm), with 4 squares combining to create each Union Jack motif within the patchwork design.

Difficulty Level

This project is rated as intermediate, suitable for knitters with foundational skills who are comfortable working with decreases, increases, and seaming techniques. The modular square-by-square construction allows for manageable sections, though the overall project requires attention to color placement and careful assembly.

Pattern Format

This is a downloadable PDF pattern available for free, allowing crafters to work at their own pace. The pattern uses US knitting terminology with UK terminology provided for international knitters. Yarn is exclusively available through LoveCrafts.com.