Portrait Throw Blanket Knitting Pattern

Portrait Throw in Juniper Moon Neve

What is Being Made

The Portrait Throw is a modern patchwork-inspired blanket created by Pamela Wynne as part of The Stria Collection. This knitted throw measures 40 inches by 50 inches (101.5 cm by 127 cm) and features a striking geometric design composed of half-square triangles. The blanket is constructed from two-color mitered squares that are arranged and seamed together into one of two distinct pattern options: the Cubes Throw or the Chevron Throw. Each individual square measures 4¾ inches (12 cm) across, making this an ideal project for crafters who enjoy working with modular, component-based construction.

Techniques and Construction Methods

The Portrait Throw employs the mitered square technique, a method where squares are knitted from corner to corner with strategic color changes. Each garter-stitch mitered square uses two contrasting colors—the first half of the square is worked in one color, then the yarn is switched to a second color for the second half. This creates the distinctive half-square triangle effect that forms the visual foundation of the design. A key advantage of this construction method is that the squares are reversible, meaning it does not matter which color is used first and which is used second; both sides of the finished blanket are equally attractive. Once all squares are completed and blocked to a uniform size, they are arranged according to either the Cubes or Chevron diagram and then seamed together to create the final throw.

Stitches Used

• Garter Stitch: The primary stitch throughout the mitered squares, created by knitting every row. This stitch produces a textured, reversible fabric that works beautifully for this geometric project.
• Knit (k): The fundamental stitch used to build the garter-stitch squares.
• Purl (p): Used in combination with knit stitches to create the garter-stitch texture.
• Knit 2 Together (k2tog): A right-leaning decrease used to shape the mitered corners.
• Slip, Slip, Knit (ssk): A left-leaning decrease that pairs with k2tog to create the mitered effect.
• Make One Left (m1L) and Make One Right (m1R): Increase techniques used to expand the squares during construction.
• Stockinette Stitch (St st): Referenced in the pattern abbreviations, though garter stitch is the primary stitch used throughout.

Materials: Yarn and Needles

Yarn: The Portrait Throw is designed to be worked with Juniper Moon Farm Neve, a high-quality yarn available in multiple colorways. The pattern offers two distinct color options depending on which throw variation you choose to create.

For Option A (Cubes Throw), the pattern calls for a multi-color approach using ten different colors of Juniper Moon Farm Neve: Mazzy (1 hank), Aruba (4 hanks), Seattle (1 hank), Morning Glory (2 hanks), Tree Frog (2 hanks), Lily Pad (2 hanks), Pondicherry (1 hank), Monet (2 hanks), Posy (2 hanks), and Grace (1 hank). This color combination creates a rich, complex patchwork effect reminiscent of modern quilts.

For Option B (Chevron Throw), the pattern uses a simplified three-color scheme: Aruba as the main color (6 hanks), Sandbox as the first contrast color (6 hanks), and Morning Glory as the second contrast color (2 hanks). This streamlined approach creates a bold, directional chevron pattern.

Needles: The pattern requires US 6 (4mm) needles, or the size needed to obtain the correct gauge, for working the mitered squares. Additionally, a US 5 (3.75mm) circular needle of the longest length available is needed, likely for seaming or finishing work. The recommended gauge is 22 stitches and 44 rows per 4 inches (10 cm) when working in garter stitch.

Additional Notions

A tapestry needle is required for weaving in yarn ends and seaming the completed squares together. Blocking supplies are also recommended to ensure all squares are uniform in size before assembly, which is essential for a polished, professional-looking finished blanket.