Sirdar Ripples Blanket & Cushion Knitting Pattern

Sirdar Ripples Blanket & Cushion

What Is Being Made

This intermediate knitting pattern from Sirdar (Design No. 10707) includes two coordinating projects: a generously sized blanket measuring approximately 91 x 120 cm (36 x 47¼ inches) and a matching cushion cover measuring 50 x 50 cm (19¾ x 19¾ inches). Both pieces showcase the distinctive ripple stitch pattern that gives this design collection its name, creating organic, flowing textures inspired by ocean waves and gemstone aesthetics.

Techniques Used

The Sirdar Ripples pattern employs classic hand knitting techniques suitable for intermediate-level crafters. The blanket is worked using circular knitting needles, allowing for seamless construction of the larger piece, while the cushion cover utilizes straight needles for a more traditional flat-panel approach. The pattern incorporates button closures on the cushion cover, requiring basic finishing techniques such as buttonhole placement and secure fastening. The ripple stitch creates a textured, undulating fabric that mimics the appearance of hand-spun yarns while remaining achievable for knitters with foundational skills.

Stitches Used

The primary stitch structure features a zig-zag or ripple pattern that forms the signature organic texture throughout both the blanket and cushion. This stitch pattern creates gentle waves and flowing lines characteristic of ocean-inspired design work. The ripple technique requires understanding of basic increases and decreases to achieve the distinctive undulating effect, making it an excellent intermediate-level stitch pattern that builds on fundamental knitting skills while introducing more complex shaping.

Materials

Both projects are designed to be worked in Sirdar Jewelspun with Wool Chunky yarn in shade 203 (Mother of Pearl). The blanket requires 4 balls of yarn, while the cushion cover requires 2 balls, with each ball weighing 200g. This wool blend yarn is specifically formulated to mimic the appearance of hand-spun yarns while offering the affordability and consistency of commercial yarn production. The chunky weight ensures quick knitting progress, making these projects accessible for completing within a reasonable timeframe.

Construction requires 6½mm (UK size 3 / USA size 10.5) knitting needles—specifically one pair of straight needles for the cushion cover and one 6½mm circular needle for the blanket. The cushion cover also calls for 6 buttons for closure, completing the functional and decorative elements of the set.

Tension & Gauge

The recommended tension for this pattern is 19 stitches and 20 rows over 10 cm (4 inches) when worked on 6½mm needles. Achieving correct tension is essential for the blanket and cushion to reach their specified measurements and for the ripple stitch pattern to display properly. Sirdar patterns are triple-checked to guarantee success when using the specified Sirdar yarns at the recommended tension.

Design Heritage

Sirdar, established in West Yorkshire in 1880, brings over a century of British hand knitting expertise to this contemporary design. The Ripples collection exemplifies the company's approach of combining classic knitting techniques with modern yarn innovations, offering crafters the ability to achieve fashionable, hand-spun aesthetics at accessible price points. The ocean-treasure color palette and organic stitch patterns reflect current design trends while remaining grounded in traditional knitting craftsmanship.