Valley Yarns #168 Big Baby

Valley Yarns Big Baby Weaving Pattern

Project Overview

The Valley Yarns Big Baby is a double-wide baby blanket designed by Elisabeth Hill, created to produce a finished blanket measuring 32" x 45½". This weaving project combines the challenge of creating a wide fabric on a narrow loom with the soft, cloud-like qualities of Valley Yarns Montague cotton yarn. The blanket features a sophisticated doubleweave structure that creates two layers simultaneously, resulting in a dense, durable fabric ideal for baby use.

Weave Structure and Techniques

This pattern utilizes doubleweave double-wide construction, a technique that requires weaving two layers at once on a rigid heddle loom. The doubleweave method creates exceptional density and durability by interlocking two separate fabric layers during the weaving process. The pattern employs striped colorwork throughout, with carefully planned color sequences that create visual interest while maintaining structural integrity. The double density warp (20 epi with 10 ends per layer) and 16 ppi (8 picks per layer) create a substantial, high-quality finished fabric.

The technique demands regular shed clearing and checking throughout the weaving process due to the complexity of managing two layers simultaneously. This is an intermediate to advanced project, recommended for weavers with prior rigid heddle loom experience rather than beginners.

Equipment Required

• Rigid heddle loom at least 20" wide
• Two 10-dent heddles
• Two 20+" long pick-up sticks (preferably 1½" wide weaving swords)
• Two shuttles (stick shuttles work well)

Yarn and Materials

The Big Baby pattern calls for Valley Yarns Montague, a 100% organic cotton yarn available in multiple colorways. The yarn specifications are 110 yards per 50-gram hank. The color palette includes Natural (955 yards / 9 hanks), Sky Blue (382 yards / 4 hanks), Blue (86 yards / 1 hank), and Grass (18 yards / 1 hank). Additionally, white 5/2 cotton is used for hems (45 yards). The total warp length is 2.5 yards of 368 ends, with a finished width in reed of 18⅖".

Loom Setup and Threading

The pattern uses the indirect method for dressing the loom. The warp threading follows a specific color sequence worked from right to left, starting 9.2" from the center of the heddle. Threading alternates between holes and slots across both heddles, with groups of blue, natural, and sky blue creating the striped pattern. The precise threading sequence ensures proper layer separation and color placement throughout the weaving process.

Finished Dimensions

The completed Big Baby blanket measures 32" wide by 45½" long, making it an appropriately sized baby blanket. The doubleweave construction and high thread density create a substantial, plush fabric with excellent durability and softness suitable for infant use.