Was this answer right for your project?
Standard blanket sizes
These are common finished sizes. Mattress sizes and personal taste vary, so treat them as a starting point and adjust the width and length.
| Blanket | Inches | Centimeters |
|---|---|---|
| Lovey / security blanket | 12 × 12 | 30 × 30 |
| Preemie | 18 × 24 | 46 × 61 |
| Stroller / pram | 30 × 35 | 76 × 89 |
| Baby / receiving | 36 × 36 | 91 × 91 |
| Crib | 45 × 60 | 114 × 152 |
| Toddler | 42 × 52 | 107 × 132 |
| Lapghan | 36 × 48 | 91 × 122 |
| Throw (sofa) | 50 × 60 | 127 × 152 |
| Twin bed | 66 × 90 | 168 × 229 |
| Full / double bed | 80 × 90 | 203 × 229 |
| Queen bed | 90 × 90 | 229 × 229 |
| King bed | 108 × 90 | 274 × 229 |
How many stitches to start a blanket
Divide your stitch count by the swatch width to get stitches per inch, then multiply by the width you want. With 14 stitches over 4 in, that’s 3.5 stitches per inch, so a 36 in baby blanket needs 126 stitches.
If your stitch pattern repeats, the count has to fit the repeat. The calculator rounds to the nearest number that fits and shows the width you’ll really get.
Turning the stitch count into a foundation chain
Crochet needs extra chains for the height of the first stitch. The calculator writes it out for your stitch: for 126 double crochet, chain 128 and work the first dc into the 4th chain from the hook (the skipped chains count as the first stitch).
How much yarn for a blanket
Without a swatch weight, the calculator uses typical yardage per square inch for your yarn weight and adds 10%. For a closer figure, weigh your swatch: the calculator scales its weight up to the whole blanket and converts it to yards using your ball band. Grab it all from the same dye lot.
Questions
How many chains do I need for a crochet baby blanket?
It depends on your gauge. With worsted yarn at about 14 dc per 4 in, a 36 in baby blanket needs about 126 stitches, which is a chain of 128 for double crochet. Enter your own gauge for an exact number.
Why is my blanket narrower than the calculator said?
Foundation chains are often tighter than the stitches above them. Try a hook one size larger for the chain, or use a chainless foundation. Also measure your swatch after washing, since many yarns relax.
Does the yarn estimate include a border?
No. Add the border width to the size, or grab an extra skein for a simple border.