Easy Cakes & Candles Crochet Baby Blanket Pattern for Beginners!

Are you ready to crochet a beautiful and cozy keepsake? The Cakes & Candles Baby Blanket is a fantastic project for crocheters of all skill levels, especially beginners. This blanket is not only easy to make, but it’s also incredibly versatile. You can customize it to any size you like and choose colors that perfectly match your nursery or home decor. The pattern consists of just two repeating rows, making it simple to memorize and a joy to create.

If you're a visual learner, you can follow along with the right-handed tutorial. Left-handed crocheters, don't worry. There's also a left-handed tutorial available!

To get started on your Cakes & Candles Blanket, you'll need a few essential supplies. Choosing the right yarn and hook can make all the difference in the final result, so let's take a closer look at what you'll need.

In the video, I used Ice Yarn Magic DK, which is 100% acrylic. This yarn is soft, durable, and comes in a variety of beautiful colors. Each ball contains 100 grams and measures about 340 meters. However, the beauty of this pattern is that you can use almost any yarn you have on hand.

If you're looking for a substitute, any size 3 yarn (DK or light worsted) will work well. The key is to find a yarn that you love and that feels good to work with. Don't be afraid to experiment with different fibers and colors to create a truly unique blanket. Explore different types of yarn materials to get a feel for what's out there.

You can find a wide variety of yarns.

I recommend using a 5 mm crochet hook for this project. This size works well with DK weight yarn and creates a fabric that is soft and drapey. However, the best hook size for you will depend on your individual tension and the yarn you choose.

If your yarn label gives you a range of hook sizes, it’s generally best to choose the larger size. This will help to create a looser, softer fabric. If you use a smaller hook, your blanket will be denser and less drapey. Experiment with different hook sizes until you find one that feels comfortable and produces the desired result.

In addition to yarn and a hook, you'll also need a few other basic notions:

• Scissors
• Tapestry needle (for weaving in ends)
• Stitch markers (optional, but helpful)

These tools will help you to complete your blanket with a professional finish. You can find many of these CROCHET MUST HAVES on sale to help you save money!

The finished size of the blanket made with three balls of yarn is approximately 34 inches square. However, one of the great things about this pattern is that the size is easily customizable. You can simply add more rounds to make it larger, or stop earlier for a smaller blanket.

If you want to make an adult-sized throw, you'll need approximately five or six balls of yarn. Keep in mind that the gauge isn't critical for this project, but it will affect the finished size. If your tension is tighter, your blanket will be smaller, and if your tension is looser, it will be larger.

Tension is something many beginners struggle with and practicing helps.

Let's dive into the first steps of creating your Cakes & Candles Blanket. It all starts with a simple slip knot and a chain.

To begin, make a slip knot. There are many ways to make a slip knot, so use your preferred method. I just wrap the yarn and poke it through, but you can find many tutorials online if you need a refresher.

Next, we'll create a chain of four stitches. To do this, push your hook onto your yarn, turn it, and bring it through. Repeat this process until you have four chains. It is important to count the chains to make sure you have the correct number.

Now, we'll turn the chain into a ring by slip stitching into the first chain. Insert your hook into the first chain, making sure to get two loops of that stitch on your hook. Hold the center open with your finger and thumb while you grab the yarn and pull it through both loops on your hook. This will create a small ring that will serve as the foundation for your blanket.

In this round, we'll start building the center of our blanket by working double crochets into the ring.

First, chain three. This chain counts as the first double crochet of the round.

Next, we'll work 15 double crochets into the center of the ring. Here are the steps to do a double crochet:

• Wrap the yarn around the hook.
• Insert the hook into the ring.
• Wrap the yarn around the hook again and pull through the ring (3 loops on hook).
• Wrap the yarn around the hook and pull through the first 2 loops on the hook (2 loops on hook).
• Wrap the yarn around the hook and pull through the last 2 loops on the hook (1 loop on hook).

Repeat this process until you have a total of 15 double crochets in the ring. Remember that the initial chain three counts as one double crochet, so you should have a total of 16 stitches in this round. If you need a refresher check out a Crochet Stitch Dictionary (Double Crochet).

To join the round, we'll slip stitch to the top of the chain three. It’s important to join to the top of the chain three, not the top of the double crochet. If you look closely, you'll see a little V hiding down there. That's where you want to insert your hook.

In this round, we'll increase the size of our circle by working two double crochets into each stitch.

Begin by chaining three and turning your work. This chain counts as the first double crochet of the round.

Next, we'll work two double crochets into the same stitch all the way around. Each stitch looks like a little dimple. That's where you'll insert your hook. By working two double crochets into each stitch, we're doubling the number of stitches in the round.

At the end of this round, you should have a total of 32 double crochets. Remember to pause the video and complete this step before moving on.

To join the round, slip stitch to the top of the chain three. Be sure to join to the chain right after the double crochet, not the top of the double crochet itself.

In this round, we'll start introducing the "cakes" and corners that give this blanket its unique design.

To begin, chain six and turn your work. This chain counts as a double crochet and a chain three.

Next, work a double crochet into the same space as the chain six. This creates the first half of our corner.

Now, chain one and skip two stitches. It’s important to be careful to skip the first small stitch, which can be easy to miss.

Next, we'll create the "cake" by working three double crochets, one into each of the next three stitches. The cake stitch is a grouping of three double crochets.

Repeat the chain one and skip two instructions.

Now, we'll create the corner by working a double crochet, chain three, and double crochet all into the same stitch, twice. This creates two V-stitches that are joined together. For new crocheters, a V-stitch is the double crochet, chain three, and double crochet combination.

Repeat the "cake" and corner pattern around the entire round. Remember to chain one between each "cake" and corner.

To join the round, finish the corner and slip stitch to join to the fourth chain.

In this round, we'll add the "candles" that complement the "cakes" and complete the pattern.

Begin by chaining three and turning your work. This chain counts as a double crochet.

Next, work seven double crochets into the V-space (corner). This creates a shell stitch.

Now, chain one and work a double crochet into the center double crochet of the "cake". This single double crochet is the "candle".

Repeat the seven double crochets into the next V-space.

Emphasize working a double crochet into the corner stitch to continue the line.

Repeat the pattern around the entire round.

To join the round, describe slip stitching to the top of the chain three to join.

From this point on, we'll alternate between the two rows we've learned to create the full pattern.

Explain starting with a chain six for rows that begin with a V-stitch.

Explain that "shells" (seven double crochets) get a "cake" (three double crochets) and that "candles" (single double crochet) get a V-stitch (double crochet, chain 3, double crochet).

Remind crocheters to chain one between all stitches except in the corners.

Emphasize the importance of alternating the two rows to create the pattern. It is very important to follow this to get the correct pattern.

Encourage crocheters to continue until the blanket reaches the desired size or they run out of yarn. Give some size estimations (baby blanket vs. adult blanket).

Let's break down the individual stitches that make up this pattern.

Explain the three-double-crochet group as the "cake."

Explain the single double crochet stitch as the "candle."

Explain the double crochet, chain 3, double crochet combination as the "V."

The Cakes & Candles Blanket looks beautiful in a variety of yarn choices and color combinations.

Mention that the blanket looks great in a single color.

Explain that variegated yarn adds interest and depth. Variegated yarn is great for variegated blanket projects!

Suggest changing colors every few rows for a striped effect. You can also learn to seamlessly change colors for a nice professional look.

Encourage crocheters to choose colors that match the nursery or the recipient's preferences. This adds a personal touch to the project.

If you're new to crochet, here are a few tips to help you succeed with this project.

Encourage beginners to practice the double crochet stitch before starting.

Emphasize the importance of counting stitches to maintain the pattern. Accurate stitch counts help ensure the integrity of the pattern!

Suggest relaxing the tension for a softer blanket. Using a larger hook can help with tension.

Encourage crocheters not to be afraid to undo (frog) their work if they make a mistake.

Here are a few solutions to common problems you might encounter.

Suggest pulling the starting tail tight to close the hole.

Emphasize the importance of consistent tension and accurate stitch counts.

Suggest blocking the blanket to flatten it out. Blocking is a process of wetting or steaming your finished project and then pinning it into shape while it dries. This helps to even out the stitches and give the blanket a professional finish.

Once you've completed your blanket, it's time to add the finishing touches.

Describe how to weave in the yarn ends securely.

Explain how to block the blanket to give it a professional finish. Blocking can really make a big difference in the appearance of your finished project.

To keep your Cakes & Candles Blanket looking its best, follow these care instructions.

Provide washing instructions based on the yarn used (e.g., machine wash cold, tumble dry low).

Provide drying instructions.

Provide storage instructions.

Here are some common crochet abbreviations you might encounter in this pattern:

• ch = chain
• dc = double crochet
• sl st = slip stitch

For a printer-friendly version of this pattern, download the free pattern PDF. You can also view the written pattern.

If you enjoyed making this Cakes & Candles Blanket, there are many other beginner-friendly crochet projects you can try. A great place to start is with easy crochet patterns.

The rhythmic, repetitive nature of this pattern makes it a perfect project for relaxation. Crochet has meditative qualities that can help to reduce stress and promote a sense of calm.

The Cakes & Candles Blanket makes a thoughtful handmade gift for baby showers, birthdays, or other special occasions.

Encourage readers to share their finished blankets on social media, tagging The Secret Yarnery and using relevant hashtags (#SecretYarnery, #CakesAndCandlesBlanket).

To get even more patterns check out the selection of FREE STUFF!

Left-handed crocheters can find all my left-handed tutorials online. Some adjustments might be needed for left-handed crocheters, so be sure to watch the left-handed tutorial for guidance.

Variegated yarn can add a unique and beautiful touch to your Cakes & Candles Blanket.

Explain that variegated yarn creates a unique and unpredictable color pattern.

Suggest starting each round with the same color for a more uniform look.

Recommend yarns with gradual color changes for a smoother transition.

If you want to make a blanket that's a different size than the one in the pattern, you'll need to calculate how much yarn you'll need.

Explain the importance of creating a gauge swatch.

Describe how to calculate the area of the desired blanket size.

Explain how to use the swatch to estimate the amount of yarn needed per square inch/cm. For example, if a 4x4 inch swatch took 50 yards of yarn, the yarn usage is 50/16 or 3.125 yards per square inch.

Suggest adding extra yarn to account for waste and variations.

You can customize your Cakes & Candles Blanket by adding a border.

Suggest a single crochet border for a clean edge.

Suggest a picot border or shell border for a decorative touch.

Recommend using a contrasting color for the border to make it stand out.

No need to add a border - the last row looks like a fancy border all on it's own!

The Cakes & Candles Blanket is similar to a solid granny square, but with its own unique twist.

Explain how this pattern differs from the traditional granny square.

Explain the importance of starting with a tight center circle to avoid holes.

Explain the specific stitch placements for creating the solid effect.

Using high-quality crochet hooks can make a big difference in your crocheting experience.

Recommend using ergonomic hooks to reduce hand fatigue.

Explain that a smooth hook finish helps the yarn glide easily.

Discuss the pros and cons of different hook materials (e.g., aluminum, bamboo, plastic).

Choosing the right yarn weight is essential for any crochet project.

List the standard yarn weights (e.g., lace, fingering, DK, worsted, bulky).

Explain how to substitute yarn weights and adjust hook size accordingly.

Explain the importance of matching yarn weight for consistent results.

Consistent tension is key to creating a beautiful and even crochet fabric.

Explain different methods of holding the yarn.

Explain different methods of gripping the hook.

Emphasize the importance of practice for developing consistent tension.

Good lighting is essential for comfortable and accurate crocheting.

Recommend crocheting in natural light whenever possible.

Suggest using a bright, adjustable lamp for artificial lighting.

Recommend using a neck light for hands-free illumination. You can find a great Neck Light online.

Understanding how to read crochet patterns is a fundamental skill for any crocheter.

Explain the common abbreviations used in crochet patterns.

Explain how to interpret the instructions and follow the stitch pattern.

Explain how to read crochet charts.

Crocheting can sometimes lead to hand pain, but there are steps you can take to prevent it.

Recommend taking frequent breaks to stretch your hands and wrists.

Suggest using ergonomic hooks to reduce hand strain.

Emphasize the importance of maintaining good posture while crocheting.

Suggest doing simple warm-up exercises before starting to crochet.

Now that you have the skills for this project check out some other crochet ideas!

Selecting the right yarn is a very important decision for crocheters. Yarns come in many different forms.

There are a lot of pros and cons of using acrylic yarn! Acrylic yarn is a great substitute for other, more expensive yarns.

Cotton yarn is a great yarn with many different uses.

Wool yarn is a classic that is used for many purposes! You can find Yarn to make all kinds of projects.

What are some things you can do while crocheting? Well there are plenty of options!

• Listen to audio books
• Listen to podcasts
• Listen to music
• Watch movies and TV shows

This is a great way to spend your time doing something productive and keeping your mind engaged!

The most important thing is to have fun and enjoy the process of creating your Cakes & Candles Baby Blanket. Let the rhythmic motion of the hook and yarn soothe your mind, and take pride in the beautiful, handmade creation you're bringing to life. I hope you found this Crochet Lacy Blanket Easy Crochet pattern helpful!