How to Crochet the Cakes and Candles Baby Blanket

Looking for a new crochet project that's easy, fun, and endlessly customizable? Meet the Cakes and Candles Baby Blanket! This light, lacy square blanket is perfect for baby showers, outdoor throws, or cozying up on the couch. Designed with simplicity in mind, it features a two-row repeat pattern of cakes and candles that even beginners can master in no time. Plus, there's no need for a separate border—this pattern looks polished right off the hook!

Whether you're crafting a gift or personalizing a blanket for your home, this adaptable design lets you make it as large or small as you'd like. Watch the step-by-step tutorial below to follow along and create your own!

What You’ll Need

Yarn Specifications

For this project, I used Magic DK yarn from Ice Yarn, which is 100% acrylic. Each 100-gram ball provides approximately 340 meters. While I love the look and feel of this yarn, you can substitute nearly any yarn of similar thickness and weight. Variegated yarn adds a playful touch, but a single solid color works beautifully too.

If you're unsure what to use, look for yarn labeled as size 3 (lightweight) and ensure each 100-gram ball contains around 340 meters. This ensures your blanket will have the same texture and drape as the original.

Hook Size Suggestions

I recommend using a 5mm crochet hook for this pattern. If your yarn label suggests multiple hook sizes—for instance, a range between 4mm and 6mm—always go with the larger size. This creates a softer, more open texture. Remember, smaller hooks result in denser, less-drapey blankets, so aim for softness!

Yarn Quantity

You’ll need approximately:

• 3 balls (or about 1,000 meters) for a 34-inch square baby blanket.
• 5–6 balls for an adult-sized blanket or throw.

With these materials ready, you'll be all set to bring your blanket to life!

For more inspiration and other crochet baby blanket options, explore our Crochet Blanket Patterns Tagged “baby” section.

Starting Your Cakes and Candles Baby Blanket

Step 1: Create the Foundation Loop

Start with a slipknot. If you’re unsure about this step, no worries—simply wrap your yarn and pull a loop through.

Next, chain 4 stitches, then join them into a ring with a slip stitch into the first stitch. Hold the center of the ring open with your non-dominant hand to keep the work neat as you go. This small circle will be the foundation of your blanket.

Step 2: Round One – Make the First Circle

Create your first round by chaining 3 (this acts as your first double crochet). Next, crochet 15 double crochets into the ring, bringing the total to 16 stitches (including the chain).

When finished, slip stitch to the top of the chain 3 to complete the round. This forms the base for your project.

Step 3: Round Two – Building a Square

For round two, chain 3 (again, counts as a double crochet), then turn your work. In this round, you’ll place 2 double crochets in each stitch from the previous round. By the end, you’ll have 32 stitches.

To finish, slip stitch to the top of the chain 3. That's it! You've now transformed your circle into the beginnings of a square.

Step 4: Introduce the Cakes and Candles

This is where the magic of the pattern begins. The “cakes” (groups of 3 double crochets) and “candles” (single double crochets) are combined with lacy V-stitch corners. Here’s how it works:

1. Chain 6 to start. This counts as a double crochet plus a chain 3 for the corner space.
2. Work a V-stitch (double crochet, chain 3, double crochet) in the same space.
3. Chain 1, skip 2 stitches, then add a “cake” (3 double crochets, one in each stitch).
4. Alternate between V-stitches for corners and cakes for sides, with chain 1 separating each group.

By the time you finish this round, your square will really begin to take shape.

Need more ideas for intricate square crochet pieces? Check out our Coronation Crochet Baby Blanket for another delightful pattern.

Alternating Rows for the Design

The beauty of the Cakes and Candles Blanket lies in its straightforward repeat structure. Once you establish the pattern, it's all about alternating rows:

• Row 1 (V’s and Cakes): V-stitches in corners and cakes along the sides.
• Row 2 (Shells and Candles): Shells (7 double crochets) in V-stitches and single “candles” (double crochet) in cakes.

Repeat these two rows until your blanket reaches your desired size. Whether it’s a lap throw or a full-size bedspread, the pattern scales beautifully.

Tips for Success

Maintain Consistent Tension

Keeping your tension steady ensures your stitches stay even and your blanket remains square. If you're seeing curves or waves, check your stitch count and adjust your hook if necessary.

Watch Out for Corners

Corners are crucial for shaping this blanket. Always follow the V-stitch pattern in the corners and ensure they’re symmetrical across each row.

Choose Your Yarn Wisely

While size 3 yarns work best, feel free to experiment! Cotton yarn makes a fantastic summer blanket, while wool blends offer warmth in colder months. Our guide on Easy Crochet Projects for Beginners could help you find the right materials for your next crochet journey.

Customizing Your Blanket

One of the best parts of this pattern is its adaptability. Increase the size of your blanket by simply repeating the two-row pattern for as many rounds as you like. You can also mix and match yarn colors for a striped effect or variegated texture.

For yarn calculations:

• Approximately 1,000 meters yields a 34-inch baby blanket.
• Plan for 1,700–2,000 meters for a medium-sized throw.
• Adjust as needed for larger projects.

Care Instructions

Make sure to follow the care guidelines for your chosen yarn. Most acrylic yarns are machine washable, but cotton or wool blends may require hand washing. Block your finished blanket to enhance its shape and drape.

Final Thoughts

The Cakes and Candles Baby Blanket is perfect for beginners and experienced crocheters alike. It’s simple, timeless, and endlessly customizable, offering the perfect balance of effort and elegance. Whether you’re gifting a handmade creation or crafting for yourself, this pattern is sure to impress.

Ready to get started? Grab your hook and yarn, and bookmark this pattern for your next crochet session!

Left Handed? 

Frequently Asked Questions 

1. Can I use a different yarn weight for this blanket?

Yes, you can use a different yarn weight. However, keep in mind that thicker yarns will result in a larger, bulkier blanket, while thinner yarns will make it lighter and smaller. Adjust your crochet hook size accordingly to maintain a soft and drapey texture.

2. Do I have to use acrylic yarn?

No, you can use other yarn types like cotton or wool blends. Acrylic is a popular choice because it’s affordable, widely available, and easy to care for, but feel free to experiment based on your preferences and project needs.

3. How do I make the blanket larger or smaller?

To adjust the size, simply continue repeating the two-row pattern for more rounds to make a larger blanket, or stop earlier for a smaller one. Remember to plan your yarn quantity accordingly.

4. What if my blanket isn't staying square?

Ensure you are maintaining consistent tension and counting your stitches carefully. Double-check your V-stitches in the corners to confirm they’re symmetrical across each row, as this is critical for shaping.

5. Is this pattern suitable for beginners?

Yes! The two-row repeat pattern is straightforward and easy to follow. Plus, the lack of a separate border makes it a great project for new crocheters.

6. Can I mix and match yarn colors?

Absolutely! You can use multiple colors for a striped effect or a single variegated yarn for a unique texture. Make sure the yarns you choose are of similar weight to ensure consistency.

7. What crochet hook size should I use if I choose a different yarn?

Check the label on your yarn for the recommended hook size. If a range is provided, opt for the largest size to achieve the best drape. Always make a sample swatch to test the texture and adjust your hook size if needed.

8. How many skeins of yarn will I need for a larger blanket?

For an adult-sized throw, plan to use 5–6 balls of the recommended size 3 yarn (approximately 1,700–2,000 meters). For bedspreads or oversized blankets, you’ll need even more. Use the yarn quantity from the baby blanket as a guide to scale up.

9. Do I need to block the finished blanket?

Blocking isn’t necessary with acrylic yarn, but it can help enhance the shape and drape of your project. For other yarns like cotton or wool blends, blocking is highly recommended.

10. How do I care for the finished blanket?

Follow the care instructions provided on your yarn label. Most acrylic yarns are machine washable, while wool or blended yarn types might require hand washing and air drying.

Christa Patel is a passionate crochet designer, instructor, and blogger with over a decade of experience in the crafting community. Her mission is to inspire creativity and make crocheting accessible to everyone—from beginners to seasoned crocheters. Known for her simple yet elegant patterns, Christa focuses on blending functionality with artistry in each project.

As the creator behind The Secret Yarnery, Christa offers a treasure trove of tutorials, patterns, and resources to help crafters of all levels explore their love for yarn and hooks. Her designs, like the Cakes and Candles Baby Blanket, showcase her knack for adapting traditional stitches into modern, customizable creations.

When Christa isn’t crocheting, she enjoys connecting with her global community of yarn lovers through YouTube tutorials, social media, and her blog. Her approachable teaching style, clear instructions, and joyful enthusiasm make crochet an exciting journey for her followers.