5 Effortless Steps to Finish Crocheting a Blanket

Crocheted Blanket

Crocheting a blanket is a beautiful and rewarding experience, but finishing the project can often feel like the most daunting task.

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However, with a few simple steps, you can easily finish crocheting your blanket and add a touch of coziness to your home. After you have mastered the basic crochet stitches and created the desired size and shape of your blanket, it is time to add the finishing touches that will give it a professional and polished look. These steps include adding a border, weaving in any loose ends, and blocking the blanket to give it a neat and even appearance.

Adding a border to your blanket is a great way to frame the piece and give it a more finished look. There are many different border patterns to choose from, so you can find one that perfectly complements the style of your blanket. Once you have chosen a border pattern, simply follow the instructions to crochet it around the edge of your blanket. When you have finished crocheting the border, weave in any loose ends and block the blanket to give it a beautiful and professional finish.

Joining the Panels

Once you have crocheted all of the individual panels for your blanket, it is time to join them together. There are a few different ways to do this, but the most common method is to use a slip stitch. To join two panels using a slip stitch, follow these steps:

Place the two panels side by side, right sides together.
Insert your hook into the first stitch on the first panel.
Yarn over (YO) and pull the yarn through the stitch, forming a loop on your hook.
Insert your hook into the next stitch on the second panel.
YO and pull the yarn through the stitch, pulling the loop from the first panel through the second stitch.
YO and pull the yarn through both loops on your hook, completing the slip stitch.

Repeat steps 4-6 until you have joined all of the panels together.

If you are using a different method to join the panels, such as a single crochet stitch or a join-as-you-go method, follow the instructions for that particular method.

Joining Panels Using Different Methods

Joining panels with slip stitches is a common and simple method, but there are other options as well.

Method	Description
Single crochet stitch	A classic stitch that creates a secure and durable join.
Invisible join	A more advanced technique that hides the join for a seamless look.
Join-as-you-go method	Crochets the panels together as they’re made, eliminating the need for separate joining steps.

The best method for joining panels will depend on the type of yarn and fabric you are using, as well as your personal preferences. Experiment with different methods to find the one that works best for you.

Edging the Blanket

Once you have finished crocheting the main body of the blanket, you can add an edging to give it a finished look. There are many different types of edging stitches that you can use, so choose one that you like and that will complement the design of the blanket. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to edge a blanket using a simple single crochet stitch:

Step 1: Join the yarn to the corner of the blanket

To join the yarn, simply make a slip knot and insert the hook into the first stitch of the last row of the blanket. Yarn over and pull up a loop. Yarn over again and pull through both loops on the hook. This will create a single crochet stitch.

Step 2: Single crochet around the edge of the blanket

Once you have joined the yarn, you can begin single crocheting around the edge of the blanket. To single crochet, insert the hook into the next stitch on the edge of the blanket, yarn over, and pull up a loop. Yarn over again and pull through both loops on the hook. Continue single crocheting around the entire edge of the blanket, working in the spaces between the stitches of the last row.

Step 3: Join the yarn and fasten off

Once you have single crocheted around the entire edge of the blanket, you can join the yarn and fasten off. To join the yarn, simply slip stitch into the first single crochet stitch that you made. To fasten off, cut the yarn leaving a tail of about 6 inches. Thread the tail through the last loop on the hook and pull tight. Weave in the tail to secure.

Blocking the Blanket

Blocking is the final step in completing a crochet blanket, and it can make a dramatic difference in the finished product. It involves wetting the blanket and then stretching it out to the correct size and shape. This process will help to even out the stitches, remove any wrinkles, and make the blanket more durable.

Materials You’ll Need:

Item	Quantity
Blanket	1
Water	As needed
Mild soap	Optional
Towels or drying rack	As needed
Blocking board or foam core	Optional
Pins	Optional

If you are using a blocking board or foam core, cover it with a layer of towels to protect the pins from scratching the surface.

Steps:

1. Wash the blanket according to the care instructions for the yarn you used. This will help to remove any dirt or oils that may have accumulated during the crocheting process.

2. Lay the wet blanket flat on a surface that will not stain, such as a towel or a drying rack. If you are using a blocking board or foam core, pin the blanket to it using rust-proof pins.

3. Now, it’s time to stretch the blanket. Starting from the center, gently pull on the edges of the blanket in opposite directions. Do this evenly all around the blanket until it is the desired size and shape. Use pins to hold the edges in place if necessary.

4. Leave the blanket to dry completely. This may take several hours or even overnight, depending on the type of yarn you used and the humidity in the air.

5. Once the blanket is dry, it is ready to use or gift. Blocking is a simple but essential step that will help you achieve a beautiful and long-lasting blanket.

Adding Fringe or Tassels

Adding fringe or tassels to your blanket is a great way to add a decorative touch. You can use different colors or materials to create a unique look.

Fringe

To add fringe, create a chain of stitches that is twice the length of the edge you want to fringe. Fold the chain in half and attach it to the corner of the blanket with a slip stitch. Repeat this process along the edge of the blanket.

Stitch	Description
Chain	Make a series of slip knots and pull them through to create a chain of stitches.
Slip stitch	Insert the hook into the next stitch, yarn over, and pull the yarn through the loop on the hook.

Tassels

To make tassels, cut a length of yarn that is about 6 times the desired length of the tassel. Fold the yarn in half and make a loop at the top. Insert the hook into the loop and pull up a loop of yarn. Repeat this process 6-8 times around the loop at the top, creating a tassel head. Tie the ends of the tassel together at the top. Repeat this process to create additional tassels and attach them to the blanket as desired.

Experiment with different colors and materials to create a unique and personalized blanket.

Finishing Off the Blanket

Cutting the Yarn

Once the last stitch is crocheted, use scissors to cut the yarn, leaving a tail of 6-8 inches.

Pulling the Yarn Through the Last Stitch

Use a crochet hook to pull the yarn tail through the last stitch worked.

Weaving in the Ends

Use a yarn needle to weave in the yarn tail. Start by inserting the needle into the back loop of the first stitch and pulling the yarn through. Repeat this process, working your way across the row and then up and down the sides of the blanket, until the yarn tail is securely hidden.

Weaving in Loose Ends

Once your blanket is complete, you’ll need to weave in any loose ends. This will help to secure the yarn and prevent it from unraveling. Here’s how to do it:

Find the end of the yarn that you want to weave in.
Use a yarn needle or a large needle to thread the end of the yarn onto.
Weave the yarn through the stitches of the blanket. You can use the same stitch that you used to crochet the blanket, or you can use a simple overhand stitch.
Continue weaving the yarn through the stitches until you reach the end of the yarn.
Trim any excess yarn.

Repeat steps 1-5 for any other loose ends that need to be woven in.

Tools you Will Need	Steps
Yarn needle or large needle	Thread the end of the yarn onto the needle
	Weave the yarn through the stitches of the blanket
	Trim any excess yarn

Embroidering a Name or Design

If you want to add a personal touch to your blanket, you can embroider a name or design on it. This is a great way to make it unique and special.

Materials and Tools

Material	Tool
Embroidery floss	Embroidery needle
Sewing needle	Scissors

Instructions

Choose a design. You can find patterns online or in books, or you can create your own.
Transfer the design to the blanket. You can do this by using a light box or a piece of carbon paper.
Embroider the design. Use a backstitch or a satin stitch.
Finish the embroidery by sewing around the edges of the design.
Trim away any excess floss.

You can also embroider a name on the blanket. To do this, follow these steps:

Choose a font. You can find fonts online or in books, or you can create your own.
Transfer the name to the blanket. You can do this by using a light box or a piece of carbon paper.
Embroider the name. Use a backstitch or a satin stitch.
Finish the embroidery by sewing around the edges of the name.
Trim away any excess floss.

Using a Blanket Lining

For a more polished finish, consider using a blanket lining. This provides an extra layer of warmth and comfort, and hides the messy yarn ends. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Choose a lining fabric: Opt for a soft, breathable fabric like flannel, fleece, or minky.
2. Cut the lining to size: Measure the crochet blanket and cut the lining slightly larger, allowing for shrinkage.
3. Pin the lining: Align the lining fabric with the wrong side of the blanket and pin it in place around the edges.
4. Baste the edges: Use a needle and thread to loosely stitch the lining to the blanket, about 1/2 inch from the edge.
5. Trim the excess: Once basted, trim any excess lining fabric close to the stitching.
6. Secure the lining: Machine stitch around the outer edge of the blanket, securing the lining and creating a finished hem.
7. Turn right side out: Turn the blanket right side out and fold the lining neatly underneath.
8. Secure the corners: To ensure a snug fit, use a needle and thread to stitch the corners of the lining securely to the blanket.

Corner Stitch Details
– Fold the corner of the lining over the blanket corner. – Bring the needle through the blanket and lining, catching the fold. – Pull the thread tight and continue stitching around the corner.

Storing the Blanket

Proper storage will preserve your crocheted blanket and extend its lifespan. Here are some tips for storing your finished masterpiece:

1. Clean the Blanket

Before storing, ensure the blanket is clean. Wash it according to the care instructions provided with the yarn label. If the label doesn’t provide specific instructions, opt for gentle handwashing or machine washing on a delicate cycle with cold water.

2. Dry Thoroughly

Allow the blanket to dry completely before storing. If possible, air-dry it outdoors or in a well-ventilated area. Avoid using a dryer as it can shrink or damage the yarn fibers.

How To Finish Crocheting A Blanket

Once you have finished crocheting your blanket, there are a few more steps you need to take to complete it. These steps will help to give your blanket a professional and finished look.

First, you need to weave in any loose ends. This will help to prevent your blanket from unraveling. To weave in a loose end, simply use a yarn needle to thread the end through the stitches on the back of the blanket. Once you reach the end of the yarn, tie it off with a knot.

Next, you need to block your blanket. Blocking helps to even out the stitches and give your blanket a more polished look. To block your blanket, lay it flat on a damp towel. Then, gently smooth out the stitches with your hands. Allow the blanket to air dry completely.

Once your blanket is dry, you can add a border if desired. A border will help to frame your blanket and give it a more finished look. To add a border, simply crochet a row of stitches around the edge of the blanket. You can use any type of stitch you like, but a simple single crochet stitch is a good choice.

Finally, you can add tassels or fringe to your blanket if desired. Tassels or fringe will add a touch of whimsy and personality to your blanket. To add tassels, simply cut a few strands of yarn and tie them to the corners of the blanket. To add fringe, simply cut a few strands of yarn and tie them to the bottom edge of the blanket.