Whirlwind Blanket Trilogy

Whirlwind Blanket Trilogy by Rebecca Mattison

Project Overview

The Whirlwind Blanket Trilogy is a collection of crocheted blankets and throws designed by Rebecca Mattison. These projects showcase a geometric approach to blanket construction, featuring a distinctive twisted square pattern created by working in the round rather than in traditional rows. The designer's fascination with geometry and mathematics inspired the creation of these blankets, transforming the natural tendency of squares to twist when worked circularly into an intentional design feature.

What Is Being Made

This trilogy consists of crocheted blankets and throws suitable for various purposes. The sample featured in the pattern is a baby blanket measuring approximately 40 inches, though the trilogy format suggests multiple size or style variations are included. These are finished blankets designed to provide warmth and visual interest through their geometric, spiraling construction.

Techniques Used

The Whirlwind Blanket employs several key crochet techniques that distinguish it from traditional blanket patterns:

• Working in the round: Unlike conventional blankets worked in rows with turns, this pattern is constructed entirely in the round without any turning rows. This circular construction method creates the signature whirlwind effect.
• Slip stitch joining: Each round is joined with a slip stitch to the first stitch rather than to the chain, which prevents the join from traveling and keeps it hidden for a more polished appearance.
• Geometric pattern development: The pattern intentionally uses the natural twisting tendency of squares worked in the round to create the visual whirlwind effect.
• Tension management: The pattern includes guidance for crocheters who work tightly, recommending a larger hook size than standard to prevent rippling in the finished blanket.

Stitches Used

The Whirlwind Blanket Trilogy utilizes fundamental crochet stitches combined in a strategic pattern:

• Chain (Ch): Used to create the foundation and structure of the pattern. Note that Ch 2 counts as a stitch in this pattern.
• Double crochet (Dc): The primary stitch used throughout the blanket construction, providing structure and density.
• Slip stitch (Slst): Used to join each round to the first stitch, creating seamless transitions between rounds.
• V-stitch (V-st): Defined as (dc, ch2, dc) in the same stitch, this decorative stitch creates the characteristic visual elements of the pattern. An alternative variation uses (dc, ch2, fpdc) to accentuate the spokes of the whirlwind design.
• Double crochet 2 together (Dc2Tog): Used for decreasing stitches as needed within the pattern structure.

Materials and Tools

The Whirlwind Blanket Trilogy is designed to work with a range of yarn weights, offering flexibility for crafters with different yarn preferences and stash contents. The pattern accommodates sport weight, DK weight, worsted weight, aran weight, and chunky weight yarns, allowing for variations in the finished blanket's size, drape, and texture.

The sample baby blanket featured in the pattern specifications uses worsted weight yarn in a total of approximately 1,072 yards, worked with 2 skeins each of two colors (the sample uses Loops & Threads Impeccable Solids in Clear Blue and White). A 6mm/J crochet hook is recommended for the worsted weight version, though adjustments may be necessary based on individual crochet tension.

Difficulty Level

The Whirlwind Blanket Trilogy is rated as a beginner level project, making it accessible to crocheters new to the craft. While the pattern involves working in the round and uses fundamental stitches, the straightforward stitch combinations and clear construction method make it suitable for those developing their crochet skills.