Around the block

Around the Block Knitted Blanket by Kathleen Sperling

What is Being Made

Around the Block is a knitted baby blanket designed as a single continuous piece that grows outward from a central point. The finished blanket measures approximately 50" to 55" square, making it an ideal size for a baby blanket or small throw. This downloadable PDF pattern, copyrighted 2008 by independent designer Kathleen Sperling, offers a unique construction method that eliminates the need for extensive seaming or piecing.

Construction Technique

This blanket employs an innovative spiral construction method that works clockwise around a single center point. Rather than knitting traditional flat panels and joining them together, the entire blanket is created as one expansive edging that pivots around the center. The blanket grows outward in a continuous spiral, which is an unconventional and visually striking approach to blanket design.

The pattern utilizes short rows as the primary shaping technique to turn corners throughout the construction. These short rows create mitres that extend from the outermost edge all the way down to the blanket's center, giving the piece its distinctive geometric structure. Rather than treating the characteristic holes created by short rows as flaws to be hidden, the designer has incorporated them as intentional design features.

Stitches and Lace Details

The blanket features lace holes created through a combination of the short-row technique and strategic yarnovers. Each hole created by the short-row construction is paired with a corresponding yarnover, forming deliberate lines of openwork that showcase the mitered construction and add visual interest to the finished piece. This creative use of negative space transforms a technical necessity into an elegant design element.

Materials and Yarn Weight

The pattern calls for sport weight yarn, which is a lightweight option ideal for creating an airy, drape-friendly blanket suitable for babies. The construction method eliminates the need for an exceptionally long circular needle, as the blanket is worked in one continuous piece rather than requiring a needle long enough to hold all stitches at once. As the blanket grows larger and heavier during construction, managing the increasing bulk becomes the primary challenge, though this is a manageable aspect of the process.

Finishing and Assembly

The pattern requires only one long row of grafting to complete the blanket, making the finishing process straightforward despite the complex construction method. This minimal finishing requirement means there is virtually no piecing together or seaming required—a significant advantage over traditional blanket patterns that demand multiple seams and joins. The result is a beautiful, cohesive, and uniquely constructed baby blanket with clean finishing.

Skill Level

Rated as intermediate difficulty, this pattern is suitable for knitters with solid foundational skills. Familiarity with short-row shaping, yarnovers, and grafting techniques is beneficial. The innovative construction method and the management of an increasingly large project as it develops make this an engaging pattern for experienced knitters seeking a creative challenge.