Have you put learning Tunisian crochet on your list of New Year’s resolutions? If so, than Darla Fanton has just the right project for you—her Soft Squares Baby Blanket. Worked in squares and then hooked together, the effect is warm, soft, cozy and absolutely adorable. And the Tunisian crochet ensures that even with enthusiastic cuddling over the years, this baby blanket will last a lifetime.

MATERIALS

Caron International’s Simply Soft
(100% Acrylic): 6 oz (A), 6 oz (B), 12 oz (C)

Shown in: 9717 Orchid (A); 9737 Light Country Peach (B); 9801 Baby Brights (C)

Alternate Colorway

Simply Soft (170 g/6. oz;288 m/315 yds)
(1) Contrast A Orchid (9717)
(1) Contrast B Light Country Peach (9737)

Simply Soft (113 g/4. oz;190 m/208 yds)
(2) Contrast C Baby Brights Ombre (9801)

One size US L-11 (8mm) Tunisian hook, or size to obtain gauge.
One size US K-10.5 (6.5mm) standard hook (for joining and edging)
Yarn needle

GAUGE
In Tunisian purl stitch (Tps), with larger hook, 14 sts and 11 rows = 4”/10cm;
One block measures 11 3/4”/30cm wide x 12”/30.5cm tall.

STITCHES USED
Chain (ch), half double crochet (hdc), single crochet (sc), slip stitch (sl st)

SPECIAL STITCHES
Tunisian Crochet: Each row of Tunisian crochet is worked in two steps, A forward pass and a return pass. Different Tunisian stitches (e.g. Tss and Tps) are created while working the forward pass. The return pass is worked in the same manner for Tss and Tps.

BLOCK #1 (make 4)
BLOCK #2 (make 5)

Arrange blocks in 3 rows of 3 blocks each, alternating Block #1 and Block #2, making sure the bind-off row is always at the top. Work 3-round border to finish.