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Crochet Afghans
Since many of us are experiencing winter's chill right about now, it seems like a good time for me to share some of our warmest winter crochet patterns and craft ideas, particularly the afghans, with you all.
Afghans can be all different weights, sizes and fibers. Right now, ultra thick, chunky wool throws are a top bedroom trend. This type of blanket is delightfully warm and cozy to snuggle under. To make one, you’ll want to crochet with super bulky yarn and a large crochet hook (possibly a P or a Q, but check your pattern and yarn label for suggestions on which size hook would be best to use for the specific project you want to make).
In my experience, the warmest afghans are made of animal fibers such as wool and alpaca. This especially holds true if the afghan will be used in some sort of capacity where it or its wearer could get wet — for example, people riding in a sleigh, sailing in a sailboat, or dealing with a leaky roof in the bedroom. Wool and similar fibers such as bison stay warm even if they get wet. Many other fibers, including cotton, do not have this property.
I’ve found that solid afghans tend to be somewhat warmer than afghans with open spaces. So for those of you facing truly arctic conditions in winter time, an afghan comprised of solid stitches is the way to go. Check out these free patterns for ideas:
For those of you who are surviving California-style winters rather than Alaska-style winters, my experience has been that granny square afghans and other afghans with open spaces have always been plenty warm enough in the past. You can find our granny square patterns HERE, if you want to make one of those.
Since you never really know what the weather will do in the future, it’s a great idea to have several warm blankets on hand for each family member — no matter where you live. That way, if there ever comes a time when it’s colder than expected, you can simply layer a couple of blankets on and beat the chill.
Another good idea: if you drive, stash a warm blanket (or several, if you have a big family) in the back seat or car trunk in case you ever break down or get stranded in the cold.
Additional Resources for Making Your Blankets:
- Crochet blanket border patterns
- Crochet blanket patterns (mostly free patterns, but some patterns you pay for that are truly worth the money)
- 8 Best Crochet Blanket Pattern Books for Home Decor in 2023
I hope y’all are staying warm and dry out there. Happy crocheting!
Posted By: Amy Solovay