How to Knit an Easy Garter Stitch Blanket (Free Pattern)

A simple beginner knitting project for a cosy baby or sofa blanket

If you are looking for a simple free knitting pattern this garter stitch blanket is one of the easiest and most satisfying projects you can make. It’s perfect for beginners, a lovely project to knit while relaxing in the evening, and the finished blanket is beautifully warm and cosy.

The garter stitch uses just one simple stitch – the knit stitch – making it ideal for new knitters or anyone wanting a calming project without complicated patterns.

In this guide we’ll show you how to knit a small baby blanket and a larger sofa blanket using soft 12 ply yarn.
 

Why Knit a Garter Stitch Blanket?

Garter stitch creates a beautifully textured fabric that is soft, squishy, and warm. It also lies flat naturally, so your blanket won’t curl at the edges like some knitting stitches.

It’s perfect for:

• Beginner knitters learning the basics
• Baby gifts and children’s blankets
• Cosy throws for the sofa
• Relaxing knitting projects while watching TV

Using a chunky 12 ply yarn also means your blanket grows quickly, making it a satisfying project to complete.

If you are starting a blanket project, choose a soft, warm yarn that feels lovely against the skin. A natural fibre yarn is especially nice for baby blankets.

Below is our free garter stitch blanket pattern for both a baby blanket and a larger sofa blanket.
 

What You Will Need

• 12 ply yarn
• 8mm knitting needles (or size recommended on your yarn label)
• Scissors
• Yarn needle for weaving in ends

If you need yarn for your blanket, you can browse our soft knitting yarns perfect for blanket projects in the Cosy Toes store.
 

Basic Stitch: Garter Stitch

Garter stitch is very simple.
Row 1: Knit every stitch
Row 2: Knit every stitch
Repeat these two rows until your blanket reaches the desired length.
That’s it! Every row is simply knit.

Small Baby or Child’s Blanket

This size is perfect for a pram, cot, or cuddling a toddler on the sofa.
Size
Approximately 60 cm x 80 cm
Yarn Needed
Around 10–12 balls of Cosy Toes 12 ply (50g, 75m)
Instructions
Cast on 90 stitches using 5.5mm needles.
Knit every row (garter stitch).
Continue knitting until the blanket measures about 80 cm long.
Cast off loosely.
Weave in your ends with a yarn needle.
You can also add a simple personal touch by using two colours and changing yarn every few rows to create stripes.

Medium to Large Sofa Blanket

A larger blanket is perfect for snuggling up on the couch during cold evenings.
Size
Approximately 110 cm x 140 cm
Yarn Needed
Around 25-28 balls of Cosy Toes 12 ply yarn (50gm, 75mtrs)
Instructions
Cast on 150 stitches using 5.5mm needles.
Knit every row (garter stitch).
Continue knitting until the blanket measures about 140 cm long.
Cast off loosely.
Weave in all loose ends.

Because garter stitch is reversible, both sides of your blanket will look beautiful.

Notes

• Garter stitch is stretchy, so exact measurements may vary.
• You can adjust width or length if you want to use fewer balls.
• Using 5.5mm needles with 12 ply yarn gives a soft, squishy texture, perfect for baby blankets or cosy throws.

 

Helpful Tips for Beginner Knitters

Keep your tension relaxed
A blanket should feel soft and flexible, not stiff.

Use circular needles if the blanket feels heavy
Even if you knit flat, circular needles help hold many stitches comfortably.

Take breaks
Blankets take time, but they are wonderfully relaxing projects.
 

Choosing the Right Yarn

The yarn you choose makes a big difference to how your blanket feels.
A soft 12 ply yarn is ideal because it:

• Knits up faster than thinner yarns
• Creates a warm, cushioned fabric
• Gives beautiful stitch definition in garter stitch

At Cosy Toes, we stock lovely yarns that are perfect for knitting warm blankets for babies, children, and cosy evenings at home.
If you’re planning your next knitting project, you can explore our 12 ply yarn collection here to find colours perfect for your blanket.
 

A Cosy Project to Enjoy

Knitting a garter stitch blanket is a simple, relaxing project that creates something practical and beautiful. Whether you’re making a baby gift, a child’s blanket, or a cosy throw for the sofa, it’s a project you’ll enjoy knitting and using for years to come.
There’s nothing quite like wrapping up in something handmade with warmth and care.
Happy knitting!