All These Places - New Blanket Knitting Pattern

It's so fun to announce my new blanket knitting pattern - All These Places.

All These Places blanket knitting pattern is designed for bulky weight yarn.  I loved using Lion Brand Yarn 'Color Made Easy' bulky yarn in the colorway 'Basalt' for this project.  More about the yarn below!

All These Places blanket knitting pattern is available on Ravelry. 

The pattern is also available on Etsy and LoveKnitting.

All These Places - blanket knitting pattern by Fifty Four Ten Studio

FEBRUARY 2020 UPDATE:

INSPIRATION FOR THE PATTERN NAME:

All these places bring back fond memories from my childhood...memories woven together with love for the people who were there...

My grandparents' home...that inspired the name Fifty Four Ten Studio.  The house number was 5410.  They purchased the home when my mother was a girl.   I was very young when they sold the house but the memories are preserved through photos of cousins dressed up and posing by the front door.

My other grandparents' home...and the living room where we gathered and celebrated every Christmas Eve.

My childhood home...and the little room where my mother let me use her sewing machine anytime I wanted.  (She really didn't like to use the sewing machine so she was happy to let me use it!)

Stores in Kansas City's Brookside neighborhood where I grew up...especially The Dime Store where we shopped frequently.  I remember the wide selection of merchandise - toys, gifts, office supplies, greeting cards, seasonal decorations, household essentials, etc. - displayed floor to ceiling, the well-worn hardwood floors, the owner greeting us when we walked in the door, and buying our school supplies there every fall before the start of the school year.

All These Places - blanket knitting pattern by Fifty Four Ten Studio

INSTRUCTIONS FOR SIX BLANKET SIZES:

The pattern includes instructions for six blanket sizes.  Approximate sizes after blocking:

Baby Blanket: 27.75" wide x 35" long
Small Blanket: 31" wide x 39.5" long
Medium Throw: 34.5" wide x 44" long
Large Throw: 41.25" wide x 48.5" long
XL Throw: 44.5" wide x 53" long
XXL Afghan: 51.5" wide x 62" long

It's easy to make any of the blanket sizes longer by adding additional pattern repeats.  Each pattern repeat adds about 4.5" to the length of the blanket.

The pattern includes estimates of how much additional yarn is needed to make each blanket size longer.

I made the Medium Throw which is about 34.5" wide x 44" long after blocking.

All These Places - blanket knitting pattern for bulky weight yarn.

BULKY WEIGHT YARN:

Baby Blanket: 550 - 580 yards
Small Blanket: 690 - 730 yards
Medium Throw: 860 - 900 yards
Large Throw: 1150 - 1200 yards
XL Throw: 1330 - 1400 yards
XXL Afghan: 1850 - 1950 yards

Be sure to buy additional yarn if you plan to add length to your project.  Estimates for additional yardage needed to make each size longer are noted in the pattern.

This pattern may be used with slightly lighter weight yarns.  Select the needle size that gives the best appearance for your yarn and knitting tension.  To adapt for worsted or Aran weight yarn, follow the instructions for 2 or 3 sizes larger than you want the blanket to turn out.

Finished size and amount of yarn needed may vary depending on yarn choice and gauge...so buy some extra yarn just in case!

I used Lion Brand Yarn 'Color Made Easy' bulky weight yarn in the colorway 'Basalt'.  This bulky weight yarn has a lovely, light weight feel.  The stitch definition is fantastic!! I'm absolutely thrilled with the final appearance of this project.  This yarn is 100% acrylic, easy care and affordably priced. And, it's available in more than 20 pretty colorways. I really enjoyed knitting with it! (In fact, I've already started on another design using this yarn!)

All These Places blanket knitting pattern - work in progress.

NEEDLES:

The project is worked flat, back and forth on circular knitting needles.  Circular knitting needles are necessary in order to accommodate the large number of stitches for a blanket.

I used US size 10.5 knitting needles for my All These Places blanket.  Pick the needle size that gives the best appearance for your yarn and knitting tension.  The goal is to find the knitting needle that gives the best stitch appearance, without being too tight...or too loose.

BLOCKING OF FINISHED BLANKET HIGHLY RECOMMENDED:

I highly recommend taking the time to block this blanket after weaving in the ends.

As you can see in the photos below, the stockinette stitch area between the garter stitch squares tends to pucker and look bumpy.  The knitting also tends to gather in at the center a bit.  Blocking removed all these issues!

I made the medium size blanket which measured about 28" wide x 43" long before blocking.  After blocking...the same blanket measures 34.5" wide x 44" long....the width changed by more than 6"!

Click here to see my blog post with lots of tips on blocking your finished blanket project.

Before blocking - center of blanket is bunched together.

Before blocking - the garter stitch border does not lay flat.

Recently, I've been using an old clear plastic quilting ruler to adjust stitches when blocking my projects.  I use the edge of the ruler to push the stitches into a straight line.

Using a quilting ruler to push stitches into a straight, even line.

SKILLS NEEDED:

This is an easy knitting project for a confident knitter.  The pattern is a 20 row repeat so it does require some attention to keep track of which row is being worked.  It's not hard...just not as easy as some of my other patterns. You will need to know how to cast on stitches, knit and purl confidently, change back and forth from knit to purl confidently, read a row by row knitting pattern, bind off stitches and weave in ends.

WHERE TO GET THE PATTERN:

All These Places blanket knitting pattern is available on Ravelry.

It's also available on Etsy and LoveKnitting.

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As February comes to a close, we're anxiously awaiting signs of spring here in Kansas City.  Spring flowers, watching Royals' baseball games, getting outside for an afternoon walk, knitting on the deck...all things to look forward to!

Thanks so much for stopping by and reading.  Have a wonderful day!

Mary Lee
Fifty Four Ten Studio

All These Places - blanket knitting pattern by Fifty Four Ten Studio

Many Thanks to Two Darling Yarn Shops!

Many thanks to my friends at Yarn Social in Kansas City and Yarn Bar in Billings, Montana for helping make January such a fun month for me and my Fifty Four Ten Studio knitting design business.  I can't thank them enough for their kindness and for recommending my knitting patterns to their customers.

THANK YOU - YARN SOCIAL IN KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI!

Yarn Social hosted a five day trunk show of about ten of my knitting pattern samples at their darling shop in Kansas City, Missouri.  This was my first knitting trunk show and it was such an honor to be invited to display my samples at Kansas City's newest yarn shop!

My husband built this beautiful display stand for my blanket and scarf samples the night before the show.  (I didn't give him much notice!)

Fifty Four Ten Studio trunk show at Yarn Social in Kansas City, Missouri.

Samples shown on display in the photo above (from top to bottom) - click any link to read more about each pattern here on my blog:

On the Porch blanket (ivory)
Quality Time scarf (dark blue)
Prairie Fields blanket (green)
Northern Trail blanket (tan)
On the Map blanket (blue)

Quality Time scarf and Prairie Fields blanket knitting pattern samples.

Last weekend I taught my first knitting class at Yarn Social.  It was so fun to spend the afternoon with eight delightful, enthusiastic knitters!  They worked on small sampler projects using stitch patterns from four of my patterns and we talked about a variety of knitting topics, including blocking.  (Blocking is one of the best things you can do to improve the appearance of your finished project! Click here to read my blog post about blocking.)

Here's a photo of the knitting class in progress...sampler pattern instructions, pretty yarns, blocking demonstration and snacks!

Knitting class at Yarn Social!

The 'Toast' shade of yarn that I used for the examples of the sampler project (photo above) is Spud & Chloe 'Sweater' yarn from Blue Sky Fibers. I love how this yarn knits up!  Great stitch definition and it blocks beautifully. 

Spud & Chloe 'Sweater' is a blend of wool and cotton.  It's available in a beautiful selection of colorways...see Yarn Social's display below.  I'm looking forward to using this yarn in a future project! (Shh...a secret plan is in the works!)

Spud and Chloe 'Sweater' yarn in beautiful colorways at Yarn Social.

If you live in the Kansas City, or are visiting from out of town, be sure to make time to stop in at Yarn Social!  Trish has a beautiful selection of yarns and she has created a warm and inviting shop. 

Yarn Social is located in the West Plaza / Westport area...near 45th & State Line Road.  

Address: 1707 W. 45th Street, Kansas City, MO (near the antique shops)

Check the Yarn Social website for hours!

Yarn Social - yarn shop in Kansas City, Missouri

THANK YOU - YARN BAR IN BILLINGS, MONTANA!

In January, Yarn Bar in Billings, Montana hosted a 'Cheers to Nifty Fifty Four Ten Studio KAL' - how fun is that?!  They suggested using any of my Fifty Four Ten Studio blanket or pillow knitting patterns as cozy winter project for the knit-a-long (KAL).  

One of their customers finished a throw size Prairie Fields blanket! (Photo below.) I love that she used a beautiful ivory colored yarn so her stitches really shine!  Lovely knitting and blocking. 

Prairie Fields blanket (ivory) made by a Yarn Bar customer!

And, the yellow blanket...that's my On the Porch blanket design that Sue and Linda made up as a sample for their shop!  They tell me the yarn is Cestari Sheep Mount Vernon in the colorway 'Daffodil'.  This blanket is so cheery and full of sunshine!

On the Porch blanket on display at the Yarn Bar in Billings, Montana.

On their website, Sue and Linda shared that the 'On the Porch' blanket pattern has been quite popular with their customers: 

Our friend Teddy zipped in to knit a second one as soon as she got a request from the 'hipster' niece who had received the original one Teddy made, gets the 'where did you get that blanket' comment from fellow hipster parents, and wanted another one in different color.

Such a fun story!

I'm so honored that Sue and Linda hosted this knit-a-long and that they have been recommending my patterns to their customers for a long time.  One of these days I'm going to make it out to Billings, Montana to meet them in person!! 

__________________________________

I'm excited about other plans in the works for the coming months.  There's lots happening behind the scenes...if only I could knit faster!

Thank you so much for reading!  Happy knitting!

Mary Lee 

Fifty Four Ten Studio

Northern Trail - New Blanket Knitting Pattern

I'm so happy to announce my new blanket knitting pattern - Northern Trail.

This blanket design features seed stitch 'stripes' on a stockinette stitch back drop.  The blanket is framed by a seed stitch border.  The pattern includes instructions for six blanket sizes.

The Northern Trail blanket knitting pattern is available on Ravelry.

Northern Trail blanket pattern may also be purchased on the Fifty Four Ten Studio website.

It's also available on Etsy and LoveKnitting.

Northern Trail blanket knitting pattern by Fifty Four Ten Studio.

FEBRUARY 2020 UPDATE:

INSPIRATION FOR THE PATTERN NAME:

The name for my Northern Trail blanket pattern is inspired by memorable hikes through the woods...peaceful time to enjoy the beauty of nature and time with my family.

SIX BLANKET SIZES:
Approximate sizes after blocking...

Baby Blanket: 25" wide x 31" long
Small Blanket: 27.5" wide x 35" long
Medium Throw: 30.5" wide x 39" long
Large Throw: 33.5" wide x 43" long
XL Afghan: 36" wide x 47" long
XXL Afghan: 41.5" wide x 51" long

Finished size may vary depending on yarn weight and gauge used.

It's easy to make any of the blanket sizes longer by adding additional pattern repeats.  Each pattern repeat adds about 2" to the length of the blanket.

The pattern includes estimates of how much additional yarn is needed to make each blanket size longer.

Working on my 'Northern Trail' blanket with Stonehedge Fiber Mill 'Shepherd's Wool'.

NEEDLES and STITCH MARKERS:

The project is worked flat, back and forth on circular knitting needles.  Circular knitting needles are highly recommended in order to accommodate the large number of stitches for a blanket.

I used US size 8 knitting needles for my Northern Trail blanket.  Pick the needle size that gives the best appearance for your yarn and knitting tension.  The goal is to find the knitting needle that gives the best stitch appearance, without being too tight...or too loose.

Four ring style stitch markers are helpful for keeping track of the pattern.

WORSTED WEIGHT YARN:

Baby Blanket: 550 - 570 yards
Small Blanket: 680 - 710 yards
Medium Throw: 840 - 880 yards
Large Throw: 1000 - 1050 yards
XL Afghan: 1200 - 1250 yards
XXL Afghan: 1500 - 1600 yards

Be sure to buy additional yarn if you plan to add length to your project.

This pattern may be used with slightly lighter or heavier weight yarns.  Select the needle size that gives the best appearance for your yarn and knitting tension.

If you are using slightly lighter weight yarn, such as DK weight, consider following the directions for one size larger than you want the blanket to turn out.

If you are using slightly heavier weight yarn, such as a heavy worsted or Aran weight yarn, consider following the directions for one size smaller than you want the blanket to turn out.

Finished size and amount of yarn needed may vary depending on yarn choice and gauge...so buy some extra yarn just in case!

If you prefer super bulky weight yarn please see my Stones in the Road blanket knitting pattern.

STONEHEDGE FIBER MILL - SHEPHERD'S WOOL:

Last summer I visited Stonehedge Fiber Mill in East Jordan, Michigan.  It was such a treat to visit with the owners of this family run company.  I purchased several skeins of Shepherd's Wool worsted weight yarn in the pretty color 'Beaches'.  This yarn is lovely!  I loved using this yarn for my Northern Trail blanket.  It's a very nice quality wool...a vintage and traditional feel, wonderful stitch definition, and it's a pleasure to knit up.  It's woolly...without being scratchy.

I used Shepherd's Wool for a scarf project in 2017 and I just love it!

This is their tiny shop on their farm in East Jordan, Michigan.  It was a pleasure to chat with the owner on a dreary summer day! Their yarn is also sold in many shops around the US, as well as Canada, Israel and Norway.  Click here to see their list of shops that carry their yarn.

Stonehedge Fiber Mill yarn shop in East Jordan, Michigan.

BLOCKING RECOMMENDED:

I highly recommend taking the time to block this blanket after weaving in the ends.  As you can see in the photo below, the stockinette stitch area between the 'seed stitch stripes' and the seed stitch border tends to pucker and look bumpy...and generally look unattractive. Blocking removed all these issues!

Click here to see my blog post on my new Fifty Four Ten Studio website with lots of tips on blocking your finished blanket project.

Working on my 'Northern Trail' blanket knitting pattern.

SKILLS NEEDED:

This is an easy knitting project for any knitter who has mastered knit and purl stitches, and changing back and forth from knit to purl.  You will need to know how to cast on stitches, knit and purl confidently, read a row by row knitting pattern, bind off stitches and weave in ends.

If you already know how to work seed stitch and stockinette stitch then you have the skills to work this pattern.

Northern Trail blanket knitting pattern by Fifty Four Ten Studio.

WHERE TO GET THE PATTERN:

Northern Trail blanket knitting pattern is available on Ravelry.

Or, click here to purchase the Northern Trail pattern at FiftyFourTenStudio.com.

It's also available on Etsy and LoveKnitting.

DO MORE OF WHAT YOU ENJOY:

I hope that you are able to have time today to do something you enjoy and that makes you happy.  One of my goals for this year is to: "do more things that make you forget to check your phone."  Knitting, reading books, spending time with family, going for a walk...these are always at the top of my list.  And, this year I'm adding to the list to try some new recipes, go to the art museum (more than once a year!) and take walks through some beautiful spots in our city (when the weather warms up!).

My friend gave me this beautiful amaryllis - the blooms were stunning!  

Thanks so much for stopping by and reading.  Have a wonderful day!

Mary Lee
Fifty Four Ten Studio

My Favorite Knitting Projects from 2018

Before we get too far into the new year, I wanted to take a minute to say THANK YOU for your interest in my knitting designs, for purchasing my knitting patterns and for all your kind feedback. It means so much to me to hear that you have enjoyed using my patterns!

In November, I celebrated five years of designing and publishing knitting patterns. This past year was an outstanding and rewarding year for my little home based business...I appreciate your support so much!!

Here's a collage of my favorite knitting photos and projects from 2018...

Fifty Four Ten Studio - Favorite Knitting Projects from 2018

Here's a guide to the photos shown.  Click the links to see the blog post about each pattern:

Top Left: Childhood Wishes cable blanket knitting pattern
Top Right: Piece of Home blanket knitting pattern
Center Left: Quality Time scarf (and blanket) knitting pattern
Center: River of Dreams bed runner blanket knitting pattern
Center Right: Plymouth Select yarn I used for my Stay on the Ridge blanket pattern.
Lower Left: Game Time blanket knitting pattern
Lower Center: Stay on the Ridge blanket knitting pattern
Lower Right: Window Seat blanket knitting pattern

THREE FAVORITES:

It's hard to pick favorites...because I only publish the designs that I really love! (Yes - there are designs that didn't make it past a few inches of knitting...or I finished but wasn't pleased with the results.)  Here's my three favorite knitting pattern designs from 2018:

1. My favorite project of 2018 is my River of Dreams bed runner blanket!  I absolutely love how this project turned out!  And...I love that knitters have really enjoyed using this pattern.

My goal for this design was to create a classic style with a modern twist...take a basic, simple cable and make it really stand out with super bulky yarn.   The bed runner has a seed stitch border on all of the edges.  The pattern includes instructions for twin, full, queen and king size bed runners.  (Note: this is an accent blanket intended for the end of the bed...it does not cover the entire bed!)

River of Dreams bed runner blanket knitting pattern

River of Dreams bed runner knitting pattern is available on Ravelry, Craftsy, LoveKnitting and Etsy.

Designed for Super Bulky Yarn:
I used Lion Brand Hometown USA super bulky yarn for my River of Dreams bed runner.  I picked the 'Springfield Silver' shade which looks great with the neutral color palette in our guest room.

Lion Brand Hometown USA is very soft and very economically priced. The yarn is available in a wide range of colors. I especially love the neutrals such as 'Dallas Grey' (see it shown in my Westport Blanket knitting pattern), 'Chicago Charcoal' (see it shown in my North of the River blanket), and 'Houston Cream' (I'm working on a project with this right now!).

Note that 'Springfield Silver' is one of the "print" or "tweed" colorways and comes in 64 yard skeins.  Solid color Hometown USA skeins are 81 yards.  Be sure to double check the yardage when purchasing.

If you prefer a woolly texture and appearance...try Lion Brand Wool-Ease Thick & Quick.  I've used it with many designs - such as my Game Time blanket below.

Working on my River of Dreams bed runner blanket knitting design.

2. My second favorite pattern from 2018 is my Game Time blanket (and scarf) design.  In late September, I decided I really wanted to make a fall inspired blanket and it called for branching out from my standard blue and gray color palette!  I ordered 8 skeins of the 'Mustard' colorway of Lion Brand Wool-Ease Thick & Quick. The day the yarn arrived I cast on for this blanket...and I finished knitting the blanket within eight days!  I enjoyed knitting outside on some beautiful fall days when the leaves were changing colors...matching my mustard yellow yarn.

Game Time blanket knitting pattern.

Game Time blanket & scarf knitting pattern is available on Ravelry, Etsy, Craftsy    and LoveKnitting.

This pattern uses an easy to remember four row repeat stitch pattern that gives great texture and is reversible!

I made the medium size throw which is 41" wide x 45" long.  The pattern includes instructions for 6 blanket sizes...plus a scarf.

This blanket is a favorite because I loved the experience of knitting it last fall, outside when the weather was beautiful, and I'm so pleased with how the color worked with the texture of the pattern.

3. And...my third favorite pattern from 2019 is my Quality Time scarf (and blanket) knitting pattern.  It's the worsted weight version of the Game Time blanket (above).  This pattern is a favorite because of the memories of the day I bought the yarn...and because I have worn this scarf on every cold day this winter!

Quality Time scarf knitting pattern by Fifty Four Ten Studio.

Quality Time blanket and scarf knitting pattern is available on Ravelry, Etsy, LoveKnitting and Craftsy.

I used two skeins of Malabrigo Rios in 'Bobby Blue' which I bought at a cute shop in Fairfield, Iowa called At Home Store.  They have a beautiful selection of kitchen, home and baby gifts...as well as a lovely selection of yarn!  This scarf  reminds me of one of my favorite days of 2018 when I got to spend some quality time with someone special.

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Here's a sneak peak at one of the projects I'm working on right now...

Working on a new blanket knitting pattern design.

The yarn for this project is Lion Brand's new 'Color Made Easy' bulky weight yarn in the colorway 'Basalt'.  I'm thrilled with the stitch definition of this yarn and I absolutely love the color.  A really nice rich medium gray...a lovely neutral shade.

I have a long list of knitting goals for 2019!  Stay tuned!  I'll share updates on Instagram and  Facebook.  And, sign up for my email announcements using the 'Subscribe to our email list' option on the right side of your computer screen - near the top of the blog page. (This may not show up as an option when viewing on your phone - still working on how to successfully provide this option without annoying pop-ups!)  

To learn more about each of my patterns, visit my pages on Ravelry, LoveKnitting, Etsy and  Craftsy (soon to be called Bluprint).

Best wishes for a healthy and happy new year!

Mary Lee
Fifty Four Ten Studio

Quality Time - Easy Scarf and Blanket Knitting Pattern

I'm so excited to introduce my new easy to knit blanket and scarf knitting pattern for worsted weight yarn: Quality Time.

The Quality Time knitting pattern has instructions for five blanket sizes...plus two scarf sizes!

This design features a four row repeat pattern that is easy to knit.  This is a great pattern for any level of knitter, including a confident beginner.

Quality Time blanket and scarf knitting pattern is available on Ravelry, Etsy, LoveKnitting and Craftsy.

Quality Time scarf knitting pattern by Fifty Four Ten Studio

INSPIRATION FOR THE PATTERN NAME:

For me, quality time includes time spent with my family, an afternoon enjoying a favorite hobby (knitting!), an evening by the fire reading a good book or a morning walk with a good friend.   Any day that has a bit of quality time worked into it is a good day!

I made my scarf with two skeins of Malabrigo Rios in 'Bobby Blue'.  I bought this yarn at a cute shop in Fairfield, Iowa called At Home Store.  They have a beautiful selection of kitchen, home and baby gifts...as well as a lovely selection of yarn!  This scarf will remind me of one of my favorite days of 2018 when I got to spend some quality time with someone special.

Quality Time scarf knitting pattern - it's reversible!

REVERSIBLE!

The Quality Time knitting pattern design is reversible!  The stitch pattern is almost exactly the same on both sides.

INSTRUCTIONS FOR TWO SCARF SIZES + FIVE BLANKET SIZES:

The Quality Time knitting pattern includes instructions for five blanket sizes, plus two scarf sizes.

Approximate sizes after blocking...

Scarf: 8.75" wide x 63" long

Wide Scarf: 11.25" wide x 65" long

Baby Blanket: 28" wide x 30.5" long

Small (Crib/Lap) Blanket: 30" wide x 32.5" long

Medium Throw: 34" wide x 36.5" long

Large Throw: 38" wide x 42.5" long

XL Afghan: 42" wide x 46.5" long

It is very easy to make any of the sizes longer by adding additional pattern repeats.  Each pattern repeat adds about .5" to the length of the project.

Quality Time blanket knitting pattern by Fifty Four Ten Studio

The pattern instructions include estimates of how much additional yarn is required to add length to each project size.

Quality Time blanket knitting pattern by Fifty Four Ten Studio

WORSTED WEIGHT YARN:

This blanket pattern is designed for worsted weight yarn.  

Amount of yarn needed for each size:

Scarf: 410 - 420 yards

Wide Scarf: 570 - 600 yards

Baby Blanket: 680 - 700 yards

Small Blanket: 750 - 780 yards

Medium Throw: 960 - 1000 yards

Large Throw: 1250 - 1300 yards

XL Afghan: 1500 - 1600 yards

If you prefer super bulky weight yarn, please click here to see my Game Time knitting pattern.

Solid color or a subtle variegated or hand dyed style yarn is recommended to show the stitch pattern best.

For the scarf, shown in blue below, I used Malabrigo Rios in the colorway 'Bobby Blue'.  This yarn is gorgeous!  I used two skeins for a 8.75" wide x 63" long scarf. 

Knitting my 'Quality Time' scarf with Malabrigo Rios yarn.

For the blanket, I used Shepherd's Wool Superwash Worsted from Stonehedge Fiber Mill.  The colorway is 'Lakeshore'.  I love how this blanket worked up in this pretty yarn.  Great stitch definition! 

Finishing my 'Quality Time' blanket with Shepherd's Wool Superwash Worsted

KNITTING NEEDLES:

I used US size 9 knitting needles for my scarf and blanket.  Pick the needle size that works best for your yarn and knitting tension.  

Circular knitting needles are recommended for knitting a blanket in order to accommodate the large number of stitches. 

Straight needles may be used for either scarf size.

EASY KNITTING PATTERN:

The Quality Time blanket and scarf is very easy to knit!  

You will need to know how to cast on stitches, knit and purl confidently, read a row by row knitting pattern, bind off stitches and weave in ends.  The two stitch techniques in this design are garter stitch and a K1, P1 repeat (like used for ribbing).

A couple of stitch markers (ring and clip-on style) are helpful for keeping track of the pattern.

Quality Time - easy scarf knitting pattern by Fifty Four Ten Studio

BLOCKING RECOMMENDED:

I highly recommend blocking the finished blanket or scarf.  It really improves the shape and appearance of the finished knitting!  Click here to see my blog post with tips on blocking.

WHERE TO PURCHASE THE PATTERN:

Quality Time blanket and scarf knitting pattern is available on Ravelry, Etsy, LoveKnitting and Craftsy.  

I loved knitting the Quality Time blanket and scarf.  Winter weather has arrived in Kansas City.  I know I'll love wearing my new Quality Time many days this winter!

Have a wonderful day!  Happy knitting!

Mary Lee

Fifty Four Ten Studio

Game Time - New Chunky Blanket & Scarf Knitting Pattern

I'm so excited to introduce my new easy to knit chunky blanket (& scarf!) knitting pattern...Game Time.

The Game Time knitting pattern has instructions for six blanket sizes...plus a cozy, chunky scarf!

This design features a four row repeat pattern that is easy to knit.  This is a great pattern for any level of knitter, including a confident beginner.

Game Time blanket & scarf knitting pattern is available on Ravelry, Etsy, Craftsy and LoveKnitting.

Game Time chunky blanket knitting pattern by Fifty Four Ten Studio

INSPIRATION FOR THE PATTERN NAME:

Game Time...is 8:00 a.m. on a crisp fall Saturday morning when parents and grandparents, bundled in coats, blankets and scarves, take their spot on the sidelines to cheer for the kids. 

Game Time...is a chilly afternoon in late November at the championship game where the bleachers are packed with fans...all huddled together for warmth...while the game is played in drizzle and snow.

Game Time...is relaxing at home on a Sunday afternoon...cuddled up under a warm blanket watching a favorite team on television.

Game Time...is pulling out an easy knitting project to enjoy making while watching the game.

The Game Time knitting pattern is very easy to knit while watching a game...or make a blanket or scarf to keep warm at the game!

Game Time chunky scarf knitting pattern by Fifty Four Ten Studio

INSTRUCTIONS FOR SCARF + SIX BLANKET SIZES:

The Game Time knitting pattern includes instructions for six blanket sizes, plus a scarf.

Approximate sizes after blocking...

Scarf: 8.5" wide x 64" long

Baby Blanket: 30.5" wide x 33" long

Small (Crib/Lap) Blanket: 36" wide x 40" long

Medium Throw: 41" wide x 45" long

Large Throw: 44" wide x 49" long

XL Afghan: 47.5" wide x 54.5" long

XXL Afghan: 51.5" wide x 57" long

It is very easy to make any of the sizes longer by adding additional pattern repeats.  Each pattern repeat adds about 1" - 1.25" to the length of the project.

The pattern instructions include estimates of how much additional yarn is required to add length to size. 

Game Time blanket knitting pattern by Fifty Four Ten Studio

SUPER BULKY YARN:

This blanket pattern is designed for super bulky yarn.  

Amount of yarn needed for each size:

Scarf: 205 - 225 yards

Baby Blanket: 440 - 465 yards

Small Blanket: 630 - 660 yards

Medium Throw: 800 - 850 yards

Large Throw: 970 - 1020 yards

XL Afghan: 1200 - 1250 yards

XXL Afghan: 1350 - 1450 yards

Solid color yarn is recommended to show the stitch pattern best.

Click here to see my worsted weight version of this design - Quality Time scarf and blanket knitting pattern.

I used Lion Brand Wool-Ease Thick & Quick in 'Mustard' for the blanket and 'Pumpkin' for the scarf.  I loved using these fall inspired colors...they are beautiful!  I have used Wool-Ease Thick & Quick for many chunky knitting pattern designs.  There's a reason why I return to this yarn again and again...great color choices, dependable quality and great stitch definition.  The yarn is an acrylic / wool blend that has a pleasing 'woolly' feel.  Some of my favorite colorways in the Wool-Ease Thick & Quick are 'Denim' (dusty dark blue), 'Glacier' (icy blue) and 'Fisherman' (classic ivory).

If you prefer a softer yarn without any wool content...this project would work great with Lion Brand Hometown USA.  If you prefer a more neutral colorway...I'm a big fan of 'Dallas Gray'...which I used for my Westport Blanket knitting pattern.  

REVERSIBLE!

The Game Time pattern design is reversible!  The stitch pattern does not appear exactly the same on both sides but it looks attractive on both sides.

Game Time knitting pattern - it looks great on both sides!

EASY KNITTING PATTERN:

The Game Time blanket and scarf is very easy to knit!  

You will need to know how to cast on stitches, knit and purl confidently, read a row by row knitting pattern, bind off stitches and weave in ends.  The two stitch techniques in this design are garter stitch and a K1, P1 repeat (like used for ribbing).

A couple of stitch markers (ring and clip-on style) are helpful for keeping track of the pattern.

WHERE TO PURCHASE THE PATTERN:

Game Time blanket knitting pattern is available on Ravelry.  

The pattern is also available on Etsy, Craftsy and LoveKnitting.

Game Time chunky blanket knitting pattern by Fifty Four Ten Studio

We're enjoying an absolutely beautiful fall here in Kansas City....gorgeous fall color and bright sunny days.  I've enjoyed knitting on the deck and taking walks everyday to soak up all the pretty fall colors.  

I loved knitting the Game Time blanket and scarf...inspired by the beauty of fall and the fun of going to a game. 

Have a wonderful day!  Happy knitting!

Mary Lee

Fifty Four Ten Studio

Window Seat - Blanket Knitting Pattern

I'm so happy to introduce my new blanket knitting pattern - Window Seat.

Window Seat blanket is easy to knit with worsted weight yarn.  The pattern includes instructions for six blanket sizes.

Window Seat blanket knitting pattern is available on Ravelry, LoveKnitting and Etsy.

Window Seat blanket knitting pattern by Fifty Four Ten Studio

INSPIRATION FOR THE NAME OF THE PATTERN:

The window seat at my grandmother's house stretched across the entire width of the living room.  The built in bench...with well loved, upholstered cushions...was the perfect spot for reading a book or playing cards.  In my memories, my sweet grandmother is there sitting next to me and we're each sketching the view of the lake.  In the evening, we watched the sunset and the view evolved from a bright glow of orange to a varying rainbow of colors.  It was always a different scene from one evening to the next...the colors changing with the clouds.  Each night, as the sky grew darker, the old windows over the window seat were transformed to a wall of glistening, inky dark blue...and we played cards late into the night.

Window Seat blanket knitting pattern by Fifty Four Ten Studio

SIX BLANKET SIZES:
The Window Seat blanket knitting pattern includes instructions for six blanket sizes.

Approximate sizes after blocking:

Baby Blanket: 28" wide x 32.25" long
Small Crib/Lap Blanket: 31.25" wide x 36" long
Medium Throw: 34.5" wide x 37.25" long
Large Throw: 37.75" wide x 41" long
XL Throw: 41" wide x 43.5" long
XXL Afghan: 44.25" wide x 48.5" long

It's very easy to make any of the blanket sizes longer by adding additional pattern repeats.  Each pattern repeat adds approximately 1.25" to the length of the blanket.  The pattern includes estimates of how much additional yarn is needed to make each size longer.

Window Seat blanket knitting pattern - easy to knit with worsted weight yarn.

WORSTED WEIGHT YARN:

This pattern is designed for worsted weight yarn.  It would also work well with slightly heavier or lighter weight yarn such as Aran or DK weight yarn.

I used Malabrigo Rios Pure Merino Superwash in the 'Azul Profundo' colorway.  This yarn is gorgeous!  It's very soft and machine washable...and the selection of beautiful colorways is outstanding.

Amount of yarn needed for each blanket size:

Baby: 750 - 770 yards
Small: 920 - 950 yards
Medium: 1020 - 1060 yards
Large: 1250 - 1300 yards
XL: 1420 - 1470 yards
XXL: 1750 - 1850 yards

The pattern includes estimates of how much additional yarn is needed to make each size longer.

Window Seat blanket - easy to knit with worsted weight yarn.

KNITTING NEEDLES:

I used US size 9 circular knitting needles with Malabrigo Rios yarn.  I used some older metal circular knitting needles that I've had for years.

The blanket is knit flat, in one piece so circular knitting needles are essential for holding a large number of stitches.

My favorite metal tipped circular knitting needles that I've purchase recently for other projects are Knitter's Pride Nova Plantina circular needles.  The cord does not curl or twist!

Pick the needle size that works best for your yarn and knitting tension.  The only way to confirm which needle size will be the best for your project is to do a little test knitting.  Test knit by casting on about 25 stitches and working in garter stitch for a couple inches.  The yarn label should have a suggested needle size...that's always a good place to start.  If you think your stitches are too loose, change to one needle size smaller.  If you think your stitches are too tight, move to one needle size larger.

For this blanket pattern, exact gauge is not essential.  Focus on the appearance of your knitting with your yarn.  Pick the needle size that works best for you.

SKILL LEVEL:

This is a very easy knitting pattern.  It's a great pattern for any level of knitter from a confident beginner to an experienced knitter who enjoys a relaxing project.

You will need to know how to cast on stitches (I use long tail cast-on method but another method can work also), knit and purl confidently, change back and forth from knit to purl in the middle of a row, read a row by row knitting pattern, transition to a new ball of yarn, cast off stitches and weave in ends.

Even though it is an easy pattern, some ring style stitch markers are very helpful to keep track of the pattern!  You will save a lot of time counting stitches if you place some ring style markers where the pattern indicates to change from knit to purl.  I used Clover stitch markers.

Blocking of the finished blanket is suggested but not essential.  See my blog post for blocking tips.

Ring style stitch markers are helpful to keep track of the pattern.

WHERE TO GET THE PATTERN:

Window Seat blanket knitting pattern is available on Ravelry, Craftsy, LoveKnitting and Etsy.

Window Seat - easy to knit blanket pattern for worsted weight yarn.

I'm soaking up some beautiful fall days...I love the cool temperatures, crunching leaves on morning walks, yellow mums planted by the front porch, pumpkin spice tea, the smell of apple crisp baking in the oven...all the scents and feels are so lovely!

Have a wonderful day!

Mary Lee
Fifty Four Ten Studio