Light Frost Easy Blanket Sweater Crochet Pattern
If you can’t already tell, I have a thing for these blanket sweaters! This new Light Frost Blanket Sweater pattern uses a simple crochet stitch combination that almost looks knit. It’s the first time that I’ve played around with the crossed half double crochet stitch and I’m loving the look! I’ve also added fringe (optional) to this version which I think makes it unique. This sweater is a bit lighter than the past two blanket sweaters that I’ve shared which I think makes it a bit more versatile. AND, is this colorway not gorgeous?! After making two different Blanket Sweaters in solid colors (see the knit sweater here and the crochet sweater here), it was really neat to see the self striping yarn work up so nicely on this fabric. The coolest thing about these sweaters though is how easy they are to make, yet they appear to be so complicated to the untrained eye. Hee hee – our secret! But really, just check out the pictures at the bottom of the pattern to see how easy these are to put together.
When I came across this Lion Brand Scarfie Yarn in Silver & Cream, I couldn’t resist it. This is one of my very favorite color combos and I just love how the gradient of the dark grey works into the cream. Isn’t it a lovely combination? And I’m so excited to let you know that Lion Brand has NOW made this pattern into a kit! You can purchase the kit, which includes all of the yarn needed for this project, as well as a printed copy of the pattern on HERE. Of course, you can scroll down and see the pattern below for free as well here on my blog. 🙂
So, you might remember my love for this combo when I made the Mod Heirloom Crochet Blanket that literally took me more than half a year to finish. Lol! I’m the slowest crocheter on planet Earth if I’m making something big. However, this sweater, while not crazy fast, works up quickly being that it’s a sweater.
So here we go! Read on to see how easy it is to make this and don’t forget to check out the stitch tutorial as well!
Explanation:
This medium weight, blanket sweater shrug is perfect to take off the chill and add some style to your wardrobe. The self-striping Lion Brand Scarfie yarn creates gorgeous soft stripes with an eye catching and unique colorway. The stitch used is a crossed half double crochet which creates a “knit like” look in certain sections of the shrug. The construction is very simple as it’s made by crocheting a rectangle that is then seamed at the arms. This blanket sweater is both comfortable and functional for colder months. Attach fringe for a trendy look, or leave the blanket sweater fringe-free to show off the clean, modern striping.
Measurements:
When flat on the floor (as pictured below for seaming), the shrug measures 35” inches from end of sleeve to end of sleeve. It measures approximately 32” inches from top of shrug to bottom of shrug (It stretches slightly downward when worn). This is a one size fits most shrug, though as with any one size fits all top, the fit will vary depending on your size. The sleeves will appear shorter and the shrug will fit tighter on a size large without adjustments. It is pictured on a size small. Adjustments may be made by starting with a shorter or longer chain while keeping an even stitch count. Gauge is listed below. Example possible adjustment for a size large: Increase initial chain by 10 stitches and crochet until piece measures 34” inches from initial chain rather than 32” inches.
Continue to scroll down for the free pattern, or you may purchase an inexpensive, advertisement free, printable PDF pattern on Etsy HERE!
You will need:
US Size K 6.5 mm Crochet Hook
3 skeins of Lion Brand Yarn Scarfie (Bulky Size 5) in Cream/Silver (150 g per skein) This sweater uses 354 grams of yarn including fringe detail (Note: Some readers have told me that they haven’t found this color in stores.
You may also choose to purchase the kit from Lion Brand, which includes all of the yarn needed for the pattern as well as a copy of the pattern HERE.
Scissors
Tapestry needle to weave in ends
Gauge:
Gauge is just over 2.5 stitches per inch
Skills & Abbreviations:
ch – chain
hdc – half double crochet
skip stitch
Notes and Tips:
The pattern is created by making half double crochet stitches, skipping a stitch, then going back to the skip stitched to make another half double crochet stitch (see picture tutorial below). Before beginning this project, you may want to practice on a small swatch by chaining an even number of stitches and following the stitch pattern below.
*Tip – Count your stitches every couple of rows to ensure that you are not increasing or decreasing by accidentally placing the crossed half double crochet stitches in the incorrect location.
*Some skeins of the Scarfie yarn might perfectly blend with each other, meaning that you end on a grey stripe and the next skein starts with cream for perfect striping. However, if your skeins don’t line up in this manner, ball up the yarn that doesn’t match and save it for later. For example, if you just finished a skein ending with a grey stripe, but your next skein begins with the grey, you will want to ball up that grey section, save it, and begin with the cream.
Pattern:
Ch 98
Row 1 Half double crochet (hdc) in 3rd chain from hook and each stitch across row. (96 stitches)
Row 2 Ch 2, *skip the next hdc, hdc in the next hdc, then hdc in the skipped hdc*. Repeat from * to * across. (96 stitches) Turn.
Repeat row 2 until your piece measures approximately 32” inches from top to bottom. Refer to stitch picture tutorial below for additional help
Tie off and weave in all ends. Proceed to assembly.
Be sure to see my tutorial for the crossed half double crochet stitch HERE.
Assembly and finishing:
Place piece flat on the ground lengthwise like a hot dog. Fold in sides as pictured below. Attach yarn to the end of sleeve and seam with a slip stitch, 5.5″ inches in on each side. I only grabbed one “leg” of each stitch from both sides to create less bulk at the seam. I imagine that a whip stitch could work well here too if you prefer. The fabric is reversible, but seam on the wrong side of the sweater so that you will turn it inside out after seaming. Tie off and weave in ends.
I sure hope that you’ve enjoyed this project! If anything, you might have a new yarn that you’d like to try. 🙂
XO
Jessica
Thank you to Lion Brand Yarn for sponsoring this post. All opinions are 100% my own.
Can’t wait to try this one! I love the blanket sweater and I still owe you pics because I used the scarfie and it’s simply Devine! Thanks for another great pattern!
I actually thought of you when I made this since you had done the other one in Scarfie! It’s nice because it’s a bit lighter weight than the Woolspun. Happy New Year Jess!
hi Jessica.HAPPY NEW YEAR! I LOVE YOUR WORK AND YOUR CHOICE OF YARN! IT IS ALWAYS A PLEASURE TO SEE YOUR WORK. I HOPE TO START THIS ONE SOON. THANKS SO MUCH.
Hi Jean! You are so sweet. I hope that you enjoy making it if you decide to do so! Happy New Year to you too!!
I’ve been eyeballing that yarn!!! It looks beautiful in this project, and I would never have guessed it was so cold.
Oh my gosh Patty. There were several photos that I couldn’t use because it looked like I was purple from being cold! It doesn’t look that cold, but it was brutal!! I was shaking at the end of taking the photos. HA HA! Hope you are staying warm too – I saw you were getting some cold on Instagram. 🙂
That is so pretty, what a lovely yarn you chose, and the shape looks so cozy and comfy! Way to go!
Thanks Julie! I really appreciate it! It is a comfy little shrug for sure. It might be my fave of the bunch for that reason.
Definitely will try this one for sure! I love the striping that the Scarfie yarn provides. Off to my local Michaels now!!!! Question- I am an Extra Large, so I would increase the number or stitches by 20 I guess? So should I buy 4 skeins instead of 3? Or is 3 plenty?
Hi Hannah! I’m so glad that you like it! My suggestions for crocheting the large are just suggestions (it might be more or less depending), but you should measure your gauge, or how tight you crochet, to see how many stitches you need to add for your own size. You may want to grab that extra skein of yarn for an XL. I hope you are able to make it work for you!
Love it! This one definitely on my to do list! Happy New Years!!
Happy New Year to you too Angie! So glad you like it!
This is lovely, thank you so much for sharing this pattern!! I love it!!
You’re welcome Carol!
Hi, this is a beautiful sweater. I’m shopping for the yarn now but can’t find the scarfie yarn in this color combo. I can only find silver/charcoal or black/cream. Maybe it sold out?
Thanks for any info.
Abby
Hi Abby – I haven’t seen this option in stores and found and ordered it through the Lion Brand website. I have the link to their Scarfie in the post under items you’ll need. Hope this helps you!
I still haven’t found how to print this pattern. I love it and the Scarfie yarn and can’t wait to get that color of yarn and get started. Thank you.
Hi Susan – you can copy and paste it into Microsoft Word and print from there or purchase the inexpensive ad free version from my Etsy shop here:https://www.etsy.com/listing/497593089/knit-sweater-pattern-knit-blanket?ref=shop_home_feat_4
Happy New Year, Abbey. What a lovely pattern. The sweater looks so cozy and pretty. I am “five feet and shrinking” and a size 8. Therefore, going by your formula for increasing by 10 stutches, I will decrease by 10 stitches. I will experiment with a swatch. Thank you for this great Winter pattern. Best Wishes, Pamela.
Jessica: My apologies for using addressing you by the wrong name. Pamela.
Hi Jessica,
This is a beautiful sweater! Do you have any plans to create a knit version? I hope so!
Thank you for all of your beautiful patterns.
Thank you for sharing this gorgeous pattern! I can’t wait to make one!
You’re welcome!
Would increasing the size throw off the way the self-striping works such that each row wouldn’t be a stripe?
I think (although since I haven’t done it don’t know for sure)that your stripes may just be different – either thicker or thinner? I still think that they will blend nicely even if you adjust the pattern.
Could you make it shorter by not making it long. I don’t won’t it hangin over my butt. I have plenty there don’t want any more padding What about a cotton yarn for a spring/summer Thanks
Hi Teresa!
You can certainly make this any way that you would like and modify it. I think it would be great in cotton and you definitely can shorten it by crocheting fewer rows. I do wonder if you should start with a shorter chain as well so that it keeps the shape, but is simply shorter when you make it with fewer rows.
Thanks I’m broad shoulder person/fat but i carry my weight in my stomach and hips. That’s why I want it shorter just my maybe 3-4 rows. I’ll give it a try as soon as I get a chance. Thanks again
Hi! I’m wondering about how many rows each stripe is? I would like to make this as a sort of prayer shawl and use the colors of cervical cancer. Wondering about how many rows the self striping made in each color.
Love this!! I will be putting it on my list of things to make.
Is that a photograph of Pike’s Peak I spy?
Yep, it’s Pikes Peak! You got it!
So glad you like it!
Hi, I love this shawl and I’m just itching to make it. I don’t really like using bulky yarn, if I were to use medium how long would the chain need to be? Thank you for any help you can provide.
I plan on making this on a knitting loom. I just need to design what stitch I will be using. I am fairly new at loom knitting but I really enjoy it. Any suggestions?
Sorry Julie! I have no clue about how to crochet on a loom. I wish that I could be of more help!
How do u get a 35″ chain with. 6.5 hook
Chaining 98 chains?
I have tried several times. I am now
Using a size 10 hook.
What am I doing wrong?
juanita2245@yahoo.com
I am wondering the same thing…. mine is only getting to 27 inches…. is my tension too tight you think?
Hi! Just to be sure, are you using the same yarn? The correct hook? And yes, there’s a chance that your tension may be too tight. Hope it works out for you!
Yes same yarn and hook size. I tend to have tight tension which can be annoying at times! Thank you for such a speedy response!
No problem! I hope that if you loosen your tension a bit that it will work.
I had the same problem. I had to use an 8mm hook and I still didn’t get 35in..its off by a few…but I just went with it and hoped for the best..turned out ok.
I hope you come out with a knit version. I love the look, but I’m a knitter, not crocheter.
Thanks,
Brenda G.
I am working on another knit version, though the look is different than this. 😉
Hi Jessica!
I’ve recently finished the body of the scarf. I find that mine looks slightly different than yours.
while the stripes on the back of your sweater are horizontal mine are vertical. I don’t know if I missed something or did something backwards.
I don’t really know how else to describe it. Does the difference really matter if my measurements match yours?
Thanks you for any help at all. I’m stumped
Victoria
Hey! As long as the measurements are the same you’re fine. Just be sure to fold it as pictured, lay it out lengthwise like a hot dog, and it will work out.
Is this project on Ravelry? I couldn’t find it to log it.
I haven’t added it, but will do that as soon as I get a chance! Thanks for the reminder!
love this pattern and wondering if it could be made with lion brand wool ease thick and quick. Not good at figuring out differences in yarns … mine says super bulky 6 and think yours was a 5 .. . I have a number of balls that was for a project that I did not like the result … would like to use it for this … if so what would the starting count be .. yours is 98 and I am thinking I would need more than that .. but how many I do not have a clue. Your comments would be apprecitated. Thanks .. Ruth
Hi Ruth! You could make it with a thicker yarn, but you’d have to make less chain stitches to start. Because you will be using a thicker yarn and larger needle, it will take less stitches and rows to make the same sized sweater. Make your chain as long as the length that I have listed as end of sleeve to end of sleeve in the pattern. Hope you can work it out!
I just finished my blanket sweater in the kit. Got more yarn and making again one in the black/blue. It makes a nice sweater. Great pattern
I just finished my blanket sweater in the kit. Got more yarn and making again one in the black/blue. It makes a nice sweater. Great pattern
That’s awesome Pat! Glad you liked it!!
Hi Jessica! Love this blanket sweater!!
Question for you — As I work each row, I am counting my stitches to keep the correct number . . . but my edges are not staying straight. Every other row looks indented on both sides. Do you know how I can fix this? Your edges look even and straight in your photos.
Thank you for the pattern!!
Hi Maureen! I’m so glad that you like the sweater! I’m not sure what might be happening with your edges. I’m wondering if something is happening with the crossed hdc. Could your tension maybe be a bit tight? I’m wondering if that could be pulling them in when you do that first set of HDC stitches. I’m sorry that I can’t be of more help. I’m sure you already saw the picture tutorial on the stitch but if not, maybe double check that you’re doing it right. I didn’t have that problem. Hope it works out!
I just saw this pattern do you have a video to accompany it, I’m still new to crocheting, so visual aids really help.
Hi Jessica – no video for this one, just the picture tutorial for the stitch that you’ll use. Sorry – I’ve only just started to make some videos.
Hi ! Thank you for introducing me to this lovely yarn. I am totally in love with it. I followed your pattern , in Oxford/Claret as my daughter loves darker colors. It come out so good , i am impressed with my own work. I didn’t know I coul crochet so well, thanks to your instructions!!! Best wishes for you and your family.
Again , thank you!
Hi! Can I use #4 yarn & 5.5mm hook instead of #5 yarn and 6.5mm hook? I’m wondering if I increase stitches to compensate would that be enough?
I’m in love with these sweaters too. They’re so easy to make. I love the colours and stitch pattern in this one.
I’m so happy to hear that you like them Calenna! They are easy to make for sure. 😉
I made this sweater and am wondering if you left 5 1/2 ” opening or stitched in from front edge of sweater 5 1/2″?
Thank you
Hi Cindy,
I stitched in from the edge 5 1/2″ inches. Hope this helps!
Thank you it does
So very pretty! I’m so glad I found you on Hookin’ on Hump Day! Pinning this one! Thank you for sharing!
Thanks so much Patricia for stopping by! I’m so glad you like the sweater!
Can this be made with longer sleeves?
You could potentially add sleeves on to the ends, but as it’s written, you wouldn’t be able to make the sleeves longer.
Hi Jessica! I LOVE this sweater and just bought the yarn to make 🙂
I am a little bit confused about how you stitched in the fringe and also, how many stitches did you make for the arm piece? Thank you!
Yes I’d love more info on making the fringe! Did you make the fringe on the arm holes longer than the ones towards the middle?
The fringe is the same length on all parts. 🙂
Hi, I am making this for my grand daughter, who is about. Size 4. If I reduce the number of chains to about 88, should I then only make it about 28″ or so in length? Thanks for your help.
If you do make a shorter chain, then yes…you definitely want to crochet for fewer inches as well. There’s really no exact science, so as long as it is a rectangle and when you fold in the corners you are left with an opening for the neckline.
I just finished this pattern. It came out quite nice, however after putting in the hard work I come to find it doesn’t hang right on me. The pattern seems better suited for slender people with no hips instead of curvy women. The rest fits beautifully around the arms and back. Am very disappointed.
Hi – I’m so sorry to hear that you aren’t happy with the final fit. 🙁 I do appreciate you sharing your experience. It is certainly true that since it’s a one size fits most, it’s sure to hang differently on various sizes. I know how disappointing it is when you work so hard on something and it doesn’t turn out as expected. I’m sorry this was one of those times….wishing for better results for your next project.
I made this per directions. Stunning but it’s to small for me. How would you go about making it bigger how would you measure yourself to make it custom? Thank you
Kimberly
Made this for a friend and absolutely fell in love! I’ll be making myself one in cranberry and charcoal. Makes a great gift for someone special.
Thank you for the wonderful pattern. I love it!
Laura
I made this pattern recently with Lion Brand Thick and Quick Celestial Stripes. It is beautiful and I use it all the time around the house. It occurred to me the other day that this would be an awesome gift for someone in a nursing home. It looks lovely draped over a chair, easily stays wrapped around the shoulders, and is just the right length to use as a lap blanket.
I was just wondering , you look a lot taller than me . I am only 5’3 should I switch the amount of stitches ? Instead of 98 should I go shorter ?
Did you ever do this pattern in a knit version? Oh pleeeaassee.
Love this! Made it for myself but would like a bit wider…,gave to my daughter and she loves it! This yarn is gorgeous and works so beautifully with this pattern! Thanks so much!
Hey Carie! If you start with a longer chain you will have a wider piece at the end. 🙂
I just finished this and although I love the yarn I am not happy with the results . Perhaps this is not a sweater for a large person. I increased the width to 39 inches by chaining 122 stitches. I misunderstood the pattern and may have made it too long still it is the length seen on the model. However unhappily it doesn’t drape well and seems to hang in two rather dumpy looking folds in the back. I thought the pattern was a bit difficult to get started. I searched YouTube for a video of this stitch but did not see one using hdc for more than a few stitches and none showing the row over row. Also if you enlarge the pattern you will need another skein of the yarn. The pattern worked up quickly but I am unhappy with the results and the money spent. I wear a 2X top but there needs to be better information on adjusting this pattern. I will be wearing this only for warmth well maybe. It makes me look frumpy. I assure you I don’t need that
I’m so sorry to hear that Indy! I know the frustration of making something and it not turning out as hoped. You are right that I haven’t seen a YouTube for this stitch, so I did do the picture tutorial which hopefully helps folks. Thanks for the feedback on how to changed and modified the pattern for your size in case it helps anyone out in the future who might want to make it larger. Someone just wrote me today about how much they loved the outcome with this pattern, so it’s interesting how different it works for different folks. I’m most sorry it didn’t work out well for you. Best to you.
Did you use ALL of the 3 skeins? I had a lot left of the third skein leftover.
Can’t wait to try this for myself! I also have it linked in one of my blog posts to see if any of my readers would like to try it as well! Great work! 🙂
I don’t see the directions for the fringe. Are they attached sewing, and I can’t tell how there are. This is the most beautiful shrug I’ve ever seen.
How manay chains would I increase to make this from worsted weight (#4) yarn?
I am in love with this stitch and yarn! Thank you so much for sharing your talents! I love your website!! xoxo
Thanks Louise!