This crochet stroller blanket with hand muff pockets is designed to keep your hands warm while you push a stroller or enjoy outdoor activities. It features a beautiful texture and stylish look, making it enjoyable to crochet. You’ll use basic stitches like double crochet, single crochet, and special stitches such as front and back post double crochet to create a cozy blanket.
This project is perfect for anyone looking to make a functional accessory that is both practical and warm. You’ll gain skills in working with different yarn colors and creating pockets, enhancing your crochet abilities while making something useful.
Why You’ll Love This Stroller Blanket
- Cozy hand muff pockets – keep your hands warm while on the go.
- Stylish and textured – adds a beautiful touch to your stroller.
- Quick to crochet – you can finish this in just about 9 hours.
- Functional design – perfect for chilly days or outdoor activities.
Skill Level: Easy
You should know how to make basic stitches like single crochet and double crochet. You’ll also learn special techniques such as front post and back post double crochet, which may seem tricky at first but will quickly become easier with practice.
Crochet Abbreviations (US Terms)
- ch – chain
- dc – double crochet
- sl st – slip stitch
- st(s) – stitch(es)
- sk – skip
- sc – single crochet
- fpdc – front post double crochet
- bpdc – back post double crochet
How to Crochet a Front Post Double Crochet (fpdc)
- Yarn over.
- Insert hook from front to back around the post of the specified stitch.
- Yarn over and pull up a loop.
- Yarn over and pull through the first two loops on the hook.
- Yarn over and pull through the last two loops.
How to Crochet a Back Post Double Crochet (bpdc)
- Yarn over.
- Insert hook from back to front around the post of the specified stitch.
- Yarn over and pull up a loop.
- Yarn over and pull through the first two loops on the hook.
- Yarn over and pull through the last two loops.
Size and Gauge
- Gauge: 12 dc and 8 rows = 10 cm (4 inches) in double crochet.
- Final Dimensions of the Blanket: 76 × 102 cm (30 × 40 in), with each pocket measuring 36 × 20 cm (14 × 8 in).
Step-by-Step Instructions
Body of the Blanket
The body of the blanket is made in rows, with pockets added afterward.
- Foundation Row:
Ch 106. - Row 1:
Dc in 4th ch from the hook and in each ch across. (104 sts) - Row 2:
Ch 3 (counts as first dc), turn, dc in each st across. (104 sts) - Row 3:
Ch 3, turn, dc in next 40 sts, *fpdc around the next st, bpdc around the next st; repeat from * until 40 sts remain, dc in last 40 sts. (104 sts) - Row 4–20:
Repeat Row 3 for 18 more rows. (104 sts) - Row 21:
Ch 1, turn, sc in each st across. (104 sts) - Row 22–25:
Ch 3, turn, dc in each st across. (104 sts)
Pockets (Make 2)
- Pocket Base:
Ch 40. - Row 1:
Dc in 4th ch from the hook and in each ch across. (38 sts) - Row 2–8:
Ch 3, turn, dc in each st across. (38 sts) - Row 9:
Ch 1, turn, sc in each st across, fasten off. - Finishing Pocket:
Fold 2 sides of each pocket in to form a muff and sew up the sides with a tapestry needle.
Assembly & Finishing
- Attaching Pockets:
Position each pocket approximately 25 cm (10 in) from the bottom edge of the blanket. Sew the sides of each pocket to the blanket using matching yarn. - Button Closure:
Sew one button on the outer edge of each pocket and create a loop from Color B yarn to act as a button closure. - Weaving in Ends:
Use the tapestry needle to weave in all ends securely. - Blocking:
Lightly steam block the blanket to shape, ensuring the edges are straight.
Beginner Tips for a Neat Stroller Blanket
- Use stitch markers to mark the beginning of rows for easy counting.
- Keep track of your stitch count to avoid unwanted gaps or tightness.
- Manage your tension by practicing relaxed stitches to ensure a uniform look.
Common Mistakes (and How to Fix Them)
- “My piece is too small.” – You may have miscounted your foundation chain. Always verify your counts.
- “The stitches are uneven.” – This often happens due to inconsistent tension. Practice keeping your grip light and even.
- “Pockets don’t line up.” – Make sure to measure and position them evenly; use a ruler to check their distance from edges.
How to Care for Your Stroller Blanket
Machine wash cold, tumble dry low, or lay flat to dry. Avoid bleach to keep your yarn looking fresh.
FAQ
How do I resize the pattern?
To resize, adjust the foundation chain length and ensure that your stitch count remains a multiple of the pattern stitches for consistency.
Can I use a different yarn?
Yes! Just be sure to check the gauge and adjust your hook size as needed for different yarn weights.
How long will it take to make this blanket?
You can expect to spend around 9 hours on this project, depending on your crochet speed and experience.
Looking for more? Check out our complete collection of free crochet patterns.
Image shown for inspiration — your finished result may vary slightly.
