I like reversible blankets. So no matter how its draped it always looks the perfect. My Nolan Gansey Sampler Blanket is reversible and has a special (to me) story behind it. A story of tradition....
The concept of tradition or holding on to a previous time, is found throughout history within societies offering symbolic meaning, a special significance from the past. For me, a tradition was something passed down that holds a special meaning or feeling.
As a teen, I was touched when my Grandma, whom I adored, crocheted me and each of her grandchildren a special afghan blanket. I have treasured this blanket throughout my young adult years and still cherish it today.....it always brings me fond memories of her.
I decided to start my own tradition....perhaps its my mushy-side getting the better of me or just a tribute to my Grandma. My oldest nephew, Nolan, had just graduated from high school, and it struck me that this was a perfect opportunity to send Nolan off into his new ventures away from home with a cozy blanket of his own.
Of course, with this commitment, I have just signed myself up for many more blankets for his siblings and my own children. No regrets....
Ergo, the creation of the Nolan Gansey-Sampler Afghan Blanket. I wanted this blanket to be loaded with texture and I wanted it to be reversible. So I decided on a sampler approach to some traditional Gansey patterns and some Gansey-like patterns.
The blanket was knit with an Aran Weight or Heavy Worsted Weight yarn on a US# 9 needle. It took me just under a month to knit. Nolan is tall, 6'5", I wanted it to be extra long for him. Since not everyone needs an extra long blanket, I designed it in 3 different lengths, (50" x50", 50" x 60" and 50" x 72"). Details of yardage needed in available here, as well as yarn options.
I really enjoyed knitting this blanket, partially because the pattern kept changing. I think these pattern changes also inspired me to knit for longer periods of time just to get to the next pattern. This definitely sped up the time it took to complete this project. (I have the same theory about self striping yarns like Noro....always wanting to see what's next.)
To be honest, I liked this blanket so much, I'm embarrassed to say that I kind of begrudged sending it off.....no fear, I got over it and knew that Nolan would love it too. I guess I will just have to knit another for me.
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Another Reversible Blanket is Teddy Bear Picnic Blanket. It was designed as a baby blanket (sized 32" x 32") but can easily made into a full size afghan blanket, by increasing the pattern repeat or using a thicker yarn.
Teddy Bear Picnic has the look of gingham by using texture instead of color. It would be sweet in any nursery or boast a traditional flair for any family room.
The Teddy Bear Picnic pattern is available on Ravelry and was knit with a DK/Sport weight yarn.
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By the way.....did you know that tomorrow, October 15, is National Yarn Day. The perfect day to pick up yarn for your next blanket project or any project quite frankly.....what will you be knitting or crocheting????
More soon...
As always....Happy Knitting!!!!!
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