DOUBLE WEDDING RING BLANKET

Is this blanket made in one piece or in separate motifs that are joined?

This blanket is made with motifs that are worked in the round. When the motifs are assembled using the join-as-you-go (JAYGO) method, the interlocking ring design emerges across the fabric. Each motif, after the first one, is joined to previous motifs on either one or two sides in the final round.

The pattern instructions are accompanied by stitch charts, a photo tutorial, and video tutorial to guide you through the JAYGO steps.

Do I have to use the JAYGO method to assemble this blanket?

No, not at all! It’s possible to make all the motifs separately and join them at the end if you prefer, though I don’t include instructions for this method in the pattern. Here are some of the assembly methods I’ve seen folks use successfully with this pattern:

The only tricky part might be joining the chains in the lacy section at the middle of each side. Instead of using the Zigzag Slip Stitch Join, you might try using a standard slip stitch instead (you’ll need to work these slip stitches rather tightly so that the chain doesn’t get too bulky). If you’re using the Invisible Mattress Stitch Seam, try using a whipstitch to sew the chains together tightly. Then go back to using your preferred method once you’re past that section.

Where is the video tutorial for the JAYGO technique?

You can access the Double Wedding Ring JAYGO video here: https://youtu.be/WQNjWikF-q0

Should I block the motifs as I make them or can I wait until the end?

I recommend blocking Motif 1 to 8 inches (20 cm) just to make sure you’re on track with gauge. After that there is no need to block the individual motifs as you’re making and joining them. I do recommend blocking your finished blanket. While it’s damp, you’ll want to gently shape the motifs in your blanket so that each one measures roughly 8 inches (20 cm) square.

Can I make this blanket a rectangle instead of a square?

I think making a rectangle version of this blanket is a great idea! The blanket is constructed with motifs that are joined as you go. After the first square, each square is joined to a previous one while working the last round. Once you’ve joined a few squares you should have no problem adding more motifs to one side to make a rectangle.

You should also be able to use the border instructions for your rectangle blanket without any problem. Repeats in the instructions are across each side, so it doesn’t matter how long each side is. If you like stitch charts, the pattern also includes a reduced chart for the border, which you may find helpful.

PAINTER’S GARDEN BLANKET

Does the total yardage (8 balls) include the border?

The 8 balls include the edging – whether you choose to add the edging just to the short ends or to all four sides.

The Granny Stitch Section of my blanket is pulling in at the sides. I’ve made sure that I’m not missing any stitches. What’s going on?

I’ve had a few makers in the past who have also noticed the sides of the blanket pulling in at the granny stitch sections. In most cases it has been a matter of gauge.

Are you using the same yarn, or same weight of yarn, for both the motifs and the granny stitch sections? Different yarns may be used for the different sections of the blanket, but they must closely match in weight. If you use a yarn for the granny stitch sections that is lighter than the yarn you used for the motif panels, the sides of the blanket will pull in.

If you’re using the same yarn, but still having this problem, you might try going up a hook size or two for the granny stitch sections.

If your question wasn’t listed here, the individual design page here on my website might have your answer. Click “Patterns” at the top of any page, select the category, then click on the specific pattern. Each design page includes the following information:

  • all the details about the item,

  • how it is constructed,

  • stitches and techniques used,

  • yarn (including suggested substitutions),

  • customization tips,

  • gauge and patterns for gauge swatches,

  • errata, and

  • links to any related video tutorials.