Pipsqueak Pink and White Cloud Blanket Free Pattern – Knit with Bobble Stitches
Wrap Your Little One in Cloud-Like Softness: The Pipsqueak Pink and White Bobble Blanket
There are few things more precious than a handmade gift for a new baby. This Pipsqueak Pink and White Cloud Blanket is designed to be that heirloom-quality piece—a dreamy, textured masterpiece that feels as gentle as a whisper. Using the incredibly soft Bernat Pipsqueak yarn, this pattern creates a lush field of bobble stitches that mimic fluffy, pipsqueak clouds. Whether you are a seasoned knitter looking for a satisfying project or a confident beginner ready for a new challenge, this free pattern will guide you through every step to create a cozy, unforgettable gift.
This pattern is not only beautiful but also practical. The thick, plush yarn works up quickly, and the repetitive bobble stitch pattern is meditative once you get into the rhythm. The result is a rectangular blanket with a soft, squishy drape, framed by a neat garter stitch border in pink. It’s the perfect size for stroller snuggles, tummy time, or nursery decor.
Materials Needed
Before you begin, gather your supplies. This project uses bulky yarn and large needles, making it a fast and satisfying knit.
- Yarn A (Pink): Bernat Pipsqueak (or any bulky weight yarn) – 400g
- Yarn B (White): Bernat Pipsqueak (or any bulky weight yarn) – 400g
- Knitting Needles: US 10 (6.0 mm) – straight or circular (for larger capacity)
- Tapestry Needle: For weaving in ends
- Scissors: For cutting yarn
Gauge & Abbreviations
Gauge: 12 stitches and 16 rows = 4 inches in stockinette stitch. Adjust needle size if necessary to achieve gauge.
Abbreviations:
- CO: Cast on
- K: Knit
- P: Purl
- K2tog: Knit two stitches together (decrease)
- MB: Make bobble (K1, P1, K1, P1, K1 into the same stitch, then pass the 4 extra stitches over the first stitch)
- RS: Right side
- WS: Wrong side
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these detailed instructions carefully. The pattern is broken down into sections to make it easy to follow. Remember to keep your tension consistent for a uniform look.
Foundation & Garter Border
Step 1: With Yarn A (Pink), cast on 90 stitches loosely. A long-tail cast-on works well here.
Step 2: Knit 6 rows in garter stitch (knit every stitch). This creates the bottom border of the blanket.
Main Body – The Bobble Pattern
Now you will begin the main body of the blanket. This section is a repeat of a 4-row pattern, alternating colors every 2 rows. The 5 stitches at the beginning and end of each row form the side borders and are always knitted.
Row 7 (RS – Yarn A): K5 (border), *K1, MB, K1, K2tog, K1, MB, K1, K2tog, repeat from * until the last 5 stitches, K5 (border).
Tip: The bobble stitch (MB) is worked into a single stitch. It creates a puffy, 3D effect. Ensure you pull the yarn tight after passing the stitches over to make a neat bobble.
Row 8 (WS – Yarn A): K5 (border), Purl until the last 5 stitches, K5 (border).
This row is worked on the wrong side. The purl stitches create the smooth background for the bobbles to pop.
Row 9 (RS – Yarn A): Repeat Row 7 exactly.
Row 10 (WS – Yarn A): Repeat Row 8 exactly.
Row 11 (RS – Switch to Yarn B): K5 (border), *K1, MB, K1, K2tog, K1, MB, K1, K2tog, repeat from * until the last 5 stitches, K5 (border).
Carry the yarn up the side of the work when switching colors to avoid weaving in many ends. Just twist the new color around the old one at the start of the row.
Row 12 (WS – Yarn B): K5 (border), Purl until the last 5 stitches, K5 (border).
Row 13 (RS – Yarn B): Repeat Row 11 exactly.
Row 14 (WS – Yarn B): Repeat Row 12 exactly.
Repeating the Pattern
Continue repeating Rows 7 through 14, alternating between Yarn A and Yarn B every 2 rows. Keep going until the blanket measures approximately 60 inches from the cast-on edge. Important: End with a WS row (a purl row) to ensure you are ready to start the final border on the right side.
Finishing Border & Bind Off
Step 1: Switch back to Yarn A (Pink).
Step 2: Knit 6 rows in garter stitch (knit every stitch). This creates the top border, matching the bottom.
Step 3: Bind off all stitches loosely with Yarn A. A loose bind-off is crucial to prevent the edge from curling or being too tight. You can use a larger needle to bind off if needed.
Weaving in Ends & Blocking
Step 1: Using your tapestry needle, carefully weave in all loose ends on the wrong side of the blanket. Make sure to secure them well so they don't unravel with use.
Step 2: Gently block the blanket to shape. Since Bernat Pipsqueak is a synthetic yarn, you can lightly steam it or simply lay it flat to air dry. Avoid heavy pressing, as this will flatten the beautiful bobble texture.
Your Pipsqueak Pink and White Cloud Blanket is now complete! The combination of the plush yarn and the dense bobble stitches creates a truly special, tactile experience. This blanket is sure to become a cherished keepsake for any new arrival. Happy knitting!