What this calculator does
Blankets are the most common "no pattern needed" project: pick a stitch, pick a yarn, cast on and go. The two questions are how big and how many stitches. This calculator lists common blanket sizes and, using your own gauge swatch, tells you the stitches for the width and the rows for the length.
How to use it
- Make a swatch in your blanket stitch and measure stitches and rows over 4 inches after washing it.
- Pick a blanket size.
- Cast on (or chain) the number shown and work until the blanket reaches the length; the row count is a guide.
Common blanket sizes
| Blanket | Inches | Centimeters |
|---|---|---|
| Lovey | 12 × 12 | 30 × 30 |
| Stroller | 30 × 35 | 76 × 89 |
| Receiving | 30 × 40 | 76 × 102 |
| Crib | 36 × 52 | 91 × 132 |
| Throw | 50 × 60 | 127 × 152 |
| Twin | 66 × 90 | 168 × 229 |
| Full | 80 × 90 | 203 × 229 |
| Queen | 90 × 100 | 229 × 254 |
| King | 108 × 100 | 274 × 254 |
Stitch patterns change gauge. Garter, seed and textured stitches are often wider and shorter than stockinette with the same yarn. Always swatch the stitch you will actually use.
For patterns that repeat over a set number of stitches, use the gauge calculator with a multiple to round the cast-on to fit.
Questions people ask
Are these official blanket sizes?
No. There is no single standard; these are common sizes used by pattern designers and yarn companies. Adjust to suit the person or bed: a throw for a tall adult might be 60 × 70 inches.
What size is a baby blanket?
A stroller or car seat blanket is around 30 × 35 inches, a receiving blanket around 30 × 40, and a crib blanket about 36 × 52 inches. For safety, babies under a year should not sleep with loose blankets.
How much yarn does a blanket take?
It depends heavily on yarn weight and stitch. As a rough guide in worsted weight, a baby blanket takes around 800 to 1,200 yards and a throw 1,800 to 2,500 yards. Crochet uses roughly a third more yarn than knitting for the same area.
Should I add stitches for edging?
If you plan a separate border, subtract its width (on both sides) from the blanket size before you calculate.