It seems as though I haven’t posted a completed crochet project for a while now.
The truth is, I have actually completed two blankets. A baby blanket and a middle size lapghan.
The Lapghan is still a secret, as it’s a pressie for some one, so I have to wait I while before I share.
However the baby girl I was making the baby blanket for, made her appearance in to the world this week so I can now share a few photos with you.

When my Sister Kerry, asked me to make a baby blanket for her friend Stacey, I knew it had to be a pattern I had already used. A pattern that I loved making, that the whole journey captivated me and has a beautiful texture. It was hands down the perfect pattern.
The pattern is called, “Phoenix” by Vanessa, from Hooked on Sunshine. I’m sure most of you know of it.
Phoenix is definitely in my top five most enjoyable makes.
The pattern is so well written, each stitch comes with ease. If you do get stuck along the way, there are handy step by step videos to help you.
Although I wouldn’t call it a beginners blanket, with the videos anyone can have ago at making it.
I made my first Phoenix last year for my Father and Mother In-law, Roger and Janet.
I think it may just be my all time favourite make. It’s simply stunning. You can read all about it here, where you’ll find links, handy tips, yarn information, cost and lots of photos.

Can you see why, it’s just perfect for a baby blanket?
Kerry picked the yarn and colour. We made an order and within a few days I had happy mail and made a start.
The yarn Kerry picked was, Paintbox Simply Aran, in the colour, 207 Vanilla Cream, which is a beautiful soft creamy yellow.

In hindsight I wish I had used a double knit yarn instead of aran, which would have given it a softer drape.
I used my Clover Soft Touch 5.5 hook. If I could remake it, I would go up a hook size to soften the stitches.
Don’t get me wrong, it’s fine the way it is, I’m just being me and nit picking at everything I do or make.

Kerry was happy with the size after the first 4 parts, so I stopped there, weaved the ends in and gave it a light block.

The blanket was meant to be gifted at Staceys baby shower, but Covid stopped normal life and all planned events including the baby shower.
With social distancing in place, Ker managed to gift it to her with only weeks to spear.
I believe, Stacey was really pleased with her gift and with the cold, wet weather we have been having, hopefully it’s come into use.

As I mentioned above, I would change two things if I was to make another baby blanket. The main one being, a thinner yarn, especially as it was for a summer baby. Secondly I would use a bigger hook so it would have a softer drape. All in all though I’m happy with it. But more importantly Kerry and Stacey are and that’s what matters.

If you want to make your own “Phoenix“, pop on over to “Hooked On Sunshine” or Ravelry and buy yourself a copy.
Trust me your journey will be electric and addictive, totally addictive. Remember you can also find Vanessa on Instagram and Facebook.

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Have a hooktastic weekend guys.
Too-da-loo for now.

🧶🧶🧶