Anyone who knows how to cast on, knit and cast off can make this baby blanket. But just because it's easy, doesn't mean this blanket's not wonderful. In fact, it's everything people want a baby blanket to be: machine washable, very soft, all natural, and beautiful.

I love garter stitch for a baby blanket because, besides being the same on both sides and lying flat, it is also very cushiony and cozy. My friend Roy really appreciated the cuddliness of garter stitch this weekend when the weather suddenly turned a bit chilly!  

• 7 skeins of Alchemy Yarns' Temple, 100% superfine superwash merino wool. These colors from the top are Lantern, Citrine, Silver, Moonstone, Platinum, Topaz, and Kai's Goldfish

• A US #7 circular needle, 24 or 32 inches long.
• A tapestry needle.

Atlantic Air

This combination is inspired by the colors of New England's coast, natural, serious and subtle. The colors from the top are Pewter, Silver, Platinum, Champagne, Citrine, Amber, and Lulu Brown.

The Cherry Bomb

These colors are syrupy sweet, like a dream cake. The shifting shades of pink, orange, red and brown are cheerful and beautiful. The colors are Kai's Goldfish, Evening Pink, Joshua Tree, Poppy, Evening Pink, Kai's Goldfish, and Poppy.

The Funky Monkey

These colors combine in an unexpected range from rich milk chocolate to bright Caribbean turquoise. Quirky and surprising, this would be a great choice for someone who's a little wary of pink and blue. The colors are Joshua Tree, Gold and Grace, Lantern, Amber, Dragon, Blue Ice and Soft Turquoise.

Gauge

21.5 stitches = 4 inches in garter stitch

Finished Size

26 inches x 28 inches

Pattern

With a US #7 needle and the first color, loosely cast on 140 stitches.

Knit every row until there are 20 garter stitch "ridges" (1 ridge = 2 rows).

Switch to the second color at the beginning of the next row, and knit every row until there are 20 ridges.

Repeat with each color, making sure to always switch colors on the same side.

After knitting 20 ridges with the seventh color, loosely bind off.

Weave in the ends. 

This yarn is superwash which means you can safely put it in the washer and dryer. However, if you've used any bright saturated colors (especially reds), you may want to add white distilled vinegar to your first wash in order to "set" the dyes. I read somewhere to add 3 cups; that seems like a lot, but it can't hurt!