If you're searching for a rainbow striped crochet baby blanket free pattern, you're in for a colorful treat! This beautifully textured crochet blanket blends the charm of classic granny square construction with modern stitch variety and a rectangular shape, making it a fun, eye-catching project for crocheters of all skill levels.
Whether you're creating a baby shower gift, a cozy crib blanket, or a playful toddler throw, this mixed-stitch crochet blanket is the perfect way to use up your colorful yarn scraps and experiment with texture and technique.
Why You'll Love This Rainbow Baby Blanket Pattern
- Worked in the round – Just like a traditional granny square, but with a modern rectangular twist.
- Bright, bold stripes – Use the full rainbow or mix your own palette.
- Texture-rich stitches – Keeps things interesting and helps you build skills.
- Beginner-friendly with a twist – Simple to follow, yet satisfying for experienced crocheters.
- Perfect gift – A handmade rainbow baby blanket makes a thoughtful baby shower present or heirloom-quality nursery keepsake.
About the Pattern: Rainbow Striped Crochet Baby Blanket
This free rainbow baby blanket crochet pattern is packed with personality. Worked in the round with a seamless transition from one color to the next, it uses a wide range of textured stitches that keep the project engaging and rewarding.
- Finished Size: 105 cm x 80 cm
- Skill Level: Easy to Intermediate
- Total Rounds: 40
- Hook Size: 4mm (G-6 US / 8 UK)
- Yarn Weight: DK / Light Worsted
- Fiber Suggested: 100% Cotton or soft acrylic yarn
- Yardage: Approx. 1800m total (10–15 skeins of 120m or 5–6 skeins of 250m)
Textured Stitches You'll Learn
This blanket includes a sampler-style selection of stitches like:
- Classic double crochet (dc)
- Half double crochet (hdc)
- Crossed stitches (1/2 dc cross)
- Granny-style 3dc clusters
- Saddle stitch motifs
- And more unique textures worked seamlessly in rounds
Each section introduces a new stitch or technique, making this a great pattern for learning while creating a stunning result.
Materials You’ll Need
- DK (light worsted) weight yarn in multiple colors (rainbow palette recommended)
- 4.0 mm crochet hook
- Yarn needle
- Scissors
- Stitch markers (optional for beginners)
Construction Notes
This baby blanket is crocheted in the round, starting from the center and expanding outward to create a rectangular shape. Unlike traditional square granny blankets, this design helps you avoid the “wonky edges” problem, and finishes with clean corners and a balanced rectangle.
Estimate the yarn you'll need based on your project size, yarn weight, and stitch pattern.
Abbreviations
This pattern is written and charted using standard US
crochet terminology.
ch : chain
ch-sp : chainspace
sc : single crochet
sl : slip stitch
hdc ; half double crochet
dc ; double crochet
Sk : skip
* : repeat : repeat from *
st(s) / sts - Stitch(es)
2dc : 2 double crochet stitches in same stitch
3dc : 3 double crochet stitches in same stitch
1/2 dc cross : skip 1 st,2dc into next 2 sts,1dc back into skipped stitch
Saddle : Sc into st, *ch2, 3dc, into same st, skip next 2 sts , rep.
US Stitch Terminology : Abbreviations
- 2 Double Crochet - 2dc
- 3 Double Crochet - 3dc
- Chain Stitch - ch
- Chain Space - ch-sp
- Crochet Cross - cross
- Double Crochet - dc
- Double Crochet 2 Together - dc2tog
- Front loop only - FLO
- Half Double Crochet - hdc
- Next - nxt
- Popcorn Stitch - pc
- Repeat from * - rep from *
- Repeat Rows - rep rows
- Single Crochet - sc
- Shell Stitch - sh
- Slip Stitch - sl st
- Space After - sp after
- Space Before - sp before
- Stitches - sts
- Treble Crochet - tr
- V Stitch - v st
- Yarn Over - yo
All stitch instructions are available in both US Crochet Terminology and UK Crochet Terminology, making it easy to follow along using the terms you are most familiar with.
If you are new to any of the stitches used in this pattern, we recommend reviewing the relevant stitch guide before starting. Each guide includes step-by-step instructions, helpful tips, and stitch terminology conversions where applicable.
Take your time, practice any unfamiliar stitches, and most importantly—enjoy the process of creating your blanket one row at a time.
UK : 2tr - 2 treble crochet
AFR : 2lb - 2 Langbeentjies in selfde steek
1. Work 1 dc into the stitch (complete as usual).
2. Work a second dc into the same stitch.
3. Both sts occupy the same base — small cluster.
This fast and easy crochet blanket pattern features bold rainbow stripes and a relaxing repeat. Great for weekend crocheting.
Start with Chain 28
Row 1
Insert hook in 4th chain from hook, yarn, over and complete 2 dc into the same stitch. ( 3dc sts),
ch2, 3 dc into same stitch, ch2, 3 dc into same stitch, ch1,
* 1dc into next 3 chain sts, ch1 - repeat from * until corner, * till last stitch,
3dc, into last stitch worked, ch2, 3dc, into last stitch worked, ch2, 3dc, into last stitch worked, ch1,
Working back on the starting chain, ( along the bottom of the first long side ) ,
* 1dc into next 3 sts, ch1 - repeat until corner, * until last stitch,
Join with a slip stitch in top of first dc st, ch1,
Row 2
1 sc in 1 ch-sp, just below last chain stitch worked, chain 3,
1sc, in corner-ch-sp, ch3, 1 sc into same ch-sp, ch3, 1sc, in next corner-ch-sp, ch3, 1 sc into same ch-sp,
*ch3, 1sc into next 1ch-sp, repeat from * until corner,
1sc, in corner-ch-sp, ch3, 1 sc into same ch-sp, ch3, 1sc, in next corner-ch-sp, ch3, 1 sc into same ch-sp, *ch3, 1sc into next 1ch-sp, repeat from * until corner,
Join with slip stitch into starting sc st. Finish off color.
Row 3
Join new color, into corner-ch-sp.
Ch3 counts as first dc st, 2dc in same ch-sp, ch2, 3dc into same ch-sp,
*ch1, 3dc into next 3ch-sp, repeat until corner,
3dc, ch2, 3dc into corner-ch-sp, *ch1, 3dc into next 3ch-sp, repeat until corner,
3dc, ch2, 3dc into corner-ch-sp, *ch1, 3dc into next 3ch-sp, repeat until corner,
3dc, ch2, 3dc into corner-ch-sp, *ch1, 3dc into next 3ch-sp, repeat until corner,
join with st into the top of starting 3ch, ch1
Row 4
1 sc in 1 ch-sp, just below last chain stitch worked, chain 3,
1sc, in corner-ch-sp, ch3, 1 sc into same ch-sp, ch3, 1sc, in next corner-ch-sp, ch3, 1 sc into same ch-sp,
*ch3, 1sc into next 1ch-sp, repeat * until end of row,
1sc, in corner-ch-sp, ch3, 1 sc into same ch-sp, ch3, 1sc, in next corner-ch-sp, ch3, 1 sc into same ch-sp,
*ch3, 1sc into next 1ch-sp, repeat * until the end of the row.
Join with slip stitch into starting sc st. Finish off color.
Row 5
Join new color, into corner-ch-sp.
Ch3 counts as first dc st, 2dc in same ch-sp, ch2, 3dc into same ch-sp,
*ch1, 3dc into next 3ch-sp, repeat until corner,
3dc, ch2, 3dc into corner-ch-sp, *ch1, 3dc into next 3ch-sp, repeat until corner,
3dc, ch2, 3dc into corner-ch-sp, *ch1, 3dc into next 3ch-sp, repeat until corner,
3dc, ch2, 3dc into corner-ch-sp, *ch1, 3dc into next 3ch-sp, repeat until corner,
join with st into the top of starting 3ch, ch1
Row 6
1 sc in 1 ch-sp, just below last chain stitch worked, chain 3,
1sc, in corner-ch-sp, ch3, 1 sc into same ch-sp, ch3, 1sc, in next corner-ch-sp, ch3, 1 sc into same ch-sp,
*ch3, 1sc into next 1ch-sp, repeat * until end of row,
1sc, in corner-ch-sp, ch3, 1 sc into same ch-sp, ch3, 1sc, in next corner-ch-sp, ch3, 1 sc into same ch-sp,
*ch3, 1sc into next 1ch-sp, repeat * until the end of the row.
Join with slip stitch into starting sc st. Finish off color.
Row 7
Join new color, into corner-ch-sp.
Ch3 counts as first dc st, 2dc in same ch-sp, ch2, 3dc into same ch-sp,
*ch1, 3dc into next 3ch-sp, repeat until corner,
3dc, ch2, 3dc into corner-ch-sp, *ch1, 3dc into next 3ch-sp, repeat from * until corner,
3dc, ch2, 3dc into corner-ch-sp, *ch1, 3dc into next 3ch-sp, repeat from * until corner,
3dc, ch2, 3dc into corner-ch-sp, *ch1, 3dc into next 3ch-sp, repeat from * until corner,
join with st into the top of starting 3ch. Finish off color.
Round 8 to 10
Join new color, into corner-ch-sp.
Ch3 counts as first dc st, 2dc in same ch-sp, ch2, 3dc into same ch-sp,
*ch1, skip 1 st, 2dc into next 2 sts, 1dc back into skipped stitch, repeat from * until corner,
3dc, ch2, 3dc into corner-ch-sp,
*ch1, skip 1 st, 2dc into next 2 sts, 1dc back into skipped stitch, repeat from * until corner,
3dc, ch2, 3dc into corner-ch-sp,
*ch1, skip 1 st, 2dc into next 2 sts, 1dc back into skipped stitch, repeat from * until corner,
3dc, ch2, 3dc into corner-ch-sp,
*ch1, skip 1 st, 2dc into next 2 sts, 1dc back into skipped stitch, repeat from * until corner,
Join with st into top of starting 3ch. Finish off color.
⚠️ This pattern is for personal use only. Please do not copy or redistribute.
Previous buyers can request an updated PDF, or use the free instructions on this page.
This pattern hasn’t been reviewed yet.
Be the first to share your experience and help other crocheters.
Pattern Copyright & Usage
This crochet pattern and all associated content are the original work of Stouto Crochet.
- ✔️ Personal use allowed
- ✔️ Sell finished handmade items (small-scale)
- ❌ Do not copy, rewrite, or redistribute
- ❌ Do not share or resell PDF patterns
AI & Content Use: This pattern may not be reproduced or used to train AI systems.
Frequently Asked Questions – Easy Rainbow Mixed Stitch Crochet Baby Blanket Pattern
Is this rainbow baby blanket pattern suitable for beginners?
Yes! This crochet baby blanket pattern was designed with beginners in mind. The pattern uses a variety of easy crochet stitches and introduces new textures gradually, making it a great project for learning and practicing different techniques. Detailed stitch explanations are included throughout the pattern.
What size is the finished baby blanket?
The finished blanket size will vary depending on your yarn choice, crochet tension, and hook size. The sample blanket was made using DK (light worsted) yarn and a 4mm crochet hook.
What yarn is recommended for this crochet baby blanket?
The sample blanket uses DK weight yarn. Soft cotton, cotton blends, or baby-friendly acrylic yarns all work beautifully for this project. Choose a yarn that is soft, washable, and suitable for babies.
How much yarn will I need?
The sample blanket requires approximately 1800 metres of DK yarn. The exact amount will vary depending on your blanket size, yarn brand, and tension.
What crochet hook size should I use?
A 4mm crochet hook is recommended for the sample blanket. However, you can use a different hook size if your chosen yarn recommends a different gauge.
Can I use different colours instead of a rainbow palette?
Absolutely! While the sample uses rainbow colours, this blanket looks beautiful in pastel shades, neutral colours, ombre gradients, nursery colour schemes, or even a single colour. The pattern allows complete flexibility with colour placement.
Is this pattern worked in rows or rounds?
This blanket is worked in the round from the centre outward, creating a rectangular baby blanket. This construction method helps maintain straight edges and balanced proportions throughout the project.
What crochet stitches are used in this blanket?
The pattern includes a variety of beginner-friendly stitches, including double crochet, half double crochet, crossed stitches, granny-style clusters, shell stitches, and textured stitch combinations. This makes it an enjoyable stitch sampler project.
Can I make the blanket larger?
Yes. You can continue repeating the rounds to create a larger receiving blanket, stroller blanket, cot blanket, or throw. The rectangular construction makes it easy to customise the size.
Is this a good baby shower gift project?
Yes! Handmade baby blankets are treasured keepsakes and make wonderful baby shower, christening, newborn, and first birthday gifts. The colourful rainbow design is suitable for both boys and girls.
Can I use leftover yarn for this project?
Yes. This pattern is ideal for using up leftover DK yarn from your stash. The striped design makes it easy to incorporate multiple colours while creating a unique blanket.
Are both US and UK crochet terms available?
Yes. Stitch terminology guides are available in both US and UK crochet terms, making it easier for crocheters worldwide to follow the pattern.
How long does it take to crochet this blanket?
Completion time depends on your crochet speed and experience level. Many crocheters enjoy working on a few rounds at a time, making it an ideal relaxing evening or weekend project.
Do I need to change colours every round?
No. The rainbow colour sequence shown is only a suggestion. You can change colours as often or as little as you like to create your own unique version.
Why is a stitch sampler baby blanket a good beginner project?
A stitch sampler blanket allows you to learn and practice multiple crochet stitches within one project. By the time you finish the blanket, you'll have gained confidence working different textures, stitch patterns, and colour changes while creating a beautiful finished item.
