Master the Art of Knitting: How to Add a Stunning Border to Your Finished Blanket

As the weather starts to cool down and cozy nights at home become more frequent, there’s nothing better than snuggling up under a warm and comforting knit blanket. But what if you’ve already completed your beloved blanket and want to add a finishing touch? Look no further, because in this article, we will teach you how to knit a border on a finished blanket. Whether you’re looking for an easy way to personalize your blanket or want to add some extra warmth, this step-by-step guide will walk you through all the essential techniques to achieve a beautiful and professional-looking border. So grab your knitting needles and let’s get crafty!

Understanding the Purpose of Knitted Borders

A knitted border is an essential finishing touch for any blanket. It is a decorative element that adds structure and style to your finished project. The main purpose of a knitted border is to provide a clean and polished edge, preventing the blanket from unraveling or fraying. Additionally, it can also serve as a border for added warmth and durability.

Apart from the practical purposes, a knitted border can also enhance the overall appearance of your finished blanket. It adds visual interest and can be used to tie together different colors or patterns used in the center of the blanket. Knitted borders also provide an opportunity to showcase your creativity and personalize your project.

Selecting Yarn and Needles for Your Border

The first step in knitting a border on a finished blanket is selecting the right yarn and needles. Ideally, you should use the same yarn that you used for making the blanket, but you can also choose complementary colors or textures for contrast. Make sure to check the weight and fiber content of your chosen yarn before starting.

When it comes to needles, you have several options depending on the type of border you want to knit. Straight needles are best suited for simple borders with a single knit or purl stitch pattern. Circular needles allow you to create more intricate designs, while double-pointed needles are perfect for knitting in the round for seamless borders.

Preparing Your Blanket for Knitting

Before starting your knitting project, it is important to prepare your finished blanket properly. First, give it a gentle wash as this will help even out any tension discrepancies and fluff up any fibers that may have become squashed during storage.

Next, lay your blanket flat on a smooth surface. You may want to block it if there are any uneven edges or if it has stretched out of shape slightly. This will ensure that your border is knitted evenly and looks neat and tidy.

Choosing the Right Border Pattern

There are many different border patterns to choose from, depending on your skill level, desired outcome, and personal preference. Knitted borders can be simple or complex, using just a few basic stitches or incorporating lace and colorwork.

For beginners, a basic garter stitch border is recommended as it is easy to knit and creates a clean edge. If you want to add some texture, you can opt for a seed stitch or ribbed border. If you are more advanced, you can try more intricate patterns such as cables or bobble stitches.

Knitting the Border

Once you have decided on the yarn, needles, and pattern for your border, it’s time to start knitting! Place your blanket on a flat surface with the right side facing up. Begin by picking up stitches along one edge of the blanket using your preferred method (e.g. knitting needle or crochet hook).

Continue knitting in your chosen pattern until you reach the corner of the blanket. To create neat corners, there are various techniques such as increasing or decreasing stitches on each row or picking up additional stitches at the corner itself.

Once all four edges have been knitted, weave in any loose ends and gently steam block your border to give it a professional finish.

Adding Final Touches

To make your knitted border even more special, consider adding some final embellishments. You can add buttons or beads to create a unique design element or embroider initials or patterns onto the border using a contrasting yarn.

You may also want to consider adding edging details such as fringe, tassels, or pom-poms for added texture and visual interest.

Tips for Knitting Borders

– Always use the same weight yarn as used in the blanket, or a yarn with similar properties, to ensure an even and cohesive look.
– Make sure to cast on an appropriate number of stitches to avoid a stretched or bunched up border.
– If you are using circular needles, make sure to switch to a smaller set when working on the corners for easier maneuverability.
– Keep your tension consistent throughout to avoid puckering or loose stitches in your border.
– If you make a mistake, don’t be afraid to rip back and start again. It’s better to take the time and get it right than have an uneven or messy border.
– Experiment with different patterns and techniques for borders to find what suits your style and project best.

Conclusion

Knitted borders are the perfect finishing touch for any blanket. They not only serve practical purposes but also add visual interest and allow for personalization and creativity. By selecting the right yarn, needles, pattern, and utilizing proper techniques, you can create a beautiful border that will enhance the overall look of your finished project. With patience and practice, anyone can master knitting borders and take their blankets to the next level. So go ahead, grab your needles and start knitting that perfect border!

Understanding the Importance of a Border on a Finished Blanket

When it comes to knitting, adding a border to a finished blanket may seem like an unnecessary step. After all, the main part of the project is complete and the blanket is functional as it is. However, there are actually several reasons why adding a border can elevate your finished blanket to the next level.

First and foremost, adding a border can add a polished and professional look to your finished blanket. It creates a clean and defined edge that helps give your blanket a finished and cohesive appearance. This is especially important if you plan on giving your blanket as a gift or if you are planning on selling it.

Secondly, borders can also help prevent your knitted stitches from unravelling or stretching out over time. The extra layer of stitches provides stability and reinforcement to the edges of your blanket. This is especially useful for blankets that will be used regularly and washed frequently.

Furthermore, borders can also add an element of design to your finished blanket. Depending on how you choose to knit the border, it can enhance the overall aesthetic of your project. For example, a simple garter stitch border adds texture and interest without overpowering the main body of the blanket.

Selecting the Right Yarn for Your Border

When choosing yarn for your border, it’s important to consider both its weight and color. The weight should match or complement the yarn used for the main part of your blanket in order to maintain consistency throughout the project. As for color, you have two options:

1) Matching color: If you want your border to blend seamlessly with the rest of your blanket, choose a yarn that matches one of the colors in your project.

2) Contrasting color: On the other hand, if you want your border to stand out and create contrast against the body of your blanket, choose a different but complementary color.

In addition, you should also consider the texture of your chosen yarn. For example, if your main blanket is made of a smooth and drapey yarn, you may want to choose a slightly heavier and more textured yarn for your border to add interest and contrast.

Preparing Your Finished Blanket for the Border

Before you begin knitting the border, it’s important to prepare your finished blanket first. This includes blocking and trimming any loose ends. Blocking helps even out the stitches and ensures that your blanket is flat and even. Trimming any loose ends will prevent them from getting caught in your border as you knit.

You may also want to consider adding stitch markers along the edge of your blanket to help keep track of your stitches as you knit the border.

Knitting Techniques for Borders

There are various techniques that can be used for knitting borders on finished blankets. The most common methods include:

1) Picking up stitches: This involves using a needle to pick up stitches along the edge of your blanket and then knitting the border directly onto those stitches.

2) Provisional cast-on: With this method, you use a provisional cast-on to add extra stitches at the beginning of each row before knitting the actual border.

3) Sewing on a separate border: For this technique, a separate piece is knitted separately and then sewn onto one or more edges of your finished blanket.

The technique you choose will depend on personal preference as well as the desired look for your finished project.

Knitting Tips for Creating a Flawless Border

Once you have selected your yarn and decided on a technique, it’s time to actually knit the border onto your finished blanket. Here are some expert tips to keep in mind during this process:

1) Keep an eye on tension: It’s important to maintain consistent tension while knitting the border. This will ensure that the stitches are not too loose or too tight, resulting in a clean and even appearance.

2) Be mindful of stitch count: Make sure to keep track of your stitch count to avoid any mistakes or uneven edges. It may be helpful to use stitch markers for this purpose.

3) Joining corners: For square or rectangular blankets, joining the corners can be a bit tricky. To ensure a smooth and seamless corner, stop knitting one or two stitches before reaching the corner and then continue on the next side.

4) Picking up stitches evenly: When picking up stitches along the edge of your blanket, make sure to do so evenly in order to avoid any gaps or bunching.

Adding Finishing Touches

Once you have completed knitting the border, it’s time to add any finishing touches. This may include weaving in any loose ends, blocking the border for an even appearance, or adding decorative elements such as tassels or fringe.

You can also consider embellishing your border with different stitch patterns such as cables, lace, or colorwork. This can add an extra level of detail and interest to your finished project.

Although adding a border to a finished blanket may seem

Q: What supplies do I need to knit a border on a finished blanket?
A: You will need the following supplies: a finished blanket, yarn, knitting needles, a tapestry needle, and scissors.

Q: How do I choose the right yarn for my border?
A: When choosing yarn for your border, make sure to select a similar weight and type as the yarn used for the main body of the blanket. This will ensure a cohesive and professional look.

Q: What type of stitch should I use for knitting a border on a finished blanket?
A: You can use any basic knitting stitch such as garter stitch or seed stitch for your border. However, it is recommended to choose a simple and easy-to-knit stitch to avoid complicating the process.

Q: How do I start knitting the border onto my finished blanket?
A: To begin knitting the border, pick up stitches along one side of your blanket using your knitting needles. Then follow the chosen stitch pattern to create your desired border.

Q: Can I switch colors while knitting the border on my finished blanket?
A: Yes, you can switch colors when knitting the border. Simply cut off one color and add in the new color at the edge of your blanket. Make sure to weave in any loose ends as you go.

Q: What is the best way to secure my knitted border onto my finished blanket?
A: Once you have completed knitting the entire border, bind off your stitches tightly to secure them onto your finished blanket. Then weave in any loose ends with a tapestry needle for a clean finish.

In conclusion, learning how to knit a border on a finished blanket is not only a practical skill, but also a joyful and fulfilling hobby. It offers endless possibilities for customization and adds a beautiful finishing touch to any handmade blanket. By following the step-by-step guide outlined above and practicing patience and perseverance, anyone can successfully complete this project.

One important aspect to keep in mind is the importance of choosing the right materials, whether it is the type of yarn or needle size. This will greatly impact the final outcome of your border and ensure that it complements the overall look of your finished blanket.

Furthermore, understanding basic knitting techniques such as casting on, knitting, purling, and casting off are essential for achieving a clean and professional-looking border. It is also crucial to maintain consistency in tension throughout the project to avoid any unevenness or loose stitches.

Moreover, incorporating creative elements such as different stitch patterns or colors can add depth and character to your border. This allows for personalization and adds an extra level of uniqueness to your finished blanket.

Lastly, while the process of knitting a border may seem daunting at first, it is important to remember that knitting itself is a skill that requires practice. With each project comes new challenges and opportunities for growth. So do not be discouraged by

Author Profile

Jill Nammar

My name is Jill but everyone calls me Jilly. I design original cross stitch patterns inspired by vintage French and flowers. Roses are my muse.
I hope you have a cozy time stitching my patterns. Put the kettle on, relax and create a heartwarming piece of hand-embroidered art. Personalize your home and turn up the soulful charm with soulful stitchery.

My goal is to provide you with pretty patterns that promote peaceful stitching. My wish is for you to discover the gentle beauty of hand-embroidery.My patterns have been featured around the web and in Homespun Magazine and Boston Magazine. I find my bliss in cross stitch.

From 2024, I have embarked on a new venture—writing an informative blog on the “Embroidery and Cross-Stitch” niche. This blog is an extension of my passion, where I share detailed posts and respond to queries related to embroidery and cross-stitching.

The blog covers a wide range of topics from beginner tips, pattern creation, historical insights, and the therapeutic benefits of stitching. My goal is to build a community where enthusiasts can learn, share, and grow in their embroidery skills, ensuring everyone can find their own bliss in cross-stitch just as I did.

Thank you to all my customers and readers who have supported Sew French. Your kind emails, photos of completed patterns, and continual encouragement fuel my dedication to this beautiful craft. Join me in stitching a world of beauty and peace, one pattern at a time.