Patterns, projects and techniques
I thought it was 'Finish' it Friday!
Things don’t always work out as planned. BUT, this is a good idea that we all should get behind – so that we don’t get behind. Most of us need help remaining motivated, especially when we have deadlines coming or have multiple projects on the front and back burners. I sure do! So, check out Lisa’s blog and see if you can motivate her and we can all motivate each other!
This Free Shock Wave Crochet Lap Blanket Pattern from Mary Maxim looks like one of those wonderfully satisfying projects that gives big cozy payoff without fiddly detail. Mary Maxim lists it as a free download, designed as a crochet afghan/lap blanket, with a finished size of 45 x 50 inches.
What immediately stands out is the yarn choice. The pattern is made with Bernat Blanket Extra Thick, using 5 skeins, and calls for a U.S. U/50 (25 mm) crochet hook. That is gloriously chunky territory, which usually means fast progress and lots of squishy texture. If you are in the mood for a project that feels substantial in your hands and grows quickly row by row, this one definitely has that appeal.
Mary Maxim describes the blanket as having a beautifully textured, plush, soft finish and suggests it as a project for home décor or gifting. Based on the materials and oversized hook alone, that sounds about right. This feels like the sort of blanket you make for curling up on the couch, draping over a chair, or giving as a practical handmade gift that will actually get used instead of folded away “for best.”
The pattern is marked Easy, and the listed stitch requirements are straightforward: chain, repeat, double crochet, single crochet, and slip stitch. That makes it sound approachable for confident beginners and very appealing for anyone who wants a relaxing crochet project without too much counting drama.
I also think the lap blanket size is a smart one. Not every crochet blanket needs to become a giant commitment that takes over the lounge room and your will to live. A 45 x 50 inch blanket is a useful, manageable size for gifting, for wheelchairs or reading nooks, or just for keeping on hand for chilly evenings. That practicality gives this pattern extra appeal. The usability point is my own take based on the finished dimensions Mary Maxim provides.
At the moment, the pattern page shows no reviews, so there is not much customer feedback to go on yet. Still, if you enjoy easy crochet blanket patterns, super chunky crochet throws, or quick lap blanket projects, this one looks like a solid freebie to save.
My overall take? This looks like a fast, cozy, beginner-friendly crochet blanket pattern with plenty of texture and instant-gratification energy. Very much the sort of project you start because it looks easy, then keep going because the yarn feels ridiculously soft.
just found You looking up Thread crochet. I am a just got back to it “Hook-er” ( PLEASE LET NO ONE TAKE OFFENCE) Look up the term crochet… I believe all those with hooks go anywhere with any size-hooks,fiber like stuff… glad to meet you…looking forward to your blogs consider yourself “bookmarked” in Tuscaloosa, Alabama
ps Love the “finish it friday” idea!!! that just might keep my ever-so-slow-self going…lack of self forfillment is no excuse…RIGHT????? Peace love and Many Chains Mary
Mary,
Glad you found us! You’re right – we are hookers! No one takes offense.
jd
I’ve gotta laugh at this JD, one of my crochet art designs says “I’m The OTHER Happy Hooker!”
Hi Mary, always nice to run into another threadie! JD’s the coolest, you’ll love it here.
I love the idea of “Finish It Friday”. I need all the motivation that I can get. When I am at the gym, I see people reading while on the eliptical or treadmill and I always wonder….mmmmm…I wonder if I could crochet while walking, lol. We shall see!
Thanks so much for featuring “Finish it Friday” from my blog! I appreciate the exposure and would love to have more people join us! I post a weekly update of finishes with a linky that people can add to. Also, we recently started a Facebook group. It’s been a fantastic way to motivate one another. Join us at http://www.facebook.com/groups/168535663250545/! Thanks again!
J.D how can i suscribe to you??? via my e-mail. I DONOT facebook or twitter. just dont care for all the extra garbage i get. I am not real computer savvy so please let me know. my bookmark page over-floweth. so many great hook sites and all. thanx mary will check back monday have a great weekend.Peace….
think I am suscribed.. didnot see stalk button but i pushed a bunch of other ones..LOL they said okey dokey . will keep you book marked just in case. you have a hookers sense of humor and spirit.look forward to more words of wisdom. Write girl Write!!!! have a “Chainy” day from Tuscaloosa AL. ps thanx for quick response…