Free Crochet Pattern – Dinosaur Blanket

As a crocheter, there’s nothing quite like the feeling of giving a handmade blanket as a gift. It’s a special way to show someone you care and it’s a gift that will be treasured for years to come. One of my favorite patterns to work on recently has been the Bernat Tricera-Tops Crochet Blanket. This pattern is perfect for older boys, it can be difficult to find patterns that aren’t overly feminine for boys and this dinosaur blanket is adorable and perfect for jungle theme baby rooms.

The pattern calls for the use of Bernat Blanket yarn, which is a soft and cozy yarn that is perfect for baby blankets. The pattern is worked in double crochet rounds from the middle, and it begins as a circle and is transformed into a spikey triceratops once you complete the simple ripple stitch rounds to shape the spikes. The horns are worked separately in single crochet, while embroidered satin stitch eyes are the perfect finishing touch to animate this prehistoric pal.

Here are my top three tips for gift wrapping a handmade blanket:

Fold the blanket neatly and wrap it with tissue paper or cellophane. This will help to keep the blanket clean and wrinkle-free.

Add a ribbon or bow to the blanket to make it look extra special.

Include a card with a personal message. This will make the gift even more special and it will be appreciated by the recipient.

In conclusion, the Bernat Tricera-Tops Crochet Blanket is a perfect project for anyone looking to create a unique and special gift for a new baby. The pattern is easy to follow and the end result is a beautiful, high-quality blanket that any new parent would be thrilled to receive. So grab your crochet hook, some yarn and start creating a special gift for a new baby today! And don’t forget to wrap it up beautifully for an extra touch of love.

This is one of those shawl patterns that feels instantly calming, even before you pick up a hook. The Forest Valley Shawl (After Party Pattern 23) by Scheepjes, available through Jimmy Beans Wool, has a very gentle, nature-inspired feel that really lives up to its name.

What I love about this design is how wearable it is. Some shawls are beautiful but awkward to style; this one feels practical in the best way. It drapes naturally, sits nicely on the shoulders, and works just as well for everyday wear as it does for something a little dressier. It’s the sort of piece you grab when the air cools in the evening and you don’t want anything heavy.

From a crochet perspective, this is a lovely “slow and steady” project. The stitch pattern has enough variation to keep your interest, but it’s not overly complicated. It’s very much the kind of crochet you can sink into — the sort that lets your mind wander while your hands keep moving. Perfect for quiet afternoons or evening crochet sessions.

Skill-wise, this one is best suited to confident beginners moving into intermediate territory. If you’re comfortable following a pattern and keeping your stitch count in check, you’ll enjoy this a lot. It’s also a great pattern for appreciating beautiful yarn — especially colourways that shift and flow, as the shawl really lets them shine.

Overall, the Forest Valley Shawl is one of those free crochet patterns that feels thoughtful and soothing. It’s wearable, relaxing to make, and finished with a look that feels timeless rather than trendy. If you enjoy shawls that are as comforting to crochet as they are to wear, this one is definitely worth bookmarking.

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