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11 Free Crochet Lap Blanket Patterns

I’ve been asked a few times lately if I had a crochet pattern for a lap blanket or if I could recommend one.  As well as designing a couple of my own, I set out to find the latest coziest crochet lap blankets. I’m sharing my favourites (along with my top tips) today.

Perfect for using up your odds and ends of yarn, have a browse through the patterns then rummage through your stash and grab your hook.

Montage of 10 photos showing differently designed crochet lap blankets

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Why you’ll love crocheting a lap blanket

Skill Building: Lap blankets are smaller projects making them suitable for all skill levels. If you’re a beginner, you’ll be able to practice stitches and techniques on a smaller scale before tackling bigger projects.
Suitable for a wide range of people: I’m thinking the elderly, patients in Hospitals, Nursing Homes or for someone undergoing treatment, children (most like to snuggle), travellers (I’ve lost count of the times I’ve either had cold legs or shoulders) or for anyone who finds comfort in the soothing act of wrapping themselves in a cozy lap blanket!  These blankets also make fabulous gifts (whether last minute or planned).  You can’t beat the feeling of watching eyes light up as they unwrap and discover what you’ve gifted.
Bust that Stash: Crocheting a lap blanket can be an excellent way to use up your leftover yarn from other projects. It’s a practical way for you to reduce yarn waste and you’ll have created something beautiful! Use all your colours in the patterns below and make your crochet lap blanket unique. 
Montage of four photos showing close ups of crochet stitches used in blankets

Choosing the best yarn for your lap blanket

Choosing a soft and comfortable yarn is important for creating your cozy lap blanket.

In no particular order, I’m sharing some popular yarn choices that are known for their softness and comfort.  You might be surprised to find I’ve included acrylic but some brands can be soft.  The softest acrylic texture I’ve worked with has been baby yarns. Do you have a favourite acrylic yarn?  Let me know in the comments.

  • Merino Wool: Merino wool is soft and warm. It’s a natural fibre that feels gentle against the skin and is often used for making luxurious and comfortable blankets.
  • Alpaca: Alpaca yarn is incredibly soft and has a silky feel. It’s lightweight, warm, and a great choice for those who are sensitive to other types of wool.
  • Cotton: Cotton yarn is soft, breathable, and hypoallergenic. It’s an excellent option for lap blankets, especially in warmer climates or for people with wool allergies.  My all-time favourite is King Cole Cotton Soft.
  • Bamboo: Bamboo yarn has a smooth and silky texture, making it a comfortable choice for blankets. It also has natural moisture-wicking properties, which can be beneficial for temperature regulation.
  • Chenille: Chenille yarn has a velvety texture that is incredibly soft. It creates plush and luxurious blankets, perfect for snuggling.
  • Acrylic: High-quality/premium acrylic yarn can be soft and budget-friendly. It’s easy to care for and comes in a wide range of colours making this a popular choice
  • Cashmere Blend: For a touch of luxury, consider yarn blends that include cashmere. Cashmere adds a soft and luxurious feel to the blanket.
  • Velvet Yarn: Velvet yarn is a plush and velvety option that creates a soft and velvety texture. It’s a popular choice for blankets due to how it feels when touched.

The patterns I’m sharing with you today use worsted/aran, chunky, lightweight chunky and super chunky yarn weights.

I haven’t added the quantities of yarn as if you substitute, you could use more or less than stated in the patterns.

Tips for crocheting your lap blanket

In this section you’ll find expert tips that you might find helpful:

  1. Selecting a Pattern:  this might seem obvious but … choose a pattern that is suitable for your skill level. It’s easy to get drawn into a pattern that you love the look of (when I started out I always seemed to be drawn to patterns that needed more skill and I used to get frustrated!).  If you’re a beginner, start with a straightforward stitch pattern.  Lap blankets don’t need complex patterns to be beautiful and functional.  Read the pattern through before you start to crochet.
  2. Measurements:  Determine the size you want for your lap blanket. Standard lap blanket sizes are typically around 36 inches by 48 inches, but you don’t have to be exact with your measurements.  The patterns below range from 30” in width to 52” high.
  3. Gauge Swatch:  crochet a gauge swatch to make sure that your tension and stitch size match the pattern. This step can help prevent surprises in the final size of your blanket!
  4. Colour Coordination:  If you’re using multiple colours, I think it’s best to plan your colour scheme in advance so that you’ll be happy with the finished look.
  5. Weave in Ends as You Go:  Instead of leaving all the weaving-in until the end (something I’m guilty of doing!), weave in your yarn ends as you complete each colour or section. This can save time and make the finishing process less overwhelming.  You’ll thank yourself!
  6. Blocking:  Consider blocking your lap blanket when it’s complete. Blocking helps even out stitches and gives your project a polished look.
  7. Experiment with Stitch Patterns:  If you’re experienced and designing your own lap blanket use it as an opportunity to experiment with different stitch patterns. You can combine simple stitches, try textured patterns, granny squares or hexagons.
  8. Add Personal Touches:  Consider adding personal touches like a border, fringe, or even appliqué for a unique and customized look.
montage of 4 photos showing different designs of blankets

Lap Blanket Crochet Patterns

Want to have a go at designing your own crochet lap blanket? Follow the 7 easy steps here.

If you prefer to follow a pattern, this section is for you.

Clicking on the numbered link before the image will take you directly to the lap blanket crochet pattern.

Most of the patterns are written in US crochet terms.

For my UK crocheters, the table below is a conversion of basic crochet stitches from US to UK.

US Crochet TermsUK Crochet Terms
single crochet (sc)double crochet (dc)
half double crochet (hdc)half treble crochet (htr)
double crochet (dc)treble crochet (tr)
treble (tr)double treble (dtr)
double treble (dtr)triple treble (trtr)

1. Princess of Diamonds Crochet Lap Blanket

A woman is holding up a crocheted blanket
Jera’s Jamboree

My lap blanket is an easy project, a fabulous stash buster and is suitable for lots of people of all different ages.  If you’re looking for a last-minute gift, this blanket would be perfect!

A large granny square is worked first.  An easy technique turns it into a diamond shape! before continuing to work the granny square.  I’ve added a shell border which gives a lovely finish.

Written in US and UK crochet terms, this blanket pattern is free to view on my website (ad supported) and available to buy as a PDF.

  • Crochet Stitch: Granny Square
  • Recommended yarn:  Lightweight Chunky 920yds/840m
  • Measurements: approximately 32” X 32”

2. Easy Crochet Lap Blanket

A blanket is draped over the corner of a sofa
Easy Crochet

I love the texture the basic crochet stitches make in this lap blanket crochet pattern.

Once you’ve set up the first two rows, you’ll be working a repeat of row 3 for a total of 79 rows.  How easy is that!

The pattern is clear on where you need to change colour although I think it would look great in one colour as well.  Use yarn you have in your stash to keep your costs down.

An accompanying video shows you the first few rows to get you started – perfect if you’re a beginner and just starting to experiment with different stitch patterns.

  • Crochet stitch: single crochet, double crochet, half double crochet
  • Recommended yarn: Lion Brand Mandala Tweed Stripes 780yds (discontinued – check out YarnSub for substitutions) and Feels Like Butta 100yds; weight 4 yarn
  • Measurements: 35” X 32”

If you prefer working ad-free, you can buy this pattern in PDF format.

3. Ferguson Lap Blanket

A blanket is draped over the back of a dining chair
Two Brothers Blankets

This lap blanket is worked in an easy repetitive pattern.  It’s a simple stitch multiple as well, so you can make it any size you prefer.

Worked in rows, a border is optional.  How to make the tassels isn’t included.  If you need help, this article sets out step-by-step what to do to make your own.

The PDF for this lap blanket is available to buy on Etsy.

4. Bulky Blanket Crochet Pattern Misty Green Lap Afghan

A blanket crocheted in bulky yarn is folded on the floor
A More Crafty Life

I enjoyed working a V-Stitch cluster in my hexagon sweater.  It adds texture and bulk to an otherwise thinner stitch.  And I think it works beautifully in this bulky blanket.

This pattern only has 3 crochet stitches with a one row repeat – perfect if you’re a beginner but also great if you need a quick make.  You can easily scale it up to make a bigger blanket too. 

  • Crochet stitch: chain, double crochet, double crochet 2 together stitch
  • Recommended yarn: Bernat Baby Blanket Yarn
  • Measurements: 38” X 44”

5. Textured Lap Blanket

A blanket crocheted in shades of grey is folded on the floor
Oombawka Design Crochet

The designer has created this pattern specifically for her grandma who is in a retirement home.  It’s the perfect size for sitting in a chair and watching TV or when doing other activities.  And like all of the patterns in this roundup, the blanket is easy to upscale to a bigger size with a repeat of one row.

It’s interesting to see the difference between this stitch and my modified stitch I used in my Tranquil Moments blanket.  They look like two completely different stitches.

This lap blanket crochet pattern also includes a stitch diagram and a video tutorial.

If you prefer to work from a PDF, you can buy this pattern on Etsy.

  • Crochet stitch:  Trinity Stitch
  • Recommended yarn: Caron Big Cakes (you’ll find a list of substitutions on YarnSub)
  • Measurements: 39″ (W) by 29″ (L) with the edging

6. Waffle Stitch Crochet Blanket Pattern

A blanket is draped over the back of a sofa
Mama in a Stitch

The waffle stitch gives a perfect denser texture for a blanket you’re going to be using over your lap to keep your legs warm or even around your shoulders.  Be warned though, this stitch is a yarn-eater!

This is another easy blanket pattern with a two-row repeat that you can scale.

Although this blanket uses a worsted weight/Aran yarn, it is a lighter weight that is closer to DK.  Crocheted in three colours that blend, you might find you already have what you need from leftover projects.

The designer sells this pattern in her Etsy store.

  • Crochet stitch: Waffle Stitch
  • Recommended yarn: Lion Brand Color Theory
  • Measurements: Lapghan or Baby: 38” x 30”, Throw: 40” x 54”

7.  Block Stitch Lap Blanket

A close up of the crochet block stitch in various colours
Emma Leith

You may have used the block stitch in previous blankets and wondering why I’ve included this pattern … there are a couple of things that make this lap blanket stand out for me. 

The use of colours is amazing and draws the eye (there is a table showing which colours to use in the rows).  And, I love a pompom border!  I used a similar border on my Seaside Dreams blanket.  It gives such a fun twist. 

Clicking on the numbered link above will take you to Ravelry where you have the option of buying a PDF of the pattern or visiting the designer’s website where you’ll find the pattern for free.

  • Crochet stitch: Block Stitch
  • Recommended yarn:  Aran/Worsted Weight 4
  • Measurements: 43” X 43”

8. C2C Crochet Lap Blanket

A blanket crocheted in green is draped along the back of a settee
Zamiguz

The designer recommends you crochet a swatch first to see how you get on with the stitch used in this C2C blanket.

Crocheted in 3 sections with Section 1 increasing to add width to the blanket, section 2 adding length and section 3 decreasing to finish the last corner of the blanket.

Instructions are included for a square and a rectangular blanket.

  • Crochet stitch: Granny Spike Stitch
  • Recommended yarn: worsted weight #4
  • Measurements: 39” X 51”

This lap blanket crochet pattern is available to purchase in PDF format.

9. Easy Crochet Lap Blanket for Beginners

A woman is standing up holding a blanket with a zig zag pattern
Life and Yarn

Made with simple stitches and an easy repeat row, this free pattern uses two different colours to create a visually amazing texture!

If you’re not feeling confident about the pattern, a linked video tutorial will show you how to work the stitch.  A PDF version of this pattern is available to buy.

Using super chunky yarn, you’ll have this project worked up really quickly.  Perfect if you’re looking for a last-minute handmade gift.

  • Crochet stitch: single crochet, double crochet stitches, treble crochet, double treble crochet and triple treble crochet.
  • Recommended yarn:  Lion Brand Hometown
  • Measurements: 36” x 32”

10. Daisy Blanket

A woman is holding up a blanket crocheted in daisy granny squares
All About Ami

I couldn’t share my favourite patterns without including a granny square blanket!

I enjoy working granny squares but sometimes, a project can take too long and I find I lose interest (you too?).  Crocheted in bulky yarn, the squares in this blanket work up really quickly and you’ll only need 42 squares.  Plus of course it’s really pretty.  And you could choose any background colour to suit your colour scheme at home.

This pattern shows you in stages how the daisy granny square is worked, how to arrange them and clear instructions are given for how to join them together.

An ad-free PDF of this pattern is available to purchase.

  • Crochet stitch: daisy granny square
  • Recommended yarn: Bulky/Chunky #5 weight – Lion Brand Hue & Me
  • Measurements: 45” X  52”

11. Gentle Waves Lap Crochet Blanket

A blanket is styled on a sofa
Yarnspirations

The texture of this blanket looks brilliant and with the addition of the contrasting white yarn, gives an interesting design.

Quick to make, the pattern is worked in a four-row repeat for 47 rows.  Easy!

Download the free PDF from the numbered link above.

  • Crochet stitch: single crochet, double crochet,
  • Recommended yarn: Super Chunky –  Bernat Softee Chunky
  • Measurements: 30″ x 45″

Related Crochet Blanket Patterns

If you enjoy working with a combination of stitches and techniques, you might like:

Easy patterns with colour changes include:

Short on time? These baby blanket kits or modern blanket kits could be just what you need.

Wanting to design your own blanket or looking for an easy blanket crochet pattern?  These simple blankets and instructions to create your own are just what you need.

Whether you’re an experienced crocheter or just starting out, I hope you feel inspired to get creating your beautiful lap blanket.

Happy crocheting!

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