Afghans | Size Matters

In addition to the other projects in the pipeline, I'm working on another afghan design. It's still in the development stages so it's too early to discuss details, but as always the process has me thinking about the issue of dimensions.

TWEGEN

Afghans are infinitely variable, but size matters at every stage from concept through completion. Size affects overall design composition and color distribution. It also affects all the practical elements from stitch combinations to yardage, weight, usability and long-term care.

 DRUMLIN

Because I design afghans, people sometimes ask for advice on dimensions. This can be a tricky question to answer since every knitter (and recipient) has their preferences where size is concerned.

When I started writing patterns for release rather than just my own use, it seemed wise to establish some standard criteria and be consistent. The table below highlights the basic dimensions I use for the most common types of afghan and blankets.

AFGHANS & BLANKETS

SIZE	TYPE	SHAPE	TYPICAL DIMENSIONS (width x length)	APPROX. YARDAGE Worsted *
Extra Small (XS)	Car Seat	Rectangle	18 x 28 ins	450
	Stroller	Rectangle	22 x 30 ins	600
Small (S)	Baby	Rectangle	28 x 36 ins	900
	Baby	Square	36 x 36 ins	1200
	Baby	Circular	36 ins diameter	1200
Medium (M)	Lap Robe/Lapghan	Rectangle	35 x 45 ins	1400
	Crib/Toddler	Rectangle	36 x 48 ins	1500
Large (L)	Throw	Rectangle	42 x 60 ins	2000
Extra Large (XL)	Twin Topper	Rectangle	38 x 75 ins	2200
	Full Topper	Rectangle	53 x 75 ins	3100
	Queen Topper	Rectangle	60 x 80 ins	3800
	King Topper	Rectangle	76 x 80 ins	4820
* Yardage estimates are generous.

If you’re making an afghan for use on a bed, keep in mind the dimensions shown are for toppers that cover only the bed surface. Simply move up to the next largest size to create a blanket or throw with enough coverage to drape over the sides.

BREIDAN

Every afghan pattern I've released includes directions for the three most popular sizes (SML) along with easy ways to adjust the sizes up or down, but personally, I tend to favor medium-sized afghans (lap robes/lapghans).

They're a fast project comparatively speaking, and the compact size allows me to make the most of yarn from stash. They're smaller and more portable as WIPs, and much easier to handle, wash, care for and store when they're finished. These factors are essential, since afghans get near-constant use on a year-round basis in my household.

COLOR CHECK 

With spring on the horizon, many knitters will be turning to light, lacy projects, a few of which will undoubtedly find their way onto my needles, too.

If you're at all like me, however, you'll also have at least one afghan in the works, because in knitting world, afghan season lasts all year long.



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