Late summer is a magical time, where the days are still warm, but there’s a whisper of autumn’s approach in the air. One of my favourite things to do this time of the year is meditate in my garden as the sun goes down, surrounded by the beauty of the season. I designed the Retreat Throw to be the perfect blanket to wrap around my shoulders as the air cools down with the setting of the sun.

The name itself, The Retreat Throw, evokes a sense of solace and relaxation. Like a gentle invitation to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life, this blanket serves as a refuge from the demands of the world. As you knit this pattern, you’re not just creating a physical item; you’re crafting a piece of tranquility, a haven you can escape to whenever you seek a respite from the daily grind.

As for the design itself, I used a combination of simple lace knitting and slip stitches to create a fabric that is cozy, yet light and airy. The pattern may look complicated, but it is actually a simple four row repeat.

As I write this, I still recommend that you make a small swatch before beginning your blanket to practice the stitch pattern – especially if you are new to lace knitting. The pattern calls for a multiple of 10 plus 5, plus 12 border stitches. I would say that a good swatch size would be 37 or 47 stitches. I know that swatches seem like a waste of time, but I promise that this step will make things a lot easier for you in the long run.

With the season of warmth coming to a close, I invite you to pick up your favourite needles and begin knitting your own Retreat Throw. It is my wish that you take as much joy in knitting this pattern as I did in designing it.

Pay it Forward!

Yarn Choice:

I decided to work with a yarn that I’ve had my eye on for quite a while – Valley Yarns Haydenville, from Love Crafts. Haydenville is a combination of acrylic and merino wool, making it super soft to the touch and also very affordable. When knitting blankets the cost can add up quick, so it was important to me to find a yarn that was cost effective, while feeling high end. This yarn truly feels luxurious to knit with and I could not be happier with my choice for this blanket!

The Retreat Summer Knit Throw – Free Pattern

Materials:

You will need the following materials to make this throw:

• 7 skeins (Approx. 1500 yards) Valley Yarns Haydenville worsted weight yarn in Lake (15).
• Size 8 (5 mm) circular knitting needles (32″ cord).
• Scissors.
• Tapestry/yarn needle (for weaving in ends).

Gauge:

16 stitches, 20 rows = 4″ in stockinette stitch before blocking.

Measurements:

Finished blanket measures 37” wide X 64” long after blocking.

More Free Blanket Knitting Patterns from Leelee Knits!

The Retreat Summer Knit Throw – Free Pattern

Cast on 157 stitches (multiple of 10 plus 5, plus 12 border stitches). Begin with Bottom Border.

Bottom Border:

Complete the following four rows twice (total of 8 rows) and then continue to Body of Blanket.

Row 1: Knit all sts.

Row 2: K2, *Sl1p wyib, k1; repeat from * to last st; k1.

Row 3: Knit all sts.

Row 4: K1, *Sl1p wyib, k1; repeat from * to end of row.

Row 3: Knit all sts.

Row 4: K1, *Sl1p wyib, k1; repeat from * to end of row.

Finishing:

Cast off and weave in all loose ends with a tapestry/yarn needle.

Wet or steam block to measurements and enjoy your new Retreat Throw!