Knitting and Crochet are not only relaxing and creative hobbies but can also be a beautiful way to document and commemorate the passing of time. One popular trend among knitting & crochet enthusiasts is the creation of temperature blankets. These blankets are not only aesthetically pleasing but also serve as a unique way to track and celebrate daily weather patterns throughout the year. Other popular temperature themes projects include scarves, cowls, shawls, sweaters, baby blankets, and even the occasional toy.

• Temperature Blanket Inspiration of Instagram
• Crochet Temperature Projects
• Knitted Temperature Projects

What is a temperature blanket?

A temperature blanket is a project where each row or stitch represents the weather conditions or temperature of a specific day. From cool blues and greens for cold winter days to warm oranges and yellows for hot summer weather, the colours of the blanket change according to a pre-chosen colour scale. Knitters/crocheters typically assign a colour to certain temperature ranges, allowing them to visually depict temperature variations over time.

If you aren’t drawn to the idea of tracking the temperature you can also follow other types of data, like precipitation (I have one client who was making a blanket based on the security alert updates at her university …. you can adapt the idea to any trend or phenomena. Some people make blankets for children based on the weather from the first year of their life.

Temperature blankets also don’t have to be linear – you can make squares, strips or blocks and join them together in any way you like. Plus, one of the major benefits is you don’t need to have to have elaborate skills to make a temperature blanket, the basics go a loooong way!

Choosing the colour scheme

One of the appealing aspects of knitting a temperature blanket is the ability to personalize the project and choose a colour scheme that resonates with you. You can create your own colour scale or use existing templates available online. Some people prefer using a simple scale (like the colours of the rainbow), assigning a unique colour to a specific temperature range (ie. assign warm colours {pink, red, orange, yellow} to the warmer temperatures and cool colours {green, blue, purple} to the cooler temperatures). Others get more creative, incorporating multiple shades within a range to add depth and texture to their project. Some go for neutrals or keeps things more tonal. If you want to go REALLY off grid, you can choose a bunch of different yarns in similar colours and let the nuances of the different textures take over (be sure to choose yarns that are very close in thickness, for example all worsted weight or all DK weight). It’s totally up to you, there are no rules.

Tracking the temperature

To create a temperature blanket, it is essential to track the temperature each day. You can use various sources such as local weather reports, weather apps, or outdoor thermometers. Maintaining a record of the daily temperature allows you to map out the colours for each row or stitch accurately.

Tunisian Crochet Temperature Blanket

• FREE Pattern
• DK Weight Yarn (like Berroco Vintage DK, Berroco Vintage Baby, or Sandnes Garn Double Sunday): about 100g in each of 9 colours (or more)
• 5mm to 6mm tunisian crochet hook (depending on your tension … if you are making short rows like this blanket you may only want to get a 24″ cord for your hook, an extra-long cable may get a little in the way)

Selecting the pattern and yarn

One of the great things about a temperature project, especially a blanket, is you have tons of flexibility in which yarn you choose! Thicker, thinner machine washable, the variables are flexible. Once you have decided on your color scheme, it’s time to choose the pattern and yarn for your temperature blanket. Simple, repetitive stitch patterns like garter stitch or stockinette stitch work well for these projects since they allow the colours to take centre stage.

Want some inspiration? Try #temperatureblanket on instagram

• Most patterns for temperature blankets seem to be designed with DK or Worsted weight yarn. If you want your project to work up faster go for a thicker yarn like Berroco Vintage Chunky, but be sure to adjust your needle size.
• I suggest making your blanket in one piece or in larger blocks that are easy to join. If you choose a pattern with small motifs, make sure it’s a “join-as-you-go” technique, otherwise you’ll have a pile of tiny pieces at the ends and may want to commit homicide (or worse).

The joy of daily knitting

Knitting a temperature blanket involves a long-term commitment, as it represents an entire year’s worth of weather patterns. Many knitters find the slow progression of this project to be a calming and reflective experience. Each day, as you add a new row or stitch to your blanket, you reflect on the passing of time and the seasons that shape our lives. It becomes a tangible way to record memories and observe the subtle changes throughout the year.

Knitted All Kinds Of Weather Blanket

• FREE Pattern
• Worsted Weight Yarn (like Cascade 220 Superwash or Berroco Vintage): 1 ball in each of 10 to 25 colours.
• 5mm/US8-29″ to 32″ circular needles

A keepsake to treasure

Knitting a temperature blanket not only results in a beautiful and functional creation but also serves as a keepsake to treasure for years to come. Each time you wrap yourself in your blanket, you will be reminded of the effort, patience, and memories that went into its creation. It becomes a personal and unique memento, capturing the story of a year in one cozy and comforting piece.

Knitted Ribbed Temperature Blanket or Scarf

• FREE Pattern
• Worsted Weight Yarn (like Cascade 220 Superwash or Berroco Vintage): 1 ball in each of 12 colours (or more).
• 5mm/US8-36″ circular needles (or longer for blanket, or 24″ to 29″ for a scarf)

Conclusion

Knitting a temperature blanket offers a compelling way to blend creativity, mindfulness, and weather tracking into a single project. Whether you are an experienced knitter or a beginner, the appeal of this endeavour lies in the way it allows you to connect with nature, create lasting memories, and express your artistic flair. So, gather your yarn, create your colour chart, and embark on a knitting journey that will result in a beautiful and meaningful temperature blanket.