DOWNLOAD THE FREE CHAIN START TABLE
We are constantly asked how many chains we need for specific-size Afghans. Using my crochet hook and measuring tape, I figured out the average chain counts you need to do to get close to the size you want.
The worksheet provided assumes 4-ply worsted medium yarn. Those include brands like Caron Simply Soft, Caron One Pound, Red Heart Super Saver, Bernat Super Value etc. Just look at the ball band for the weight level of the yarn.
The best way to customize the blanket to find the sizes is to do a quick test with the selected yarn and hook size you intend to use.
The Quick Answers
The following chains are estimates; you can download the Free Chain Table for more specific numbers. The Chain Table also includes extra chains for draping over a mattress.
5 mm / H/8 Regular Yarn Like Red Heart Super Saver
Assumed 3.75 stitches per inch.
- Receiving Blanket = Chain 90
- Small Cradle 24" wide = Chain 56
- Large Cradle 15" wide = Chain 68
- Baby Blanket 30" wide = Chain 113
- Crib 28" wide = Chain 105
- Toddler Blanket 36" wide = Chain 135
- Young Child 48" wide = Chain 180
- Teenager 60" wide = Chain 225
- Throw 60" wide = Chain 225
- Lapghan 48" wide = Chain 180
- Twin 39" wide = Chain 146
- Double / Full 54" wide = Chain 203
- Queen 60" wide = Chain 225
- King 76" wide = Chain 285
- California King 72" wide = Chain 270
5.5 mm / I/9 Regular Yarn Like Red Heart Super Saver
Assumed 3.5 stitches per inch.
- Receiving Blanket = Chain 84
- Small Cradle 24" wide = Chain 53
- Large Cradle 15" wide = Chain 63
- Baby Blanket 30" wide = Chain 105
- Crib 28" wide = Chain 98
- Toddler Blanket 36" wide = Chain 126
- Young Child 48" wide = Chain 168
- Teenager 60" wide = Chain 210
- Throw 60" wide = Chain 210
- Lapghan 48" wide = Chain 168
- Twin 39" wide = Chain 137
- Double / Full 54" wide = Chain 189
- Queen 60" wide = Chain 210
- King 76" wide = Chain 266
- California King 72" wide = Chain 252
6 mm / J/10 Regular Yarn Like Red Heart Super Saver
Assumed 3.25 stitches per inch.
- Receiving Blanket = Chain 78
- Small Cradle 24" wide = Chain 49
- Large Cradle 15" wide = Chain 59
- Baby Blanket 30" wide = Chain 98
- Crib 28" wide = Chain 91
- Toddler Blanket 36" wide = Chain 117
- Young Child 48" wide = Chain 156
- Teenager 60" wide = Chain 195
- Throw 60" wide = Chain 195
- Lapghan 48" wide = Chain 156
- Twin 39" wide = Chain 127
- Double / Full 54" wide = Chain 176
- Queen 60" wide = Chain 195
- King 76" wide = Chain 247
- California King 72" wide = Chain 234
6.5 mm / K/10.5 Regular Yarn Like Red Heart Super Saver
Assumed 3 stitches per inch.
- Receiving Blanket = Chain 72
- Small Cradle 24" wide = Chain 45
- Large Cradle 15" wide = Chain 54
- Baby Blanket 30" wide = Chain 90
- Crib 28" wide = Chain 84
- Toddler Blanket 36" wide = Chain 108
- Young Child 48" wide = Chain 144
- Teenager 60" wide = Chain 180
- Throw 60" wide = Chain 180
- Lapghan 48" wide = Chain 144
- Twin 39" wide = Chain 117
- Double / Full 54" wide = Chain 162
- Queen 60" wide = Chain 180
- King 76" wide = Chain 228
- California King 72" wide = Chain 216
8 mm / L/11 Super Bulky Yarn Like Bernat Blanket
Assumed 2 stitches per inch.
- Receiving Blanket = Chain 48
- Small Cradle 24" wide = Chain 30
- Large Cradle 15" wide = Chain 36
- Baby Blanket 30" wide = Chain 60
- Crib 28" wide = Chain 56
- Toddler Blanket 36" wide = Chain 72
- Young Child 48" wide = Chain 96
- Teenager 60" wide = Chain 120
- Throw 60" wide = Chain 120
- Lapghan 48" wide = Chain 96
- Twin 39" wide = Chain 78
- Double / Full 54" wide = Chain 108
- Queen 60" wide = Chain 120
- King 76" wide = Chain 152
- California King 72" wide = Chain 144
10 mm / N/P Super Bulky Yarn Like Bernat Blanket
Assumed 1.9 stitches per inch.
- Receiving Blanket = Chain 45
- Small Cradle 24" wide = Chain 28
- Large Cradle 15" wide = Chain 33
- Baby Blanket 30" wide = Chain 57
- Crib 28" wide = Chain 53
- Toddler Blanket 36" wide = Chain 68
- Young Child 48" wide = Chain 92
- Teenager 60" wide = Chain 114
- Throw 60" wide = Chain 114
- Lapghan 48" wide = Chain 92
- Twin 39" wide = Chain 74
- Double / Full 54" wide = Chain 102
- Queen 60" wide = Chain 114
- King 76" wide = Chain 144
- California King 72" wide = Chain 136
Test For Yourself for Sizing
I encourage you to run a test with the tutorial showing you how to be more accurate for the finished width size for your blankets.
Back Up Resources to Help You Further
Why are Blankets called Afghans in Crochet?
The term "Afghan" in the context of blankets originated in the 1700s. It gained popularity due to its association with the southern region of Afghanistan, known for its production of textiles, carpets, and materials like wool. This name became a representation of blankets, reflecting the Afghan people's craftsmanship.
In North America, "Afghan" has historically been used to describe crocheted blankets. However, there is an observed trend where the usage of the term is declining, and "Blanket" is becoming more prevalent, especially among new crocheters. This shift may be attributed to evolving language preferences or a desire for simplicity.
It's worth noting that the choice between "Afghan" and "Blanket" is a matter of personal preference, and there is no strict rule governing the use of either term in the world of crochet. Both terms coexist, and individuals may choose the one that resonates with them or aligns with their creative expression.
Typical Afghan / Blanket Sizes
What is a drape?
Blankets come in two sizes based on their intended use. When selecting a blanket size, it's essential to consider the drape, which refers to the excess fabric that hangs over the sides and the edge of the mattress at the foot of the bed. This drape adds both aesthetic appeal and functional coverage. Crocheters should account for the drape to ensure the blanket adequately covers the mattress and achieves the desired look and feel.
Below is a list of blanket sizes WITH drapes factored over the edges of the mattress.
- Crib - 36" x 54"
- Twin - 69" x 90"
- Full / Double - 84" x 90"
- Queen - 90" x 95"
- King - 106" x 95"
- California King - 102" x 99"
Below is a list of blanket sizes WITHOUT drapes that fit only the top surface of a mattress.
- Small Cradle - 15" x 30"
- Large Cradle - 18" x 33"
- Crib Blanket - 28" x 52"
- Twin - 39" x 75"
- Full / Double - 54" x 75"
- Queen - 60" x 80"
- King - 76" x 80"
- California King - 72" x 84"
Other home decor sizes for blankets for when someone is using it to snuggle up on a chair or sofa.
- Baby Blankets Typically Range - Minimum 24" - 30" width.
- Toddler Afghans - Minimum Range from 30" - 36" width.
- Young Child - Minimum Range from 42" - 48" width.
- Teenagers - Minimum 48" - 60" width.
- Throw Afghans - 60" width - 48" to 60" length.
- Lapghan - 36" width - 48" to accommodate a wheelchair or regular chair sitting positions.
More Helpful Tips
Tip
The larger the hook you use, the fewer stitches you must do across a row. It's something to consider for time and effort with your afghan.
Worksheet Below
Click the above button to download this worksheet if you want it.
- I have provided 4 sizes of hooks which include the standard 5 mm / H Hook to 6.5 mm / J Hook that is typically suggested for this yarn level.
ELIZABETH NAGY says
Thank you so much for having shared the CHAIN COUNTS TO START AFGHANS for different hooks.
I always love the work you do but have only recently added myself to your group. You are an amazing
person to give and share your time with others this way. Never change!
Terri says
Love this group! Mikey it's wonderful that you share your time and passion with your group and all of us. Love the patterns and your videos and measurements (charts) have made all the difference in how to start and keep at this wonderful craft. Keep up the great work.
Kelly says
Grid
nancy says
Grid
Mikey says
Thanks.
Jaime Grey says
I love the blanket used to show the drape (shades of teal with blocks of design in the middle. Is there a pattern for it somewhere?
Wendy Maruna says
Yes, here is the link for that piece
Diane Jackson says
Hi Mikey, I just watched your American Waves tutorial on Youtube......... I bought 15 skeins of the Redheart America yarn. i want to make a big blanket. How many chains should I start with? For example, multiple of 14? Thank you so much for your tutorials, I enjoy them so much.
Diane from New Hampshire
Mikey says
The designer never put into the pattern on how many inches = 1 multiple. You may want to try 3 multiples and do a few rows and measure how many inches 1 wave equals. It's the only way to know.
Sue Charlton McEndree says
Mikey, I downloaded this a few years ago & it has come in so handy!!! Thank you so much. I was never very good at math & always had a hard time trying to figure out how many chains to start with. For those that have the same problem, this is a great thing to have. I keep a copy in my notebook with the patterns I print out. That way I have it handy when I need it.
Elizabeth Perry says
I love this chart and the how to find your own gauge I'm also self learning
gloria galindo 432 -302 0928 says
how many stichets for quenn size ripple
Wendy Maruna says
Here is an article to help you with that. Help you figure out how long to make your starting chain and account for the loss of length in the peaks and valleys of a Chevron/ripple/zigzag style piece.
Kat says
The chart seems to have an error in the King and Cal King section on the last 2 columns. The numbers for starting chains to not change for with and without drape. Is this intentional ?
Marina King says
I'd almost have to say you are right, the cal king IS a couple of inches larger than a king, I've messaged the team to check into it, thanks!!
Annette Makil says
I'm making my sister a Afghan/throw size, she wanted am Appaloosa on the blanket. I know I can do it, but I need a pattern for it. How to you figure your pattern?
Renee says
Hi. I hope you can help me. I have a bassinet that needs padding as the pad is so thin, (1") thick. I am using Bernat Blanket yarn (6). Pad size is 31" long x 14.5" wide. I've tried knitting one and ripped it out twice. I thought maybe crochet would be better. Not sure how to do this. Any suggestions? Baby is due in 1½ weeks.
Elreza says
I want to crochet a blanket fotr a 3/4 bed with drape. My hook that I will be use are a 10mm and XL Chunky
Hoe many stitches should I used to begin?
Mikey, The Crochet Crowd says
Just chain until it hits the number of inches you need.
Martha Thatcher says
Thank you so much. This really helps. You guys are the greatest.
Robbin Castle says
This is great for the starting chain, but how long does it need to be? Also is this worked as if you were starting from head to foot or left to right?
Jolene Nel says
Thanks, this helpfull. Because I always over and again and over many times till I feel prefect size. I am carzy blanket chrochet. 3 time I make blanket for myself.
Sue McEndree says
Thank you Mikey for posting this chart. Most patterns will tell you how many chains to start with but this makes it easier to calculate if you want to use that same pattern for a smaller blanket or to make a larger one. Thanks for all you the others do for us.
Sherry Land Bowman says
I concur with Sue McEndree. Nice to have this calculator; and thank you for all you do for us. May I suggest you add an approximate guesstimate for # of chains for ARM KNITTING, too? Thanks for listening....er....I mean....reading. 😀
Gayle Church says
Hi Mikey
Have nearly finished my blanket, just wondered if you can finish the edge of blanket with any type of edging?
I've only just started crocheting & cant read patterns, but finding your tutorials excellent!
lovessiamese says
I'm new to this site. Thank you so much for posting how to calculate how many stitches/chains needed to start an afghan. I live in a motorhome and don't have room for lots of books. So thankful for the internet and people like you, willing to share your expertise. Blessings to you in abundance.
Betty Meharry says
just what I needed.... thank you....
Valentina Warden says
Very helpful to me since I'm a self teacher using tutorial videos to show me how to knit and crochet.
Thanks
laura says
thank you I now will go measure my lap blanket, hope its big enough! love you guys!
Poppy says
You are always bang on! Great projects and good directions ! ???
Lisa Rosario says
Thank you so very much for the chart you posted. I'm a self learning beginner crocheter. This info was very helpful. ?
Annie Larson says
thank you for this(how many chain) I am always asking myself this! no more second guesses!!