This written crochet pattern (in US terms) provides instructions to make a woodland-themed baby blanket, approximately 95 cm x 65 cm.

The blanket was specially planned, designed, and made for my first nephew, who will be born early next year. His nursery is blue with a touch of grey, and the theme is woodland animals.

A total of 12 woodland animals are depicted on the finished blanket. However, the pattern gives instructions for 14 different animals, so the maker can choose which ones to include, which adds an extra touch of uniqueness to each blanket. The blanket could also be made by repeating a selection of the animals (or only one), if desired.

The pattern calls for a 4.00 mm crochet hook, and DK yarn (however, any yarn weight with a corresponding crochet hook will work - the size if the blanket will then vary) in the following three main colours: turquoise, forest green (various shades, if desired), and light grey. Small amounts of DK yarn are also needed in the following colours: brown, black, burnt orange, dark brown, beige, camel, cream, speckled brown, charcoal, white, dark grey, yellow, light pink, and peach (great for using up all those little left-overs!).

Detailed instructions are provided to explain how to attach a fleece backing to the blanket, for extra warmth (this also hides the back of the blanket, which may look a little messy after the smaller individual pieces of each block have been attached). For this, a piece of fleece (approximately 100 cm x 70 cm) is required, as well as sewing pins, sharp scissors, and a sharp large-eye needle (a rotary cutter with a skip stitch blade can also work - remember to work on a protective cutting mat when using a rotary cutter). Thread to match the colour of the fleece, and a sewing needle are also needed for the finishing touches to the blanket.

The only other additional material needed, is a darning needle, with which to weave in the ends.