While some crazes come and go in the blink of an eye, there are those that come in and stay a while. People have been obsessed with owls for quite a long time now, perhaps due in part to a popular children’s series…whatever the reason, it’s never a bad idea to add a few of these big-eyed birds to your collection. There are plenty of options, too, like owl hotpads or beanies, pillows or sweaters, or plushies – but what about those of us who wish we had wings?
If you, like me, always wished for your own set of wings with which to soar, then you might want to take a look at this DIY Hooded Owl Blanket pattern for sale on Ravelry by MJ’s Off The Hook Designs. It’s the perfect gift for the person who still likes to pretend, whether they’re wearing it at home or cosplaying at a convention. The color scheme is customizable, which makes it easy to morph into your favorite owl character, like Owl from Winnie the Pooh, Hedwig from the Harry Potter series, or Soren from the series Guardians of Ga’Hoole.
Even if you aren’t planning on wearing this as part of a cosplay, it’s a quirky, whimsical blanket that would make a great throw for the media room, playroom, or art room. You could add to it with ribbon, buttons, and felt, either embroidering or sewing on the details. However you decide to make it, the result is the same: a comfy, cozy blanket for those cool days when all you want to do is cuddle up on the couch and watch some nature documentaries.
A few more details about the project: the pattern is available in both child and adult sizes, and uses US terminology. The recommended crochet hook sizes are Q, M, and N. The pattern calls for bulky yarn (the pattern recommends using Bernat Chunky Solids, Bernat Chunky Ombres, or Bernat Softee Chunky Solids). You’ll also need materials for the eyes, beak, and ears. The blanket is made from the top down and works up quickly due to using two strands of yarn at a time. If you’d rather use worsted weight yarn, you can substitute that and crochet with four strands at a time, though of course this is not a recommended technique for a crochet beginner.
The PDF pattern is available for sale for $5.00 (USD), and includes both written instructions and a photo tutorial. Once you purchase the pattern you will be sent a download link. There’s also a video tutorial for the stitches on the creator’s YouTube channel. If you’d rather pay someone else to make the blanket, it is noted that there are people available on the original website and Etsy who are willing to sell their versions.
Want the chance to make your own winged blanket? If so, you can purchase the pattern from MJ’s Off the Hook Designs on Ravelry. Be sure to check out her site as well, which includes links to social media (including Instagram, YouTube and Facebook) and a newsletter signup where you can receive free patterns by e-mail.
