Lion brand free baby blanket knitting patterns

. Low Tide - 211 1. Local Grown Cotton - 667 4. That means there's something for everyone – use our filters to find your next project! Lion's Pride Woolspun - 671 1. Rep Garter Dec Row until you have 113 sts. (67. Holiday Berry Scarf and Hat (Loom) Loom Knit Bird Pattern - Version 3. 5 cm) Pattern Craft. 5 x 84 cm) Pattern Corrections. Cast on the correct number of stitches. Aqua, petrol blue, navy, charcoal, oxford grey, silver, mint. 5 cm) CORRECTIONS: None as of Nov 25, 2009. Lion Suede - 210 33. Lion Suede - 210 6. 5 90 x 101. (81 x 91. The Gaia Baby Blanket is a knit blanket pattern made with light weight yarn that has a skill level of easy. In addition, polyester fibers don’t wear down as quickly, so pieces will withstand all the small adventures they’re taken on. Throw: Cast on 5 sts. 20 sts = about 4 in. The Stripey Diagonal Baby Blankie Pattern is a knit blanket pattern made with light weight yarn that has a skill level of intermediate. About 28 x 30 in. Designed by Jodi Lewanda. Lion Brand free knitting patterns include everything from afghans to knitted dishcloths and baby booties using Lion Brand's range of affordable quality yarns. 22058 reviews. (10 cm) over Rows 1-10. SKILL LEVEL: Beginner (Level 1) Gauge: 31 stitches = 10” on Size 10. You can find even more cozy creations with our huge selection of free baby knitting patterns and free blanket knitting patterns! Sort by: 1—50 of 258. Lion Brand® yarns are sold online, at craft chains, discount chains and independent shops across the United States. You don't want to miss 45 Baby Knitting Patterns: The Complete Guide to Free Knit Baby Blankets, because it includes free knitting patterns for baby blankets of all shapes, sizes, and colors. About 27 x 27 in. (90 x 101. Discover more patterns by Lion Brand at LoveCrafts! Ripple Baby Blanket Pattern (Crochet) SKU: 798-GP. Find your next project by searching over 8,000 free knitting and crochet patterns for afghans, hats, scarves and much more. Pound of Love® (Article #550) 1 ball. The Garter Stitch Baby Throw Pattern is a knit afghan pattern that has a skill level of intermediate. LionBrand. Cast off. Loom Knit Two Stripe Hat - Version 1. Work in your pattern until you reach the right size. See our collection of free knit and crochet patterns for Jumbo weight (CYC #7) yarns and get inspired for your next project! Each pattern is available as a free digital download and all the necessary components are available for purchase at the click of a button! Price. 50. 12 stitches + 24 rows = 4” [10 cm] in Garter Stitch (knit every row). Access to over 8,000 free patterns. Made With Love The Cottony One - 3040 9. Sock-Ease™ Yarn - Discontinued. com or call: (800) 258-YARN (9276) any time The Cabled Baby Blanket is a knit blanket pattern made with light weight yarn that has a skill level of easy. Let’s break the basic process down into simple steps. (81. Work back and forth in rows as if knitting on straight needles. This classic lace blanket is an heirloom that will be cherished for years to come. [76 cm] square. 17 in [43 cm] long, not including ears. Pattern Number: 50073AD. Lion Chenille - 530 1. SKILL LEVEL: Beginner (Level 1) Babysoft® (Article #920) 4 balls. 5oz (100g), and measures 120yd (109m), so there With this Still River Baby Blanket, every time you put your little angel down to sleep at night, it will be like she's floating on dormant water. Pattern Number: 90371AD. Throw Instructions: Cast on 92 sts. Knit from corner to corner, all you need to learn to make this blanket is yarn-over and knit 2 together. com To order visit our website www. com or call: (800) 258-YARN (9276) any time! Lion's Pride Woolspun - 671 35. 5 cm] square, approximately. Entrelac Baby Blanket (Loom) Level 1 - Beginner Loom Knit Scarf & Hat (Loom) Loom Knit Cardigan. Click on the images to go to the patterns. Items per page: Lion's Pride Woolspun - 671 35. Felted Bag Pattern (Knit-Crochet) - Version 2. Lion Organic Cotton - 680 11. Baby Small (Baby Medium)Finished Size: About 28 x 32 (32 x 36) in. Items per page: Dimensions Detail. Dec 28, 2017 · Simple Crochet Shrug. (71 x 71 cm) CORRECTIONS: (applied Oct 24, 2011) Rows 5-8 10:Work in Seed st. Here are four basic baby blankets that anyone can knit or crochet. ; The Cabled Baby Blanket is a knit blanket pattern made with light weight yarn that has a skill level of easy. Mambo Yarn - 5600 1. (130 cm) wide and 60 in. Magic Stripes - 310 1. Shop Lion Brand yarns to find the perfect yarn for your Lion Brand pattern. Mandala Baby - 526 5. 49. You can make your Bird Tracks Beanie with the Heartland yarn you used for your Hummingbird Hat by switching the Main and Contrasting Colors. (66 x 66 cm) Pattern Corrections. #925) #103 Fairy Tale 5 balls; or color of your choice; LION BRAND® stitch markers; LION BRAND® large-eyed blunt needle; Additional Materials: Circular knitting needle size 10 (6 mm), 36 in. 5 cm) from beg, end with a Row 4. Mandala Baby - 526 10. Knit in light green Babysoft yarn, this gender-neutral baby blanket measures 35  x 40 inches and makes a great homemade baby shower gift for an expectant friend or family member. Baby. (76 x 94 cm). Crafts 1. Pick from these free knitting patterns for baby blankets and make your little one smile! Apr 21, 2024 · This pattern is available for free. 5 x 91. Baby 12 Months, Baby 3-6 Months, Child 2 Years. Lion Crochet Cotton - 770 2. 4 Medium / Worsted. Lion's Pride Woolspun - 671 35. 33 inches x 42 inches. The Diagonal Tweed Baby Blanket Pattern is a knit blanket pattern made with medium weight yarn that has a skill level of easy. Lion Suede - 210 67. Work back and forth on circular needle as if working on straight needles. Making baby things is very satisfying. May 15, 2023 · The mini size of knit baby blankets makes for a manageable beginner’s project. To check for later updates, click here. Seed Stitch Baby Blanket. The Bunny Blanket Buddy Pattern is a knit blanket pattern made with bulky weight yarn that has a skill level of easy. Lion Brand Pattern #: kpl-bafg. (10 cm) Eyelet pattern with size 4 (3. Just like its name, everything delicious is in one cake of this CYC 3 100% acrylic yarn. The recommended needle size & yarn are the only Lion Brand Yarn is America's oldest craft yarn company with 80+ active yarn families. (10 cm) in Eyelet pattern with size 6 (4 mm) needle. Pattern Gauge. The Slip Stitch Baby Blanket is a knit blanket pattern made with bulky weight yarn that has a skill level of easy. Sweater, Hat, and Booties: 24 sts + 32 rows = 4 in. Blanket and Hood are worked holding 2 strands of yarn together throughout in seed stitch and stockinette stitch. Keep your baby cozy with these knitted baby afghan patterns. 5 cm) CORRECTIONS: (applied Oct 3, 2013) SIZE: 32 35 ½ x 40 in. 5 x 101. Aug 14, 2019 · 6 Beginner Friendly Baby Blankies to Knit & Crochet. Lion Cotton - 760 3. We are passionate about helping people enjoy the pleasures of working with yarn. Mandala Bonus Bundle - 125 1. This 100% polyester yarn ensures no irritation for sensitive skin, and easy care – machine wash, lay flat to dry. Each pattern is available as a free digital download and all the necessary components are available for purchase at the click of a button! Lion Brand® Yarn offers over 8,000 free knitting and crochet patterns of various colors, sizes and project types. Soft Easy Baby Throw: This warm, fuzzy blanket is the perfect pattern to make for any newborn baby. Mandala Tweed - 524 2. The Cuddle Tight Baby Blanket Pattern - Version 1 is a knit blanket pattern made with super bulky weight yarn that has a skill level of easy. About 32 x 33 in. Finished Size: 36x48 inches. BE SURE TO CHECK YOUR GAUGE. The Patchwork Stripes Baby Blanket Pattern is a knit blanket pattern made with medium weight yarn that has a skill level of easy. This cute cape is on trend for 2018, especially if you work it up in Homespun in Ambrosia, Apple Green, or Baroque. (43 x 56 cm). Made With Love The Cottony One - 3040 13. 17 x 22 in. Step Two: Cast on as many stitches as needed for the size blanket you want to make (this is where a gauge swatch comes in handy). Mandala Sparkle - 527 2. The Checkered Baby Blanket is a knit blanket pattern made with light weight yarn that has a skill level of beginner. Lion Wool - 820 1. 5 needles with double strand of yarn. The Knit Hooded Bobble Baby Blanket is a knit blanket pattern made with bulky weight yarn that has a skill level of easy. (10 cm) in pattern. Baby Soft® - 920. No. Local Grown Cotton - 667 3. 5 (81. 5 x 81. To access the FREE downloadable pattern for this charming knitted set, please click on this link: Lullaby Layette Pattern. Lion Suede - 210 3. About 32 x 32 in. Lion Cotton - 76079. Jiffy® - 450. The basic garter stitch is used to complete this easy Showing 1 - 36 of 56 products. This blanket’s basketweave pattern creates a beautiful checkerboard texture. London Kaye LKYC Yarn - 3000 33. If you plan to donate one of your hats to Knots of Love, a California-based charity that distributes thousands Each pattern is available as a free digital download and all the necessary components are available for purchase at the click of a button! Lion Brand® Yarn offers over 8,000 free knitting and crochet patterns of various colors, sizes and project types. About 32 x 36 in. Jul 21, 2023 · This pattern is available for free. The Two-tone Stroller Blanket is a knit blanket pattern made with medium weight yarn that has a skill level of easy. Pattern Size Options. (68. Sort By: Checkered Baby Blanket Easy Knit and Crochet Pattern Pattern (Knit & Crochet) Lush Cowl (Knit-Crochet) - Version 2. 35 ½ x 40 in. Lion Organic Cotton - 680 26. Lion Wool - 820 111. 30 in. Lion Brand® Account Benefits. Local Grown Cotton - 667 1. Knit 1 row. Lion Wool - 820111. Step One: Pick out your yarn and the size knitting needles you want to use (I typically will go up a size or two from the recommended size on the ball band for better drape). The Tree of Life Afghan is a knit afghan pattern made with medium weight yarn that has a skill level of expert. Nov 7, 2019 · This reversible chunky blanket knitting pattern is quick & easy to knit with super bulky yarn. Mandala Ombre - 551 6. 5mm) These circular knitting needles are made from the finest natural bamboo, with flexible cables and near perfect joins. August 14, 2019 - Lion Brand Yarn. 5cm) Pattern Corrections. Magic Stripes - 310 8. About 26 x 26 in. (71x 101. 5 cm)) Pattern Craft. Lion Suede - 210 46. All of these patterns are either level 1 or level 2, so they’re nice and easy. Capture a moment in time by knitting a mood blanket that’s unique to you! Mood blankets can begin at any time and last as long as you need, however, this pattern is written to be worked over a period of 6 months. Made For. They’re great for a beginner to try out some skills, or for a more advanced crafter to relax and make something simple. Pattern Number: L60360. 36 inches square. SKILL LEVEL: Beginner. Verified by. The loose fit is elegant, our Homespun yarn adds a lovely texture, and the pattern is invitingly easy. Six blanket sizes including baby blanket, throw & afghan. 17 sts + 24 rows = 4 in. 5 cm) Dec 20, 2023 · This pattern is available for free. [10 cm] in Pattern, with 2 strands of yarn held together. The Favorite Baby Blanket is a knit blanket pattern made with light weight yarn that has a skill level of easy. Purl 1 row. Babies can’t tell you they don’t like the color you Pattern Gauge. Lion Wool - 820 17. Lion Suede - 21067. Find free modern baby knitting patterns from cardigans and hats to blankets and booties. Knit blanket and Homespun® - 790. Lion Cashmere Blend - 270 9. Lion Suede - 210 10. Lion Cashmere Blend - 270 43. (10 cm) in Basketweave pattern. Mandala Yarn - 525 4. 38 inches [96. Lion Brand POUND OF LOVE (Art. Cuddle Tight Baby Blanket in Lion Brand Wool-Ease Thick & Quick - 80717B is a free Knitting pattern by Lion Brand, available as a Downloadable PDF and includes instructions in English. Each skein weighs 3. For thousands of free patterns, visit our website www. Sort by: 1—50 of 1,547. 5 cm) Pattern Corrections. $10. Hexagon Baby Blanket. Luxe Fur - 928 2. 3 Light / DK. Earn and redeem loyalty points for discounts. Row 2: K3, yo, k2 – 6 sts at the end of this row. The Baby Blankie Pattern is a knit blanket pattern made with bulky weight yarn that has a skill level of intermediate. The most simple shapes and stitches look adorable made that small. 17 sts + 26 rows = 4” in Stockinette Stitch (knit one row, purl one row). Row 1: Knit. Sunshine Day Baby Throw: The bright stripes of this beautiful knit afghan will add the perfect pop of color to any baby boy or girl's nursery. 13 sts = 4 in. Mac-Re-Me - 845 4. See our collection of free knit and crochet patterns for beginners and get inspired for your next project! Each pattern is available as a free digital download and all the necessary components are available for purchase at the click of a button! Nov 1, 2019 · Cupcake yarn is calorie free and deliciously sweet! If you’re a fan of Mandala® yarns then you’re sure to love Cupcake as well. The Knit Bright Stripes Baby Blanket Pattern is a knit blanket pattern made with bulky weight yarn Free Knitting Pattern from Lion Brand Yarn Lion Brand® Babysoft® Checkers Baby Blanket Pattern Number: L0227 SKILL LEVEL: Beginner SIZE: One Size 35 ½ x 40 in. Lion Brand® Ice Cream®. Skill Level: Level 2 – Easy (Beginner+) The Knit Bright Stripes Baby Blanket Pattern is a knit blanket pattern made with bulky weight yarn that has a skill level of easy. Self-striping with cream and shades of grey and black. [10 cm] in Stockinette stitch (knit on RS, purl on WS) . SIZE: One Size About 28 x 28 in. This Babysoft Checkers Baby Blanket features a classic basketweave pattern that is super popular among knitters. Checkers Baby Blanket in Lion Brand Babysoft - L0227 is a free Knitting pattern by Lion Brand, available as a Downloadable PDF and includes instructions in English. (79 x 94 cm) Pattern Craft. (76 x 76 cm) Pattern Craft. Free Knitting Pattern from Lion Brand Yarn Lion Brand®Pound of Love®. SKILL LEVEL: Easy. Home. 5 Bulky / Chunky. 14 sts = 4” (10 cm) Pattern Size Options. Local Grown - 668 1. Lion Wool - 820 47. Lion's Pride Woolspun - 67168. The Half Square Triangle Blanket Pattern - Version 1 is a knit blanket pattern made with light weight yarn that has a skill level of intermediate. Lion Wool - 820 57. ; The Hooded Baby Blanket is a knit afghan pattern that has a skill level of beginner. Martha Stewart Crafts Lofty Wool Blend - 5100 1. This blanket's basketweave pattern creates a beautiful checkerboard texture. These beautiful baby blanket knitting patterns are fantastic for keeping little ones warm and cozy, all year round. See our collection of free knit and crochet patterns for Superfine weight (CYC #1) yarns and get inspired for your next project! Each pattern is available as a free digital download and all the necessary components are available for purchase at the click of a button! Price. Mandala Yarn - 525 1. Rep Rows 1-8 10 until piece measures about 26 1/2 in. Mambo Yarn - 5600 3. Free Knitting Pattern from Lion Brand Yarn Lion Brand®Babysoft®. 5 x 68. Lion's Pride Woolspun - 671 68. Lion Crochet Cotton - 770 1. Basketweave Baby Blanket. Craft. In fact, you can access the FREE downloadable pattern for this knitted baby set from the Love Knitting website. #550) #099 Antique White 1 ball; or color of your choice; Lion Brand knitting needles size 7 (4. (71 x 81. 5 mm) needle. (71 x 76 cm) Pattern Craft. Circular needle is used to accommodate large number of stitches. Local Grown - 668 7. Tree of Life Afghan (Knit) SKU: 70122AD. (10 cm) in St st (k on RS, p on WS). Lion Organic Cotton - 68026. Exclusive discounts and early access to promotions. There’s a few reasons for this: The items are small, so it’s [nearly] instant gratification. Pattern Yarn Weight. (91. square. Local Grown Cotton - 6674. An easy all-over v-stitch pattern gets a Pattern Size Options. We've rounded up all the knit baby blanket pattern collections on our site and created this must-see guide to knitting a baby blanket. 7 Popular Baby Afghan Patterns from Lion Brand. (10 cm) in Garter st (k every row). Include with Purchase? Lion Brand Large-Eye Blunt Needles. Mambo Yarn - 5600 20. Lion Boucle - 930 28. (152 cm) long. Magic Stripes - 310 4. The Sweet and Soft Baby Throw Pattern is a knit afghan pattern made with bulky weight yarn that has a skill level of easy. 5 cm) long Gauge: 12 sts + 20 rows = 4 in. Lush Cowl (Knit-Crochet) - Version 1. We're With You Every Stitch Of The Way®. Quick Stitch Jacket (20985) Scarf Hood (Knit-Crochet) - Version 2. This knitted set is another lovely design by the talented team over at Lion Brand Yarn. The softest, most cuddly free baby knitting patterns for your little bundles of joy. Lion Wool - 820 3. About 30 x 30 in. 5 mm) Lion Brand cable needle; Lion Brand large-eyed blunt needle Gauge: 8 sts + 28 rows = 4 in. May 23, 2018 · The Bird Tracks Beanie (in 4 sizes) uses the same stitch pattern from the Baby Bird Blanket. LB Collection Yooge - 476 1. The serene and calming color is exactly what the cranky baby needs to get some rest. Beautiful color combinations, great stitch definition and enough yardage to make a baby blanket, shawl, or hat and cuff set. Knit. Super fun to make, this pattern could be your next masterpiece! Dimensions Detail. 30 x 30 in. Quick & easy checkout experience. These baby blanket patterns are so easy to make and so incredibly comfy. Knit baby blankets you make Color. That means there's something for everyone – use our filters to find your next project! May 24, 2024 · This pattern is available for free. Finished Width 30" (76 cm)Finished Length 36" (91. Nov 14, 2016 · In honor of this sale, we’ve gathered up some of our favorite patterns that use Homespun® yarn — in both knit and crochet. Baby, Boy, Child, Girl. Pattern Yarn Used. HiyaHiya Bamboo Circular Knitting Needles 24" (Size 0 to 9) Size 7 (4. SIZE: One Size 32 x 40 in. About 31 x 37 in. About 28x 40in. $11. LION BRAND® BABY'S FIRST™ (Art. The Diagonal Eyelet Baby Blanket Pattern is a knit blanket pattern that has a skill level of expert. 16 sts + 22 rows = 4 in. Lion Wool - 820. The Delightful Tweed Baby Blanket Pattern is a knit blanket pattern made with medium weight yarn that has a skill level of intermediate. Lion Brand® Ice Cream® Hexagon Baby Blanket Pattern Number: L60360. Lion Crochet Cotton - 7702. Soft, Easy Baby Throw: Made entirely of the knit stitch, along with a few simple increases, this charming blanket is the ideal project for tknitters on the go. Skill levels range from super easy to advanced, so there's definitely Free Knitting Pattern. Crochet 33. Made With Love The Cottony One - 3040 7. 13 1/2 sts + 18 1/2 rows = 4 in. 5 cm). 13 sts + 20 rows = 4 in. Loom Knit Ridged Cowl - Version 4. Download Free Pattern. 31 sts = 10" on Size 10. May 5, 2011 · Baby blankets are a fun and easy way to play with different techniques and constructions. This classic baby blanket makes a great gift to new parents. Suitable for newer knitters, this super-warm blanket is knit with two strands of yarn at a time, meaning it will ony take you a few knitting sessions to complete. Product Details. Low Tide - 211 3. (Lion Brand Yarn) SKILL LEVEL: Easy (Level 2) Cotton-Ease® (Article #830) 4 balls. Super fun to make, this pattern could be your next masterpiece! Checkers Baby Blanket in Lion Brand Babysoft - L0227 is a free Knitting pattern by Lion Brand Pattern Size Options. Rep last row until you have 154 sts. Lion's Pride Woolspun - 671 57. See our collection of free knit and crochet patterns and get inspired for your next project! Each pattern is available as a free digital download and all the necessary components are available for purchase at the click of a button! Lion Brand® Yarn offers over 8,000 free knitting and crochet patterns of various colors, sizes and project types. Loom-Knit Danbury Hooded Sweater Jacket. The Ripple Baby Blanket Pattern is a crochet afghan pattern that has a skill level of easy. Lion Cotton - 760 24. Knitting Diagonal Pattern Baby Blanket in Lion Brand Homespun is a free Knitting pattern by Lion Brand, available as a Downloadable PDF and includes instructions in English. Beginner knitters say this pattern helped increase their confidence in knitting! Great pattern for Lion Brand Hometown or Wool-Ease Thick & Quick super bulky #6 weight yarn. The Checkerboard Blanket - Version 1 is a knit blanket pattern made with light weight yarn that has a skill level of beginner. (10 cm) over Rows 1-8. 5 cm) MATERIALS • 920-156 Lion Brand Babysoft Yarn: Pastel Green 4 Balls • Lion Brand Hooded Baby Blanket (Knit) The Hooded Baby Blanket is a knit afghan pattern that has a skill level of beginner. How to knit a baby blanket: Choose your yarn and needle size. Blanket. Local Grown - 668 12. You can make a perfectly sized baby blanket using a single cake! I made mine using the Pegasus colorway. Pattern Corrections. Knit And Crochet Landscape Afghan Pattern. Local Grown - 66812. See our collection of free knit and crochet patterns for Fine weight (CYC #2) yarns and get inspired for your next project! Each pattern is available as a free digital download and all the necessary components are available for purchase at the click of a button! Free Jumbo Weight 7 Patterns. Pattern Craft. Simple Crochet Shrug (Crochet) Craft: Crochet. Home, Baby. Knit Blanket back and forth in rows as if knitting with straight needles. Customize Your Project. The Basketweave Baby Blanket is a knit blanket pattern made with light weight yarn that has a skill level of beginner. Approximately 28 in. Blanket: 22 sts + 34 rows = 4 in. Corner to Corner Crochet (c2c) Loom Knit Diagonal Baby Throw Pattern. Just four balls of Lion Brand's Babysoft yarn are used to work up this free knit baby blanket May 21, 2018 · New Baby Yarn: Baby Soft Boucle. All 3 versions of this blanket use the same pattern instruction, gauge & make the same size the blanket. Local Grown - 668 6. (76 x 76 cm) Pattern Corrections. When only one number is given, it applies to all sizes. (10 cm). The Hexagon Baby Blanket is a knit blanket pattern made with light weight yarn that has a skill level of easy. EXACT GAUGE IS NOT ESSENTIAL TO THIS PROJECT. Bubbles Cardigan in West Yorkshire Spinners Bo Peep 4 Ply - DBP0016 - Downloadable PDF. (10 cm) in checkers pattern, with 2 strands of yarn held together. London Kaye LKYC Yarn - 300033. Local Grown Cotton - 667 2. Please note that the colors shown below may not match the original pattern colors due to being out of stock/discontinued/etc. The Color Blocks Baby Blanket Pattern is a knit blanket pattern made with medium weight yarn that has a skill level of easy. 26 sts = about 4 in. About 51 in. Level 1 - Beginner. Lion Brand® LB Collection ® Cashmere Heirloom Baby Blanket Pattern Number: 90485. lionbrand. Dimensions Detail. Mandala Thick & Quick - 528 8. Row 3: K3, yo, k3 – 7 sts at the end of this row. Re-Spun Thick & Quick® Yarn. Lion Organic Cotton - 680 5. Pattern Sizing Information. Low Tide - 211 2. The Soft Easy Baby Throw Pattern is a knit afghan pattern made with bulky weight yarn that has a skill level of intermediate. Row 4: K3, yo, k to end of row – 8 sts at the end of this row. Access to over 8,000 free Pattern Yarn Weight. And, bonus, she has provided a free PDF version of her beautiful pattern. The cozy stitches are perfect for keeping your son or daughter warm at night, and also make for an easy project for beginning knitting. Child. To follow pattern more easily, circle all numbers pertaining to your size before beginning. 6 reviews. Apr 17, 2020 · Once again, this pattern is also written for DK weight yarn, so Mandala is a perfect match. One Size. 9 sts and 18 rows = 4 inches (10 cm) in garter stitch (knit every row); Pattern Size Options. Lion Brand Yarn. Blanket is worked in one piece from corner to corner. 99. About 30 x 36 in. tr kk co iz rs zr gy mu ft aa