Here’s the fun of it: the middle looks like a field of “cells,” and the sides carry a classic DNA double spiral. It’s science you can snuggle under—no textbook required.

What makes it STEM (without feeling like school)

• Patterns that repeat: The hexagons in the center “tile” together the way cells or honeycomb do—efficient, no gaps, very nature-approved.
• Paired strands: The DNA spirals on both sides twist like the real thing—balanced and satisfying—and you use the same instructions for each edge.
• Simple rules, big payoff: You’re using familiar crochet moves to make something that looks clever from across the room and delightful up close.

The middle: hex “cells”

• Hexagons pack perfectly—think honeycomb. That’s why your blanket grows evenly and stays tidy as you add motifs.
• Join-as-you-go or your favorite seam keeps the fabric smooth. Pick one joining method and stick with it so the “cell wall” lines look consistent.

The sides: the double helix

• Work the hex “cell” field first; the DNA strands are added afterward along both short edges.
• Two spirals run along the edges, and the same edge instructions are used on both sides. That symmetry is why the blanket looks balanced from corner to corner.

Keeping it easy

• Use a locking marker to tag each corner. It’s an easy “you are here” while the blanket grows and when you add the side panels.
• Let the visuals lead you. The hex grid and the twisting strands are their own roadmaps—you’ll know at a glance if you’re on track.

Color choices (your secret superpower)

• High-contrast on the helix = drama. Tone-on-tone = subtle and sophisticated. Either way, solids or semi-solids make the twist and “cell walls” shine.
• If you’re mixing colors in the center, keep the helix strands calmer so the spirals don’t have to shout.

Finishing touches

• Work a few plain rounds of hdc around everything to pull the whole piece together and settle the edges.
• Weave ends as you go in the hex field—future you will be thrilled.

Troubleshooting (quick wins)

• Edges ruffling? Swap to a slightly smaller hook for the border rounds.
• Spirals not “reading”? Light matters. A quick photo in daylight helps you see whether you want a touch more contrast on the helix colors.

That’s the STEM

Hexagons for efficient structure. Paired spirals for balance. Repeatable moves that add up to something beautifully “engineered.” It’s cozy proof that simple rules can make striking results.

Get the pattern

Want the nuts-and-bolts instructions? Grab the Hooked Together DNA Blanket pattern here.