How to Sew a Blanket?Sewing a blanket is a rewarding and enjoyable project, perfect for beginners looking to hone their sewing skills.
A 2022 survey conducted by the Craft & Hobby Association revealed a significant increase in interest in hand sewing projects, particularly among younger generations seeking sustainable and personalized alternatives to fast fashionNot only does it provide a practical and cozy end product, but it also offers a great way to learn essential sewing techniques.
Whether you’re making a blanket for yourself, as a gift, or for charity, this guide will walk you through every step of the process.
How to Sew a Blanket
From selecting the right materials to adding the finishing touches, you’ll find everything you need to know to create a beautiful, handmade blanket.
Materials Needed to Sew a Blanket
Before you begin, gather all the necessary materials. Having everything on hand will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
1. Fabric: Choose two pieces of fabric for the front and back of your blanket. Fleece, flannel, and cotton are popular choices for blankets.
2. Batting: This is optional but recommended if you want a warmer, thicker blanket.
3. Thread: Match the thread color to your fabric or choose a contrasting color for a decorative touch.
4. Sewing Machine: Ensure your machine is in good working order.
5. Scissors or Rotary Cutter: For cutting fabric.
6. Pins or Clips: To hold the fabric in place while sewing.
7. Measuring Tape or Ruler: For accurate measurements.
8. Iron and Ironing Board: For pressing seams.
Step-by-Step Instructions To Sew A Blanket
1. Choosing Your Fabric
Selecting the right fabric is crucial for the look and feel of your blanket. Consider the following when choosing fabric:
Type: Fleece and flannel are warm and cozy, while cotton is lightweight and breathable.
Pattern: Choose patterns or colors that you love. Remember that the fabric will be a prominent feature of your blanket.
Quality: Higher-quality fabric will last longer and feel better.
2. Preparing the Fabric
Pre-Wash: Wash and dry your fabric according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This prevents shrinkage after the blanket is made.
Iron: Iron the fabric to remove wrinkles and make cutting easier.
3. Cutting the Fabric
- Measure and cut both pieces of fabric to the desired size. A standard throw blanket size is around 50” x 60”, but you can adjust this to your preference.
- If using batting, cut it to the same size as your fabric pieces.
4. Assembling the Layers
- Lay out your fabric pieces with the right sides facing each other.
- Place the batting on top of the fabric layers.
- Pin or clip the layers together, leaving a small gap (about 8 inches) unpinned for turning the blanket right side out.
5. Sewing the Blanket
- Using a straight stitch, sew around the edges of the blanket with a ½ inch seam allowance. Remember to backstitch at the beginning and end to secure your stitches.
- Leave the gap unsewn for turning.
6. Turning the Blanket Right Side Out
- Carefully turn the blanket right side out through the gap.
- Use a pointed object (like a chopstick) to push out the corners neatly.
- Press the edges with an iron to create a crisp finish.
7. Closing the Gap
Fold the edges of the gap inward and pin or clip in place.
- Topstitch around the entire edge of the blanket, about ¼ inch from the edge. This will close the gap and give your blanket a polished look.
8. Quilting the Blanket (Optional)
- To keep the layers from shifting, you can quilt the blanket by sewing lines or patterns through all layers. Simple straight lines, a grid pattern, or even free-motion quilting can be used.
Tips for Beginners
Practice on Scrap Fabric: If you’re new to sewing, practice on scrap fabric to get comfortable with your sewing machine and the stitches you’ll be using.
Take Your Time: Rushing can lead to mistakes. Take your time to ensure accuracy.
Use Quality Tools: Good scissors, a reliable sewing machine, and quality thread can make a big difference in your sewing experience.
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Common Mistakes to Avoid
Not Pre-Washing Fabric: Skipping this step can lead to shrinkage and misshapen blankets after the first wash.
Uneven Cutting: Ensure your cuts are straight and even for a professional finish.
Not Backstitching: Always backstitch at the beginning and end of your seams to prevent them from coming undone.
Conclusion on how to sew a blanket
Creating your own blanket from scratch is a gratifying experience. By following this beginner’s guide, you’ll not only end up with a cozy and personalized blanket but also gain valuable sewing skills that you can apply to future projects. Remember, practice makes perfect, so don’t be afraid to experiment with different fabrics, patterns, and techniques. Happy sewing!