Are you tired of your old clothes and want to give them a new life? Transforming your old clothing into soft, snuggly fleece blankets is an excellent way to reduce waste while creating something useful. In this blog post, we will cover everything you need to know about making your own fleece blanket.
Fleece blankets are warm, comfortable, and perfect for cold winter nights or lazy Sunday mornings on the couch. They are also incredibly easy to make, even if you have no sewing experience. Here’s how:
Introduction to Fleece Blankets
Before we dive into the steps for making your fleece blanket, let’s talk about what makes fleece so special. Fleece is a type of fabric that is made from synthetic materials like polyester. It is lightweight, soft, and insulating, which means it traps heat close to your body without adding too much weight. Fleece comes in many different colors and patterns, so you can customize your blanket to match your style.
How to Make a Tied Fleece Blanket
The easiest way to make a fleece blanket is by using the “tied” method. This involves cutting your old clothing into strips, tying those strips together, and then braiding them into a cozy blanket. Here are the step-by-step instructions:
1. Gather your old clothing and cut them into long strips. You can use anything from old t-shirts to sweatpants – just make sure they are made from cotton or another stretchable material.
2. Once you have your strips, tie them together at one end with a double knot. Leave about 6 inches between each strip.
3. Braid your tied strips tightly, working from left to right. Be careful not to twist the strips as you braid them.
4. When you reach the end of your strips, secure them with a final knot and trim any excess threads.
5. Wash your newly created fleece blanket according to the care instructions on the label.
Washing Your Fleece Blanket
To keep your fleece blanket looking its best, you should wash it regularly. Follow these tips for cleaning your fleece blanket:
1. Turn your blanket inside out before washing to protect the surface from fading.
2. Use lukewarm water and a gentle cycle when washing your blanket. Avoid using hot water or harsh detergents, as this can cause shrinkage or damage the fibers.
3. Remove your blanket promptly after the wash cycle ends and allow it to air dry completely before using. Do not put your fleece blanket in the dryer, as this can cause it to shrink or become misshapen.
Making a Fleece Blanket from Scratch
If you don’t have any old clothing lying around, you can still make a fleece blanket from scratch. Here’s how:
1. Choose your favorite color(s) of fleece and buy enough yardage to create a blanket sized to your liking.
2. Cut your fleece into two equal pieces, folded lengthwise.
3. Place one piece of fleece onto a flat surface with the fold facing upwards.
4. Layer the second piece of fleece over the first, aligning the edges carefully.
5. Pin the layers together along all four sides, leaving a small opening unpinned near one corner.
6. Sew around the perimeter of your blanket, starting and ending at the same point and leaving the opening unsewn.
7. Turn your blanket inside out through the open corner, pushing out any wrinkles or creases.
8. Hand stitch the remaining opening closed, and voila! You now have a brand new fleece blanket.
Conclusion
Transforming your old clothing into a soft, snuggly fleece blanket is a fun and rewarding DIY project. Whether you choose to use the tied method or start from scratch, you’ll be amazed at how quickly you can create a beautiful, functional blanket that will last for years to come. So grab some scissors and get ready to transform your old wardrobe into something truly special.
