How To Make A Flannel Blanket

Introduction

How To Make A Flannel Blanket: There’s nothing quite as cozy and comforting as wrapping yourself in a warm flannel blanket on a chilly evening. Whether you’re looking to make a thoughtful gift or simply want to indulge in a fun DIY project, creating your own flannel blanket is a fantastic way to add a personal touch to your home decor. With just a few materials and some basic sewing skills, you can craft a soft and snuggly flannel blanket that will keep you warm throughout the year. In this guide, we will walk you through the step-by-step process of making your own flannel blanket, from selecting the perfect flannel fabric to stitching it all together. So, grab your favorite flannel prints and let’s get started on creating a cozy masterpiece!

Step 1: Gather Your Materials

Before you begin making your flannel blanket, it’s important to gather all the necessary materials. 

Here’s what you’ll need:

Flannel Fabric: Choose two contrasting flannel fabrics that you love. The amount of fabric you’ll need depends on the desired size of your blanket. For a standard throw blanket, aim for about 2.5 to 3 yards (2.3 to 2.7 meters) of each fabric.

Scissors: A good pair of fabric scissors will make cutting the flannel easier and more precise.

Measuring Tape or Ruler: You’ll need this to measure and mark the fabric accurately.

Pins: These will be useful for holding the fabric in place while sewing.

Sewing Machine: Unless you prefer to hand-sew, a sewing machine will greatly speed up the process. Ensure you have the appropriate thread for sewing flannel fabric.

Iron and Ironing Board: These will come in handy for pressing the fabric and creating neat seams.

Optional: Trim or Fringe: If you want to add a decorative touch to your blanket, consider getting trim or fringe to sew along the edges. Now that you have all your materials ready, let’s move on to the next step.

Step 2: Preparing the Flannel Fabric

Start by washing and drying your flannel fabrics according to their care instructions. This step is important to prevent any potential shrinkage after the blanket is made. Once your fabrics are ready, lay them out on a flat surface and trim any uneven edges or selvage (if present). Make sure both fabrics are the same size by cutting any excess.

Step 3: Placing the Fabrics Together

With the right sides of the flannel fabrics facing each other, align them carefully, ensuring all edges match up. Pin the fabrics together along the edges to secure them in place.

Step 4: Sewing the Fabrics

Using a sewing machine, begin stitching around the edges of the flannel fabrics, leaving a 1/2-inch (1.3 cm) seam allowance. Start sewing from one corner and continue along the edges, leaving a small opening of about 4-5 inches (10-13 cm) unsewn.

Step 5: Turning the Blanket Right Side Out

Gently turn the blanket right side out through the opening you left in the previous step. Use a pencil or a blunt object to push out the corners, ensuring they are crisp and well-defined. Once fully turned, press the blanket with an iron to flatten the seams and achieve a polished look.

Step 6: Closing the Opening and Adding Finishing Touches

To close the opening, fold the fabric edges inward and press them with an iron. Pin the opening shut and stitch it closed using a needle and thread or by machine sewing a straight stitch along the edge. If you wish to add trim or fringe, now is the time to do so. Measure the trim to fit the edges of your blanket and sew it in place using a straight stitch or zigzag stitch.

Step 7: Final Touches and Enjoyment

Give your flannel blanket one final press with an iron, ensuring all seams are flat and smooth. Now, it’s time to wrap yourself up in your cozy creation or gift it to someone special. Curl up on the couch, enjoy a hot cup of tea, and relish in the warmth and comfort of your handmade flannel blanket.

What is flannel blanket made of?

—–It is the flannel blanket. The fabric is made of 100% polyester fiber, and the texture is flexible and elastic. A flannel blanket is typically made of a soft and warm fabric known as flannel. Flannel itself is a type of woven fabric that is made from natural fibers, usually cotton or wool. The fabric is well-known for its cozy, fuzzy texture, making it a popular choice for blankets and other cold-weather items.

The production of flannel involves a process called brushing, where the fabric is brushed to create a raised surface with a nap. This enhances its insulating properties and creates the characteristic softness and warmth that flannel is known for. The brushing process also contributes to the fabric’s ability to trap heat, making it ideal for chilly nights or winter seasons.

Flannel blankets are often made from high-quality cotton flannel, which is breathable, hypoallergenic, and offers excellent moisture-wicking properties. This makes them comfortable to use in various climates and prevents excessive sweating. Some flannel blankets may also incorporate a blend of fibers, such as polyester, to enhance durability and reduce shrinkage.

How do you dry a flannel blanket?

If you decide to dry your flannel blanket in a dryer, ensure you use the lowest setting or let them tumble dry. It will take longer to dry it will keep your flannel blanket of top quality for longer. Ensure you remove the blankets from the dryer the minute they dry to avoid wrinkles. Drying a flannel blanket requires a gentle approach to preserve its softness and prevent shrinkage. 

Here are some steps to follow:

Read the care instructions: Before drying your flannel blanket, check the care label for any specific instructions from the manufacturer. This will help ensure you follow the recommended guidelines.

Air dry or low heat: Flannel blankets are best air-dried or machine dried on a low heat setting. High heat can damage the fabric and lead to shrinkage. If using a dryer, select the delicate or low-heat setting.

Shake and reshape: Before drying, give the blanket a gentle shake to remove any excess moisture and help restore its shape. Reshape it by gently pulling and stretching it back into its original dimensions.

Use dryer balls or towels: To aid in the drying process and prevent the blanket from clumping, add a few dryer balls or clean towels to the dryer. These will help to evenly distribute heat and promote airflow.

Check periodically: During the drying process, periodically check the blanket to ensure it is not overheating or drying too quickly. If needed, adjust the drying time or heat setting accordingly.

Does flannel get softer?

Make flannel sheets feel softer by tossing them in the dryer for a brief fluff cycle after air drying. Wash flannel bedding alone or with other flannel items to keep it soft; laundering flannel with towels, clothing, or other bedding can increase friction and make pilling worse. Yes, flannel has the tendency to get softer over time with proper care. The softness of flannel fabric is a result of the brushing process it undergoes during manufacturing. Initially, flannel may feel soft and cozy, but with subsequent washes and use, it can become even softer and more comfortable.

The brushing process raises the fibers on the surface of the fabric, creating a fuzzy texture. As the blanket is washed and used, these fibers continue to loosen and break, resulting in increased softness. The repeated friction and agitation help to further relax the fibers, making the flannel feel softer to the touch.

To maintain and enhance the softness of your flannel blanket, it is important to follow proper care instructions. Avoid using harsh detergents or fabric softeners that can leave residues and reduce softness. Opt for gentle cycles and low-heat drying to prevent damage to the fabric. Over time, with regular use and care, your flannel blanket will continue to get softer, providing you with ultimate comfort and warmth.

Is all flannel 100% cotton?

Flannel is a type of fabric crafted from loosely woven fibers. Flannel sheets are often made with cotton, but they can also be made from wool, fiber blends, or synthetic fibers like polyester. No, not all flannel is made exclusively from 100% cotton. While cotton is a common material used in flannel production, there are also flannel fabrics that incorporate other fibers or blends.

Traditionally, flannel was primarily made from cotton. Cotton flannel is known for its softness, breathability, and ability to regulate body temperature. It is a popular choice for bedding, clothing, and blankets. However, flannel can also be made from other materials such as wool, synthetic fibers like polyester, or a combination of different fibers. Wool flannel provides excellent insulation and warmth, making it ideal for colder climates. Synthetic flannel blends, on the other hand, may offer enhanced durability, wrinkle resistance, and moisture-wicking properties.

When purchasing flannel products, it is important to check the label or product description to determine the exact composition of the fabric. The composition of the flannel will impact its properties, such as softness, warmth, and care requirements.

What materials do I need to make a flannel blanket?

To make a flannel blanket, you will need a few essential materials. First and foremost, you’ll need flannel fabric. Flannel is a soft and warm fabric that is perfect for cozy blankets. You can find flannel fabric in various colors, patterns, and weights, depending on your preference. Next, you’ll need a pair of sharp fabric scissors to cut the flannel fabric into the desired size for your blanket. A ruler or measuring tape will be helpful to ensure precise measurements.

To join the flannel pieces together, you’ll need a sewing machine or a needle and thread if you prefer hand-sewing. Make sure you have the appropriate thread color that matches or complements your flannel fabric. Additionally, you might consider adding some decorative elements to your flannel blanket, such as ribbons, buttons, or trims. These are optional and can be used to personalize your creation.

Lastly, don’t forget about basic sewing supplies like pins, a seam ripper (in case you need to undo any stitches), and an iron to press the fabric and create crisp seams. By gathering these materials, you’ll be well-prepared to create a cozy and comfortable flannel blanket to enjoy during chilly evenings or as a thoughtful gift for someone special.

What are the essential steps for measuring and cutting the flannel fabric?

To ensure accurate measurements and precise cutting for your flannel fabric, follow these essential steps:

Prepare your workspace: Clear a flat and spacious surface where you can lay out your flannel fabric. Ensure the area is clean and free of any debris or objects that may interfere with your measurements.

Determine the desired size: Decide on the dimensions of your flannel blanket. Use a measuring tape or ruler to determine the length and width you want the blanket to be. Mark these measurements on the fabric using fabric chalk or pins.

Double-check measurements: Take a moment to double-check your measurements before cutting. Ensure that the dimensions are consistent and accurate. It’s always better to be cautious and measure twice to avoid any mistakes.

Cut the fabric: Using sharp fabric scissors, carefully cut along the marked lines to separate the flannel fabric into the desired size for your blanket. Take your time and cut smoothly to achieve clean edges.

Check for evenness: After cutting, inspect the edges of the fabric to ensure they are even and straight. Trim any excess fabric if necessary to achieve a neat and balanced appearance.

How do I sew the flannel fabric together to create the blanket?

To sew the flannel fabric together and create a blanket, follow these steps:

Place the fabric pieces: Lay out the flannel fabric pieces on a flat surface, with the right sides facing each other. Align the edges and corners evenly.

Pin the fabric: Use sewing pins to secure the fabric layers together along the edges. Place pins about 4-6 inches apart to hold the fabric in place during sewing.

Set up the sewing machine: If you’re using a sewing machine, thread it with a matching thread color and select a straight stitch or a stitch of your choice. Adjust the stitch length according to your preference or the thickness of the fabric.

Start sewing: Begin sewing along one side of the fabric, starting a few inches from the corner. Backstitch at the beginning and end to secure the stitches. Sew with a ½ inch seam allowance, keeping the fabric aligned as you sew.

Continue sewing: Sew all around the fabric, removing the pins as you go. Take your time and maintain a steady pace to ensure even stitches and prevent any puckering or bunching.

Leave an opening: When you reach the starting point, leave a small opening (around 8-10 inches) unsewn. This will be used to turn the blanket right side out later.

Trim the corners: Trim the corners diagonally without cutting through the stitches. This will help create sharp corners when the blanket is turned.

Turn the blanket: Reach through the opening and gently pull the fabric to turn the blanket right side out. Use a pencil or a blunt tool to push out the corners for a crisp finish.

Press and topstitch: Press the blanket with an iron to remove any wrinkles. Then, fold the raw edges of the opening inward and press them. Topstitch around the entire blanket, close to the edge, to secure the opening and give the blanket a finished look.

Are there any additional embellishments or finishing touches I can add to personalize the flannel blanket?

Absolutely! There are several embellishments and finishing touches you can add to personalize your flannel blanket:

Appliques: Cut out shapes or designs from contrasting flannel fabric and sew them onto the blanket using a decorative stitch or by hand.

Embroidery: Add intricate embroidery stitches or monogram initials using colorful embroidery floss. This can be done by hand or with a sewing machine equipped with embroidery capabilities.

Patches: Attach fabric patches or decorative iron-on patches to the flannel fabric. These can add a unique and personalized touch to the blanket.

Trim: Sew decorative trims, such as lace, pom-pom trim, or ribbon, along the edges of the blanket. This can give the blanket a whimsical or elegant look.

Quilting: If you’re feeling ambitious, you can create a quilted flannel blanket by adding batting between two layers of flannel fabric. Quilt the layers together with straight lines or intricate patterns.

Personalized labels: Sew or attach a personalized fabric label with your name, a special message, or the recipient’s name to the blanket.

Conclusion

Making a flannel blanket can be a rewarding and enjoyable DIY project that allows you to create a cozy and personalized item for yourself or as a thoughtful gift. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can successfully create a beautiful flannel blanket that will keep you warm and bring comfort for years to come. Remember to start by gathering high-quality flannel fabric and selecting a design or color scheme that reflects your personal style. Preparing the fabric by washing and ironing it will ensure a clean and smooth result. Accurate measuring and cutting are essential to create even panels and achieve a professional-looking finish.

Whether you choose to sew the blanket by hand or with a sewing machine, taking your time and using proper techniques such as backstitching and pinning will contribute to the durability of the blanket. Adding a border or edging can enhance the overall appearance and provide additional reinforcement. When it comes to finishing touches, consider adding personalization such as monograms or embroidery to make the blanket truly unique. Once your flannel blanket is complete, don’t forget to give it a final inspection, ensuring all seams are secure and the blanket is free from loose threads.

The joy of snuggling up with a handmade flannel blanket, created with care and attention to detail, is unmatched. Not only will you be able to enjoy the warmth and comfort it provides, but you’ll also have a cherished keepsake that holds sentimental value. So gather your materials, embrace your creativity, and embark on the journey of making your very own flannel blanket.