How to Sew Fleece Blanket

Fleece blankets are cherished for their unparalleled softness, warmth, and versatility. Easy to care for and perfect for all seasons, these cozy blankets have become a popular choice for home decor, thoughtful gifts, or personal comfort. Whether you’re an experienced sewer or a complete beginner, creating your own fleece blanket offers a fun, creative, and rewarding project. The appeal of fleece blankets lies in their comfort and the endless possibilities for customization, from vibrant patterns to unique borders. 

This guide will walk you through how to sew fleece blanket step-by-step, making the process simple and accessible for any skill level. With clear instructions for preparing the fabric, designing edges, and mastering sewing techniques, you’ll be able to craft a functional, no-fuss fleece blanket that is functional and stylish. Get ready to turn your ideas into a cozy masterpiece! 

Materials and Tools Needed 

Choosing the Right Fleece Fabric 

The first step in creating your fleece blanket is selecting the right fabric. Fleece comes in a variety of types, including anti-pill, microfleece, and plush. Choose soft, high-quality fleece that matches your blanket’s desired size and purpose. Consider patterns and colors that suit your style—whether it’s solid shades for a classic look or vibrant prints for something more playful. You can mix and match coordinating fabrics for a unique, custom feel to create a two-toned or personalized design. 

Essential Sewing Supplies 

Having the right tools on hand ensures a smooth sewing process. Start with a pair of sharp scissors or a rotary cutter for clean and even fabric edges. Use a sewing machine equipped with a ballpoint needle, as these are ideal for working with the stretchiness of fleece. Gather pins, a fabric marker, or chalk for marking measurements and designs. Decorative thread is optional but can add a stylish touch to your blanket. Don’t forget a ruler or measuring tape to ensure all dimensions are precise. With these materials and tools nearby, you’ll be ready to create a professional-looking fleece blanket with ease.

How to Sew Fleece Blanket: Preparing the Fleece 

Step 1: Prepping the Fabric 

Before you start sewing your fleece blanket, preparing the fabric properly is important. Start by washing the fleece to eliminate any potential shrinkage that might occur later. Use a gentle cycle with cold water and mild detergent to maintain the softness and integrity of the fabric. After washing, lay the fleece flat on a large, clean surface, such as a table or the floor, to ensure it dries evenly without wrinkling. Once the fabric is clean and dry, measure and cut it to the desired size. A standard throw blanket typically measures 50″ x 60″, but you can adjust it based on your preference. Take your time to ensure precise measurements, doing sewing and trimming easier later on.

Step 2: Trimming and Squaring the Edges 

Next, focus on trimming and squaring the edges of the fleece. Carefully cut along the edges using a ruler or a rotary cutter to create straight, clean lines. If you don’t have a rotary cutter, sharp scissors will also work well — just be sure to cut steadily for an even result. Check that all sides of the fabric are uniform in size and free of uneven areas or loose threads. Squaring the edges ensures your blanket has a polished, symmetrical finish, making it easier to sew later. By taking the time to prep and trim the fleece carefully, you set the foundation for an attractive, high-quality blanket.

Adding the Decorative Border 

Once the edges are squared, it’s time to add a decorative border to give your blanket a finished, personalized look. The border not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also lends durability to the edges of your blanket. Follow these steps to choose and apply your border.

Step 1: Choosing the Border Type 

First, decide on the type of border you’d like to add. Depending on your style and skill level, you can choose between a no-sew option, a stitched edge, or a fringe border. 

• No-sew Border: This is perfect for beginners or those who prefer a simpler approach. You can achieve this by folding over the edges and using fabric glue or adhesive tape to secure them. 
• Stitched Edge: This adds a clean, professional finish. You can sew a coordinating or contrasting strip of fabric along the edges for a more tailored look. 
• Fringe Border: For a fun and casual vibe, cut evenly spaced slits around the edges of the fleece and tie knots in each strip for a fringed effect. 

When choosing fabric for your order (if applicable), think about coordinating colors and patterns or opt for a contrasting hue to make your design pop. If you’re working with a theme, patterns such as stripes, polka dots, or even holiday prints can add personality to the blanket.

Step 2: Sewing the Border (Optional) 

For those who prefer a stitched border, start by pinning or basting the border fabric around the edges of your fleece to hold it in place. This step ensures that the fabric doesn’t shift or bunch while sewing. Use either a straight stitch or zigzag stitch along the edge for a firm, finished result. Take your time to sew evenly, ensuring the stitches are neat and the border is securely attached. A decorative stitch pattern can also be used to add flair to your blanket border. 

By thoughtfully selecting and applying a border, your fleece blanket will turn into a unique, custom-made, functional, and beautiful piece.

Creating a No-Sew Fleece Blanket 

Step 1: Cutting Fringe Edges 

Creating a no-sew fleece blanket begins with cutting fringe along the edges for a playful and functional finish. Start by laying your fleece fabric flat on a surface and trimming any uneven edges for a clean starting point. Next, using a ruler and fabric scissors or a rotary cutter, carefully measure and cut the fringe strips around all four edges of the blanket. Each strip should typically be 3-4 inches long and about 1 inch wide to ensure uniformity, but you may adjust the dimensions according to personal preference. Keeping the fringe lengths consistent will add to the overall polished look of the completed blanket.

Step 2: Tying the Fringe 

Once the fringe is cut, it’s time to tie the strips for a secure and decorative finish. Take two adjacent fringe strips and tie them together in a tight double knot. Repeat this process along every side of the blanket until all strips are tied and secure. To elevate the aesthetic appeal, consider creating a specific tied pattern, such as alternating knots or tying two colors together if using double-layered fleece. This simple technique holds the edges together and adds a charming, handmade touch to your no-sew fleece blanket.

Sewing a Simple Hemmed Edge 

Step 1: Folding and Pinning the Edge 

To create a neat, professional look, fold the fleece fabric edges inward by ½ inch. Work carefully around all sides, ensuring the fold is even and smooth. Use sewing pins to secure the folded edges in place temporarily. For added precision, consider using a fabric marker to draw a guide line along the fabric, making it easier to keep the hem consistent throughout. Taking time during this step ensures a crisp, finished edge and prevents uneven hems during stitching. 

Step 2: Sewing the Hem 

Set your sewing machine to a straight stitch, and carefully sew along the folded edge, maintaining a steady pace for clean results. Using a coordinating thread color can blend the stitching into the fabric, while a contrasting color may provide a decorative accent. Make sure to reinforce the corners by backstitching for added strength and durability, as these tend to endure more wear and tear. Continue stitching along all four sides of the fabric until the hem is fully secured, providing a simple yet sturdy finish to your fleece project. This effortless method enhances the aesthetics and increases the blanket’s longevity. 

Troubleshooting and Tips 

Dealing with Stretching or Shifting 

Working with fleece can sometimes lead to stretching or shifting of the fabric during sewing, resulting in uneven hems or distorted edges. To address this, consider using a walking foot on your sewing machine. This tool ensures even movement of both the top and bottom layers of fabric, reducing the likelihood of misalignment. Additionally, pinning the fabric more frequently—with pins about an inch apart along the seam—can help secure it and minimize shifting as you sew. These preventative measures will make the sewing process smoother and produce cleaner results. 

Fixing Uneven Edges 

Uneven or jagged edges on your fleece project might detract from the professional appearance of your finished piece. To fix this issue, use a rotary cutter and cutting mat to carefully trim and re-cut any uneven areas, creating clean, straight edges. It’s also helpful to check and adjust the tension settings on your sewing machine. Improper tension can cause puckering or gathering, especially when working with fleece’s stretchy nature. Fine-tuning the tension can ensure smoother stitches and a more even finish. Taking the time to address these issues will elevate the quality of your blanket, resulting in a durable and polished creation. 

Conclusion 

Creating a fleece blanket can be a simple yet rewarding project. By preparing the fabric carefully, adding a border for a polished look, and finishing with either a hem or a no-sew fringe, you ensure a beautiful result. The process of learning how to sew fleece blanket projects allows for endless personalization, making each creation unique. These blankets are quick to make, ideal as thoughtful gifts, and perfect for cozy nights. Don’t hesitate to explore various fleece patterns, decorative borders, and sewing techniques to craft a truly one-of-a-kind blanket that reflects your personal style.