How to Sew Weighted Blanket

Are you having trouble sleeping? Do you often find yourself tossing and turning in bed? If so, a weighted blanket may be the solution for you.

How to sew weighted blanket can be a rewarding and practical DIY project. These blankets are known for their therapeutic benefits, providing comfort and helping to reduce anxiety or improve sleep quality.

By creating your own, you can customize it to suit your weight, fabric, and design preferences. Whether you are new to sewing or a seasoned craftsperson, this guide will walk you through the steps to construct a durable and functional weighted blanket that meets your needs.

With a little time and effort, you can create a unique, handmade item that offers comfort and style.

What Are the Benefits of a Weighted Blanket?

Weighted blankets have been gaining popularity recently for their potential health benefits. The added weight of the blanket creates a sensation known as “deep pressure stimulation,” which can help promote relaxation and reduce stress levels. This has made them popular among individuals with anxiety, ADHD, autism, and other sensory processing disorders.

Moreover, weighted blankets are also believed to improve sleep quality by increasing serotonin and melatonin levels while decreasing cortisol (stress hormone) production. They may also help alleviate symptoms of restless leg syndrome and chronic pain. These therapeutic benefits make them an excellent option for individuals looking for natural and non-invasive ways to improve their well-being.

What Will You Need?

Before starting your sewing project, ensure you have all the necessary materials. Here’s a list of things you’ll need:

• Fabric: Choose a soft and durable fabric, such as flannel or cotton, that can withstand regular use and washing.
• Poly Pellets or Glass Beads: These are the most commonly used fillers for weighted blankets. Make sure they are non-toxic and washable.
• Sewing Machine: While it is possible to sew a weighted blanket by hand, a sewing machine will make the process much easier and faster.
• Thread: Use heavy-duty thread to ensure the stitches can withstand the weight of the blanket.
• Measuring tape
• Scissors
• Pins
• Iron and ironing board
• Fabric marking pen or chalk
• Batting: This can add a layer of warmth and thickness to your blanket.

Once you have all the necessary materials, it’s time to start sewing your weighted blanket.

8 Easy Steps on How to Sew Weighted Blanket

Step 1: Measure and Cut the Fabric 

To begin your weighted blanket project, carefully measure the dimensions of your desired blanket. Consider the size of the person using it and their specific needs. A good rule of thumb is to make the blanket about 10% of the user’s body weight for optimal comfort and benefits. Using your measuring tape, mark the length and width of the fabric with a fabric marking pen or chalk.

Be sure to leave an extra 1-2 inches on all sides to account for seam allowances. Once the dimensions are marked, use sharp fabric scissors to cut the fabric precisely. It’s helpful to cut two identical fabric pieces, one for the front and one for the back of the blanket. Ensure both pieces align perfectly, making sewing much easier later. Taking your time during this step is crucial to achieving a polished final product.

Step 2: Sew Three Sides Together 

Place the two fabric pieces together, aligning the edges with the right sides facing each other. Secure the fabric pieces using sewing pins or clips to prevent shifting during sewing. Using a sewing machine, sew along three sides of the fabric, leaving one side open. Make sure to use a straight stitch and a seam allowance of approximately 1 inch.

Reinforce the corners by backstitching to ensure durability. Once sewn, trim any excess fabric along the edges and corners to reduce bulk, but be careful not to cut through the stitches. Turn the fabric inside out through the open side so the right sides are visible, and press the seams flat for a neat finish.

Step 3: Close the Open Side 

After turning the fabric inside out and pressing the seams flat, it’s time to close the remaining open side. Begin by folding the raw edges of the open side inward, about 1 inch, to match the seam allowance of the other sides. Use sewing pins or clips to hold the folds in place.

To close the opening, sew along the edge using a straight stitch, ensuring the seam aligns seamlessly with the rest of the blanket’s edge. For added durability, backstitch at the beginning and end of your stitches. Once complete, inspect the entire blanket to ensure all edges are secure and neatly finished.

Step 4: Add Decorative Touches 

Consider adding decorative touches to personalize your blanket and give it a unique finish. You can stitch a border using a contrasting thread color or add embellishments like applique shapes or embroidery.

If you prefer a quilted look, sew patterns such as squares or diagonal lines across the blanket to keep layers in place while enhancing the design. Ensure all decorative stitching is secure and evenly spaced for a professional finish. These final details will add character to your blanket and showcase your creativity and craftsmanship.

Step 5: Care for Your Blanket 

After completing your blanket, proper care will ensure its longevity and maintain its appearance. Wash the blanket according to the fabric’s care instructions, typically using a gentle cycle with cold water to prevent shrinkage or color bleeding. If possible, air-dry the blanket to preserve its softness and shape.

Alternatively, use a low heat setting in the dryer. Regularly inspect your blanket for loose threads or wear and repair any damage promptly to keep it in excellent condition. By following these care tips, your handcrafted blanket will remain a cherished item for years to come.

Step 6: Personalize Your Blanket 

Adding personal touches to your blanket can make it truly unique and meaningful. Consider embellishing it with embroidered initials, decorative patches, or appliqué to reflect your style or the recipient’s personality if it’s a gift. You can also experiment with fabric paints or dyes to create custom patterns or designs.

Personalization enhances the blanket’s appearance and transforms it into a one-of-a-kind keepsake that holds sentimental value. Take your time to plan and execute these details carefully, ensuring they are durable and seamlessly integrated into your blanket’s design.

Step 7: Enjoy and Share Your Creation 

Once your blanket is complete, appreciate the effort and craftsmanship you’ve poured into it. Whether you made it for yourself or as a gift, enjoy the warmth and comfort it provides. If it’s present, consider sharing the story behind its creation with the recipient, as such heartfelt gestures add more meaning to your gift. Additionally, sharing pictures or tips about your process with friends or in crafting communities can inspire others and spark conversations about the art of blanket-making. Celebrate your accomplishment and the joy it brings!

Step 8: Maintain Your Blanket 

Proper care and maintenance are essential to ensure your handmade blanket lasts for years. Follow any specific care instructions based on the materials you used, such as washing settings for delicate fabrics or avoiding harsh detergents. Regularly check for wear and tear and repair minor issues like loose stitches to preserve its integrity.

Storing your blanket in a clean, dry place when not in use will also help maintain its quality. By taking these steps, you can keep your creation looking and feeling as wonderful as the day you finished it.

By following these steps, you can create a beautiful and functional handmade blanket that is truly one of a kind.

5 Things You Should Avoid

1. Using Improper Materials: Avoid using fabrics or fillers that are not durable or safe for a weighted blanket. Ensure the materials are washable, non-toxic, and suitable for the user’s needs, especially if children will use the blanket.
2. Miscalculating the Weight: A common mistake is making the blanket too heavy or light. The recommended weight for a weighted blanket is typically around 10% of the user’s body weight. Overlooking this can lead to discomfort or potential health risks.
3. Skipping Secure Stitching: Weighted blankets need reinforced stitching to hold the filler materials securely. Poor stitching can result in the weights shifting, clumping, or spilling out over time.
4. Ignoring Even Weight Distribution: Proper weight distribution is crucial for a weighted blanket to function effectively. Avoid sewing without carefully planning and creating even grid-like pockets to ensure the blanket provides balanced pressure.
5. Neglecting Safety Precautions: Whether it’s the choice of materials, the design, or how the blanket is sewn, safety should always be a priority. For example, avoid using tiny filler beads that could pose a choking hazard if the blanket tears.

Conclusion

How to sew weighted blanket requires careful planning, attention to detail, and a focus on safety.

You can create a durable and effective blanket by selecting the right materials, maintaining even weight distribution, and ensuring secure stitching. Remember to calculate the appropriate weight based on the intended user’s body weight and double-check your work for any potential flaws.

Following these steps will allow you to produce a high-quality weighted blanket that is both comforting and safe.