If you are one of those people in the United Kingdom who wants a stylish blanket, some steps will guide you on how to make a chenille blanket from scratch.
Chenille blankets are not just a simple type of blanket. It is one of the most fluffy, warm and comfortable ones that you can ever ask for.
Stick around to learn the process of making this without troubling yourself too much.
Materials Required On How To Make A Chenille Blanket
These blankets are comfortable and night-friendly, but unfortunately, they can be pretty expensive.
Thankfully, you can get the same quality in a DIY chenille blanket as long as you know what you are doing.
The following is a list of your must-haves to make your chenille blanket.
- One yard of cotton (blanket backing). Make sure to have ½ to 1 inch extra for the foldings
- Four pieces of flannel (1-yard cuts; colours and design of your choice)
- Masking tape
- ½ yard cotton fabric (for binding)
- Spray baste or basting needle and thread
- Chenille scissor
Note: Press all of the fabrics, but DO NOT wash beforehand.
Method #1. Using spray baste
- Step #1. Put the focus fabric on a flat surface facing down, then use the basting spray
- Step #2. After adding a basting spray, you can now lay the 1st flannel piece on top of the fabric and smooth the surface.
In this part, it is better to have someone accompany you. Do not use spray baste on this layer because one will trim it off.
- Step #3. Now, add the 3rd piece of flannel using spray baste and smooth into place.
- Step #4. After these steps, you can now add the 4th and final flannel, then smooth it into place.
Method #2. Using basting needle and thread
- Step #1. Spread the cotton (backing fabric) on a large surface facing down.
- Step #2. After that, lay the flannel on top, at the right side part of the backing.
- Step #3. Smooth each layer before adding the next piece.
Once all the five layers smoothened into place, place a long masking tape diagonally across the blanket.
- Step #4. Using the basting thread and needle, baste the layers all together.
You will have to baste using a big stich, followed by a little stitch.
- Step #5. You will have to stitch at least 3 inches from the last line and baste it following the tape line.
- Step #6. Using your sewing machine with the guide attached, stitch along one side of your guideline, then remove the tape you will finish.
- Step #7. Using the stitch guidelines, continue stitching the measure of ⅝ inches diagonally until the entire fabric has stitched.
- Step #8. Using the chenille scissors, cut through the first three layers. Do not cut the 4th layer.
- Step #9. Once all the guidelines cut, you need to start shaping your blanket into a square.
Do not do this until all lines are cut.
- Step #10. To square up the blanket, start by folding it in half and then use the folded line for a straight line, then trim each side.
Fold the opposite side and repeat. After that, make sure if your blanket has squared up.
- Step #11. After doing those, you can now start with the binding.
Use your cotton fabric, cut it into 2.5” strips, then connect it all to make a long one, fold it then press.
- Step #12. Attach the flannel side using a sewing machine.
You can either add embroidery or stamp to your preference for additional design.
- Step #13. After completing all those steps, you can now wash your DIY chenille blanket.
Standard Fabrics Used For Chenille Blankets
Chenille has different materials. Let’s narrow it down to the fabrics that can be used.
All of the following contains a unique characteristic that contributes to the beauty of a chenille blanket.
Cotton
This one commonly used because of its breathable and soft attributes. It is also considered eco-friendly.
Polyester
Polyester is commonly used in blankets and throws. It is a synthetic material that is more affordable than cotton and wool.
However, it can also be less durable.
Wool
Common chenille materials with this fabric are scarves, gloves and even shawls.
It is known to be expensive, but it is worth it since they are long-lasting.
Rayon
Also called “viscose”, rayon is a fabric that has a silky and smooth texture.
It is an eco-friendly material since it is sustainable from wood pulps. People go for this fabric because of its luminous appeal.
Conclusion
Wanting to have something is natural, but being able to make that thing is a rare experience.
Many people in the UK have been compromising on having their own comfy and fuzzy blanket, but their budget slacked off.
For your convenience, here are the steps and the materials you’ll need on how to make a chenille blanket.