7 Proven Steps How To Wash A Fuzzy Blanket?

How to wash a fuzzy blanket without causing damage?

how to wash a fuzzy blanket

Well, fuzzy blankets use synthetic materials such as acrylic and polyester, so the answer depends. Artificial fur even includes wool or cotton, making the blanket’s fibre content a lot trickier when washing. 

You can grab the nearest laundry care manual to walk you through the specifics. For fleece items, follow general washing and drying instructions, and you’re good to go.

In the absence of one, consider this your lucky day! Just follow the simple guidelines below to keep your fuzzy blankets soft. 

What Makes Fuzzy Blankets Hard to Wash

If you don’t want any risk with your blankets’ condition, dry-cleaning is the way to go, although relatively more expensive.

However, there is an alternative. You can wash fuzzy blankets on your own if you can follow instructions!

Although, keep in mind that there are things to remember. First, you have to be sure that the washing machine is suitable for the fabric.

Overloading and the lack of washing selections will result in poor quality of the wash.

The ideal machine should have the quickest wash cycle option since fuzzy blankets should only stay wet for a short period. On top of this, the highest spin option should relieve the water off of it.

All the while, this will need close supervision on your side. 

Tips On Washing

  • A top-loading washing machine works best. The device must have the appropriate settings to cater to the delicate blanket. 
  • The detergent you opt for must be mild. When choosing, look for the formula crafted for delicate fabrics. 
  • It’s highly encouraged to wash with similar colours only. You don’t want to end up in a colourful mess. 

Tips On Drying

  • Do not prolong drying after washing the blankets. Fleece items, being heavyweight and full of strands, can be a breeding place for bacteria. Proceed to dry pronto.
  • Care labels differ for each blanket. If it permits the use of dryers, then it’s OK to tumble dry. Otherwise, it would be much safer to hang it on a drying rack or be left outside in the sun.
  • If you don’t know by now, heat can mess up fleece and related fibres. Please do not iron fleece items or expose them to excessive heat. This practice will keep the blanket soft and in good condition.
  • Faux-fur absorbs a lot of water, so that a second spin cycle will do your blanket good. Remove as much water as you can before hanging the blanket in a sturdy clothesline. Allowing them to dry in the air is preferred rather than placing them in dryers. 
  • After drying, you can shake the blanket to make it more fluffy. Store the blankets in the UK in a regular drawer, away from heat. During summer, however, storing them in cotton sacks can preserve softness noticeably. 

Remember the tips listed above and consult them as you go over the process. Now, below are the steps in washing fuzzy blankets if you’re using a washing machine.

To help you further, we answered questions arising from common concerns, too. 

How to wash a fuzzy blanket using a washing machine

Step #1. Separate laundry and sort fuzzy blankets in one pile

Step #2. Check for stains and remove them first

Step #3. Run a lint roller over the blanket before machine wash

Step #4. Select cool water temperature and delicate cycle

Step #5. Add the minimum amount of mild detergent and skip the fabric softener

Step #6. Machine-wash

Step #7. Remove and let dry

How do I remove stains from my fuzzy blanket?

Dabbing the spot in mild detergent or soap usually does the job. Once you have treated the stain, allow it to soak in cold water for at least 10 minutes.

One helpful tip most people in the UK wish they learned earlier is not to rub the dirt. Instead, press it with a sponge or a used t-shirt to avoid burying the stain further in the garment.

How often should I wash?

Fleece items, once damaged, are unlikely to return to their pristine condition. Wrong ways of washing lead to fading softness and a worn-out look.

As such, aside from meticulously following the instructions, restrain from overwashing and only do it to remove dirt and lint.

How do I preserve the “fuzz”?

So you want to preserve or revive your blanket’s fuzzy texture, and you can still do so with a few simple tricks.

While the blanket is still wet, you can rejuvenate the fleece fibres by using a brush. Your blanket will look good as new after doing so. 

Furthermore, when it comes to the residue meddling with strands, adding vinegar can help. Take this a step during the rinsing cycle. As a bonus, offensive odours will disappear. 

Conclusion

Now you have learned how to wash a fuzzy blanket in the easiest way possible. We hope that this article cleared some confusion and added value to your UK household.

Indeed, those fuzzy blankets bring joy to you at bedtime, so take good care of them, especially when washing. 

Sure, fuzzy blankets are much harder to clean than regular ones. But why go rushing to hire a professional cleaner if you can do it yourself, right?

how to arm knit a blanket with thin yarn

5 New Steps How To Arm Knit A Blanket With Thin Yarn?

Warm, cosy knitted blankets usually made of thick yarn. However, they could get costly in the UK, so you can learn how to arm knit a blanket with thin yarn instead.

This arm knitting method will require multiple strands of thin yarn to create a bulkier blanket, but you can easily make various colour combinations.

Arm knitting is fun and easy, so with a bit of practice, you can start knitting your blankets in an hour or two, like a pro.

Step-By-Step Guide On How To Arm Knit A Blanket With Thin Yarn

Step #1. Make a slip knot 

Start with making a slip knot. To do this, create a loop at the tail end of your yarn on top, then pass through the loop with your thumb and index finger.

Pinch the end of the yarn that is attached to the skein. Pull the long end of the yarn through the loop and tighten the knot.

Step #2. Cast row one

Put your slip knot on your right arm and your left index finger and thumb between the working yarn or the yarn connected to the skein.

Grab the strands of yarn with the rest of your fingers in the left hand, and twist the yarns up.

Using your right hand, grab the yarn in front of your thumb and pull it up. Reach through the loop and grab the end of the yarn in front of your left index finger.

Pull the yarn through the loop and slip your right hand through. Repeat these steps until you have at least ten loops on your arms.

Step #3. Work on the rows

Pull the tail of your yarn to the side and grab the working yarn with your right hand. Wrap your yarn around the front of your thumb.

Working from the bottom up, fold your hand around the working yarn to form a fist.

Using your left hand, pull the stitch of yarn on your right wrist over the other holding the working yarn. Drop the stitch and slip your left hand through the working yarn.

Pull tight, but not too tight, to allow the yarn to slide on your wrist. Repeat until everything transferred to your other arm.

Your stitches will alternate from your right to your left arm, so repeat the process until you have the length or size you desire.

Remember to have at least four yards of yarn left to bind off your blanket.

Step #4. Bind off

Put all your stitches on your left arm and create two more stitches on your right arm. Drop your working yarn, and with your left hand, grab the stitch closest to your elbow on your right arm and pull it over the other stitch.

Pick up the working yarn and knit another stitch on your right arm. Repeat the process until all stitches are off your left arm, save for the last stitch.

Remove the last loop and pull to make a large loop. Measure four inches on the working yarn and cut. After, you can pull the working yarn up through the loop and pull tight like a knot.

Step #5. Finishing the blanket

Lay the blanket out flat. With the working yarn, pull the blanket under the first line of stitches from where you see the first V and pull the yarn all the way through.

Find the first stitch on your blanket, on the left side. Pull the yarn underneath, all the way through.

At the end of the last row of yarn, cut around seven inches off the tail. Pull through the final loop and discreetly weave the end into the backside of the blanket.

How Do I Use Thin Yarn For Arm Knitting?

You can use different methods in making your chunky yarn from thin yarns. You can choose to knit single crochet strands, use multiple strands, or create a center-pull cord.

  • Use a single crochet strand

Make a chunky yarn strand by crocheting one. You only have to crochet a chain as long as you can.

Come back at the beginning and single crochet the first row of your blanket, which should give you a strand about a quarter of an inch thick.

  • Use multiple strands

You can increase or decrease the thickness of the yarn simply by adding strands. You can use different colours and get creative with this idea.

However, the problem with this technique is that the blanket could look a bit stringy, so you may want to twist the strands together before starting your blanket project.

  • Make a centre-pull cord

The centre-pull cord is easy to make. Make a loop with the yarn and grab the yarn through the centre to make another loop.

Conclusion

This project is easy enough if you know how to arm knit a blanket with thin yarn. A good aspect of this project is that you only need yarn, your arms, and probably a pair of scissors to put everything together.

Take your time and enjoy creating your blanket. This arm-knitted blanket is a great project to do by yourself or your kids if they are up to it.

How To Sew A Blanket

3 Special Steps Of How To Sew A Blanket Easily?

It only takes three steps to learn how to sew a blanket, and it will be as easy as crocheting. You can surprise your friends in the winter months with their personalised blanket, which is more special since you made it yourself. And best of all, this project isn’t too tasking. 

Before anything else, make sure that you have chosen your materials for the blanket. You’ll need a plush fabric, flannel, and batting to create the cosiest UK homemade blanket. You can also prepare a sewing machine for this project if you’re making a large-size blanket.

 

How To Sew A Blanket For Beginners

 

1. Prepare the fabric pieces for sewing

You can use different fabrics to make a blanket but ensure that you have materials for the batting, flannel, and plush parts of the blanket. Cut the three fabrics at the same size to achieve your desired blanket dimensions. Then, align them for sewing and pin the batting at the bottom, followed by the flannel, and finally, the plush material at the top. 

Remember that when you’re placing the flannel over the batting, it should be right side up, and the plush will be right side down over the flannel. The flannel and plush material will face each other with their right sides. Pin the three layers together and smoothen them out for stitching. 

 

2. Stitch the fabric layers together

You can sew the materials together with a machine or by hand and tape around the plush fabric to guide you with the seam. Beginners who decided to sew a blanket by hand will start at the corner and down to the sides. You can do blanket stitching until you finished around the blanket. 

What if you want to use a sewing machine? Place the blanket under the needle and move downward. Sewing using a device is self-explanatory and according to what’s comfortable for you as long as you are on the outside edge of the tape you used for marking the seam.

 

3. Finish the blanket

Once you’ve sewed all around the blanket, cut around the edge and remove the tape and pins. Then, iron the edges with the low setting starting from the top edge of the blanket. Flip the blanket right side out and ensure that no material bunched inward, especially on the corners. 

Finally, sew the hole with a blanket stitch, and your blanket finished!

 

How Much Fabric Needed For A Blanket?

The amount of fabric you’ll need to make a blanket depends on the size you’re making. To give you a quick guide, the smallest size, a baby blanket, will need a yard of fabric. On the other hand, the enormous dimensions, adult Afghan and adult oversized, will need twice the amount.  

 

What are the standard blanket sizes?

When sewing a blanket, it would help to familiarise yourself with different standard blanket sizes. You’ll use the dimensions when cutting the pieces you’ll need and gauging how much fabric required in the first place. For bed blankets, there are crib, twin, double, queen, and king-size blankets. 

 

Bed blankets dimensions

A crib blanket is 45 by 60 inches, while a king-size blanket is 108 by 90 inches. Most people in the United Kingdom choose the twin blanket, which is a  good middle-size at 66 by 90 inches, or a double, 80 by 90 inches. It’s also worth noting that blankets are typically bed-sized, while Afghans more commonly knitted or crocheted. 

 

What is the best fabric for a blanket?

The best fabric for a blanket will differ for every person, depending on their preferred design or feel. The most popular ones are cotton, wool, fleece, and mink. But for our beginner’s sewing guide above, let us familiarise you with the materials for the plush, flannel, and batting blanket layers. 

 

Plush fabric

The plush fabric you’ll use for a blanket is polyester, and you can select a specific colour or design as long as it matches your flannel. Remember that this material will also be what you’ll immediately contact when using the blanket. 

 

Flannel

The flannel material comes in different designs and colours. And since it is cotton, it feels soft, and some are even fuzzy. 

 

Batting

The batting will fill up your blanket to improve its cosiness. Generally, you can choose from polyester or cotton. The latter is more preferred because of its softness. 

 

How Do You Make A Simple Quilt Blanket?

Making a simple quilt blanket is straightforward, and the easiest one you can do is a patchwork square. Cut the blocks you’ll need for the blanket size and sew the pattern together. Baste the layers and then bind the edges to finish the quilt blanket.

You can check out different quilt patterns online to help you find which you think is the easiest. Some even share their favourite quilt block patterns online that you can use as guides. 

Conclusion

Do you want to make your blanket? Then it would be helpful to learn how to sew a blanket! You will only need to prepare three types of materials and stitch them together by hand or with a sewing machine. 

 

How To Knit A Blanket With Straight Needles

Trick How To Knit A Blanket With Straight Needles?

Did you know that learning how to knit a blanket with straight needles only takes two steps? Do not be intimidated by trying new ways to knit a blanket in the UK. After we have taught you how to use your arms, you can get your hands on straight needles this time. 

Are you still unsure of carrying on? Compared to circular needles, straight needles are more beginner-friendly for knitting. You can position it under the arm, so even a project like a blanket won’t get you overwhelmed. 

 

How To Knit A Blanket With Straight Needles For Beginners

 

1. Plan the blanket size and prepare your materials

Straight needles are beginner-friendly for knitting a blanket. Start deciding the blanket size you want to make and ensure that your needles are long enough for the blanket’s width to keep the project from bunching up. You also want to ensure that the yarn is ideal for the needles you’re using and you have enough balls to finish the blanket

 

2. Cast on and start knitting

Check your pattern to know how many stitches you need to cast on. You can also multiply the yarn gauge by the blanket width to see the number of stitches you’ll need to finish knitting. Beginners can start knitting the first row using the basic knit until they reach the blanket size planned. 

Once you’ve knitted the rows, you can finish the blanket by weaving any loose end of the stitches. Sew the blanket ends for a neater look, and your blanket finished! The pattern should recommend a method to clean up the edges, but you can also crochet a border after casting off.

 

Can I Use Straight Needles To Knit A Blanket?

You can use straight needles to knit a blanket, and it’s even the best method to choose for beginners. Straight needles also come in different lengths, so you can choose the right one to accommodate the size of your finished blanket. The only downside with straight needles for knitted blankets is that the project can bunch up if you used needles too short for the blanket width. 

The length range for straight needles is from 9 to 14 inches, and the material is either plastic, wood, steel, aluminium, or bamboo. Be sure to get the proper straight needles, not just for the blanket size but also for the yarn you’ll use. More so, straight needles are ideal if you’re working on smaller blankets because they will hold all the stitches. 

 

Straight needles vs circular needles for knitting a blanket

We mentioned the size limitation is the advantage of circular needles over straight needles when knitting something as extensive as a blanket. The weight may become awkward over time since your arms and wrists will hold it when working with straight needles. On the other hand, circular needles will allow you to work back and forth for quicker knitting, and the needles will bear the project’s weight. 

 

How Many Stitches Do You Need For A Blanket?

The pattern dictates the stitches you’ll need for a blanket. However, you can use online calculators to get the number of stitches to cast on a project. To help you know what number of stitches to expect with your blanket, here are some considerations besides the blanket size:

 

Yarn weight and needle size

Remember that the yarn’s weight will dictate your gauge. You’ll get a better idea of how many stitches to cast on by checking your yarn label. Additionally, know the needle size required by the pattern because if it’s smaller, you will need more stitches in your gauge or fewer stitches if you’re using a larger needle.

 

Gauge

Perhaps the most influential factor for stitches is the gauge of your project. It’s important always to check your gauge when working on your blanket to compare it to your yarn label. This way, you can reduce or increase the number of stitches if needed. 

 

Pattern

Finally, you might be using a specific pattern that can affect the number of stitches needed. The most common stitches are garter or stockinette stitches, but some patterns may require a certain number of stitches per repeat. Remember that you should cast on the number of stitches that will complement every stitch repeat you’ll do. 

 

How Many Stitches Will A Straight Knitting Needle Hold?

Throughout this article, we emphasised the importance of getting the right length of straight needles for your blanket’s intended width. The correct size is essential because straight needles will hold all the stitches for your project. A quick tip you can never forget is that a straight needle can typically have twice its length, and anything over that can cause the yarn to bunch up. 

It’s also worth noting that straight needles are best for smaller and rounder projects than vast ones like huge blankets. It will be hard to manage large projects in straight needles. You can always check what’s recommended by the blanket pattern, but be mindful of this rule. 

Conclusion

Beginners in knitting can use straight needles. We have taught you how to knit a blanket with straight needles in two easy steps and identify the number of stitches you must do. The main rule you must remember is to ensure that the needles are long enough to accommodate your blanket width. 

 

how to make a fur blanket

5 New Steps Of How To Make A Fur Blanket?

Those in the UK who want to know how to make a fur blanket that will keep them warm should check out this creative and quick five-step guide.

 

As we may know, fur blankets tend to be pricey and out of budget. We will mention tips to make your experience simpler and more affordable.

 

We will talk about the easiest way to trim, pin, and sew your very own fur blanket. Continue reading this article as we teach you how to make a fur blanket in 5 easy steps!

 

How To Make A Fur Blanket The DIY Way

 

Step #1. Preparation

Before putting into reality the fur blanket you have been dreaming of, you must first check the available materials you have and those in the UK that you need to purchase.

 

The materials that will help you start doing this project are:

 

  • 1 ½ yard or 60” inches faux fur fabric
  • 1 ½ yard or 60” inches silky fabric for the back
  • Needle
  • Thread
  • Scissors
  • Measuring tape and ruler
  • Pins
  • Pen
  • Sewing machine

 

Using measuring tape, ruler, and pen, mark the sides of the fabric depending on how big you want it to be.

 

There must be at least ½ inch seam allowances for your blanket to be 1 inch smaller lengthwise and widthwise.

 

Step #2. Trimming

Cutting the fabric may be an exciting experience for you. However, you must be very careful because there is no going back once you use your scissors.

 

Slide your scissors through the fur to cut the back of the fabric to size. Do not cut the fur fabric and take only small snips of the back.

 

Step #3. Pinning

Straighten the fur fabric right-side-down onto the silky fabric which is facing right-side-up. Use the pins to stick the materials together.

 

You need to cut the silky fabric to the same size as the fur fabric.

 

Step #4. Sewing

Two steps to go, and you may already have a glimpse at the expected outcome in this particular step.

 

With the pins stuck in their place, you must sew together the fabrics around their perimeters. 

 

Do not forget the ½ “ seam allowance, and you must leave a 12” opening and backstitch on either side of it.

 

Then, cut the corners of the seam allowances diagonally to reduce the bulk in its corners. 

 

Step #5. Finishing

It is now the time to turn your blanket right-side-out and use your skills in hand stitching. By using the needle and the thread, hand sew the opening and create an almost invisible seam. 

 

Fold the fabric towards each other and catch for ½ “ from each side of the material. Start stitching and finish up on the fur side.

 

How do I clean my fur blanket at home in the UK?

Every kind of fabric has its way of getting washed. You may be worried about the ways to clean your fur blanket at home in the UK.

 

As the creator of this blanket, you may want to personally clean it instead of asking other people in the UK to do it for you.

 

In washing the fabric of your blanket, you must use a gentle detergent or a mild laundry detergent. The fibre content of your blanket is a must to know to take care of it excellently. 

 

With the help of your washing machine, fill it with cold water and be ready to add your detergent.

 

The detergent must be free of softeners because it makes it harder for the water to permeate the fabric. After placing the blanket into the machine, allow the cycle to be complete and wait for it.

 

You do not need to use a dryer as it may only damage your blanket. You must allow your fur fabric to air dry and hang it in the clothesline from your outdoor access.

 

If you don’t have one, you can drape it over the back of two chairs and make sure to shake it after drying to fluff it again.

 

How can I keep my fur blanket soft?

You might be afraid that your fur blanket may lose its cosy effect if you make a mistake in maintaining its quality. Surprisingly, it does not take that much to keep your blanket soft and comfy. 

 

You need to avoid using a fabric softener and use the best method of drying, which is air drying. You may use a fabric conditioner instead, which keeps clothes fresh and soft.

 

It also protects your fabric from being damaged during washing. 

 

If you also use a dryer instead of hanging the blanket outdoors, you must make sure that you use the lowest heat setting possible.

 

It may be ripped, curled, and scalloped with high heat, which takes away its softness. For a more natural and cost-effective way of caring for it, you may also use white vinegar as your natural fabric softener.

Conclusion

Fur blankets are well-loved because of their ability to provide comfort and relaxation to our bodies.

 

However, do you know how to make a fur blanket? You can have a more affordable one by simply cutting, pinning, and sewing your own!

 

Remember that it also has its way of being taken care of, so consider how you must clean it to keep its softness.

How To Make A Swaddling Blanket

Free Guide Of How To Make A Swaddling Blanket?

For those in the UK who want to learn how to make a swaddling blanket, we have two steps to teach you! While you can always buy a swaddling blanket, it’s a relatively easy and fun project for DIY. You can even customize it more for your little one. 

Like other baby blankets, make sure that you’ll use the ideal materials for the swaddling blanket. Some parents even use one blanket as the receiving and swaddling blanket. Carry on reading to learn more, as well as how to swaddle your baby safely. 

 

How To Make A Swaddling Blanket At Home In The UK

 

1. Cut your fabric and prepare it for sewing

The first step to make a swaddling blanket is two prepare and cut the material. We will talk more about the best fabric and sizes for swaddling blankets later but aim to use something soft and lightweight. Typically, two and a half yards of material might provide you with two blankets. 

If you just bought the fabric, it would help to wash and dry it before cutting since some materials shrink. This way, you’ll get the actual dimensions. After you cut the fabric to your desired size, you can also round the corners before sewing the blanket. 

 

2. Hem and sew the edges of the blankets

Fold the fabric piece’s edges at around half an inch, and then fold them again at the same size to create a crease. Iron them in place to hem the blanket and sew with half an inch of the seam allowance. You can straight stitch by hand or with a sewing machine, whichever you’re more comfortable doing. 

And that’s it! You just quickly made a swaddling blanket using basic sewing skills. You can also finish the raw edges with a serger or zigzag stitches if you don’t want to hem the edges. When making a swaddling blanket, the main idea is to cut a fabric piece and finish the edges.

 

How Much Fabric Do I Need To Make A Swaddle Blanket?

A yard of fabric is enough to make one swaddle blanket measuring 36 by 36 inches. You can also get two more oversized swaddle blankets from 2.5 square yards of material. For this amount, you can have two 44 by 44-inch swaddle blankets.

Because there are different sizes of swaddle blankets, you can always purchase extra fabric. If you find yourself with as many as 3.5 square yards of fabric, you’ll be able to produce a very large 60 by 60-inch swaddle blanket. 

 

What Is The Best Fabric For A Swaddling Blanket?

The ideal material for those in the United Kingdom who want to learn how to make a swaddling blanket is anything lightweight, soft, and has a bit of stretch. More so, the finished blanket should wash and dry quickly without losing its feel. Some best examples are flannel or double gauze cloth, cotton, muslin, and interlock knit

You should easily find different colours and add your personal touch to your baby’s swaddling blanket. However, remember our tip earlier before cutting your fabric. Wash and dry it first so you won’t end up with a smaller finished blanket. 

 

What Is The Best Size For A Swaddle Blanket?

The most common swaddle blanket dimensions are 36 by 36 inches. However, you can always have something more significant to swaddle your baby much more manageably. With extra materials, why not try making a 44 by a 44-inch blanket or even a 60 by 60-inch swaddle blanket?

Over time, these oversized blankets can have other uses as your baby grows. It can become a handy surface for playtime, diaper changing, or even as a cover for you and your little one. Some children also grow fond of their blanket and look to it as a sense of security

How To Use A Swaddling Blanket Correctly

Swaddling is an excellent way to help your baby sleep. However, it still has some risks that you must keep in mind. Here is the safest way to swaddle a baby, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics

  1. Start with the blanket flat with one corner folded, then place your baby face upward on it. 
  2. The baby’s head should be above the folded corner before you straighten their left arm and wrap the same blanket corner over their body
  3. Tuck the blanket between your baby’s right arm and side
  4. Tuck your baby’s right arm down and fold the same blanket corner over their body and under their left side
  5. Fold the bottom of the blanket loosely and tuck it under one side of your baby
  6. Check if the blanket is too tight because you’re aiming to fit about two of your fingers between the baby’s chest and the blanket

When to stop swaddling

You should stop swaddling once your baby can roll over, which typically happens around two months of age. Furthermore, always consult your paediatrician for more concerns regarding swaddling. 

 

Conclusion

Newborns can feel overwhelmed with the new environment, and swaddling can help calm them. You can learn how to make a swaddling blanket in two steps without needing many techniques. You’re only cutting any lightweight and soft fabric according to your desired blanket size and then finish the edges. 

Hopefully, this two-step guide has helped you learned how to make a swaddling blanket in under an hour. Did you try making one today? Let us know below!

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