How To Weave A Blanket On A Loom In 3 Steps?

There is a series of simple steps when learning how to weave a blanket on a loom. If you are looking forward to creating a giant knitting or weaving project, then you may have looked into the process at some point. You don’t even have to use a large wooden loom as traditional weavers do. There are more modern and portable versions of those nowadays in the UK, and while there are many different types of looms, we will focus on using lap looms.

Step by Step Guide On How To Weave A Blanket On A Loom

Weaving a blanket using a lap loom can be a relaxing project. By using simple weaving tools, you can easily make your blanket, too. Here are the steps to help you get started on weaving your blanket:

Step#1. Warping the loom 

When using a pegged loom, start by tying a slip knot on the first notch of your loom. Starting at the bottom left side, pull the warp thread up to the top-notch of your loom. After, thread up to the top-notch. Turn the thread over and bring it back down to the bottom. Continue this cycle from the top to the bottom of the loom, forming an S pattern.

Step#2. Using weaving techniques 

The fun part about weaving a blanket is the creativity that goes with it. Find a pattern that you like using a variety of weaving and knitting techniques. There are different kinds of weaves that you can use to create your blanket, from a simple plain weave to a braided weave or a chain weave. You can even use a combination of weaves to create more textures and designs for your blanket.

Step#3. Taking the weave off the loom 

Working on the blanket can be relaxing or meditative, so when you finished with your blanket’s weaving process, the next thing you will want is to finish the weave by taking the entire thing off the loom. You can complete a weave simply by cutting the warp threads off the frame and tying them together. 

Are There Terminologies We Should Be Aware Of?

Here is a quick guide that you can refer to for those in the UK who are not familiar with different weaving terminologies.

  • Loom- The loom is the structure you will use to create support and tension in your weaves.
  • Warp thread- The vertical strings on the loom hold the material’s tension while you weave.
  • Weft thread- This is the thread between the warp threads that help you make patterns and structures in your weave.
  • Shed- This separates warp threads, creating upper and lower warp sets that you can pass your weft thread through. Building a shed between your warp threads can help speed up your weaving.
  • Heddle- This works with the loom in creating a shed in the threads. Each warp thread passes through the heddle, which you can then use to separate warp threads. Heddles can be rotating sticks with grooves or wires and strings that can pull on warp threads to separate them.

What Tools Do We Need For Weaving?

You probably already have a loom that you can use to start weaving. If you have a lap loom, then that is great. Here are other things that you will need to get started on your weaving project/

Tapestry needle

You can use this to weave in loose ends while finishing your weave. You can also use it to incorporate different designs into your blanket. The tapestry needle works like an ordinary sewing needle. However, instead of piercing fabric, it is used to weave yarn into your warp thread.

Shed stick

A shed stick is a piece of wood that used to weave between the warp threads.

Threads and yarns

You can use a variety of threads for your warp. A strong warp can help you add many heavy layers and textures into your project, so find a good thread that would not shrink or curl with frequent use.

Are There Other Tricks We Can Use In Weaving?

There can be tricky issues regarding weaving, especially for beginners. Here are some tips, tricks, and quick fixes that you can use when weaving.

Widening the blanket

Blankets are usually wide cloths, and few looms made to be very wide. Instead, you can opt to weave your blanket in two or more panels sewn together. You then have to adapt the number of threading repeats and colour orders in the warp.

Fixing waves after taking the weave off the loom

When the final product does not entirely turn out as expected, find a way to support the threads. Don’t forget to iron your weave as well to let it keep its shape.

Fixing warp threads that spaced too far apart

In this case, you can double wrap your loom, allowing the threads to create a sturdier weave.

Conclusion

Now that you know how to weave a blanket on a loom, you can start your project in the UK. It can be a bit overwhelming, especially for beginners. There is no need to worry because you can be more comfortable with the process once you get used to the different weaving techniques.

how to wash acrylic yarn blanket

How To Wash Acrylic Yarn Blanket In 6 New Steps?

There are six simple steps on how to wash acrylic yarn blanket: soaking, washing, rinsing, squeezing, drying, and reshaping. True enough, acrylic yarns, like other crochet and knitted items, are more susceptible to deformations than other common materials.

Besides knowing how to wash the item, questions about taking care of their blankets plague many people in the UK: if it’s okay to machine wash, heat dry, and other typical inquiries to having valuable items. We will try to address such questions here.

Steps On How To Wash Acrylic Yarn Blanket

Knitting or crochet creates acrylic yarn blankets by detailed twisting of yarn into sophisticated designs. As they take much time to complete, these blankets are a bit pricey but delicate. If you’ve had one for some time, you’ll notice that they are pretty absorbent. Spillage and stains stick annoyingly to them and are hard to remove. 

We suggest you first check the UK manufacturing guidelines attached to your blanket before jumping right to washing. See if there is any recommendable soap for machine-washing and if it will suffer discolouration. Meanwhile, here are some easy steps in cleaning your blanket.

Step #1. Soaking

You would want to dip your blanket on a basin of cold water first to help distribute soap later on and soften any sticking stains. This step is a preparatory step that allows you to check for any item that might have gotten stuck on your blanket. 

Ensure that your blanket is fully submerged and that you’ve removed any knot that may have formed. Pick the blanket from the basin and drain the water. However, it would help if you didn’t wring it as it will have loose threads.

Step #2: Washing

After prepping the blanket, dissolve your detergent in cold water before submerging the blanket. Ensure no clumped soaps if you’re using powdered detergent as it might stick to the blanket. If you’re handwashing, do not scrub its surface to avoid felting and gently swish and squeeze until you remove all specks of dirt.

Step #3: Rinsing

Dip the blanket into generous batches of water and squeeze to remove all the soap and residual dirt. You can rinse it until you see no suds anymore, but three to four basins should suffice. You can add a fabric conditioner on the final rinse; check first if the UK manufacturer recommends it.

Step #4: Squeezing

After the last rinse, squeeze out as much water as you can from the blanket. Removing a lot of the water will shorten the time for drying. If you’re in a rush, you can wrap the blanket on an absorbent towel before pressing on it, but never wring it.

Step #5: Drying

Though some prefer hanging their blankets on a wire or pole for drying, it is not advisable. Doing so will stretch the yarn where the wire is, and repeated occurrences will permanently thin out your blanket. Instead, it would be best to dry it flat on a surface to fully support its weight, which usually takes 24 hours to finish. 

Step #6: Reshaping

Push on the knots gently to help it return to its original shape. However, you mustn’t tug or pull it as it can get damaged the same way from hanging. Adjust your blanket as gently as you can.

Acrylic yarn blankets will get damaged if even a single thread gets tugged or gets caught on wires. Make sure you watch out and put aside any item that can accidentally scratch on your blanket.

Is it safe to machine wash an acrylic yarn blanket?

Generally, acrylic yarn blankets can be machine-washed. However, you should check the product’s description. Use a gentle cycle, especially if it’s the first time you’re washing your blanket. Though you can wash acrylic yarn blankets with other blankets, this is not advisable for clothes with hooks or loose parts.

Washing machines twist all the loads around to remove dirt, so mixing other laundry clothes might put your blanket at risk. Plus, you wouldn’t want to get your blanket stained by possible discolouration of other garments, so it`s best not to risk it.

 

Can acrylic be heat dried?

Acrylics can be dried using heat in modern washing machines, but you should still check on the package if it advised. Do note that they made from plastic materials, so you should expect them to not behave in the same manner. Keep the thermostat of the machine at a low temperature to keep the blanket in perfect condition.

Drying it under the sun will depend on how hot the temperature climbs in your area. If it’s within the values indicated by the UK manufacturer, then you can dry them outside.

Does acrylic yarn lose colour when washed?

They don’t typically lose colour with the use of detergents. Acrylics don’t bleed colour since they are synthetic and petroleum-based. You should avoid using bleach, though, as it won’t only destroy the colour of your blanket but also affect its threads’ texture.

Conclusion 

It’s always comforting to come home in the UK and alleviate some of the stress on neat and clean beddings. Knowing how to wash acrylic yarn blanket and keep it in perfect condition is a skill that everyone can learn. If it’s a skill, we hope you can teach someone else in the UK.

how to fold a blanket

How To Fold A Blanket In 4 New Ways?

There are four different ways on how to fold a blanket. On which way you should use it, it will depend on whether it is for decoration or storage.

You can fold them several times for storage, roll them for more space, but for them creatively over the couch for display, or make them into a pillow for extra use.

Whichever way you choose to fold your blanket, it`s going to be simple enough as long as you follow the steps correctly!

The Best Ways On Folding A Blanket

Blankets are your warm companions during chilly days and cold nights. Aside from keeping you warm, there are other uses for it, such as having a picnic, covering your pets, or making a tent.

While it is practical, you can’t deny that it’s quite a bother to put away because of its size and weight. Fortunately, there is more than one way to easily and quickly fold a blanket!

Folding for storage

Step #1. Layout your blanket on top of a flat surface. 

Step #2. Fold it in half. Hold it by the corners and bring them to its opposite side to complete the first fold. 

Step #3. Using your hands, smooth out the blanket and make sure that there are no wrinkles or folds. 

Step #4. Fold in half crosswise. Hold the shorter side and bring it over to the opposite side to make the second fold. Again, smooth it out.

Step #5. Continue to fold the blanket in half until you are satisfied with the size. 

Turning into a pillow

Step #1. Fold the blanket twice. Each fold dimension must be at least a quarter of the blanket`s width.

Step #2. Flip the blanket over.

Step #3. Fold the blanket across the other axis until you reach the middle.

Step #4. Now, fold the opposite side till you reach the other folded parts.

Step #5. Starting from the central part, fold it on itself.

Step #6. Wrap it around the thicker side. Check if the folded blanket created a pocket. Place the last parts of your blanket into the pocket. 

Rolling Up

Step #1. Lay it on a flat surface. Hold the two corners and shake the blanket, so it opens up more. Drop it to the ground and smooth uneven edges.

Step #2. Fold it in half and make both corners meet.

Step #3. Place the other side together with the bottom corners.

Step #4. Roll the blanket neatly.

Step #5. You may either store it like that or tie it with a ribbon to make sure it won`t come to unloose or unroll itself.

Displaying

Step #1. If you plan to display your blanket, you must first fold it in thirds. If you wish to display more of it, fold the blanket in half.

Step #2. Lay it out on the chair, couch, or bed. Now for the fun part, you can arrange it the way you prefer. You can put it over the chair`s arm or back.

You can go for a casual or a rumpled look. You can even lay it unfolded for a comfy style. Let your imagination run wild.  

How To Fold A Blanket That Is Thick?

There are various types of blankets, all suitable for different uses and seasons. For a cold day, a thick blanket would be perfect.

Thick blankets like comforters are most likely hard to fold. To make it easier, it might be ideal to fold it as soon as they dry. While it`s still hot, you can manipulate it with less effort.

Lay it flat and fold the thick blanket one-third of the way. Press it so air would leave, and it`ll be smaller and easier to store.

What Are Other Stylish Ways On Folding A Blanket?

Aside from the ways mentioned above, there are other stylish ways on how to fold blankets.

Triangle fold

Step #1. Fold it in half

Step #2. From the left side, fold it in a triangle shape

Step #3. Keep folding the blanket in a triangle shape

Flower fold

Step #1. Fold it only from the left or right side

Step #2. Place together all corners and make a square

Step #3. Do it once again

Step #4. Flip the blanket

Step #5. Make a square once again by uniting the corners

Step #6. Keep hold of the centre

Step #7. Pull the backends slowly

How To Best Store A Blanket In The UK?

Keeping them in a closet isn`t the only way to store blankets in the UK. There are several creative ways you can do so!

One of the best methods is to place them inside a display cabinet. UK experts especially recommend this method to those in the UK with stylish and vintage blankets. You can use a china cabinet or even a console table.

Aside from a display cabinet, you use a basket, box, towel racks, and even another blanket! Just squeeze those creative juices out!

Conclusion

A blanket provides you with the warmth you need during those cold nights. Not only that, it has other uses too. The duty of taking care of your blankets will fall unto you.

You need to know how to fold a blanket and store it properly if you want it to last for years.

How Big is the 60x80 Blanket?|How Big is the 60x80 Blanket?|How Big is the 60x80 Blanket?

Free Guide How Big is The 60×80 Blanket?

Have you ever wondered how big is the 60×80 blanket? Well, I am here to solve that puzzle for you. A 60×80 blanket is about 152cm by 203cm when converted to centimetres. 

That size Blanket is big enough to cover a Queen bed; it is also big enough to shield you from head to toe. It is also big enough to cover two children adequately. You can also use it as a Blanket cover for your Queen Bed.

Are you choosing a 60×80 Blanket?

Yea, A replacement for your old blanket, a gift for a friend who just delivered her baby, a new blanket for your new bed? All these are why people in the UK shop for a new blanket and because the needs are different.

Step #1: Size

The size of the blanket for each need is also different. I know you wouldn`t want to give a blanket of your bed size to a baby, neither will you buy a blanket size in the UK for children for your bed size. Therefore, you have to realise that blankets come in different shapes and sizes. 

Step #2: Price

Another thing to consider when deciding on how big is the 60×80 blanket to purchase in the UK is the price. Yes, there are luxurious blankets that can cost you a fortune to acquire, and there are some that the prices are pretty affordable.

Therefore, the next time you are shopping in the UK for a blanket on Amazon, eBay, or the roadside mall, understand that you need to consider these three factors. The purpose or use of the Blanket. The size of your blanket is somehow related to the goal. 

For instance, if you are buying a 60×80 Blanket for your bed in the UK, you need one that will cover the entire bed and leave a few inches extra. If it is to serve as a duvet, you need one that will be able to cover your full body length.

The third and most important factor is your finance. How much are you ready to budget to acquire that duvet of your choice?

What Size of Blanket do you Need?

Most blankets you find in the market will fall under the categories below, and you need to decide on what size fits into your plans.

Twin Size Blanket

This blanket used to cover Twin-sided mattresses. These twin mattresses are perfect for children, especially when you want to manage the little space you have.

The Twin size mattresses measure 66 by 90 inches, and this leaves an extra 13 inches at the sides of the bed and about 15 inches at the top and bottom of the bed. Guess what? You can use it in a crouch. The size is big enough to cover yourself when on the couch, but it is not big enough to cover the entire chair. Perfect right?

There is another type of bed called Twin size XL beds. These beds are about 5 inches longer than the conventional twin-size blanket. The Blanket for this type of bed is 66 by 5 inches to accommodate the extra space.

These beds are standard among college Kid, but they are not long enough to accommodate taller adults. Many shops in the UK do not have a Twin Size XL blanket, so it is common to find many people in the UK using the regular Twin size blanket.

Full-Size Bed

The full-size bed measures 54 by 75 inches, and guess who they designed for? It is for singles. Yeah, but it is also convenient for couples who are trying to cut down costs. The blanket for this bed size measures 80 by 90 inches. This measurement means that some part is left out when used to cover the bed.

Queen Size Bed

The Queen size bed measures 60 by 80 inches, and the blanket is about 90 by 100 inches in size. This bed is ideal for couples. When the blanket used to cover the bed, it is enough to cover the bed and leave some spaces for displacement.

King Size Bed

A King size bed measures 76 by 80 inches. The suitable blanket for it measures around 108 by 100 inches. This blanket is the only blanket that can adequately cover a mattress of such a large size, and the reason for the large size is so that the Blanket will be able to cover the big bed and still leave enough space for displacement when you sleep on it.

Conclusion

In this short article, we have looked at how big is the 60×80 blanket. A 60×80 blanket is the same as the dimension of the Queen`s bed. It is enough to cover the surface of the queen`s bed, and it is also enough to shield you from head to toe when sleeping or sitting on the couch. If you still have questions on how big is the 60×80 blanket, you can drop a comment below.

What Is A Throw Blanket

Free Guide What Is A Throw Blanket For Beginners?

If you want to know what is a throw blanket, it`s simply a smaller item that serves functions not limited to visual appeal. Much like throw pillows, throw blankets are versatile because of their design, size, and materials. This article will discuss this nifty product in more detail below. 

But first, why should you bother with throw blankets? As you will read later on, the throw blanket is more than an aesthetic piece. Furthermore, it can be considered a UK home must-have along with your bedsheets and duvets. 

What Is A Throw Blanket, And How Do You Use It?

Throw blankets are smaller blankets that you put on the sofa as decorative pieces. However, their purpose is not limited to aesthetics because you can also snuggle a throw blanket when you’re hanging out in the UK living room. Therefore, these pieces shouldn’t only look good but also feel good when wrapped around the body.

What are throw blankets used for?

As we have mentioned, these are decorative blankets that you can also use while lounging. You can easily remember their use from the name itself, similar to the purpose of having throw pillows. Throw blankets come in different designs and materials, so you can get creative in how you’ll use them to enhance your sofa. 

1. Use throw blankets as decoration

You don’t have to match the pillows and couch when selecting a throw blanket to add. It can be a different colour or texture as long as it complements the overall theme. You’re also not limited to only draping the throw because some styles work well as tapestry.

2. Use throw blankets for relaxing

Besides the design, be mindful of the material your throw blanket uses. It should be breathable and soft to keep you cosy when used. What’s great with most throw blankets is you can use them year-round because you can layer for winter or use only one for summer.

3. Use throw blankets to protect your furniture

Pieces of furniture are pretty expensive, so it’s only natural that you want to keep them in pristine conditions. Why not keep your UK living room stylish while sneakily using the blanket as a furniture cover? It will keep the sofa clean from dust and other build-ups.

Why Is It Called A Throw?

If you ever wondered why throw blankets are called throw, it`s because of the manner you put them on the sofa. You`ll throw the piece of material over your couch as a decoration or cover, the same way that you`ll throw decorative pillows on it. But regardless if you throw or lay it on the sofa, the throw blanket will retain its name. 

Types of throw blankets

1. Throw blanket sizes

The standard size of a throw blanket is 50 by 60 inches, but you can expect to find variations from these dimensions. Some are even larger, which is excellent if you want to use the blanket more than decor. However, we think this standard size is helpful because it’s enough to cover your lap without spilling on the floor and bothering those in the room.

2. Throw blanket materials

You can also differentiate throw blankets based on the materials they use. Cotton and fleece are the most popular ones because of the many design options without sacrificing the blanket’s feel. Cotton is also cool for use, while the fleece is excellent year-round.

If you live somewhere cold, you can opt for cashmere and faux fur throw blankets because it’s thick. But if you’re aiming to protect the furniture, microfiber is a valuable material that can protect against liquids.

What Is The Difference Between A Throw And A Blanket?

It’s easy to identify a throw blanket from a typical blanket we use for sleep. You’ll notice that it’s smaller and won’t cover more than half of the body. Regular bed blankets also rarely come in various styles and are more monochromatic in designs and colours. A throw blanket will suffice if you want extra warmth, but a proper blanket is ideal for a good night’s sleep.

Can You Sleep With A Throw Blanket?

You can still sleep with a throw blanket, but the size might not suffice to wrap you in bed. Remember that its standard dimensions are only 50 by 60 inches, so it will not reach past your legs or upper body for covering loosely. However, it can serve as a security blanket or something comfortable to touch to help you fall asleep. 

As we have discussed, there are different throw blanket materials, and you can select one that will feel best for sleeping. You can add your throw blanket to the bed along with your primary blanket as well. 

How Do You Use A Throw Blanket On A Bed?

There is no particular rule to follow when placing a throw blanket on the bed. However, a neat way to make your bed is to drape it over one corner of the foot or align the folded blanket horizontally at the end. 

Conclusion

You`ve heard of throw pillows, but there are also throw blankets. What is a throw blanket? It`s a smaller material that you can still snuggle with but comes in more designs and colours for aesthetic purposes. 

It has a good size to put over your legs when lounging on the sofa without becoming a slipping hazard on the floor. You can also use it at night and then place it on the bed as decor along with your pillows. 

what is an afghan blanket

6 Examples Of What Is An Afghan Blanket?

If you are curious about what is an afghan blanket, it is a knitted or crocheted blanket. Also, you can use either human-made or natural fibres to make one. 

 

It is yarn art and is primarily decorative. However, it is also helpful as a blanket. 

 

Does this pique your interest? If so, then please do read further. We will talk about what sets an afghan blanket apart from a regular blanket, along with its distinct traits. 

 

After differentiating it from a regular blanket, can it be used as a substitute? Is it as effective? You will find out more as you read on. 

 

What Is An Afghan Blanket And Its Difference To A Regular Blanket?

In reality, labels like throws, afghan blankets, and blankets have interchangeably used over time. They do have differences, though. Here are some of the aspects wherein they are different.

 

  • Size – A blanket is bed-sized, be it queen or king-sized. On the other hand, afghan blankets not limited to any size. 

 

They can be in the size of throws or even bed-sized. There are even lap-sized afghan blankets or lapghans that are perfect for your lap.

 

  • Materials – Blankets made of one piece of fabric that is bed-sized. Also, their ends are bound as opposed to throws to prevent fraying. 

 

Meanwhile, afghan blankets are knitted or crocheted. They are hand-made, which gives them a distinct texture.

 

Moreover, they are usually colourful, but you can also use one colour to make them.

 

 

As mentioned repeatedly, Afghan blankets are crocheted or knitted, meaning they made of yarn. 

 

  • Use – Both regular blankets and afghan blankets used for warmth. However, afghan blankets also have a decorative use.

 

Sometimes, you can see them draped over sofas or ottomans to give an additional flair to the UK room. 

 

Characteristics Of Afghan Blankets

 

  • Complexity – Afghan blankets are human-made and are done through hard work. They require different types and colours of yarns and skills to pull off a design or motif. In short, they require effort. 

 

That’s a good thing because crocheting afghan blankets help with memory. It is also called crochet therapy, and it helps those in the United Kingdom who have dementia issues!

 

  • Comfortability – More than personal projects and decor, afghan blankets offer warmth and comfort. Whether you are snuggling during winter or working on a project during summer, there is an afghan blanket for you. 

 

  • Sizes – an advantage of the afghan blanket is that it comes in different sizes.

 

A full-size afghan blanket is about 50” by 65”. A lapghan is approximately 35” to 40”. The baby blanket, on the other hand, is about 25” by 30”.

 

These are general measurements, so you can end up with a larger or smaller afghan blanket, depending on your pattern.

 

You can also modify the afghan blankets you made. For example, you can turn a baby blanket into a full-sized afghan.

 

It is effortless to modify them if they are striped afghan blankets. 

 

What makes afghan blankets unique? 

Afghan blankets are different from blankets and throws. That much has been established.

 

However, what makes it appealing to the public? Here are some characteristics of afghan blankets that attract people in the UK to it.

 

Different types and styles of afghan blankets

Considering how afghan blankets used for decor, it is not surprising that there are different crocheting or knitting types and styles to make them. Here are some examples:

 

  • Single-piece – This one is a hit among beginners. They are not intimidating and complicated, and it is a good start if you want to dive into crocheting or knitting afghan blankets.

 

  • Mile-a-minute – This crochet technique done in separate pieces. You work on different strips and then put them together. 

 

This way, you do not get overwhelmed by the amount of crocheting you need to do. The mile-a-minute technique is also advantageous if you do not like carrying your project around with you since you only need to work on certain pieces. 

 

  • Join-as-you-go – This crochet technique is also made up of pieces and is true to its name. You join different sides of the motifs you are working on as you go. It is fun to do, but it is a bit complicated for beginners. 

 

  • Motif – Like mile-a-minute, this type of crocheting is done in pieces – or this case, motifs. The motifs can have similar or different designs. They can also done in blocks, also known as granny squares

 

The motif is a popular crochet technique because you can take them anywhere and the designs you can pull off are versatile. 

 

  • Graphghan – In this crochet technique, you will crochet an image. The image can be a photo of your pet or something as simple as a symbol. It can even be lettering!

Conclusion

People in the United Kingdom who like to keep warm and comfortable are blanket connoisseurs. Again, you might ask, what is an afghan blanket? The answer is that it’s a mix of design and comfort, echoing what has discussed above.

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