How to Sew a Fleece Blanket

children wrapped in a fleece blanket

Michele Constantini / Getty Images

Project Overview
  • Total Time: 1 hr
  • Skill Level: Beginner
  • Estimated Cost: $10

A fleece blanket is excellent for snuggling up to watch television or reading on a cold day. And once you realize how quick and easy it is to make these blankets, you might want to create some for all of your family and friends. Fleece blankets make great gifts for holidays, baby showers, and more. They're also typically much more cost-effective than purchasing a pre-made blanket, and you can select colors and patterns that match your style. Plus, you can vary the size to tailor it to the person you're making it for.

What You'll Need

Equipment / Tools

  • Scissors or rotary cutting tools
  • Fabric marking tool
  • Round item (such as a plate)
  • Serger/sewing machine/hand-sewing needle

Materials

  • 2 yard fleece fabric
  • Matching thread

Instructions

  1. Trim and Fold the Fabric

    Trim off the selvage edge of the fabric, cutting as straight as possible. Using rotary cutting tools can be helpful to achieve a smooth edge.

    Next, fold the fabric in half lengthwise. And then fold the width in half, so the fabric is folded in quarters with all of the edges aligned.

    Locate the corners of the fabric. Be sure all of the edges are perfectly aligned because you will be cutting multiple layers at the same time.

  2. Round the Corners

    Mark a rounded edge on the corners of the fabric by using a rounded item as a template, such as a dinner plate or an embroidery hoop.

    Trim all four corners evenly to round them. Having sharp fabric scissors will help you achieve a smooth edge. If you are using a heavy fleece, it might be easier to cut each corner separately to maintain a smooth edge.

  3. Stitch the Edges (Optional)

    Fleece fabric doesn't fray, so an edge finish isn't essential. But it does help the blanket hold its shape on the edges, and it's visually appealing. If you don't sew the edges you might find that the fleece eventually stretches or forms a fluted edge.

    If you have a serger, you can serge the raw edge. Or you can add a decorative edge with a hand-sewn blanket stitch (attractive loops of stitching). A blanket stitch can be sewn with yarn or decorative thread to jazz up the edge of the blanket. You also can experiment with decorative stitches on your sewing machine to finish the edge. It all comes down to your personal preference.

    Tip

    Consider embroidering a logo, name, or other design on one corner of the fleece blanket to personalize it. An appliqué is also a great way to add a special custom design.