Throw blankets are the perfect way to add warmth, texture, and style to your living room, bedroom, or any cozy nook in your home. While store-bought options can be beautiful, making your own decorative throw blanket is a fun and budget-friendly way to personalize your space. Plus, it’s a rewarding DIY project that allows you to customize the colors, patterns, and textures to match your decor.
Here’s a complete guide on how to make your own decorative throw blankets, from simple no-sew options to creative designs with fabric and embellishments.
1. Choose the Right Materials
The foundation of a beautiful throw blanket starts with selecting the perfect fabric and materials. Consider the purpose, look, and feel you want for your throw.
Popular Fabric Options:
- Fleece: Soft, cozy, and budget-friendly. Great for no-sew projects.
- Flannel: Perfect for a rustic or farmhouse aesthetic.
- Knitted Yarn or Chunky Wool: Ideal for a luxurious and textured look.
- Cotton: Lightweight and breathable, perfect for summer throws.
- Velvet: Adds a glamorous and elegant touch to any space.
- Tassels or Pom-Poms: For added flair, you can buy pre-made embellishments or make your own.
Why It Matters:
The fabric sets the tone for your throw blanket’s style and determines how functional it will be. For instance, fleece is perfect for warmth, while cotton is more decorative and airy.
Pro Tip:
Pick fabrics that are easy to work with based on your skill level. Fleece and flannel don’t require hemming, making them beginner-friendly.
2. Try a No-Sew Fleece Blanket
A no-sew fleece blanket is one of the simplest ways to create a decorative throw. It’s perfect for beginners and can be completed in under an hour!
Materials Needed:
- 2 pieces of fleece fabric (each cut to the same size; recommended size: 50 x 60 inches)
- Scissors
- Measuring tape or ruler
How to Make It:
- Layer the Fabric: Place the two fleece pieces on top of each other, ensuring the edges align.
- Cut Fringe: Cut 4-inch-long slits into all four sides of the fabric, spaced about 1 inch apart, creating a fringe.
- Tie Knots: Tie the top and bottom pieces of each fringe together in a double knot to secure the edges.
Why It Works:
This project is quick, no sewing machine is required, and the fringed edges add a playful touch to your blanket.
Pro Tip:
Use patterned fleece on one side and a solid color on the other for a reversible design.
3. Sew a Two-Sided Throw Blanket
For a polished look, sewing a two-sided throw allows you to combine fabrics for a reversible design with clean, finished edges.
Materials Needed:
- 2 pieces of fabric (same size; one patterned, one solid)
- Matching thread
- Sewing machine
- Scissors
- Pins
How to Make It:
- Cut the Fabric: Cut both fabrics to your desired blanket size, adding 1/2 inch for seam allowance.
- Pin and Sew: Place the fabrics together with the right sides facing each other. Pin around the edges, leaving a small gap unpinned for turning.
- Sew the Edges: Sew around the blanket, leaving a 1/2-inch seam allowance. Remember to leave the gap open.
- Turn It Inside Out: Flip the blanket right side out through the gap. Push out the corners for clean edges.
- Close the Gap: Hand-stitch or use the sewing machine to close the gap.
Why It Works:
A two-sided throw allows you to mix textures, patterns, or colors, making it versatile and chic.
Pro Tip:
Topstitch around the entire edge for a professional finish and added durability.
4. Create a Chunky Knit Blanket
Chunky knit blankets are trending for their cozy, textured look. While they can be expensive to buy, you can make your own with minimal supplies and no knitting needles required.
Materials Needed:
- Chunky yarn (8–10 skeins, depending on the blanket size)
- A flat surface
How to Make It (Arm Knitting):
- Start the Cast-On Row: Create a loop knot and begin casting stitches onto your arm or flat surface.
- Knit Rows: Use your hands to weave and pull the yarn through the stitches row by row.
- Bind Off: Once you’ve reached your desired size, secure the last row by tying off the yarn ends.
Why It Works:
Chunky knit blankets are both luxurious and easy to make, even for those with no knitting experience.
Pro Tip:
Use machine-washable chunky yarn for easy care and maintenance.
5. Add Decorative Trim
Take a plain throw to the next level by adding decorative trim like tassels, pom-poms, or fringe.
Materials Needed:
- Pre-made tassels, pom-poms, or fringe
- Needle and thread or fabric glue
- Scissors
How to Make It:
- Prepare the Trim: If making your own tassels or pom-poms, create them beforehand using yarn.
- Attach the Trim: Sew or glue the trim along the edges or corners of your blanket.
- Let Dry: If using fabric glue, let it dry completely before using the blanket.
Why It Works:
Decorative trim adds texture and style, making even a simple throw look unique and high-end.
Pro Tip:
Choose tassel or fringe colors that complement the fabric for a cohesive look.
6. Use Fabric Paint or Stencils
Customize a plain throw blanket by adding patterns, designs, or quotes using fabric paint or stencils.
Materials Needed:
- Plain cotton or linen throw
- Fabric paint
- Stencils or painter’s tape
- Foam brushes
How to Make It:
- Lay the Fabric Flat: Spread the blanket on a flat surface with cardboard underneath to prevent bleed-through.
- Apply the Design: Use stencils or tape to create your desired pattern, then apply fabric paint with a foam brush.
- Let It Dry: Allow the paint to dry for 24 hours before using or washing the blanket.
Why It Works:
Fabric painting allows you to add a personal touch to your throw with minimal effort.
Pro Tip:
Stick to simple patterns like stripes or polka dots if you’re new to fabric painting.
7. DIY Tie-Dye Throw Blanket
Tie-dye isn’t just for T-shirts! Create a boho-chic throw blanket with tie-dye techniques.
Materials Needed:
- Plain white cotton blanket or fabric
- Tie-dye kit (dye, gloves, rubber bands)
- Plastic sheet
How to Make It:
- Prep the Fabric: Wash the fabric to remove any coatings and leave it damp.
- Create Patterns: Twist or fold the fabric and secure it with rubber bands.
- Apply the Dye: Apply the dye to sections of the fabric, following your chosen design.
- Let It Set: Wrap the fabric in plastic and let the dye set for 6–8 hours.
- Rinse and Dry: Rinse the fabric until the water runs clear, then air-dry or machine dry.
Why It Works:
Tie-dye blankets add vibrant colors and playful patterns, making them perfect for bohemian or eclectic decor.
Pro Tip:
Stick to a monochromatic color scheme for a more subtle, elegant look.
8. Recycle Old Sweaters or Shirts
Turn old sweaters or flannel shirts into a cozy patchwork throw that’s both sentimental and stylish.
Materials Needed:
- Old sweaters or shirts
- Scissors
- Sewing machine
- Backing fabric (optional)
How to Make It:
- Cut Squares: Cut your old sweaters or shirts into equal-sized squares.
- Sew Squares Together: Arrange the squares in a pattern and sew them together row by row.
- Add Backing: If desired, add a backing fabric for extra warmth and durability.
Why It Works:
This eco-friendly project repurposes old clothes into a unique, meaningful blanket.
Pro Tip:
Use sweaters with similar thicknesses for a more even and cohesive throw.
9. Fringe Edge Blanket
Add bohemian vibes to a plain blanket with fringe edges. This technique works best with lightweight fabrics like cotton or linen.
Materials Needed:
- Lightweight fabric
- Scissors
- Measuring tape
How to Make It:
- Trim the Edges: Cut the fabric to your desired blanket size.
- Create Fringe: Pull out threads along the edges to create a fringe effect.
- Secure the Edges: Sew a straight stitch above the fringe to prevent further unraveling.
Why It Works:
Fringed edges add a handmade, artisanal touch to your throw blanket.
Pro Tip:
For a more dramatic look, make the fringe longer by pulling more threads.
10. Add Quilt-Like Stitching
For a cozy, farmhouse look, add quilt-style stitching to your throw blanket.
Materials Needed:
- Fabric for the front and back
- Batting (for the middle layer)
- Needle and thread or sewing machine
How to Make It:
- Layer the Materials: Sandwich the batting between the front and back fabrics.
- Pin Layers Together: Pin the layers securely to prevent shifting.
- Stitch a Pattern: Sew diagonal or grid-like lines across the blanket to create a quilted look.
Why It Works:
Quilt-style stitching adds texture and makes the blanket feel plush and durable.
Pro Tip:
Use contrasting thread for a bold, decorative effect.
FAQs
1. What’s the easiest throw blanket to make?
A no-sew fleece blanket is the easiest option. It requires only cutting and tying, making it perfect for beginners.
2. Can I make a throw blanket without a sewing machine?
Yes! No-sew options like fleece blankets or blankets with glued-on tassels are great alternatives.
3. How much fabric do I need for a throw blanket?
A standard throw blanket is about 50 x 60 inches. Purchase 1.5–2 yards of fabric for this size.
4. How long does it take to make a DIY throw blanket?
Depending on the method, it can take anywhere from 1 hour (no-sew projects) to a full afternoon (sewn or knit blankets).
5. Can I wash DIY throw blankets?
Yes! Just be sure to follow the care instructions for the fabric you use. For dyed or painted blankets, wash gently to avoid fading.
6. How do I make a decorative throw look store-bought?
Focus on clean finishes, like sewn edges or evenly tied knots. Add high-end touches like tassels, pom-poms, or elegant stitching.
7. What fabric works best for warm throw blankets?
Fleece, flannel, and chunky wool are excellent choices for warmth and coziness.
8. Can I add patterns to a plain throw?
Absolutely! Use fabric paint, stencils, or tie-dye techniques to customize plain fabric.
9. How do I store my throw blankets?
Roll or fold them neatly and store them in a basket, blanket ladder, or ottoman for easy access.
10. Can I gift a DIY throw blanket?
Yes! Personalized throw blankets make thoughtful, handmade gifts for any occasion.
Conclusion
Making your own decorative throw blanket is a rewarding DIY project that combines style, functionality, and creativity. Whether you prefer the ease of a no-sew fleece blanket, the elegance of a chunky knit throw, or the charm of tassel edges, there’s a project here to suit every style and skill level. So grab your materials, let your imagination guide you, and create a cozy masterpiece that’s perfect for your home or as a heartfelt gift!