No-Sew Braided Blanket
Crafting is something that I love since I enjoy putting time, energy, and creativity into something that I can physically see take shape. It always brings a sense of accomplishment when I crochet a new project or make a gift for a loved one. And to me, there is nothing more cozy than handmade items in your home.
So, naturally, when my husband and I found out we were expecting, I began a flurry of research to see what baby items were worth crafting yourself! And boy, did I find quite the list. However, some things seemed just too complicated for me to tackle at the moment, while others were simpler. My favorite was a no-sew braided blanket. As someone who is just getting into the world of sewing (and has yet to set up my new sewing machine!), a no-sew project sounded amazing. Not only that, but the finished project was beautiful and perfect for our little bundle of joy.
This blanket is incredibly versatile. It’s made with fleece, so it is perfect for cold winter days, and it is just oh, so cozy. It’s simple to make, and easy to make in larger sizes. Because of this, you could create a matching set for your entire family, from baby on up to grandma! I have yet to convince my husband that we all need matching blankets, though!
I hope this simple DIY helps you to bring a bit more coziness to your home!
Equipment & Tools
Fleece Fabric: For this braided blanket, you will need 2 different kinds of fleece fabric. Feel free to use whatever color or pattern you’d like. See our “Blanket Sizes” box below to see how much of each fabric you will need, depending on how large you would like your blanket to be.
Sharp Fabric Scissors: You will need a good set of fabric scissors to cut the fleece.
Fabric Marker: This is completely optional, but I’ve found that it helps to get the right measurements and cuts with the fabric.
Braided Blanket Sizing
Depending on the size of braided blanket you want to make, reference the list below!
Baby Blanket: To make this into a baby-size blanket, use 1 yard of each fabric.
Child’s Blanket: To make this into a child-size blanket, use 1.5 yards of each fabric.
Adult Blanket: To make this into an adult-size blanket, use 2 yards of each fabric.
How to Make a No-Sew Braided Blanket
Lay Out the Fabric: Take both pieces of fabric and lay them out on the floor or on a large table. You want to make sure that the right sides are facing outwards. In other words, make sure that your fabric is aligned just how you want it to look for the finished product!
Cut the Corners: Using a sharp pair of fabric scissors, cut a 2-inch by 2-inch square from each corner, cutting through both layers of the fabric. I like to mark it with a light, washable marker, or you can make a template out of a piece of paper. Just make sure your edges are straight and that it is as square as possible.
Cut the Strips: Then, go around the blanket and cut 1-inch wide, 2-inch long strips from all 4 edges, cutting through both layers of the fabric. Be sure to not cut them off, as you need them to make your braided edge.
Cut Slits in the Strips: We are going to be achieving the braided look by weaving these strips together, but before then, you need to cut slits in each strip. Fold each strip in half, then cut a 1/4-inch slit. When you flatten out the strip, it should be a 1/2-inch slit in the middle of the strip. Do this for all of the strips of fabric.
“Braid” the Strips: Beginning in the middle of a side, pick up a pair of strips. Move them to the right and stick them through the slit in the adjacent pair of strips. Then, do the same to that pair, always pushing the strips through the holes in the strips on the right, creating the braided edge. Go all the way around the blanket.
Finish the Blanket: To finish the blanket when you have gone all the way around the edges, you are going to want to separate the last pair of strips. Push one of the layers through the hole of the strips you originally began with, and then use the other loose strip to tie a double knot. Tuck the knot under the edge to hide it, and you’re done! You have made your own braided blanket!
Trim the Fringes: This step is completely optional, but I find that trimming up the edges helps to give it a cleaner look. Simply trim off some of the excess fringes!
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