How to Make a Weighted Blanket: A Detailed Crafting Guide

Weighted blankets have become popular for their therapeutic benefits, from calming anxiety to aiding better sleep. Instead of buying one, why not make a customized weighted blanket at home?

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps, materials, and techniques for crafting a weighted blanket for both adults and children.

Can You Make a Weighted Blanket?

Yes, absolutely! Making a weighted blanket is simpler than it may seem, and it allows you to control the weight, size, and materials, giving you a personalized blanket suited to your needs.

Why Make Your Own Weighted Blanket?

Creating your own weighted blanket offers a few unique benefits:

• Customization: You can choose the exact weight, fabric, and design that best suits your needs.
• Cost-Effective: DIY weighted blankets can be more affordable than store-bought options.
• Therapeutic: Weighted blankets are known for their calming properties and can help improve sleep quality.

For families, pairing a DIY weighted blanket with a Puffy Cloud Mattress can create a cozy and stress-free sleep environment that meets everyone’s comfort needs.

DIY Weighted Blanket: Materials You’ll Need

To create a weighted blanket, you’ll need the following items:

1. Fabric: Cotton or flannel works well. You’ll need two pieces of fabric of the same size.
2. Weighted Filler: Plastic pellets, glass beads, or even rice can work as fillers.
3. Sewing Tools: Thread, sewing machine, and scissors.
4. Measuring Tools: Ruler and fabric chalk for accurate measurements.
5. Pins: For holding fabric layers together while sewing.

How Much Weight to Add?

A general rule of thumb for weighted blankets is 10% of the user’s body weight. For example:

• A 150-pound adult would use a 15-pound blanket.
• For children, the weight should be around 5-10% of their body weight.

Tip: It’s best to consult a pediatrician if you’re making a weighted blanket for a child to ensure it’s safe and suitable for them.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making a Weighted Blanket

Step 1: Measure and Cut the Fabric

Start by measuring and cutting your fabric to the desired blanket size. Remember that a smaller blanket is often better for children. If you’re making it for an adult, a larger size will provide more coverage.

1. Lay both pieces of fabric on a flat surface.
2. Cut them to the desired dimensions, adding an extra inch on each side for seam allowances.

Step 2: Sew Three Sides of the Fabric

Place the two pieces of fabric together, with the patterned sides facing each other. Sew along three sides of the fabric, leaving one side open.

Step 3: Create Weight Pockets

To distribute the weight evenly, you’ll create small pockets that will hold the weighted filler:

1. Use chalk to mark rows on the fabric, around 4-6 inches apart, depending on your preference.
2. Sew vertical seams along these lines, leaving the top open. These will become the columns for holding the filler.

How to Add Fillers and Finish the Blanket

Step 4: Add the Weighted Filler

Once your vertical seams are complete, it’s time to add the filler:

1. Measure the filler for each pocket. Distribute the weight equally among the columns.
2. Pour the filler into each pocket, using a funnel if needed.

Step 5: Sew Horizontal Rows

After adding the filler to each pocket in the first row, sew a horizontal seam to close off that row. Continue this process row by row until you reach the top.

Step 6: Close the Blanket

Once all rows are filled and sewn shut, sew the final open side of the blanket to secure everything. You now have a completed weighted blanket!

How to Make a Weighted Blanket for a Child

Weighted blankets for children are typically lighter and smaller. Here’s what to keep in mind:

1. Weight: Aim for around 5-10% of the child’s body weight.
2. Size: Keep the blanket small enough for the child to manage.
3. Filler Choice: Consider non-toxic fillers, especially if the child has allergies or sensitivities.

Pairing a weighted blanket with a supportive Puffy Lux Mattress can help enhance sleep quality, offering comfort and security for kids during the night.

Additional Tips for Child-Safe Weighted Blankets

• Supervise Use: Weighted blankets should only be used with adult supervision for children under five.
• Fabric Choice: Use soft, breathable fabric to avoid overheating.

DIY Weighted Blanket for Sensory Needs

Weighted blankets can be especially helpful for individuals with sensory processing needs, such as children with autism or ADHD. The gentle, even weight can provide a calming effect and help them feel grounded.

Additional Considerations for Sensory-Friendly Weighted Blankets

• Soft Fabrics: Choose sensory-friendly fabrics like minky or fleece, which are softer to the touch.
• Uniform Weight Distribution: Even weight distribution is essential for effective sensory relief.

Care and Maintenance for Your DIY Weighted Blanket

Keeping your weighted blanket clean is important. Here’s how to care for it:

1. Spot Clean: For small spills or stains, spot cleaning is an effective and gentle approach.
2. Hand Wash: If possible, hand wash your blanket with mild detergent to prevent wear and tear.
3. Machine Wash: Check that your filler is machine-washable before attempting to wash in a machine.

Drying Tip: Weighted blankets should be air-dried if possible, as high heat can damage the filler.

Benefits of Using a Weighted Blanket

Weighted blankets have numerous benefits, including:

• Improved Sleep: The gentle pressure promotes relaxation and deeper sleep.
• Reduced Anxiety: Weighted blankets provide a calming, comforting sensation.
• Enhanced Focus: Particularly helpful for individuals with ADHD, as it aids concentration.

DIY Weighted Blanket Alternatives

If you’re short on time or resources, here are some alternatives to making a full DIY weighted blanket:

• Weighted Lap Pads: For kids, weighted lap pads are a smaller option for grounding and sensory relief.
• Duvet Inserts with Weighted Covers: Some brands offer weighted covers for duvet inserts, creating a similar effect.

Conclusion

Creating a weighted blanket is a fun and rewarding project that allows for full customization.

With the right materials and a little patience, you can make a weighted blanket that fits your personal needs or those of a loved one.

Whether it’s to improve sleep or simply to provide comfort, a weighted blanket is a valuable addition to any home.