A Step-by-Step Instruction by Anne-Marie Lockmyer
On page 43 of my book, When Their World Stops: The Essential Guide to Truly Helping Anyone in Grief, I mentioned that the Blanket of Comfort a friend made for me was the best gift I could have ever received. I actually slept with it for 3 years! I have since learned how to make a blanket of comfort myself and given many of them out to hurting people and they are always very well received.
These are wonderful gifts for ANYONE who is hurting. I have given them to people who have lost a loved one, are experiencing an illness or any other kind of hurt. It makes them feel special and valued – and they are. This is not a blanket you buy at the store.
I have given them to women, men and children. They all like them. I had one man wrap it around him the entire time he was in the hospital with cancer.
These are easy to make – no sewing! You can usually make one in a couple of hours and I’ve included step by step instructions about how to make a blanket of comfort below.
If you are not able to make one, I am sure you can go on Etsy and find someone to do it and then you could add the note and ribbon, etc.
These are just suggestions. Put your own style on it when you make a blanket of comfort.
Step One
Think about the person you want the blanket for. Keep them in mind as you select the fleece fabric you want. Try to tailor it to their style and likes. (I usually buy my fabric at Joanne’s Fabrics when there is a sale). You may do the same pattern on both sides or use two different patterns.
I use 2 yard for adult, 1 ½ yard for a toddler. You can play around with the sizes. These sizes are much bigger than a lap blanket but smaller than a regular blanket. Just the right size to cuddle with.
Step Two
MATERIALS:
two pieces of fleece of equal size {1 1/2 yards each for kids, 2 yards each for teens/adults}
TOOLS:
scissors
Optional: I cut a cardboard square (4 inches on each side) to use for each corner cut
STEPS:
1. Stack your two pieces of fabric on top of each other so that you cut them the same
2. Cut out a four inch square out of each corner
3. Cut the edge into 4 inch long strips 1 1/2 inches apart
4. Make a one inch cut in the center at the top end of each strip
5. Continue all the way around the blanket
6. Now connect the blanket together
7. Insert both strips of fabric into the holes
8. Pull completely through the holes
9. Repeat until your blanket is done
For pictures and more details check out: https://www.adventuresofadiymom.com/2012/12/no-sew-fleece-blanket.html?m=1
Step Three
Fold it and wrap it with a beautiful bow or something appropriate for the type of person you are gifting it to. You can ribbon, string, etc.
Step Four
Put some finishing touches on it. I have stickers that say “This was handmade especially for you.” (Hobby Lobby). You can add a butterfly, candy, a book, etc. Anything you think will make it look like a beautiful gift.
Step Five
Write a card to go with it. This is what I use but I try to personalize it. You can add to it, change it or do what you want.
“This Blanket of Comfort was made ESPECIALLY for you INSERT NAME! When you feel like a hug, wrap it around you. When you need a special touch or a good cry, cling to it. And always remember when you look it, that you are deeply cared for!
Step Six
If you are going to present it in person, wrap it up nicely or put in a beautiful bag. Presentation is very important.
If you are mailing it, pack it in a box with tissue paper around it.
