DIY Network

Patchwork Blanket This soft, fleecy blanket practically promises sweet dreams. From "Uncommon Threads" episode DUCT-124

Rani Robertson starts off the sleepover kit with the blanket. She sews squares of printed fleece together to make a simple patchwork design and accents it with knots of yarn to hold the backing in place.

advertisement

Materials:

Patchwork Blanket

cotton fabric
fleece
matching blanket binding tape (optional)
embroidery floss
yarn darners
2 packages embroidery floss

Dimensions:
Fleece squares: 63 7"x7"
Cotton lining fabric: 38"x51"

1. Draw out square pattern onto cardboard; the number and pattern of fabric squares is up to you. Find a large open area to lay out the squares and determine the order and dimensions. Using the pattern, trace onto fabric and cut out (figure A).

2. Lay out the cut squares in the desired pattern.

3. Working in rows, pin and sew the determined sides of the squares (figure B), leaving an unsewn seam allowance on each end.

Figure A

Figure B

4. Pin and sew squares side by side (figure C). Once finished with all the rows, start pinning (figure D) and sewing the rows together to connect (figure E). Keep in mind to match the seams, which in the end will give you that clean-patched seam. I find it easier to start at the corners of all four square seams and work my way over.

Figure C

Figure D

Figure E

Figure F

5. With the finished patchwork side of the blanket complete, measure the lining to size.

6. Pin patchwork fleece to cotton liner, right sides in. Sew, leaving a good-size area unsewn in order to pull the finished blanket through. Hand-sew the opening to complete.

7. Using yarn, create quilting knots to connect the top and bottom layer and add a decorative look (figure F).