How To Make A Picnic Blanket: A Step-By-Step Guide

As summer approaches, one of the best ways to enjoy the warm weather is by having a picnic. And what better way to do so than with a handmade picnic blanket? In this article, I will share with you my personal experience and offer a step-by-step guide on how to make a picnic blanket.

Materials Needed

Before we dive into the steps, let’s gather all the materials we need:

Fabric (preferably waterproof)
Batting or foam (for cushioning)
Thread
Scissors
Sewing machine (or needle if sewing by hand)
Pins
Measuring tape

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Measure and Cut

Measure and cut your fabric and batting/foam to your desired size. A typical picnic blanket size is around 60 inches by 80 inches.

Step 2: Pin and Sew

Place the batting/foam in between the two pieces of fabric and pin together. Sew around the edges, leaving a small opening to turn the blanket right side out.

Step 3: Turn and Topstitch

Turn the blanket right side out through the opening and topstitch around the edges to close the opening and give a finished look.

Step 4: Optional Additions

You can also add straps or handles for easy carrying or even pockets to hold utensils or small items.

Top 10 Tips and Ideas

Choose a waterproof fabric for easy cleaning and durability.
Consider using a double-sided fabric for a reversible blanket.
Use contrasting or complementary fabrics for a unique look.
Add a layer of batting or foam for extra cushioning and comfort.
Make the blanket larger than needed to accommodate more people or items.
Add pockets to hold utensils or small items.
Sew on straps or handles for easy carrying.
Use a serger to finish the edges for a more professional look.
Personalize the blanket with embroidery or applique.
Make multiple blankets for different occasions or seasons.

Pros and Cons

Like any DIY project, there are pros and cons to making your own picnic blanket.

Pros:

You can customize the size, fabric, and design to your liking.
It can be a fun and creative project to work on.
It can be more affordable than buying a pre-made picnic blanket.

Cons:

It can be time-consuming, especially if sewing by hand.
It may not be as durable as a pre-made picnic blanket.
It may require some sewing skills and equipment.

My Personal Review and Suggestion

Making my own picnic blanket was a fun and rewarding project. I was able to customize the size and fabric to my liking and even added pockets for utensils. The blanket turned out durable and perfect for outdoor picnics. However, it did take some time and sewing skills to complete. If you have the time and enjoy sewing, I highly recommend making your own picnic blanket. Otherwise, purchasing a pre-made one may be a better option.

Question & Answer and FAQs

Q: Can I use a regular fabric instead of a waterproof one?

A: You can use a regular fabric, but keep in mind that it may not be as durable or easy to clean as a waterproof one.

Q: How much fabric and batting/foam do I need?

A: It depends on the size of the blanket you want to make. A typical picnic blanket size is around 60 inches by 80 inches. You will need the same amount of fabric and batting/foam for the front and back of the blanket.