Making a weighted blanket is a great way to provide comfort and relaxation to yourself or someone else. Weighted blankets are specially designed blankets that are filled with weighted beads or pellets, and can provide therapeutic benefits for those who suffer from anxiety or insomnia. Making a weighted blanket is a relatively simple process that requires a few supplies and some basic sewing skills.
First, you will need to decide on the size of your weighted blanket. A typical weighted blanket is typically around 15-20 pounds, and is typically 40-60 inches square. Once you have chosen the size of your blanket, you will need to purchase the materials to make it. You will need a sewable fabric, such as cotton or fleece, and poly pellets or beads that are designed for use in weighted blankets. You will also need to purchase a sewing machine and thread.
Once you have all of your supplies, you will need to cut the fabric into two pieces that are the same size as the desired finished size of the blanket. Then, you will need to sew the two pieces of fabric together, leaving an opening of about 4 inches along one side. This will be used to fill the blanket with the weighted beads or pellets.
Next, you will need to fill the blanket with the weighted beads or pellets. To do this, you will need to use a funnel to guide the beads or pellets into the opening of the blanket. Once the blanket is filled, you will need to sew the opening shut.
Finally, you will need to give the blanket a few finishing touches. If desired, you can add a decorative trim to the edges of the blanket. You can also add ties or straps to the corners of the blanket to keep it secure.
Making a weighted blanket is a simple project that can be completed in a few hours. The therapeutic benefits of a weighted blanket can provide much-needed comfort and relaxation to those who suffer from anxiety or insomnia. With a few supplies and some basic sewing skills, you can make a custom weighted blanket that is perfect for you or someone you love.
Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ 1: What is a weighted blanket?
Answer: A weighted blanket is a therapeutic blanket filled with small, weight pellets such as plastic poly pellets, glass beads, or steel shot. It is designed to provide deep pressure stimulation for people with sensory processing disorder, ADHD, autism, and other conditions.
FAQ 2: How does a weighted blanket help?
Answer: Weighted blankets have been proven to reduce anxiety and improve sleep quality. The deep pressure stimulation provided by the weighted blanket can help to reduce the symptoms of sensory processing disorder, ADHD, autism, and other conditions.
FAQ 3: How much should a weighted blanket weigh?
Answer: Generally speaking, a weighted blanket should weigh around 10% of the user’s body weight. However, this can vary depending on the user’s size and preferences.
FAQ 4: How do I make a weighted blanket?
Answer: Making a weighted blanket is a relatively simple process that requires two layers of fabric and weights such as plastic poly pellets, glass beads, or steel shot. First, choose the fabric and measure out the right amount of weight. Then, sew the two pieces of fabric together and add the weight between the two layers of fabric.
FAQ 5: How do I clean a weighted blanket?
Answer: Cleaning a weighted blanket depends on the fabric used. If the blanket is made of a machine-washable fabric, it can be washed in the washing machine on a gentle cycle. If the fabric is not machine-washable, it should be spot-cleaned and hung to dry.