My Experience With Making A King Size Blanket And How Many Yards I Used

Recently, I decided to make a king size blanket as a gift for a friend’s wedding. I had never made a blanket this large before, so I wasn’t sure how much fabric to buy. After doing some research, I discovered that the amount of fabric needed depends on a few factors, including the desired finished size and the type of fabric used. In this article, I’ll share my experience and provide some tips on how many yards you’ll need for a king size blanket.

How Many Yards is a King Size Blanket?

The amount of fabric needed for a king size blanket varies depending on the desired finished size and the type of fabric used. A standard king size mattress measures 76 inches wide by 80 inches long. If you want a blanket that drapes over the sides of the mattress, you’ll need to add a few inches to the width and length. For my project, I wanted a finished size of 90 inches by 100 inches.

The type of fabric used also affects how much yardage is needed. A lightweight cotton fabric will require less yardage than a thicker fabric like wool or fleece. Keep in mind that if you plan to use a batting or other type of filling, you’ll need to factor that in as well.

Calculating Yardage

To calculate how many yards of fabric you’ll need for a king size blanket, you’ll need to determine the finished size and the fabric width. Most fabric comes in 44-45 inch, 54-56 inch, or 58-60 inch widths. For my project, I used a 58-inch wide cotton fabric. Here’s how I calculated the yardage:

Width: 90 inches + 10% (9 inches) = 99 inches

Length: 100 inches + 10% (10 inches) = 110 inches

Total inches: 99 x 110 = 10,890 inches

Divide by 36 to convert to yards: 10,890 / 36 = 302.5 yards

Round up to the nearest half yard: 303 yards

So for my king size blanket, I needed approximately 303 yards of fabric.

Step-by-Step Guide for Making a King Size Blanket

Now that you know how many yards of fabric you’ll need, here’s a step-by-step guide for making a king size blanket:

1. Wash and dry your fabric to pre-shrink it.
2. Cut your fabric to the desired size, adding a few inches to the width and length for a drape effect. If you’re using batting or other filling, cut it to the same size as the fabric.
3. Layer the batting or filling between the two layers of fabric, making sure everything is smooth and flat.
4. Pin the layers together around the edges and in the center to keep everything in place.
5. Sew around the edges, leaving a small opening to turn the blanket right-side out.
6. Turn the blanket right-side out and sew the opening closed.
7. Quilt or tie the layers together as desired.

Top 10 Tips and Ideas for Making a King Size Blanket

1. Choose a fabric that is soft and cozy for maximum comfort.
2. Consider using a batting or other filling for added warmth and thickness.
3. Use a walking foot or quilting foot on your sewing machine to prevent shifting and bunching.
4. Try a simple quilt pattern or design for a homemade touch.
5. Use contrasting thread for a decorative touch.
6. Consider adding a border or trim for a finished look.
7. Make matching pillowcases or shams for a coordinated look.
8. Choose a fabric that is machine washable for easy care.
9. Experiment with different textures and fabrics for a unique look.
10. Consider adding personal touches like embroidered names or applique designs.

Pros and Cons of Making a King Size Blanket

Like any DIY project, making a king size blanket has its pros and cons.

Pros:

• You can customize the size, color, and design to your liking.
• A handmade blanket makes a thoughtful and personal gift.
• You can save money compared to buying a store-bought blanket.
• You can use high-quality materials and fabrics for a luxurious feel.

Cons:

• Making a king size blanket requires a lot of yardage and can be expensive.
• The project can be time-consuming and require advanced sewing skills.
• If you make a mistake, it can be difficult to undo and fix.
• You need a large workspace to lay out and sew the fabric.

My Personal Review and Suggestion for Making a King Size Blanket

Making a king size blanket was a challenging but rewarding project for me. I loved being able to customize the size and design to my liking, and the finished product was cozy and comfortable. However, I did find that the project required a lot of yardage and was expensive compared to buying a store-bought blanket. Additionally, the project took much longer than I anticipated, and I had to set aside a lot of time to complete it.

If you’re considering making a king size blanket, I would suggest starting with a smaller project first to get a feel for the process. Additionally, consider using a less expensive fabric or omitting the batting to save money. Overall, making a king size blanket is a great way to create a personalized and thoughtful gift or to add a cozy touch to your own home.

FAQs

Q: How much yardage do I need for a queen size blanket?

A: The amount of yardage needed for a queen size blanket depends on the desired finished size and the type of fabric used. A standard queen size mattress measures 60 inches wide by 80 inches long. If you want a blanket that drapes over the sides of the mattress, you’ll need to add a few inches to the width and length. Most queen size blankets require between 5 and 7 yards of fabric.

Q: What type of fabric is best for a king size blanket?

A: The best type of fabric for a king size blanket depends on your personal preference and the desired use of the blanket. A lightweight cotton fabric is great for a summer-weight blanket, while a thicker fabric like wool or fleece is better for a winter-weight blanket. Consider the feel and texture of the fabric as well as its washability and durability.

Q: Can I make a king size blanket without a sewing machine?

A: While it’s possible to make a king size blanket by hand-sewing, it will likely be a time-consuming and labor-intensive process. A sewing machine will make the project much easier and faster, and will also ensure that the layers are securely sewn together. If you don’t have a sewing machine, consider borrowing one from a friend or renting one from a sewing supply store.