There’s a certain charm and comfort attached to old blankets. They might have seen better days, but with a little creativity, you can give them a new lease on life. This article will guide you on how to repurpose old blankets, transforming them from worn-out to wow, ready to serve you in new, practical, and appealing ways. So get ready, because it’s time to breathe new life into your old blankets.
1. Create a Cozy Pet Bed
Your furry friends would love a cozy corner to snuggle into, and what could be better than a comfortable pet bed made from your old blanket? You can easily create a pet bed by just folding the blanket into the desired size and sewing the edges. Add some padding for extra comfort.
Make sure to choose a durable fabric that can withstand your pet’s activities. If you’re looking for some durable fabric, you can find a variety at this link. Remember to make the pet bed washable by adding a removable cover.
2. Craft a Quilt
Quilting is a fantastic way to repurpose old blankets. You can cut the blanket into squares or other shapes and sew them together to create a new quilted blanket. This method allows you to mix and match different blankets, creating a unique piece of art.
Quilting might sound complex, but it’s a fun and rewarding DIY project. You can start with simple patterns and gradually move to intricate designs. You can find some beginner-friendly quilting patterns here.
3. Make a Picnic Blanket
Convert your old blanket into a picnic blanket. It’s simple and practical. All you need to do is add a waterproof layer to one side of the blanket. This layer will protect you from damp grass and make your picnic experience much more enjoyable.
You can use a shower curtain or a vinyl tablecloth as the waterproof layer. If you don’t have one, you can find them at affordable prices here. Ensure to secure the waterproof layer to the blanket using fabric glue or by sewing it.
4. Design a Throw Pillow
Throw pillows made from old blankets not only provide comfort but also add an aesthetic touch to your home decor. Cut two squares or rectangles from your old blanket, sew them together, and stuff them to create a cozy throw pillow.
You can add some embellishments like tassels or beads for a more decorative look. Use the throw pillow on your couch, bed, or reading nook. You can find some beautiful embellishments here.
5. Sew a Draft Stopper
A draft stopper, also known as a door snake, is a simple and effective way to prevent cold air from entering your home through the gaps under doors or windows. Simply cut a piece of your old blanket, roll it into a tube shape, and secure the ends.
For extra insulation, you can fill the tube with rice or sand. Not only does a draft stopper help keep your home warm, but it also reduces energy consumption, making it an eco-friendly choice.
6. Fashion a Scarf
If your old blanket is made of warm and soft material like fleece or wool, you can turn it into a stylish scarf. Cut a long strip from the blanket, finish the edges, and voila, you have a new scarf to keep you warm during cold days.
You can also add some fringe to the ends of the scarf to make it more fashionable. This is a simple yet fun project that even beginners can undertake.
7. Craft a Rag Rug
With a little bit of patience and creativity, you can transform your old blanket into a beautiful rag rug. Cut the blanket into strips, braid them together, and then coil and sew the braids into a rug.
Rag rugs are not only beautiful but also durable and washable, making them perfect for high-traffic areas in your home. They add a touch of rustic charm to any room. You can find some basic rug-making tools here.
8. Create a Baby Swaddle
If you have a soft, lightweight blanket, it can be repurposed into a cozy swaddle for a baby. Swaddling is a technique used to wrap newborns in a blanket to make them feel secure and help them sleep better.
Ensure the blanket material is breathable and comfortable for the baby’s delicate skin. You can add a border or some cute patterns to make the swaddle more attractive.
9. Upholster a Footstool
Upholstering a footstool with an old blanket is a brilliant idea to give it a fresh, new look. Simply remove the old upholstery, cut a piece of the blanket to fit the footstool, and attach it using a staple gun.
Make sure to pull the fabric tight and even to avoid any wrinkles. This is a cost-effective way to update your furniture and coordinate it with your room decor.
So there you have it, nine creative ways to repurpose your old blankets. With these tips, not only can you reduce waste and save money, but you can also add a personal touch to your home decor and accessories. So don’t discard your old blankets; instead, give them a new purpose and let them continue to serve you in new, delightful ways.
