Making a minky solid blanket using minky solid fabric is a simple and cozy project that you can complete in a few hours with basic sewing skills. Minky fabric is a plush, soft material with a polyester pile on one side, making it perfect for snuggle blankets. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to make one:
### Materials Needed:
- Minky solid fabric (the size you want for your blanket, typically 60" wide for a standard throw)
- Matching thread
- Sewing machine
- Rotary cutter and a self-healing cutting mat (optional, but helpful for straight cuts)
- Ruler or measuring tape
- Fabric scissors
- Pins
- Walking foot (optional, but helps prevent fabric from stretching and shifting while sewing)
- Sewing needle (70 or 80 weight is best for minky)
- Washable marker or fabric chalk
### Step-by-Step Instructions:
#### Step 1: Measure and Cut the Minky Fabric
1. Decide on the size of your blanket. Standard sizes are 36" x 48" for a baby blanket, 50" x 60" for a throw, or 60" x 80" for a full-sized blanket.
2. Measure and cut two pieces of minky fabric to the desired dimensions, adding an extra 3-4 inches to each side for the hem. For a 50" x 60" throw, cut two pieces at 54" x 64".
#### Step 2: Place the Fabric Pieces Right Sides Together
1. Place the two pieces of minky fabric right sides together, so that the furry sides are touching each other.
2. Align the edges carefully to ensure a straight match.
#### Step 3: Pin the Edges
1. Use pins to secure the edges of the fabric together, starting at one corner and moving along each side.
2. Place the pins approximately 1 inch apart.
#### Step 4: Sew the Edges
1. If using a walking foot, attach it to your sewing machine to help manage the thickness of the minky fabric.
2. Set your stitch length to 3.0-3.5 for a professional look.
3. With the right sides of the fabric together, sew around the entire blanket, leaving a 2-inch gap at the bottom for turning.
4. Use a ½-inch seam allowance to ensure a good hold on the fabric.
#### Step 5: Trim the Excess Fabric
1. Once you have sewn around the edges, trim the corners of the blanket to reduce bulk when you turn it right side out.
#### Step 6: Turn the Blanket Right Side Out
1. Carefully turn the blanket inside out through the 2-inch gap you left at the bottom.
2. Use your hands to push out the corners so that they are nice and sharp.
#### Step 7: Press the Seams
1. Use a steam iron to press the seams flat on the wrong side of the blanket.
2. Make sure the gap is fully open.
#### Step 8: Topstitch the Edges
1. With the blanket right side out, fold the raw edges of the gap inward to meet the seam.
2. Press with your iron to create a crease.
3. Topstitch around the entire blanket, approximately 1/4 inch from the edge, to close the gap and finish the seam.
4. This step also helps prevent the seams from unraveling and gives a neat appearance.
#### Step 9: Hem the Blanket
1. To hem the blanket, fold the edges over 2 inches and press with your iron.
2. Pin the folded edges in place.
3. Using a straight stitch or a decorative stitch of your choice, sew the hem down, making sure to catch the fold.
4. Repeat this process for all four sides of the blanket.
#### Step 10: Final Pressing
1. Press the hem and all the seams one last time to ensure they are flat and even.
2. Use a lint roller or sticky tape to remove any loose threads or lint from the minky pile.
#### Step 11: Wash and Dry the Blanket
1. Before using the blanket, it's a good idea to wash and dry it to remove any manufacturer's residue and to ensure that the fabric is soft and fluffy.
2. Follow the care instructions on the minky fabric's label. Typically, minky should be washed on a gentle cycle with cold water and tumble dried on low or air-dried.
#### Step 12: Enjoy Your New Minky Solid Blanket
Once the blanket is washed and dried, it's ready for use! Snuggle up with it or gift it to someone who would love the warmth and softness of a homemade minky solid blanket.
Remember to handle minky fabric with care to avoid snagging the pile. Use sharp scissors or a rotary cutter for cutting and avoid pulling or tugging the fabric while sewing. Happy crafting!
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