How to make a weighted blanket for autistic child?
You may have heard of weighted blankets and how they can help individuals with autism. But, let’s not kid ourselves here – buying a commercially-made blanket from the store can be ridiculously expensive, which is why we’re going to show you how to make your own at home.
What are Weighted Blankets?
Weighted blankets are just what they sound like – blankets that weigh more than usual blankets. They are filled with materials such as glass beads or plastic pellets, providing deep touch pressure (DTP) that can help reduce anxiety, promote relaxation and improve sleep quality in children on the spectrum who experience sensory sensitivities. Plus, who doesn’t love getting cozy under a heavy blanket while watching some TV?
Now before we get started on this DIY project, there are a few things you need to know:
- It’s important to choose fabric that won’t irritate your child’s skin.
- The weight shouldn’t exceed 10% of your child’s body weight according to occupational therapists.
- Always supervise your child when using a weighted blanket; it should never cover their face!
With those pointers out of the way, let’s dive into making this beautiful piece of calmness.
Supplies
The best part about creating anything at home is the ‘shopping spasms’ followed by moments of complete euphoria after discovering items in stock! Here is what you’ll need for this particular project:
- Fabric
- Cotton or flannel material (whatever floats your boat)
- Ensure it’s super soft and high quality
- Batting
- Provides depth
- Poly-fil stuffing
– Just gives added thickness - Plastic poly pellets
– These will provide theweighted
feeling
More malls = more shopping bags so take advantage of Christmas clearance deals !
How We’ll Be Doing This
Before we get to how-to-do-it, please note the total length of this article. If you are here for a Quick fact guide on making a weighted blanket then it’s okay to admit you’re just being lazy ‘LOL!’
First things first, let’s talk about measurements; ideally with your home sewing machine’s dimensions. You’ll need three pieces Cut in these sizes:
- 42″x42″ – top piece
- 45”x45”– batting piece
- 59″x59″ – bottom piece
Step By Step Process To Create A Weighted Blanket
Measure Twice Cut Once – Let’s Start With Fabric
Step One
Cut down your fabric into three identical squares as per the above measurement sizes (N.B : ensure edges aren’t frayed)
Step Two
Sew two of the squares together face out .
Pro Tip:
Now if you’re like us and haven’t touched that old singer since high school {eyes roll) now is when Youtube tutorials become helpful best friends! Take a break from watching cat videos and search for how-to-use-a-sewing-machine-for-beginners.
I mean it might not be rocket science, but failing wouldn’t constitute as an option!
Bigger And Better Batting
We mentioned earlier about using batting inside our blankets for depth… let’s show you exactly what we meant:
Step Three
Take your batting and cut it down (noting with paper weights can help keep it steady during this process) until its exact size matches one square.
Now sew right over each entire edge ; securing them in place
{Here comes my favorite part}
While pressing against the outer edges of said square lightly mash or run some hand pressure on this blanketed space until crispy sounds make their way up your spine => “CRISP CRISP.”
Finally, be sure to properly attach all three fabric squares together ensuring that the newspaper pattern is facing outward on all sides of sewing… and voila a basic blanket casing with depth is now done!
Adding Plumbing Pipes And Poly-Fil Stuffing
Plain blankets won’t do so let’s add some plumbing pipes without turning our hands into mannequin hands in the process shall we?
Step Four
- Sew pipe ends shut
- Divide remaining pellet weight
- Split evenly between tubes
When it comes down to poly-fil stuffing arguably the best ingredient ever added into every DIY project…
Both any available sized polyester batting scraps or larger sheets can work here.
Starting from one corner and working counter-clockwise being careful not to leave any ugly lumps/twists, (use adjustable plastic gloves for ease) add this newly formed lump-of-poly
(shout out maths enthusiasts!) inch by inch within each tube.
[As seen below]
Items | Dimensions |
---|---|
Batting Sheets | 1 x 59Inches |
Poly-fill | Enough For Depth |
Read your children bedtime stories while you create an unwavering calm environment. |
“Let’s Put Some Weight On It Baby!”
Step Five
Ok people, Its go time! Now that more extended hours have been spent on this required creation, I imagine you’re feeling proud and excited-but don’t forget-onto attaching your pellets onto those sewn pipes!
Pour carefully according to instructions delving even amounts back-and-forth until fullness reaches optimal working size once inside each pipe.
Alternatively grab yourself a trusted vac bag just in case ‘Big Brother decides he wants his mats back.’
We joked; In reality its okay if both of you cats are curious and got in on some of the fun at this point amidst their usual shenanigans!
Now sew up all seams.
Final Touches?
Step Six
We Have Completed our Flat design! Again at this stage it is important to ensure a safe amount of weight is added not exceeding ten percent more than child.
Finally you’ll want a blanket that can be washed regularly without issue so – drum roll please: Add your extra step – Sew the edges closed so that everything stays inside, then top stitch around all four edges for security.
For aesthetic beauty feel free to add decorative twine stitching or simply use pins .
And there we go! It may have taken longer than expected but congratulations, you’ve made a weighted blanket from scratch…and saved enough money even ‘John Wick would nod approvingly’ .
Benefits Of A Weighted Blanket
As mentioned earlier weighted blankets have been proven to exhibit numerous benefits towards an individual with autism such as:
- Reducing anxiety
- Promoting relaxation
- Better sleep quality
- Improved mood swings
However, do remember that every child’s unique sensory needs should be accounted for before any decisive finalizations like incorporating different designs or fabric patterns while creating a custom-made piece.
In Conclusion
There you go folks-an amazing adventure through crafting , sewing tension moments (especially if it’s been ages since taking out those leather textbooks), and finally making something therapeutic yet cozy for your little ones who need comfort most always.
When undertaking this project: Put on your favorite tunes; Relax during breaks #MandatoryRestSitutionHours:
We hope now after reading through here : Whether weighed down under piles of deadlines; awaiting exams coming soon ; stuck behind those annoying drivers heading back home – This article was worth your admission into the humor zone ‘TheEnd.‘
Hey there, I’m Dane Raynor, and I’m all about sharing fascinating knowledge, news, and hot topics. I’m passionate about learning and have a knack for simplifying complex ideas. Let’s explore together!
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