Many people are interested in how to sew a bonbon blanket with their own hands. Some want to save money, others want to practice sewing or create a unique look. It is not difficult to do this, even a beginner can show a master class, but first you need to figure out what this blanket is.
- What is a bonbon blanket and why is it needed?
- The use of bombon blankets and the differences between the "adult" and "children's" varieties
- What you need to prepare for sewing
- Selection and preparation of materials
- Calculating the amount of fabric and choosing a cutting option
- How to sew a baby blanket using the bonbon technique
- How to sew bumpers for a baby crib using the "bonbon" technique
- What blankets can't be sewn using the step-by-step bonbon technique
- How to care for a bonbon blanket
- How to Wash a Bonbon Blanket
What is a bonbon blanket and why is it needed?
A bonbon blanket is a fabric with two different sides. On one side it looks like a regular blanket, and on the other side there are voluminous square fragments of the same size, stuffed with fabric. The edges of the bonbon can be decorated with a wide edging or other decorative elements, so such a thing will be a great addition to the interior of any home.
The bonbon blanket is based on a patchwork embroidery technique. People have used this technique for sewing since ancient times. The thing is that people often lacked fabric, so they had to sew from any fragments they found. Now this style has undergone some changes. Firstly, they began to use high-quality and beautiful textiles, and secondly, the color scheme of the blanket is carefully thought out. Also, the main difference from patchwork is the volume - it is obtained by stuffing fragments.
The use of bombon blankets and the differences between the "adult" and "children's" varieties
This blanket has a wide range of applications. It can be used as a cover for sleeping. It will also be an interesting and unusual addition to the design of the room and will give the interior a unique style. It can be used in different situations:
- as a rug for a child. Children are restless and often fall, and such a blanket can soften the blow and protect against injuries;
- as a throw for a sofa. Blankets of any size can be used for this purpose;
- as a replacement for a bedspread. Bonbon will give the interior a unique and well-groomed look;
- instead of a blanket. Such a blanket is very warm, you can cover yourself with it on cold winter evenings, sitting in a chair.
The main difference between a baby blanket and an adult blanket is the size. But there are also differences in style. For example, when making a baby blanket, you can use a lot of bright colors, buy fabric with pictures of their favorite cartoon characters. An adult blanket should be made in such a way that it does not stand out from the style of the room.
Important! A blanket in neutral tones can be called universal; it will look harmonious in any interior.
What you need to prepare for sewing
For sewing you will need the following materials:
- base fabric;
- fabric for fragments;
- stuffing;
- threads;
- pins;
- scissors;
- felt-tip pen.
Selection and preparation of materials
The basis of the blanket will be a simple piece of fabric. A regular sheet will do for this purpose, since it will not be visible anyway. But it should be soft and pleasant to the touch, since it will constantly touch the body.
Please note! Each person chooses the fabric for the components of the blanket to their own taste. You can use both synthetic and natural materials. The color palette can also be varied. Some prefer minimalism, and one or two colors will be enough for them, while others will want to recreate all the colors of the rainbow.
The stuffing should be of high quality and not bunch up when washed. A great option would be synthetic padding. Cotton wool and its derivatives cannot be used for stuffing. Such materials lose their appearance after the first wash, and they will also accumulate moisture inside the blanket.
Threads should be selected in accordance with the colors of the fabrics for the fragments. Each element should be sewn in its own color so that it does not stand out from the overall picture.
You will also need a small set of pins to temporarily secure pieces to the blanket and a marker to mark the fabric.
Calculating the amount of fabric and choosing a cutting option
To determine the amount of fabric needed, you first need to select a base. Its size depends on how the bonbon will be used. If for its intended purpose, it is better to choose a sheet. It can be used as a template for another fabric. You can also use a duvet cover for this purpose.
In the case of a children's bonbon, you will also need a template. Only a master of his craft will be able to select the required amount of fabric by eye.
The pattern depends on the size of the fabric. First, you need to take measurements, then calculate how you can mark the fabric. Usually, squares are used, but in some cases, the size of the base does not allow them to be sewn harmoniously. Then you can use rectangles. They can also be alternated with squares.
For example, one row can be made of squares with a side of 15 cm, and the next row of rectangles up to 30 cm long. In general, everything depends on the situation. For example, if the squares do not fit at all, you can cut off the excess part of the base.
Attention! The use of rectangular shapes is not so popular in this style. Squares are considered the classic option.
How to sew a baby blanket using the bonbon technique
First, you need to prepare all the materials and make calculations. For a baby blanket, it is advisable to choose bright colors of fabrics with large patterns. First, you need to decide on the size. Below is an instruction on how to sew a bonbon blanket for a child:
- Mark the base. For a baby blanket, a length of 170 cm and a width of 136 cm will be enough. Such a base can be divided into squares with a side of 17 cm, you will need 10 in length and 8 in width.
- You need to decide on the pattern of the blanket. For example, you can take two colors and arrange them in a checkerboard pattern. Diagonal lines of three colors also look beautiful.
- Now you need to take the fabric for the forms, sew one strip from 8 squares, then attach it to the base with pins, following the markings. The fabric should not fit tightly to the base, you need to make small pockets from it, which will be filled with filler.
- Next, you need to sew each square to the base at the top and sides, without touching the bottom.
- Now you can stuff each square with filler and sew it to the base from below.
- Following the pattern, sew the remaining strips to the base. The finished product can be additionally decorated with decor, such as piping.
How to sew bumpers for a baby crib using the "bonbon" technique
Any child, even if he or she has not yet learned to walk, needs protection on the bed. Bumpers will help protect the child not only from collisions, but also from drafts. For older children who can walk, they are simply irreplaceable. Bumpers made using the "bonbon" technique will be an excellent solution, since they have all the necessary qualities. They are very soft and do not take up much space. You can find ready-made products in stores, but it is easier to sew them yourself.
Making them is not difficult. First, you need to take measurements of the crib, then decide on the shape and length of the rectangular parts. A standard bed consists of 60 × 30 cm sides. This is divided into squares with a side of 15 cm. The sewing technique is the same as for a blanket, but you need to take into account several features. Firstly, you will need less stuffing, otherwise the sides will take up a lot of free space in the bed. Secondly, it is advisable to choose shades of fabric that have a calming effect, since the sides will constantly be in front of the child's eyes. You can choose fabric with a pattern of stars, the moon or clouds.
It is also not recommended to additionally decorate the sides with small decorations that can easily be torn off.
What blankets can't be sewn using the step-by-step bonbon technique
The bonbon technique imposes some restrictions on the shape of the blankets produced. Since the base is made of square or rectangular pillows, it is not possible to make a round or oval blanket.
How to care for a bonbon blanket
It is not recommended to wash it by hand, otherwise the blanket will quickly become unusable. It is also not recommended to do this procedure too often. You cannot dry it in a washing machine or with special electrical devices. Since the padding is made of materials that do not absorb water, the fabric dries quickly in the open air. But it is important to ensure that it is not exposed to direct sunlight. It is better to place the blanket horizontally.
Important! Some sources claim that you can dry a bonbon blanket in the washing machine at low speed.
In addition, you need to follow some rules when ironing. You should never iron the top pads, the maximum you can douse them with steam from a short distance.
How to Wash a Bonbon Blanket
It is allowed to wash it only in the "delicate wash" mode at a temperature not exceeding 30 degrees. If the size is too large and the blanket does not fit in the drum of the washing machine, it is recommended to take it to the dry cleaner. After washing, it is advisable to leave it on a special stand to get rid of excess liquid.
In general, anyone can make a blanket with their own hands (bonbon). The creation process leaves a lot of room for creativity, and each person can express themselves. Even a beginner can handle sewing a bonbon blanket. It does not require much time and materials to make it, but the result will allow you to be proud of yourself. In addition, if you make it with your own hands, it will warm you much better in winter.
