Learn How To Make A Tie Blanket

Understanding What a Tie Blanket Is and Why People Make Them

A tie blanket, also called a no-sew blanket or fleece tie blanket, is a cozy blanket made from two layers of soft fabric tied together at the edges. Instead of using a sewing machine or needle and thread, you create the blanket by cutting strips into the fabric edges and tying them in knots. This method makes it possible for people of all skill levels—including children—to create a finished blanket in just a few hours.

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The popularity of tie blankets has grown significantly over the past decade. According to craft supply retailers, fleece blanket sales increased by approximately 40% between 2015 and 2023, with tie blankets representing a substantial portion of that market. The reason is simple: they require minimal tools, cost less than many handmade gifts, and produce results that look professionally made.

Tie blankets work well as gifts because they're personal and thoughtful without requiring advanced sewing skills. People make them for babies, college students, elderly relatives, and friends going through difficult times. A tie blanket also serves a practical purpose—it provides warmth and comfort, making it useful year-round.

The blankets can be made in different sizes. A standard tie blanket measures about 50 by 60 inches, though you can make smaller lap blankets (around 40 by 50 inches) or larger ones (up to 60 by 80 inches) depending on your fabric availability and intended use. The size you choose affects how much material you'll need to purchase.

Takeaway: Tie blankets are accessible handmade projects that don't require sewing experience. Understanding the basic concept—tying two fabric layers together—helps you move forward confidently with the project.

Materials and Tools You'll Need to Gather

Making a tie blanket requires surprisingly few materials. The primary items you need are two pieces of fleece fabric, scissors, and optionally a ruler or measuring tape. Most people spend between $15 and $35 on materials for a standard-sized blanket, depending on fabric quality and where they shop.

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Fleece is the most popular fabric choice for tie blankets because it doesn't fray, comes in countless colors and patterns, and feels soft against skin. When selecting fleece, look for material that is at least 58 inches wide—this standard width makes it easier to calculate how much yardage you need. For a 50 by 60-inch blanket, you'll typically need 1.5 to 2 yards of each fleece color or pattern.

When shopping for fleece, examine the fabric quality. Premium fleece costs more but lasts longer and feels softer. Budget fleece works fine for beginners or practice projects. Many craft stores sell fleece in bundles or sale sections, and prices typically range from $3 to $8 per yard depending on the store and current promotions.

Beyond fabric, your tool list is minimal:

• Sharp scissors or rotary cutter (rotary cutters produce straighter cuts but aren't required)
• Ruler, measuring tape, or yard stick for marking measurements
• Pins or clips to hold fabric layers together while you work (optional but helpful)
• Marking pen or chalk to draw cutting lines (optional)
• A flat work surface like a table or floor where you have room to spread out fabric

Some people use a rotary cutter and self-healing cutting mat to achieve precise cuts, but basic scissors work perfectly well. If you already have scissors and a measuring tape at home, your only expense is the fabric itself.

Takeaway: Gather two pieces of fleece fabric, scissors, and a measuring tool. Most projects cost under $35 and use tools you likely already own. Quality fabric matters more than expensive tools.

Measuring and Cutting Your Fabric Layers Correctly

Proper measurement is important for creating a balanced, finished blanket. Begin by deciding your final blanket size. A 50 by 60-inch blanket is standard and works for most purposes. Write down this target size before you start cutting.

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Lay your first piece of fleece on a clean, flat surface. Smooth out any wrinkles or folds. Using your ruler and measuring pen, mark the dimensions of your blanket on the fabric. For a 50 by 60-inch blanket, you'll measure and mark 50 inches along one direction and 60 inches along the other. Cut along these lines using sharp scissors in smooth, straight strokes. Having a helper hold the fabric taut while you cut makes this easier.

Once you've cut the first layer, use it as a template for cutting the second piece of fleece. This ensures both layers are exactly the same size. Lay the first cut piece on top of the second fleece, align the edges, and cut around it. Many people trace around the first piece with a marking pen, then cut along the marked line.

After cutting your two main pieces, the next step involves cutting fringe along all four edges. The fringe—small strips of fabric along the perimeter—is what you'll tie together to bind the blanket. Here's how to cut the fringe:

• Starting at one corner, measure 4 inches in from the edge along both sides
• Cut strips that are approximately 1 inch wide and 4 inches long into the fabric edge all the way around the blanket
• Space the cuts about 1 inch apart
• Make sure you cut through both fabric layers simultaneously
• Leave at least 4 inches uncut at the corners so the fabric doesn't tear when you tie it

The corners require extra attention. When you reach a corner, skip cutting for about 4 inches, then resume cutting on the next side. This prevents the corner from becoming too weak.

A helpful measurement approach: Use a ruler to mark every 1 inch around the entire perimeter with a pen, then mark every 4 inches with a longer mark to show where the fringe pieces end. This visual guide helps you cut consistently without constantly rechecking measurements.

Takeaway: Measure carefully, cut straight edges, and create fringe strips that are approximately 1 inch wide and 4 inches long. Consistent measurements across all sides create a more professional-looking finished blanket.

Tying the Fringe Together to Bind Your Blanket

Once you've cut all the fringe, the blanket is nearly complete. Now comes the satisfying part—tying the two fabric layers together. This process is straightforward but does require some patience and attention to keep your knots even.

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Start by positioning your blanket on a clean surface with the two fabric layers stacked on top of each other and aligned. The fringe strips from the top layer should line up directly with the fringe strips from the bottom layer. If the layers have shifted, gently adjust them back into alignment.

Begin tying at one corner. Take one strip from the top layer and one matching strip from the bottom layer in your hands. Tie them together using a standard square knot—right strip over left, then left over right, pulling tight. Pull firmly enough that the knot is snug against the fabric but not so hard that you distort or tear the fleece. The knot should sit right at the edge of the blanket where the two layers meet.

Continue this tying process all the way around the blanket. Work in sections—perhaps one full side at a time—rather than jumping randomly around the blanket. This approach helps you track which fringe pieces you've tied and prevents you from accidentally missing any.

Here are some additional tying tips:

• Work with a partner if possible—one person can hold the blanket steady while the other ties
• Take breaks if your hands get tired; there's no need to rush
• Double-check that each knot is tight by giving it a gentle tug
• Trim any uneven fringe lengths with scissors after all knots are complete
• Wash the blanket after tying to help