Herbie Murray
Whether you're looking to save money or get crafty, making your own sleeping bag is a fun project. You can turn a blanket into a sleeping bag by folding the blanket in half and cutting off the top to form a hood. You can then sew on a zipper, starting from the center of the top end of the front side and moving round the corner and down the side. You can also add straps by using the edge of the blanket and enclosing it in bias tape. If you're making a sleeping bag from scratch, you can use a comforter or outer and inner fabric, and sew a zipper on top.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | Fairly simple, suitable for beginners |
| Materials | Blanket, bias tape, snaps, pins, sewing machine, zipper |
| Blanket type | Not super fluffy, with a layer of batting inside |
| Zipper | Sewn on, not inserted between layers |
| Size | Depending on fabric used, about 40" wide and 4.5'-6' long |
| Care | Wash in cold water, tumble dry on low, or line dry |
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What You'll Learn
Choose the right blanket
Choosing the right blanket is crucial when turning it into a sleeping bag. Here are some factors to consider:
Size: The blanket should be appropriately sized for the intended user. If you're making a sleeping bag for an adult, a larger blanket is needed compared to creating one for a child or baby. Consider the length and width of the blanket to ensure it will comfortably accommodate the person using it.
Material: Opt for materials like wool, acrylic, or polar fleece. These fabrics retain insulating properties even when damp or wet, which is essential for staying warm in colder environments. Avoid cotton as it loses its insulating ability when wet. If you're looking for a lightweight and easy-to-pack option, fleece is a good choice. However, if weight is not a concern, wool can provide excellent warmth, although it tends to be heavier.
Thickness and Warmth: Consider the climate and temperature range you anticipate using the sleeping bag in. If you're camping in colder regions, choose a thicker blanket with a layer of batting inside for added warmth. On the other hand, if you're in a milder climate, a thinner fleece blanket might suffice.
Condition: Ensure the blanket is in good condition and doesn't have any tears or holes. A damaged blanket may not provide sufficient warmth and will require additional repairs before being converted into a sleeping bag.
Personal Preference: Finally, consider your personal preferences for colour, pattern, and softness. Choose a blanket that aligns with your taste and comfort level.
Remember, the key is to select a blanket that will provide the necessary warmth, comfort, and ease of use for your camping or sleeping needs.
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Measure and cut the blanket
To turn a blanket into a sleeping bag, you will need to measure and cut the blanket to the desired size. This process will depend on the size of the blanket and the intended user of the sleeping bag.
First, decide on the length of the sleeping bag. If you are making it for a child, you will need a shorter length than if you are making it for an adult. Fold the blanket in half lengthwise and decide how long you want the sleeping bag to be. Make sure to consider the thickness of the blanket, as a thicker blanket will result in a bulkier sleeping bag.
Next, fold the blanket again at the point where you want the top edge of the sleeping bag to be. Cut the folded top off, forming the main body of the sleeping bag. This cut-off piece will be used to create the hood and antennae/rope of the sleeping bag.
If you want to add a hood to your sleeping bag, measure and cut a suitable piece from the blanket. The size of the hood will depend on the size of the intended user and the desired amount of coverage. You can also use this piece to create antennae or a rope for the sleeping bag, adding a fun and functional element.
Finally, trim the long edge of the top/hoodie piece to ensure a neat and tidy finish. This step will ensure that the hood or antennae/rope piece fits seamlessly with the main body of the sleeping bag.
Remember to consider the type of blanket you are using. A fluffy or bulky blanket may be more challenging to work with and will result in a larger sleeping bag. It is recommended to use a blanket with a layer of batting inside, as it provides warmth without being too difficult to sew.
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Sew the fabric
To turn a blanket into a sleeping bag, you will need to cut and sew the fabric. The process is relatively simple and can be adjusted to fit the size of the intended user.
Firstly, fold your blanket in half lengthwise and decide how long you want the sleeping bag to be. Cut the fabric where you want the top edge of the sleeping bag to be. This will form the main body of the sleeping bag. If you want to add a hood, you can cut the top part of the fabric and use it to create both the hood and a rope or antennae.
Next, you will need to pin and sew the fabric. Place your outer fabric on the ground with the right side facing up. Take your inner fabric and face the right sides together, pinning them along one of the long edges. Stitch along this long edge and remove the pins. Repeat this process with the outer fabric. Now you should have two separate 'fabric sandwiches'.
Turn your fabric sandwiches right side out and poke out the corners to ensure they are crisp and defined. Iron the open edge so that it folds into itself neatly, then pin it closed. You can hand-stitch this part if you prefer, but if you are using a zipper, you can stitch it shut with your machine, sewing a little closer to the edge than normal.
Place your sleeping bag on the floor so that the middle seam runs vertically. If you are hand-tying your bag, you can skip this step. Otherwise, use yardsticks to divide your panel into three or more equal sections. Use straight pins to mark where your stitched lines will be, and repeat this process across the sleeping bag to ensure it is even.
Pivot your bag and continue stitching along the last length. Remember to backstitch about 1" from the fold in the middle of your bag, as it may be too much fabric to stitch through otherwise. Finally, turn your bag right side out and poke out the bottom corners.
Your sleeping bag is now complete! Depending on the fabric used, it should be washed in cold water and tumble-dried on low, or line-dried to prolong its life.
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Attach a zipper
To attach a zipper to a blanket when turning it into a sleeping bag, follow these steps:
First, lay the blanket out and find the bottom centre point. This will be on the centre fold of whichever edge you decide should be the bottom. Place your zipper a short distance from this centre point in either direction, ensuring your stitching line will be about 1" from the edge of the blanket. Pin both sides of the zipper a few inches from the bottom centre point, then put the zipper together to ensure it is lined up correctly.
Next, unzip the zipper about 4" to get started. Place the zipper near the top of the right edge of the blanket, with the right side of the zipper facing the right side of the fabric. This will look upside down but will create a more finished look once complete. Line up the edges and pin every 4".
Now, stitch carefully along the line your pins created, removing the pins as you go. When you finish a row, remove the blanket from under the machine and roll it up to the next row until you are finished. Start with a back stitch, then stitch down to the zipper head, ensuring you stitch about 1/4" from the edge. Lift your presser foot and pull the blanket away from the machine about an inch to create some wiggle room with the thread. Slide the zipper head back in place at the top, then place the blanket back under the presser foot and continue stitching to the bottom.
Repeat this process for the bottom zipper head, stitching until you reach it, then lifting your presser foot and getting the zipper head out of the way before resuming your stitching. Back stitch a few times near the end for extra security. Finally, fold the blanket in half with the right sides facing together and pin the other edge of the zipper to the other edge of the bag. The right sides should be facing each other and the long edges lined up.
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Add finishing touches
Now that you have the basic structure of your sleeping bag, it's time to add some finishing touches to make it truly yours! Here are some ideas to personalize and complete your project:
Sewing and Edging
Finish the raw edges of the fabric by folding and pinning them. Sew along the edges to prevent them from unraveling. You can use a surger to serge the edges if you have one, or simply fold and sew by hand. This step ensures that your sleeping bag remains durable and doesn't fray over time.
Zippers
Adding a zipper to your sleeping bag will make it easier to get in and out of. Place the zipper near the top right edge of the bag, with the right side of the zipper facing the right side of the fabric. Line up the edges and pin them together every 4 inches. Remember to unzip the zipper about 4 inches before sewing to avoid any difficulties. You can stitch the zipper onto the fabric, and it's okay if it doesn't extend the entire length of the sleeping bag.
Antennae or Rope
If you have extra fabric, you can create a tube or rope to use as antennae. Sew along the long edge of the fabric strip and turn it right-side-out. Cut the antennae to your desired length, and attach it to the sleeping bag. You can also use the rope to keep the bag tied up when not in use.
Straps and Snaps
Consider adding straps to your sleeping bag, especially if it's for a baby or young child. You can use bias tape to create straps by pinning and sewing it along the armhole and neckline. Don't forget to enclose the seam with the bias tape and tuck in the ends. Add snaps to the straps to allow for adjustability and future growth.
Paint and Designs
Personalize your sleeping bag by painting designs or patterns onto the fabric. You can hand-paint polka dots, stripes, or any other creative motifs that come to mind. Allow the paint to dry completely before assembling the sleeping bag. This step adds a unique touch and makes your creation one-of-a-kind.
Remember to be creative and have fun with the process! These finishing touches will not only make your sleeping bag functional but also reflect your personal style and creativity.
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Frequently asked questions
Fold the blanket in half lengthwise and decide how long you want the sleeping bag to be. Cut the top off where you want the top edge of the sleeping bag to be. You will need a zipper that is 2-3 feet long. Pin and sew the zipper to the body of the bag, starting from the center of the top end of the front side, then sew it down the side.
It is best to use a blanket that is not too fluffy. A blanket with a layer of batting inside will be warm without being too difficult to sew. Wool, acrylic, or polar fleece are good choices as they still provide some insulation when damp or wet.
The zipper should open from the neck and then down the side, otherwise it will be difficult to get into. Sew the zipper from the center of the top end of the front side, around the corner, and down the side.
You can use bias tape to enclose the seams. Fold over the bias tape edge and pin it down, then sew it down, making sure to do this for both the armhole and the neckline.
Making your own sleeping bag from a blanket can be a fun and simple project. It can also save you money, and you can customize the weight and size of the sleeping bag to your preferences.
