Materials Needed
To create your own cozy pom pom blanket, you’ll need a few essential materials that are readily available. Gather the following items before you get started:
- Yarn: Choose a variety of soft and cozy yarn in the colors of your choice. Opt for different shades to add visual interest to your blanket.
- Scissors: A sharp pair of scissors is necessary for cutting yarn and trimming the pom poms.
- Blanket Base: Select a blank fabric or knitted base for your pom pom blanket. You can choose a readymade blanket or create one with your preferred fabric.
- Pom Pom Makers: These nifty tools are available in various sizes and help create consistent and fluffy pom poms effortlessly. Alternatively, you can use your fingers or cardboard templates.
- Needle and Thread: You’ll need a needle and matching thread to secure the pom poms to the blanket base.
- Measuring Tape: Use a measuring tape to determine the dimensions and plan the placement of the pom poms on your blanket.
Once you have gathered all these materials, you’re ready to dive into the pom pom blanket making process. Let’s move on to the next step – choosing yarn colors.
Step 1: Choosing Yarn Colors
Choosing the right yarn colors is an essential step in creating a beautiful and eye-catching pom pom blanket. Here’s what you need to consider:
Color Palette: Start by deciding on the overall color palette for your blanket. Consider the room’s decor where the blanket will be used and choose colors that complement the space. You can opt for a monochromatic look with varying shades of the same color or go for a contrasting combination to make the pom poms stand out.
Contrasting or Harmonizing: Depending on your personal preference, you can choose yarn colors that either contrast or harmonize with each other. Contrasting colors create a bold and vibrant look, while harmonizing colors give a more subtle and cohesive appearance.
Varied Shades: Adding different shades of the same color can bring depth and dimension to your blanket. Experiment with lighter and darker hues to create a visually interesting effect.
Seasonal Theme: If you want to give your pom pom blanket a seasonal touch, consider incorporating colors that evoke the spirit of a particular season. For example, warm tones for autumn or cool blues for winter.
A Pop of Color: If you have a neutral-colored room, consider adding a pop of vibrant color to the blanket. This will create a focal point and add a touch of personality to the space.
Remember, there are no hard and fast rules when it comes to choosing yarn colors for your pom pom blanket. Feel free to let your creativity soar and select colors that resonate with your style and preferences. Once you have chosen your yarn colors, it’s time to move on to the next step – making pom poms!
Step 2: Making Pom Poms
Now that you have selected your yarn colors, it’s time to start making the pom poms. Follow these steps to create fluffy and adorable pom poms:
Step 1: Prep the Pom Pom Maker: If you are using a pom pom maker, open the arms and separate them. Wrap the yarn around one arm and close it securely. Repeat the process on the other arm, making sure to wrap the yarn tightly.
Step 2: Wrap the Yarn: Continue wrapping the yarn tightly around both arms of the pom pom maker until you achieve the desired fullness. The more yarn you wrap, the denser your pom pom will be.
Step 3: Secure and Cut: Once you have finished wrapping the yarn, close the arms of the pom pom maker and secure them. Carefully insert your scissors into the groove between the arms and start cutting the yarn along the outer edge of the maker.
Step 4: Tie and Trim: Take a separate piece of yarn and insert it between the arms of the pom pom maker. Tie it tightly around the wrapped yarn and double-knot it to secure the pom pom. Gently remove the pom pom from the maker and fluff it up. Trim any uneven or excess yarn to create a perfectly round and neat pom pom.
Step 5: Repeat: Repeat the process to make as many pom poms as you need for your blanket. Vary the sizes and colors of the pom poms to add visual interest to your design.
If you don’t have a pom pom maker, don’t worry! You can still make pom poms using your fingers or by using cardboard templates. Simply wrap the yarn around your fingers or the cardboard and follow the same steps to secure, cut, and trim the pom pom.
With your pom poms ready, it’s time to move on to the next step – preparing the blanket base.
Step 3: Preparing the Blanket Base
Before you can start attaching the pom poms, you need to prepare the blanket base. Whether you’re using a ready-made blanket or creating one from scratch, follow these steps to get it ready for the pom poms:
Step 1: Clean and Iron: If you’re using a pre-existing blanket, make sure it’s clean and free from any dirt or debris. Give it a gentle wash if necessary, and iron out any wrinkles or creases for a smooth surface to work with.
Step 2: Fabric Choice: If you’re DIY-ing the base, choose a fabric that works well with pom poms. Soft and cozy materials like fleece, flannel, or knitted fabric are ideal for providing a tactile experience and ensuring the pom poms stay in place.
Step 3: Size and Shape: Determine the desired size and shape of your blanket. You can create a rectangular, square, or even a circular blanket, depending on your preference. Use a measuring tape to ensure accuracy.
Step 4: Hemming and Edging: If you’re working with fabric, consider hemming or edging the edges for a neat and finished look. You can sew or use fabric glue to secure the edges, ensuring they won’t fray or unravel over time.
Step 5: Blanket Texture: If you want to add texture to your blanket, consider using a textured fabric or incorporating different knitting stitches for a unique and visually appealing base.
Step 6: Blanket Color: Choose a blanket base color that complements your yarn colors. Opt for a neutral tone that allows the pom poms to stand out, or select a color that harmonizes with the overall color palette of the pom pom blanket.
Once you have prepared the blanket base according to your preferences, it’s time to proceed to the next step – planning the pom pom placement.
Step 4: Planning the Pom Pom Placement
Now that you have your pom poms ready and the blanket base prepared, it’s time to plan the placement of the pom poms. Planning ahead will help you achieve a balanced and visually pleasing design. Here’s how you can do it:
Step 1: Arrange the Pom Poms: Lay out your pom poms on the blanket base to get an idea of how you want them positioned. Try different arrangements and spacing to find a configuration that you find aesthetically pleasing.
Step 2: Measure and Mark: Use a measuring tape to measure the distance between each pom pom and mark the spots where they will be attached. This measurement will ensure that the pom poms are evenly spaced across the blanket.
Step 3: Consider a Pattern: If you want to create a pattern with the pom poms, you can plan for alternating colors, rows, or even a specific design. This adds an extra layer of visual interest to your blanket.
Step 4: Visualize the End Result: Take a step back and visualize how the pom poms will look once they are attached to the blanket. Ensure that the arrangement complements the overall aesthetic you want to achieve.
Step 5: Make Adjustments: Don’t be afraid to make adjustments and rearrange the pom poms as needed. This is the time to experiment and find the layout that you love the most.
Step 6: Consider Practicality: Keep in mind the functionality of the blanket when planning the pom pom placement. Avoid placing them too close to the edges or in high-traffic areas to prevent them from getting tangled or damaged.
By planning the pom pom placement beforehand, you can ensure that the design flows seamlessly and creates a visually pleasing effect. Once you’re happy with the planned layout, it’s time to move on to the next step – attaching the pom poms to the blanket base.
Step 5: Attaching the Pom Poms to the Blanket Base
With your pom pom placement planned out, it’s time to start attaching the pom poms to the blanket base. Follow these steps to securely fasten the pom poms:
Step 1: Thread the Needle: Thread your needle with a length of matching thread. Double the thread for added strength. Knot the end of the thread to ensure it remains in place during the attachment process.
Step 2: Position the Pom Pom: Starting with the first pom pom, position it on the marked spot and hold it in place with one hand while grabbing the needle with the other hand.
Step 3: Attach the Pom Pom: Carefully insert the needle through the center of the pom pom and then through the blanket base. Pull the needle and thread all the way through until the knot rests against the blanket base.
Step 4: Secure the Pom Pom: Insert the needle back through the blanket base and the center of the pom pom a few times to ensure a secure attachment. Be careful not to pull too tightly to avoid distorting the pom pom’s shape.
Step 5: Knot and Trim: Once you are satisfied with the security of the attachment, tie a knot at the back of the blanket to secure the thread. Trim any excess thread, leaving a small tail that blends into the blanket base.
Step 6: Repeat the Process: Continue attaching each pom pom in the planned positions, using the same technique. Take your time, ensuring each pom pom is securely attached before moving on to the next one.
Step 7: Check for Symmetry: Periodically step back and check for symmetry and balance in the placement of the pom poms. Make adjustments as needed to achieve a visually pleasing and balanced design.
By following these steps, you can securely attach the pom poms to the blanket base, ensuring they stay in place while adding a charming touch to your creation. Once all the pom poms are attached, it’s time to move on to the final step – adding the finishing touches.
Step 6: Finishing Touches
After attaching all the pom poms to the blanket base, it’s time to add the finishing touches to ensure your pom pom blanket looks polished and ready to cozy up with. Consider the following steps:
Step 1: Trim Pom Poms: Take a close look at the pom poms and trim any stray or uneven strands to create a neat and uniform appearance. Be careful not to cut the threads that hold the pom poms together.
Step 2: Fluff and Shape: Give each pom pom a gentle shake and fluff them up to restore their volume. Use your fingers to shape them into a round and fluffy form, making sure they all look their best.
Step 3: Inspect Attachments: Check each pom pom’s attachment to ensure it’s secure. If you notice any loose or weak attachments, reinforce them by stitching through the pom pom and blanket again.
Step 4: Final Arrangement Check: Step back and take a final look at the blanket to ensure the pom poms are evenly spaced and arranged as planned. Make any last-minute adjustments, if necessary, to achieve the desired visual effect.
Step 5: Test Durability: Give the finished blanket a gentle tug and shake to test the durability of the pom poms’ attachments. Make sure they are securely fastened and won’t come loose during use or washing.
Step 6: Enjoy Your Pom Pom Blanket: Finally, snuggle up with your pom pom blanket and enjoy its cozy warmth and inviting charm. Share it with loved ones or proudly display it in your living space for everyone to admire.
Remember, the finishing touches are essential in ensuring your pom pom blanket looks its best and stands the test of time. Take the time to inspect and perfect every detail, so you can proudly showcase your creative work.
With the finishing touches complete, your pom pom blanket is ready to bring comfort and style to any space. Now, let’s move on to the last step – caring for your pom pom blanket.
Step 7: Caring for Your Pom Pom Blanket
After putting time and effort into creating your pom pom blanket, it’s important to know how to properly care for it to ensure its longevity. Follow these steps to keep your blanket looking its best:
Step 1: Read Care Instructions: If you used a pre-made blanket as your base, check the care instructions provided by the manufacturer. This will give you specific guidance on how to clean and maintain the blanket.
Step 2: Spot Cleaning: For minor stains or spills, gently spot clean the affected area using a mild soap or detergent diluted in water. Dab the stain with a soft cloth or sponge, being careful not to rub it vigorously. Pat dry with a clean towel.
Step 3: Handwashing: If the entire blanket needs cleaning, handwashing is usually the safest method. Fill a basin with lukewarm water and mild detergent. Submerge the blanket and gently agitate it for a few minutes. Rinse thoroughly with clean water and gently squeeze out excess water, avoiding wringing or twisting the blanket.
Step 4: Drying: Lay the blanket flat on a clean, dry towel or on a drying rack to air dry. Avoid hanging the blanket, as this can stretch out the pom poms. Reshape and fluff the pom poms with your fingers while the blanket is still damp to restore their original shape.
Step 5: Avoid Heat and Agitation: Keep your pom pom blanket away from excessive heat sources, as this can cause damage to the yarn and pom poms. Additionally, avoid vigorous agitation or machine washing, as it can loosen or remove the pom poms.
Step 6: Storage: When not in use, store your pom pom blanket in a cool, dry place to prevent damage and maintain its shape. Avoid storing it in a plastic bag, as this can trap moisture and lead to musty odors.
Step 7: Regular Maintenance: Give your pom pom blanket some tender love and care by gently fluffing and shaping the pom poms periodically. This will help them maintain their plush appearance and prevent them from becoming flattened over time.
By following these care instructions, you can ensure that your pom pom blanket remains beautiful and cozy for years to come. Enjoy the warmth and comfort it provides, and take pride in your handmade creation!
