A fleece tie blanket is one of the easiest and most popular DIY projects for beginners. It requires no sewing, minimal tools, and can be completed in just a couple of hours. Because of this, millions of people search online for tutorials, often asking questions like:
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What is the best fleece tie blanket material?
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What type of blanket fabric should I buy?
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Is the fleece from stores like Michaels good for blankets?
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to choose the right fleece fabric and how to make a durable tie blanket step by step.
What Is a Fleece Tie Blanket?
A fleece tie blanket is a no-sew blanket made by knotting strips of fleece fabric together along the edges. Instead of stitching the layers, you simply cut fringe around the border and tie knots.
Why fleece works perfectly for this project:
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It doesn’t fray when cut
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It’s soft and warm
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It’s easy to handle for beginners
This makes fleece tie blankets ideal for:
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DIY gifts
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Kids’ crafts
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Charity blankets
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Beginner sewing practice
The Best Fleece Tie Blanket Material
Choosing the right fabric is the most important step for making a long-lasting blanket.
1. Anti-Pill Fleece (Best Choice)
Anti-pill fleece is widely considered the best fleece tie blanket material.
Advantages:
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Resists pilling after washing
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Maintains a smooth surface
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Soft but durable
Most craft stores, including large retailers like Michaels, sell anti-pill fleece specifically labeled for blankets and crafts.
2. Polar Fleece
Polar fleece is another excellent option.
Key benefits:
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Thick and warm
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Lightweight but insulating
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Easy to cut and tie
Polar fleece works especially well for winter blankets or large throws.
3. Printed Craft Fleece
If you want a fun or personalized design, printed fleece is perfect.
Common patterns include:
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Cartoon prints for kids
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Holiday themes
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Sports teams
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Animal designs
Many people combine a patterned fleece layer with a solid color backing for a professional look.
fleece tie blanket material
How Much Fabric Do You Need?
The amount of fleece depends on the blanket size.
Typical measurements:
| Blanket Size | Fabric Needed |
|---|---|
| Child Blanket | 1.5 yards per layer |
| Throw Blanket | 2 yards per layer |
| Twin Blanket | 2.5–3 yards per layer |
Because tie blankets usually use two layers of fleece, you’ll need double the fabric amount.
Example:
For a throw blanket, buy 2 yards of patterned fleece + 2 yards of solid fleece.
How to Make a Fleece Tie Blanket (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Lay Out the Fabric
Place the two fleece pieces on top of each other, with the edges aligned.
Smooth out any wrinkles before cutting.
Step 2: Trim the Edges
Cut both fabrics to the same size.
Then cut a 3–4 inch square from each corner. This prevents bulky corners when tying.
Step 3: Cut the Fringe
Cut strips around all four sides.
Recommended size:
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1 inch wide
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3–4 inches long
Make sure you cut through both layers at the same time.
Step 4: Tie the Knots
Take one strip from the top layer and one from the bottom layer.
Tie them together using:
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A simple knot, or
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A double knot for extra security
Continue tying until you finish all edges.
Tips for Making a Better Tie Blanket
Choose Thick Fleece
Heavier fleece makes the blanket feel more luxurious and warmer.
Use Contrasting Colors
Pairing patterned fleece with a solid backing creates a more polished look.
Wash Before Use
Some fleece fabrics shed slightly at first. Washing the blanket once helps remove loose fibers.
Where to Buy Fleece for Tie Blankets
You can find fleece blanket fabric at many craft and fabric stores.
Popular sources include:
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Craft stores (like Michaels or Joann)
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Online fabric retailers
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Wholesale fabric suppliers
When shopping, look for labels like:
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Anti-pill fleece
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Polar fleece
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Blanket fleece
These fabrics are specifically designed for projects like tie blankets.
Final Thoughts
A fleece tie blanket is one of the most beginner-friendly fabric projects you can make. With the right fleece tie blanket material, you can create a cozy, durable blanket that lasts for years.
To get the best results:
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Choose anti-pill or polar fleece
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Use two layers for warmth
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Cut even fringe strips
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Tie secure knots
Whether you're making a handmade gift, a cozy throw, or a charity blanket, fleece makes the process simple, affordable, and fun.