In memory of our angel Annie.
"There is no footprint so small that it cannot leave an imprint on this world."
The Annie Blanket
A grief blanket tutorial for those born much too soon.
Supplies:
Flannel fabric - 1/4 yard or fat quarter - Mellow prints are best
1/8" White satin ribbon - at least 36" (1 yard)
Pattern - print and cut out
Matching thread
I would suggest washing your fabric first. This will help it feel extra soft; we want the best for these sweet babies and their parents. Also iron the fabric after washing.
First things first, print off the pattern by clicking the link - The Annie Blanket Pattern.
Cut out your pattern.
Fold your fabric. Do this in a way so you can lay the top of the pattern on the fold and trace.
I placed my pattern with the small part along the fold and traced with a regular 'ol pen. I'm classy like that. :)
Go ahead and trace the pattern again and then cut out your pieces.
Take your one piece and make it right sides together, just folding it back at the top and pin down the long side.
Sew down the side using a 3/8"-1/2" seam allowance. Be sure to back stitch at the beginning and end. Do this with both pieces.
After sewing, trim down the excess and the corners. I only did the corners, and it was very noticeable. The less bulk there is the better. *So trim down the seam*.
Turn the pieces right side out and take it to the ironing board to press the seams.
Now let's cut our ribbon. We will need 4 pieces of 1/8" satin ribbon measuring 9" each. Be sure to heat seal the ends of the ribbon. I do this by taking a lighter quickly over the edge. The ribbon melts just enough to seal it.
Take your two sewn pieces and put them right sides together.
Pin the ribbon inside the blanket. Put two pieces of ribbon on each side. Measure down from the top of the side 3/4" and place one there. Measure another 1 1/2" and place the other ribbon. Leave about 1/2" of the ribbon sticking out.
Go ahead and pin the rest of the blanket pieces together. Remember to leave a place for turning the blanket right side out.
Sew all around the edge of the blanket, using about a 3/8" seam allowance, back stitching at the beginning and end. And remember to leave about a 2" opening for turning around. Be sure to clip corners and edges to reduce any bulk.
Now turn your blanket right side out. I use a turning tool, but anything you have to get those corners straight works great. After you turn it out, stick the hood part of one side into the other side.
Be sure to iron out any wrinkles and press the edges to be nice and straight.
Now we are going to top stitch around the edge, which will close up the opening. I stitched pretty close to the edge.
And you're all done! You've created a beautiful blanket that will cradle those special babies and bring so much comfort to their parents while grieving their loss.
See where I linked up HERE.
