Sew Easy Gifts for Baby- #2 Receiving Blankets

Receiving blankets are so necessary when a newborn arrives into the world because they needle to feel loved by the feeling of being swaddled in a soft and cozy blanket.  A newborn has difficulty regulating and keeping body temperature so keeping them warm is essential.  If you think about it, they have been in a warm, tight and cozy womb for 9 months.  Being wrapped in a soft blanket must feel good!

I have made many of these as gifts for friends, coworkers, nieces, nephews--- you name it! I have had friends recently tell me that they loved my receiving blankets because they are big and some of them are double sided and reversible.   They are the easiest gift to make and are so very useful.

The ones shown above are double sided, which means 2 layers of flannel.  
These receiving blankets are exactly square and are larger than store bought but that is what makes them fantastic for swaddling as they are large enough for all sized babies.
​Good quality flannel that you can feel when you purchase it, is also often better than the packaged flannel receiving blankets.
I also make them with a single layer as some babies are warm blooded like my grandson Eli.  The single layered ones are also useful for the warmer months and as wind/sun shields on strollers and car seats. 

What you need to make them:
Double Sided Receiving Blankets:
2 lengths of flannel ( I use 100"% cotton flannel) the same measurement as the width- i.e.. if the fabric is 42" wide, purchase 42 " in length.  
Make sure each side is different, as it provides more visual interest for mom and baby.
Thread to match
A sewing machine and straight stitch foot
Scissors
Single Layer Receiving Blankets:
The same as above except , one layer of flannel, the same width and length and serge all the edges or zigzag and press hem at 1/2" and once again and top stitch (that's it!)
How to Sew Double Sided Receiving Blankets:
Cut the top fabric the exact same size as the bottom.
Serge all raw edges if you own a serger or zig zag them.
Place the top and bottom right sides together and pin around perimeter marking with pins a 4" gap where you will not sew and for turning to the right side. 
Sew 1/2" seam allowance all the way around, leaving the 4" gap open
Clip corners close to stitching
Turn to the right side through the 4" gap
Use a turning tool or Purple Thang , shown below to make edges crisp  and to point corners.
My go to tool for turning items!
Hand sew opening closed
Press and top stitch 1/4 to 1/2" from edge.  That's it you are done!

​Bright Idea! Single layer receiving blankets make great "wrapping" for other baby shower gifts.

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Eli loves his giraffe double sided receiving blanket!  Also "doubles" as a wake time play blanket!

Have a great Wednesday!☀️