Crochet blankets whether homemade or passed down from generations carry a sense of warmth and comfort. But over time, they may lose their luster, become worn out, or simply no longer match your decor.

What if I told you that you could breathe new life into these beautiful pieces? Upcycling crochet blankets isn’t just a fun and creative activity, it also allows you to be environmentally conscious and sustainable, all while giving your old blankets a fresh and updated purpose.

Have you ever looked at an old crochet blanket and wondered how you could use it again? Maybe you’ve thought about throwing it out because it no longer serves its original purpose, or it doesn’t fit in with your current style.

Well, before you toss it, let’s dive into the art of upcycling! This article will show you how to turn those tired, out-of-date crochet blankets into something new and exciting.

In this post, I’ll guide you through the process of upcycling crochet blankets, from planning the project to learning creative techniques. I’ll also share some common mistakes to avoid, along with tips and inspiration to help you along the way.

What is Upcycling Crochet Blankets?

Upcycling refers to the practice of repurposing old or unused materials into something new, often with a creative or artistic twist.

In the case of crochet blankets, upcycling can involve transforming them into new home decor, accessories, or even new functional items like bags or pillows. It’s about taking what would have ended up in the trash and giving it new life often in a more beautiful or useful form than before.

Before we jump into the step-by-step process, let’s explore a few upcycling ideas to get your creative juices flowing.

Upcycle Crochet Blankets: Creative Ideas for Reusing Old Pieces

Here are some fun ideas for upcycling your crochet blankets:

1. Throw Pillows: Transform your old blanket into cozy throw pillows that complement your living room decor.
2. Rugs and Floor Mats: If your blanket is large enough, you can easily repurpose it into a soft, warm rug for your floor.
3. Blanket Scarves or Shawls: Crochet blankets, especially those made with lighter yarn, can be turned into stylish accessories like shawls or scarf wraps.
4. Crochet Basket Liner: Upcycle your old crochet blankets into a basket liner to add a cozy touch to your home organization.
5. Wall Art or Tapestry: Use crochet squares or a portion of the blanket to create unique wall decor for your living room or bedroom.

By upcycling your crochet blankets, you not only give your old projects a new life, but you also reduce waste and contribute to a more sustainable lifestyle. Now, let’s go step-by-step through the process of upcycling crochet blankets.

Step 1: Assess the Condition of Your Crochet Blanket

Before diving into any upcycling project, take some time to inspect your blanket. This will help you determine how much work needs to be done and whether the blanket can be reused as is or if some repairs are necessary.

Key points to check:

• Fabric Strength: Is the fabric still strong, or is it threadbare? If the blanket has holes or frayed edges, you may need to mend or patch those areas before upcycling.
• Color and Texture: Does the color still appeal to you, or is it faded or stained? If needed, you can dye the fabric or mix it with other yarn for a new look.
• Size and Shape: Measure the blanket and assess if it’s large enough for your intended upcycle project. If it’s too small, you may need to add some new yarn or fabric to extend its use.

Step 2: Plan Your Upcycle Project

Once you’ve assessed the condition of the blanket, it’s time to decide on the project you’ll tackle. There are several approaches depending on the complexity and your desired outcome.

• Simple Project: If you’re looking for a quick project, turning a blanket into a throw pillow or cushion cover is the easiest. It requires minimal sewing and no special skills, just a bit of creativity!
• Intermediate Project: For something more involved, like a rug or wall hanging, you might need to add extra crochet stitches or fabric, and possibly even use a sewing machine.
• Advanced Project: If you’re up for a challenge, try making a wearable item, such as a scarf or a wrap, that requires you to break apart the blanket and rework it into a garment-like shape.

Step 3: Choose Your Tools and Materials

Depending on the project you choose, you may need a few extra supplies to complete your upcycling project. Here’s a general list of tools and materials you may need:

If you’re unsure of what tools you may need, it’s always best to gather a basic kit with a crochet hook, scissors, needle, and some yarn for any potential adjustments.

Step 4: Get Creative and Start Upcycling!

Now comes the fun part! Here are some examples of how to turn your crochet blankets into new, useful items.

Example 1: Crochet Pillow Cover

A crochet pillow cover is one of the simplest ways to repurpose a blanket. Here’s how to make one:

1. Cut the blanket into the desired shape or size for your pillow cover.
2. Sew the edges to create a pocket, leaving one side open to insert the pillow form.
3. If you have extra yarn, you can add decorative crochet details along the edges for added texture.
4. Insert your pillow form and close the opening with stitches or a button closure.

Example 2: Crochet Basket Liner

This is a great way to add some warmth to your storage baskets.

1. Cut the blanket to fit the size of your basket.
2. Sew the edges together to create a liner, making sure it fits snugly in your basket.
3. You can add decorative elements like fringe or crochet flowers to make the liner more stylish.

Example 3: Crochet Rug

A crochet rug made from an old blanket is a wonderful way to reuse large crochet pieces.

1. Cut your blanket into strips.
2. Crochet the strips together using a thick crochet hook to form a rug shape.
3. You can combine the old blanket with some new yarn to create a bold, colorful rug that suits your space.

Step 5: Common Mistakes to Avoid When Upcycling Crochet Blankets

While upcycling is a fun and rewarding project, there are some common mistakes to avoid:

1. Skipping the Prep Work: It’s essential to assess the condition of the blanket before starting. If you skip this step, you may find yourself halfway through your project with a ruined blanket.
2. Underestimating the Project Size: Make sure you have enough fabric or crochet to complete your project. It’s easy to get excited and dive in, but plan ahead so you don’t run out of materials halfway.
3. Ignoring the Fabric’s Texture: If you add new yarn or fabric, be mindful of the texture differences. Some yarns or materials may not blend well with the crochet blanket fabric, leading to a mismatched finish.
4. Not Taking Proper Measurements: Before cutting your blanket, ensure you measure everything to avoid making mistakes. If you cut the fabric too small or in an irregular shape, it can affect the outcome of your project.

Conclusion: Revitalize Your Crochet Blankets with Upcycling

Upcycling crochet blankets is a fantastic way to breathe new life into old projects and turn them into something functional and beautiful. Whether you’re transforming a blanket into a cozy pillow, a stylish rug, or even a unique piece of wall art, the possibilities are endless!

By following these steps and avoiding common mistakes, you can create stunning, personalized pieces that bring joy and warmth to your home. I encourage you to take a look at your old crochet blankets and start brainstorming what you can make.

Don’t forget to share your creations and tag me on social media—I’d love to see how you’ve upcycled your crochet blankets!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I upcycle a crochet blanket that’s been in storage for a while?
A1: Yes, but first check for any signs of wear, like holes or fading. If the fabric is still in good shape, you can easily upcycle it into something new. If it’s a bit worse for wear, you can patch it up before starting your project.

Q2: What if I don’t have a crochet hook?
A2: No worries! You can still upcycle the blanket by cutting and sewing it into new pieces. You can use fabric glue or a sewing machine for easy construction.

Q3: Can I combine different crochet blankets in one project?
A3: Absolutely! Mixing different blankets can give your project a unique, eclectic look. Just make sure the colors and textures complement each other.

Q4: How do I prevent the edges of the upcycled blanket from fraying?
A4: You can either hem the edges by hand or use fabric glue to seal them. If you’re adding new yarn, you can crochet a border around the edges for a polished look.

Q5: What if I make a mistake during the upcycling process?
A5: Don’t worry! Upcycling is all about creativity, so if you make a mistake, simply adjust the project or even start again. Mistakes are part of the fun and learning process.