DIY Picnic Blanket: A Beginner's Guide to Quilting & Sewing

Updated at: 09/05/2025

Picnics are synonymous with sunshine, laughter, and cherished moments spent with loved ones. But what truly elevates a picnic experience? A comfortable and stylish blanket, of course! Forget flimsy store-bought options; this guide will walk you through creating your own personalized DIY picnic blanket, a project perfect for beginner quilters and sewers alike. You'll discover the joy of crafting a unique, durable, and beautiful accessory that will become a treasured part of your outdoor adventures, adding a touch of handmade charm to every gathering.

Learn to transform simple fabric squares into a cozy and practical picnic blanket with this beginner-friendly tutorial. We’ll guide you through the essential quilting and sewing techniques, from selecting your fabrics and cutting the pieces to stitching and finishing your creation. Ready to embark on this fun and rewarding project? Let's dive into the step-by-step process to create your very own custom picnic blanket!

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • Fabric
  • Rotary cutter (optional)
  • Iron
  • Sewing machine
  • Contact paper or cardboard
  • Masking tape
  • Quilt batting
  • Tablecloth
  • Pins
  • Bias binding
  • Walking foot (recommended)
Safety Guidelines
  • Always use sharp scissors and needles to prevent injury. Keep them away from children.
  • Be mindful of your fabric choices. Choose fabrics that are suitable for outdoor use and easy to clean, such as cotton or water-resistant materials.
  • Ensure your sewing machine needle is appropriate for your chosen fabric to avoid breakage or damage.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare Fabric

    • Zigzag stitch around raw edges of fabric and pre-shrink by washing.
    • Measure and cut fabric (10.5 inches x 10.5 inches). Iron for clean edges.
    Measure and cut fabric (10.5 inches x 10.5 inches). Iron for clean edges.Measure and cut fabric (10.5 inches x 10.5 inches). Iron for clean edges.
    Prepare Fabric

  2. Assemble Quilt Top

    • Layout fabric panels and use masking tape to mark seam allowances. Sew panels together to create one long row.
    • Press open seams of the first row.
    • Sew rows together and press seams.
    Sew rows together and press seams.Sew rows together and press seams.
    Assemble Quilt Top

  3. Prepare and Layer Quilt

    • Cut quilt batting, leaving 2 inches extra around the perimeter. Cut tablecloth to the same dimensions.
    Cut quilt batting, leaving 2 inches extra around the perimeter. Cut tablecloth to the same dimensions.
    Prepare and Layer Quilt

  4. Quilt Layers Together

    • Pin quilt top, batting, and tablecloth together. Stitch in the ditch, topstitching where panels meet.
    • Zigzag stitch around the edges for stability (especially helpful without a walking foot).
    Zigzag stitch around the edges for stability (especially helpful without a walking foot).
    Quilt Layers Together

  5. Add Binding

    • Sew bias binding to the edges, starting a foot away from the corners for consistent results.
    • Clip corners, fold over binding, and topstitch.

  6. Optional: Make a Tote Bag

    • Sew nine squares together, add straps (10 inches long x 3 inches wide before seam allowance), sew the bottom, sew triangles for body, and topstitch.

Read more: King Size Quilt Tutorial: Efficient Chain Piecing Method

Tips

  • Use a walking foot for easier sewing, especially when working with multiple layers.
  • Pre-shrinking fabric prevents shrinkage after washing.
  • Ironing fabric creates clean edges and makes sewing easier.
  • Leave extra batting and tablecloth for easier handling during sewing.
  • Start sewing bias binding a foot from the corner for a cleaner finish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Uneven Seam Allowance

Reason: Inconsistent seam allowances can lead to a wobbly, unprofessional-looking blanket.
Solution: Use a seam guide on your sewing machine or a ruler to maintain a consistent 1/4 inch seam allowance.

2. Incorrect Fabric Selection

Reason: Choosing fabrics that are too thin, too stiff, or don't complement each other can result in a blanket that is uncomfortable or visually unappealing.
Solution: Opt for soft, durable cotton fabrics with coordinating colors and patterns, considering factors like weight and drape.

3. Poorly Squared Fabric Before Cutting

Reason: Starting with fabric that isn't square will result in wonky blocks and a misaligned finished blanket.
Solution: Press and carefully square your fabric before cutting to ensure accurate measurements and straight seams.

FAQs

What type of fabric is best for a picnic blanket?
Cotton fabrics are ideal for picnic blankets due to their breathability, durability, and ease of washing. Consider quilting cotton, canvas, or even sturdy linen for a more luxurious feel. Avoid fabrics that are prone to shrinking or fading significantly.
Do I need a sewing machine for this project?
While a sewing machine makes the process much faster and easier, especially for larger blankets, you can hand-sew a picnic blanket. It will just take significantly longer. Choose the method that best suits your skill level and available time.
How do I make my picnic blanket waterproof?
You can add a layer of waterproof fabric like ripstop nylon or a waterproof backing to your quilt. Alternatively, you can treat your finished cotton blanket with a fabric waterproofing spray, following the product instructions carefully.