The Swaddle Blanket - But Upgrade It

Why Make Your Own Swaddle Blanket?

We’ve all been there—you ask for swaddle blankets, you receive swaddle blankets… and you use them for everything. Burp cloth? Check. Stroller shade? Check. Baby burrito wrap for approximately 17 seconds before they wiggle out? Check.

But if you're a type-B sewist with “whimsy + functionality” as a love language (hi, welcome to the club), you may find yourself wondering:

“Could I make this myself… and make it cuter?”

The answer: absolutely yes.
And we’re keeping it easy—zero perfectionism allowed.

✂️ Materials

• 1 yard double gauze fabric
  (Mine was from Hobby Lobby—on sale for about $5! One yard made two blankets.)

• cute coordinating ½" double fold bias tape, approx. 3.5 yards

• Sewing machine

• Fabric scissors

• Coordinating thread (or whatever thread is closest… no judgment)

• Free custom quilt label (because you deserve the credit)

✅ Step 1: Cut

Double gauze is usually extra wide (sometimes 50–60 inches), so you’ll likely get two blankets from one yard.

Cut your fabric into two pieces approximately 37 x 26 inches

Boom—two gifts, one project.

✅ Step 2: Round the Corners

This is the moment we add the charm.

Rounded corners:

• Look adorable

• Make the blanket feel more “boutique”

• And best of all—you never have to wonder if your edges are square

Use a small plate, or whatever you have handy, to trace the curve on each corner and trim.

✅ Step 3: Bind

Grab your double fold bias tapeand place it right sides together along the raw edge of your blanket.

1. Tuck the starting edge of the tape under about ¼" to hide the raw end.

2. Sew using a ¼" seam allowance.

3. Take your time around the corners—bias tape loves curves!

4. When you get back to where you started, overlap the ends slightly.

5. Flip the bias tape to the other side and stitch it down.

It will look professionally finished, without the stress of perfection.

✅ Step 4: Label It

Download your free custom quilt label and stitch it onto the blanket.

It instantly says:

“Yes, this is handmade. Yes, I’m fabulous.”

🎁 Gift It Like A Pro

Roll the blanket up, tie it with a scrap of bias tape, add your favorite board book, and TA-DA:

The sweetest, most thoughtful baby gift.
You will be the hit of the baby shower.

I’d Love to See Yours!

If you make one, tag me:
@bessiepearlbindingco

(Your account must be public for me to see it!)

Happy sewing, friend.