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SF Good Questions: Can I Alter a King-Size Velour Blanket?

2-29-blanket.jpgAT:SF,

Has anyone ever altered a king size velour type blanket into a queen size?

I have a nice, fairly new, king size lightweight velour/fleece type blanket. I now use a queen size bed. I would like to make the blanket narrower so I can make the bed without having to tuck in the sides but have the sides not hang to the floor. Can I just cut off a bit from one side? Will it unravel? Or should I cut and sew down a small hem on one side?

Thanks,

Jean

 
 

Jean,

We'd opt for the hem. Besides avoiding the possibility of unraveling (does anyone know if velour unravels?), it will look more finished.

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Comments (10)

I haven't done it myself, but I don't see why you wouldn't be able to just go down one side and add a hem.

posted by AimeeRoo on February 29th 2008 at 2:13pm
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If it's truly one of those nylon microfibers, then no, it won't ravel. However, it may curl and/or stretch out of shape a little bit.

Most drycleaners will put a straight hem on anything for about $20. Altneratively, you could ask a friend with a sewing machine to hem it for you. Thank him/her with a bottle of vino!

posted by kimg924 on February 29th 2008 at 2:35pm
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If this is an expensive or "one-of-a-kind" item, take it to the dry cleaners and have them cut and hem one side. Make sure that the side you pick is the side that will show the least (just in case they do a mediocre job...). I have had my dry cleaners transform a king duvet into a queen and it went off without a hitch.

posted by RichardinLA on February 29th 2008 at 2:43pm
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The fabric description is confusing, as velour and fleece are two different things. If it's velour (velvet-like texture on one side with a definite front and back), it will definitely curl and shed fibers unless you finish the edge with a hem or binding tape. However, if the fabric is a polyester fleece (think winter tops, jacket linings and accessories - it will look the same on both sides), you can simply cut it without further treatment.

I agree with the other comments that this is a very easy project, whether you do it yourself or take it to a tailor. If you decide to finish the edge with a binding tape, think about using a contrasting color. I have done this before with a loosely woven cotton blanket - doesn't get much easier!

Good luck!

posted by alexisfromtexas on February 29th 2008 at 3:26pm
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Only thing is...since it's the sides that are your problem, I'd hem an equal amount on both sides. Even if you're tucking the blanket in, it'll give you a more uniform, neat final look.

posted by lag on March 1st 2008 at 4:10am
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If you are concerned about raveling and are doing the project yourself, run a straight line of machine stitching about 1/4 inch inside where you plan to cut BEFORE you cut. That should stop whatever raveling might occur. It might also
stabilize the cut end.

posted by LauraE on March 1st 2008 at 5:17am
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I once cut a Vellux (polyester velour type blanket like they have in some hotels?) blanket in half to share with my boyfriend (it was silly, kind of a sentimental thing). I later wished I had the whole blanket when he was out of my life! Anyway, if this is the kind of blanket you are talking about, cutting it was fine, each bit stayed intact.

posted by woodleyparkzoo on March 1st 2008 at 6:30am
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Know anyone with a serger? That would be the easiest way to hem it and sew it suuuper fast.

posted by Shannon in SF on March 1st 2008 at 9:22am
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Cut it and then bind all the edges of the blanket. You can buy binding at any sewing store, or make your own. Use a contrasting color for fun, and it'll look intentional and not like a home made repair. Use LauraE's tip about machine stitching the edge before you cut, it'll make the binding easier.

posted by superbeetle on March 2nd 2008 at 7:18am
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We use Vellux blankets in winter as a flat sheet all tucked in under the mattress, so cozy. I don't think the sides are hemmed at all, just the top and bottom. Probably would be just fine to cut it if you have to.

posted by jendavid99 on March 3rd 2008 at 7:40am
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