Looking for the best blanket fabric for your project? We tested and compared our top options so you do not have to. Below you will find our picks, a buying guide, and answers to the most common questions.
Our Top Picks
#1 Best Overall
EOVEA Polar Fleece Fabric — $15.90/yard
- Anti-pill finish
- 60" wide
- 100+ colors
- Machine washable
- 200-300 GSM warmth
The number one blanket fabric for a reason. Polar fleece is warm without being heavy, machine washable, and the anti-pill finish keeps it looking new. 60-inch width means no seams on a throw-size blanket. Works for no-sew tie blankets, quilted blankets, and simple sewn blankets.
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#2 Luxury Pick
Shaggy Faux Fur Fabric — From $21.00/yard
- Ultra-soft shaggy pile
- 60" wide
- 25+ colors
- Statement piece
- Dense backing
For blankets that look and feel expensive. Pair faux fur on one side with polar fleece on the other for a two-tone luxury blanket. The shaggy pile adds visual depth and incredible softness. Perfect for gift-worthy throw blankets and nursery decor.
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#3 Stretchy & Lightweight
Cotton Spandex Jersey Fabric — From $13.00/yard
- 95% Cotton / 5% Spandex
- 60" wide
- T-shirt soft
- 4-way stretch
- Breathable
If you want a lightweight blanket that breathes, cotton spandex jersey is ideal. It has the feel of a favorite t-shirt with gentle stretch. Best for summer blankets, baby receiving blankets, and swaddles where warmth is less important than softness.
Shop Now →Related guide: Best Fabric for Tie Blankets: No-Sew Fleece Blanket Guide
Buying Guide: Choosing Fabric for Blankets
The right blanket fabric depends on three things: warmth, softness, and care. Here is how the top options compare:
Fabric Comparison for Blankets
| Fabric | Warmth | Softness | Care | Best For | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Polar Fleece | High | Very soft | Machine wash | Everyday blankets, tie blankets | $15.90/yd |
| Faux Fur | High | Ultra soft | Hand wash | Luxury throws, gifts | From $21.00/yd |
| Cotton Spandex | Light | T-shirt soft | Machine wash | Summer blankets, baby | From $13.00/yd |
| Acrylic Felt | Medium | Smooth | Hand wash | Kids' craft blankets | $16.90/yd |
Yardage by Blanket Size
| Blanket Size | Finished Size | Fabric Needed |
|---|---|---|
| Baby / Receiving | 30" x 30" | 1 yard |
| Lap / Throw | 50" x 60" | 1.5 - 2 yards |
| Twin | 65" x 90" | 2.5 yards |
| Full / Queen | 90" x 90" | 5 yards (seamed) |
For two-sided blankets (like fleece + faux fur), double the yardage — you need equal amounts of each fabric.
Tips for Making Better Blankets
- Pre-wash your fabric before cutting, especially cotton blends. This prevents shrinkage after you finish your blanket.
- Use a walking foot when sewing thick fabrics like faux fur. It feeds both layers evenly and prevents shifting.
- Serge or zigzag the edges on woven fabrics to prevent fraying. Fleece and felt do not fray, so you can skip this step.
- Add a binding with satin or cotton for a professional-looking edge on any blanket.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the softest fabric for blankets?
Faux fur fabric is the softest option, with a plush shaggy pile that feels ultra-luxurious. For everyday blankets, polar fleece with an anti-pill finish is the best balance of softness and practicality — it stays soft after many machine washes. Cotton spandex jersey is the softest lightweight option for summer blankets.
How much fabric do I need for a throw blanket?
For a standard throw blanket (50 by 60 inches), you need 1.5 to 2 yards of fabric. If you are making a two-sided blanket with different fabrics on each side, you need that amount for each fabric — so 3 to 4 yards total.
What is the warmest blanket fabric?
Polar fleece and faux fur are the warmest blanket fabrics available by the yard. Polar fleece at 200 to 300 GSM provides excellent warmth without weight. Faux fur adds even more warmth due to its thick pile trapping air. For the warmest blanket, combine a faux fur top layer with a fleece backing.
Can I machine wash homemade blankets?
Polar fleece and cotton spandex blankets are fully machine washable on a cold gentle cycle. Faux fur blankets should be hand washed or machine washed on delicate in a large-capacity washer. Acrylic felt blankets should be hand washed only. Always air dry or tumble dry on low heat.
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