How to Make a Lightweight Picnic Blanket with a Gingham Check

This month has been filled with warm weather, floating drinks and many happy picnic days. A comfy resting spot is a must for me, even when I go for a hike. So, naturally, a compact, fuss-free and lightweight picnic blanket is the ultimate outdoor must-have!

The pretty little picnic blanket that we made for LivingSpace Mag can be sewn together quickly and easily. By using washcloths, there is no need to hem any of the squares. Plus, it’s super absorbent, which means you can use it as an oversized beach towel too!

LivingSpace Magazine_January 2019 — Get the LivingSpace Mag for some serious interior inspiration!

When shopping for your washcloths, remember that not all washcloths are created equal, and stick to cotton for its durability and absorbency. How big a picnic blanket should be, depends on how many people you want to seat. For two to four people 1,5m x 1,5m is sufficient. Luckily, if you need the increase the dimensions of the picnic blanket, add another row of washcloths.

Here’s how to make a lightweight picnic blanket

washcloth-picnic-blanket-for-outdoor-lounging

Difficulty: easy

Time: 15 minutes with a sewing machine

You need:

6 white washcloths
13 light coloured washcloths (we used teal)
6 dark coloured washcloths (we used navy)
Sewing machine and thread (you can use matching thread or a contrasting one for a fun twist!)

PRO TIP: Wash all of the washcloths before you sew them together to make sure they are colourfast.

STEP 1:

lightweight-washcloth-picnic-blanket-and-cucumber-sandwiches

Arrange the washcloths on a large flat surface to create the gingham pattern. Start with the first row of alternating the light- and dark-coloured washcloths. Add a second row of alternating white and light-coloured washcloths. Repeat until you’re happy with the pattern of the lightweight picnic blanket.

STEP 2:

Sew the washcloths together one row at a time. Don’t overlap the edges, place them side-by-side and use a small zigzag stitch.

STEP 3:

Once you have completed the five rows, sew their long edges together taking care to line up the corners correctly. Washcloths are very forgiving so manipulate the sides while sewing to make them line up.