Why Blanket Scarves Are the Ultimate Cozy and Travel-Friendly Accessory
As the chill of winter settles in, there’s no better time to celebrate the coziest season of the year. January 6th marks National Cuddle Up Day, a day dedicated to embracing warmth, comfort, and all things snuggly. Whether it’s a favorite blanket, a homemade scarf, or even a shawl that doubles as a wearable hug, today is the perfect excuse to wrap yourself in something soft and enjoy the magic of coziness.
I know we just talked about blankets, but my new obsession…blanket scarves!
Discovering Blanket Scarves
Last January, I was scouring Pinterest because I was going to go all-natural—everything! Homemade natural beauty products, all-natural fibers—you name it. It’s a lot, y’all. I had good intentions, but only a few things stuck, which is fine. A few changes here and there, and eventually, we’ll get there.
I also wanted to start adding things to my wardrobe that I had made. Who made the rules? When we were kids, just the thought of having to wear something homemade was so embarrassing. Not now! I’m ready for all the fun things, whether they’re trendy or not.
I found this blanket scarf pattern and was ready to jump in. I bought 100% wool yarn in several colors and was set to go. Let me warn you, though—I am not a fast crocheter, but I was in LOVE with the fringe on this one. You think crocheting takes a long time? Wait until you’re twisting yarn over and over again. And then even more twisting. So worth the final product.
I hate fringe—or so I thought. I hate when the yarn starts getting all gross at the ends. This method solves that problem. I’m only using this method from now on. An even better perk of blanket scarves? You can make them as long or as wide as you’d like for your body. Remember, who made the rules?
I made this scarf:
The Perfect Travel Companion
Not long after I finished it, I got surprised with a trip to New York—riding the train up, a Broadway show, flying back the next day. I decided all I needed was a small backpack and grabbed my blanket scarf on the way out the door. THE BEST DECISION!
I figured I’d take it to compete with East Coast weather. You know you have to layer, no matter what time of year, to be prepared for the hourly swing in temperatures. What I wasn’t prepared for were all the extra benefits.
At first, it was just cute. Then I got chilly on the train—BAM, throw blanket. Sleepy? Ball it up as a pillow, and you’re set. It was perfect for the car, theater, and waiting at the airport. It’s not a carry-on item—it’s clothing!
The Summer Blanket Scarf Solution
Here was my dilemma, though. I wanted a blanket scarf all the time, but wool in summer? I’m a little too perimenopausal to swallow that idea.
A couple of months later, I was tagging along on a road trip. While my boyfriend was in a business meeting in Pennsylvania, I went down the road to a local fabric store. I find it funny that he still apologizes when he has meetings or work to do on trips. I have no problem entertaining myself and getting distracted by local stores or trails.
Anyway, I’m in this fabric store and end up in the yarn section. You know I bought fabric as well, but I’m in the yarn section touching all the fabulous fibers. I always feel a little guilty touching everything now because I have flashbacks of telling my littles not to touch things in the store. How can you resist?
I find this yarn and can’t resist the feel of it. I buy whatever they had—because I have to find a way to keep myself busy. As I’m checking out, the lady behind the counter asks what I’m making with it. I said I have no idea. She asks if I’m making clothing. Once again, I have no idea. She asks differently, “Will you be making something to wear?” Again, I have no idea.
She explains that if I’m making clothes, I won’t have to pay taxes. Oh, I’m definitely making something to wear!
Weeks later, I realized I needed to figure out a summer blanket scarf. Searching all the different word combinations, I discovered I needed a summer shawl. Same, same.
I’ve found my solution. I can make any scarf I want, any size I want, out of any yarn I want, and carry a blanket with me wherever I go.
This is the pattern I decided on:
Honestly, I tried several first, but I needed a basic rectangle for now. Later, I’ll master the V-shaped ones.
Just typing this, I’m itching to make another one. I think my next one is going to be a granny square scarf since this is my new can’t-focus addiction.
Now I needed someplace to wear my summer blanket! The whole time I was making it, I imagined where I’d debut this thing. For myself, of course—I’m sure no one else could care less, but it makes me happy, okay?
Another surprise trip for my July birthday. I’m telling you, this manifesting thing works! Last night in Cancun, we had a birthday dinner on the beach. Yes, after all the struggling years, I feel like I’m stepping into a fairy-tale life.
It was the perfect opportunity to try out my summer shawl. It was ideal for wrapping yourself in and even better for lounging on the beach with a cool breeze, chatting about life and the goals we have.
Wearable Blankets: Cute and Functional
Don’t miss out on this accessory! Wearable blankets? Yes, please. You can be cute and fashionable, but don’t forget to be original. By all means, wear things that make you feel snuggly.