The Farmer's Almanac is predicting an unusually cold winter, prompting people to dig deep into their attics and closets for their warmer ware. But when it comes to adding warmth to the bedroom, some say there is a degree of mystery to what makes one blanket different from another.
Finding the right blanket isn't as visual as choosing a comforter, where you're drawn immediately to design and color. People tend to look for function first - is it warm, is it soft, is it easy care -and then evaluate fashion."
Just what is it that makes a blanket comfortable, warm, soft, easy to care for and attractive? Gillock says that a simple touch test may help you evaluate these attributes, but for a more in-depth evaluation, look first at the fibers and construction, then at details such as weave and edging.
Fabrics and Fibers
Most blankets made from cotton or a cotton blend will be easy to wash. Cotton blankets come in a variety of weights and have thermal qualities, so they are ideal to layer with a comforter or quilt in cold weather and they're perfect year-round in warmer climates. Blankets made from Egyptian cotton are particularly soft, while mercerized cotton is both soft and lustrous.
When cotton is paired with silk, its softness intensifies, though it becomes more fragile. Other luxury fibers and yarns you'll see in blankets are cashmere, multiple types of chenille, Merino lambswool and alpaca.
Construction and Function
Blankets can be woven, non-woven, flocked or knitted. Each construction offers certain features and benefits in appearance, weight, softness and durability.
Woven blankets can be made from many different types of fiber, including cotton, acrylic or, less frequently, wool. Weaving gives a blanket visual appeal with designs and patterns, such as the popular zigzag Herringbone weave.
Heavyweight woven blankets will offer maximum heat retention, making them a good choice for those living in very cold climates or who keep the thermostat turned low. Non-woven blankets, which are typically made from acrylic, polyester, nylon or a blend, are durable and can be found at affordable prices.
"Flocked" may be an unfamiliar term for the blanket shopper, but it is probably a familiar feel. A blanket that is flocked has an extremely soft, plush touch. Because of their warmth, flocked blankets are extremely popular in colder climates, and by nature of their construction they are warm, yet light.
Another soft blanket choice is knitted fleece, made from polyester or acrylic polyester blends. Long popular in clothing, fleece blankets and throws are equally appealing for their warmth and their feel.
Blankets as Decor Accents
Traditionally, people lean toward solid, neutral colors such as white and ivory for their blankets. But fresh, new blanket colors are available, including sky blue, sea foam green, gold or even pink, offering consumers design alternatives for the bedroom. For a dramatic statement, toss decorative pillows at the top of the bed and peel the comforter back to allow the brightly colored blanket to show through. Or, use a blanket as a decorative accent by draping it over a chair or at the edge of the bed and enjoy the added splash of color.
When used as a decorative embellishment, a blanket will have additional appeal if it has an elegant edge treatment. The most recognizable blanket edge is one that is bound with nylon taffeta or nylon satin. An overstitched edge, which means thread is sewn into the ends, provides versatility. A self-hemming edge, popular in many cotton thermal blankets, offers durability and a tailored look for a blanket that is functional as well as beautiful.
"When you look at the array of blanket choices, it can be a bit confusing," said Leslie Gillock of home fashions maker Wamsutta, which offers a shopper's guide to blankets on its Web site, www.wamsutta.com. " - NU |
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