Giving baby gift blankets as a shower gift is a time honored tradition that dates back to the days when bedding and clothing were made by hand. Loving stitches and specific patterns were used as symbols of the connection a new child had to his or her family. Now days, you don't have to ruin your eyes quilting by candle light to continue this loving tradition. Personalized baby gift blankets come in all styles, colors, and patterns to satisfy any shower theme or mother and are welcome and practical shower gifts.
This first thing to consider when choosing a baby gift blanket for a shower gift is the type of fabric. You want something that is soft, easily washed and dried, and free of dangling pieces that baby can choke on or accidentally swallow. Check all embroidery and embellishments to be certain they are securely attached. Babies are notorious for their exploring fingers which can easily get wound up in loose threads or stuck under tacked on pieces. Also, make sure that the fabrics are flame retardant and made for babies.
Softness of the fabric is critical as well. Wool is wonderfully warm and long lasting, but would you want to sleep under something that is constantly irritating your skin? Mom and Dad are going to be getting up plenty of times at night. They don't need a heavy, itchy, blanket to help with that process. Polyesters are much nicer than they used to be and some of the microspun fabrics are sturdy and unbelievably soft. These wash very well and really stand the test of time. Cotton is another good fabric, but watch how thick the individual threads get. Heavy threads and woven blankets can get stiff and rough after many washings.
Next, try and choose a pattern or design that complements the shower theme or the known design of the baby's nursery. For example, if mom and dad have chosen Victorian furnishings and lacy accents for the baby's room, try to find a quilt that has eyelet lace on it and softer, more antique colors and patterns. If the shower theme is all about animals, then look for prints that feature tumbling kittens or frolicking butterflies.
A handmade baby blanket is a wonderful shower gift that is sure to be treasured for generations. Think about making the blanket reversible if the baby hasn't arrived yet and the gender is not known. One side can be blue and green and the other pink and yellow. Another idea is to sew complementary patterns on each side to allow mom to change things up a bit. Add the baby's personal stats if you embroider. One word of caution: if you are planning to knit or crochet a blanket, make sure the holes are too small for baby to get his fingers and toes through. Mothers since the dawn of time have had to relegate the most beautiful handmade blankets to wall hangings because of finger grabbing holes in the designs.
Check with the baby shower hostess for the type of blanket the new mother might enjoy. Other members of her family are also good sources if you want it to be a surprise. If you are making a personalized baby gift blanket, check with the fabric store to make sure your fabric choices are safe for baby. Purchased blankets are easily personalized with names and dates to add a more special touch.
Personalized baby gift blanket shower gifts are a great way to honor all the traditions of the past. And you might end up with a snugly new blanket for your own bed after all that baby shopping.
