Turning your favorite memories into something you can actually wrap yourself in? That’s the magic of a custom photo blanket. Whether you’re looking for a heartfelt gift or a cozy keepsake for your own home, making a blanket with pictures is easier than you might think. From choosing the right photos to selecting the perfect layout and fabric, this guide will walk you through every step of the process. Let’s turn those camera roll moments into something you’ll love snuggling up with.
How to Make a Picture Blanket
Creating your own blanket with pictures is easier than you might think. Follow these instructions to transform your most cherished photos into a high-quality, functional keepsake.
Step 1: Choose a design template
Start by picking a layout that fits your vision. Whether you’re designing a gift for a loved one or a cozy keepsake for yourself, you’ll find templates for every style and occasion—collages, single-photo designs, modern layouts, playful themes, and more. Templates make it easy to organize your photos and give your blanket a polished, intentional look.
Step 2: Select your blanket style
Once you’ve chosen your layout, it’s time to pick your material and size. Choose from soft fleece, plush, or Sherpa-backed blankets, and select the size that works best—from smaller lap blankets to oversized throws perfect for sharing.
Step 3: Upload your favorite photos
Add your chosen pictures directly from your phone, computer, or social media accounts. You can include one standout image or several to tell a fuller story.
Step 4: Customize the layout
Drag and drop your photos into the template, then add text, adjust colors, or apply filters. Many templates come with built-in design elements to make personalization simple and fun.
Step 5: Preview and order
Take a final look to make sure everything is just right—especially image quality and placement. Once you’re happy with your creation, place your order and get ready to snuggle up with your custom photo blanket.
FAQs About Making a Photo Blanket
Where can I get a blanket printed with a photo?
Shutterfly offers a simple and reliable way to create blankets with photos online. Our photo blankets are made in the USA using soft, durable materials and professional-grade printing to ensure your images come out vibrant and long-lasting. You can start from scratch or use one of our pre-designed templates, which makes it easy to create something beautiful—even if it’s your first time.
Can I use photos from my phone for the blanket?
Yes, as long as the photos are of high resolution, they will look great on the blanket. Shutterfly allows you to upload photos directly from your phone.
What is the best fabric for a photo blanket?
The choice of fabric depends on personal preference.
- Fleece blanket: Lightweight and smooth: Ideal for everyday use or kids’ rooms.
- Plush fleece: A little thicker with a velvet-like texture: Great for gifting or curling up at home.
- Sherpa: Soft on one side, fluffy on the other: Feels more luxe and cozy.
- Woven: Made with colored yarn and a fringed edge: A more traditional, heirloom-style look.
Each type comes in multiple sizes so you can choose one that fits a lap, a bed, or something in between.
What size should I choose for a custom blanket?
Shutterfly offers three blanket sizes: 30×40, 50×60, and 60×80 inches. The 30×40 size is great for kids or as a small lap blanket. The 50×60 is a versatile throw for everyday use on the couch or at the end of a bed. The 60×80 is our largest option—perfect for sharing or for covering a queen-size bed. Consider how and where you plan to use the blanket to help you pick the right size.
How many photos can I put on a blanket?
It depends on the template you choose. Some designs feature a single image, while collage-style templates can include up to 20 or more photos. Shutterfly makes it easy to drag, drop, and adjust your photos within the template.
Will my photos look blurry on the blanket?
To avoid blurry prints, make sure your photos are high-resolution—especially if you’re using them on a larger blanket. Shutterfly’s design tool will alert you if a photo is too low in quality, so you can swap it out before you order.
Can I wash my photo blanket?
Yes, all Shutterfly photo blankets are machine washable. For best results, wash in cold water on a gentle cycle and tumble dry on low. Avoid bleach and fabric softeners to preserve the color and softness.
Can I add text to the blanket design?
Yes, you can add custom text to most photo blanket designs. Whether it’s a name, date, quote, or message, you can adjust the font, size, and placement to match your design.
What Pictures to Feature on a Blanket
Choosing the right pictures for your photo blanket is key to creating a meaningful and visually appealing keepsake. Here are some ideas for selecting photos:
- Family Portraits: Use recent family portraits or professional photos taken during holidays and special occasions.
- Vacation Memories: Feature photos from memorable vacations or travel experiences. Scenic shots and candid moments can bring those adventures to life.
- Milestone Events: Highlight significant life events like weddings, graduations, birthdays, and anniversaries. These moments make for cherished memories on a blanket.
- Children’s Photos: Capture the growth and milestones of your children. Baby photos, first days of school, and candid moments are perfect choices.
- Pets: Include pictures of your beloved pets. Their playful and loving moments make for heartwarming additions to any blanket.
- Heritage and Ancestry: Showcase old family photos and heritage images to create a connection with your past and honor loved ones.
- Favorite Hobbies and Interests: Include photos related to hobbies and interests, such as sports, arts and crafts, or nature shots.
Giving Photo Blankets as Personalized Gifts
Photo blankets make wonderful personalized gifts for various occasions. Here are some special occasions where a photo blanket would be the perfect gift:
- Birthdays: Celebrate someone’s special day with a photo blanket filled with their favorite memories. It’s a unique and thoughtful way to show how much you care.
- Holidays: Photo blankets are great for Christmas, Mother’s Day gifts, Father’s Day gifts, and for other holidays. They offer a personal touch that goes beyond traditional gifts.
- Weddings and Anniversaries: Commemorate a couple’s big day or a significant milestone with a blanket featuring their wedding photos or moments from their relationship.
- Baby Showers and Newborn Gifts: New parents will cherish a blanket adorned with baby photos, making it a perfect gift for baby showers or to celebrate a newborn.
- Graduations: Mark the achievement of graduation with a blanket that captures school memories, friends, and family support throughout the years.
- Housewarming: A photo blanket makes a cozy addition to a new home, offering both comfort and a touch of personalized decor.
- Retirement: Celebrate a retiree’s career and life journey with a blanket featuring photos from their working years, travels, and family moments.
- Memorials: Honor the memory of a loved one with a blanket that showcases treasured photos, providing comfort and a way to remember them fondly.
Giving a photo blanket as a personalized gift for these occasions shows thoughtfulness and effort, making the recipient feel truly special. Start creating your custom photo blanket today and surprise your loved ones with a gift they’ll treasure forever.
Resources Related to Picture Blankets
No matter what images you bring to life in a picture blanket, we offer a vast collection of unique templates perfect for you. Find everything you need to make cozy, machine washable photo blankets with Shutterfly:
