DIY Grave Blanket: How to Make One for a Tribute to Loved Ones
If you’re looking for a heartfelt and personalized way to pay tribute to your deceased loved ones, a DIY grave blanket can be an ideal option. This beautiful item can serve as a final resting place for your loved one’s remains and also as a lasting tribute to their memory. In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps on how to make a DIY grave blanket to help you honor and cherish the memories of your beloved.
What is a Grave Blanket?
A grave blanket, also referred to as a grave pillow, is essentially a decorative fabric that you place on top of a loved one’s gravesite. It’s designed to honor and commemorate the deceased by creating a beautiful and personalized resting place. Grave blankets come in many different sizes, designs, and materials, and they can be customized in many ways to suit your preferences.
Why Should You Make a DIY Grave Blanket?
Making a DIY grave blanket can offer many benefits, including:
– Cost-saving: DIY projects are often much cheaper than buying pre-made products. You can save a significant amount of money by making your own grave blanket.
– Personalization: A DIY grave blanket allows you to customize the design and materials used according to your loved one’s personality, interests, or favorite colors. This ensures that the tribute is unique and special.
– Creative outlet: Creating a beautiful grave blanket can offer a therapeutic and creative outlet for those who are grieving.
How to Make a DIY Grave Blanket
Step 1: Select the Materials
To make a grave blanket, you’ll need a few materials. You can use any type of fabric as long as it’s durable and weather-resistant. Some popular options include burlap, canvas, or polyester. You’ll also need floral wire, a wire cutter, and floral foam. You can purchase these from craft or fabric stores.
Step 2: Plan the Design and Size
Before you start creating your grave blanket, decide on the design and size. You can select a pre-made design or create your own. Plan on the size of the blanket by measuring the dimensions of the grave. Grave blankets typically come in sizes that range from 3 feet by 4 feet to 6 feet by 8 feet.
Step 3: Cut and Secure the Fabric
Using your chosen fabric, cut it to the size you decided on. Once cut, place the floral foam at the center of the fabric. This foam will hold the flowers and greenery. Place the flowers and greens around the foam, making sure to secure them with floral wire. Continue until the entire blanket is covered. Make sure all the flowers are securely fastened to prevent them from falling off.
Step 4: Add Personal Touches
Once you have the basic design in place, you can add personal touches to the blanket. Consider adding your loved one’s favorite flowers or colors. If they had a hobby or interest, you can incorporate that theme into the blanket as well. This will make the blanket more meaningful and personalized.
Step 5: Transport and Install the Blanket
Once the blanket is complete, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to protect it from the elements during transport. Then, carefully place it at the gravesite. Secure it to the ground with stakes or secure it to the headstone, if possible. You can also add a personalized tag or note to the blanket to complete the tribute.
FAQs:
1. How long does it take to make a DIY grave blanket?
A: The time it takes to complete a DIY grave blanket depends on the complexity of the design. The average completion time is between 3 to 5 hours.
2. What kind of flowers should I use for a grave blanket?
A: You can use any type of flowers, but it’s recommended to choose durable flowers that can withstand the weather and last longer. Examples include carnations, chrysanthemums, and lilies.
3. Is it safe to leave a DIY grave blanket on the grave?
A: Yes, as long as it’s securely fastened, it should be safe to leave it on the grave.
4. Do I need professional skills to make a DIY grave blanket?
A: No, you don’t need any professional skills. You can find step-by-step tutorials and guides online that will help you create a beautiful and meaningful grave blanket.
5. How often should I replace a grave blanket?
A: It depends on the materials used and the weather conditions. On average, it’s recommended to replace the grave blanket every 4 to 6 months to keep it looking fresh and beautiful.
Conclusion
Overall, making a DIY grave blanket can be a touching and personal way to honor and remember your loved ones who have passed on. With these simple steps and tips, you can create a beautiful and unique tribute that will keep their memory alive for years to come. Remember to choose durable and weather-resistant materials, plan the design and size, secure the flowers properly, add personal touches, and carefully transport and install the blanket. By taking these steps, you can create a touching and lasting tribute to your loved one.
