Looking for a fun project you can do with your children that can really make a difference? Make a blanket for Project Linus!
The mission of Project Linus is to “provide love, a sense of security, warmth and comfort to children who are seriously ill, traumatized, or otherwise in need through the gifts of new, handmade blankets and afghans, lovingly created by volunteer ‘blanketeers’.”
Project Linus was created by Karen Loucks after she read an article in the Parade Magazine about a little girl with leukemia undergoing chemotherapy who took her security blanket to her treatments. Since then, over 5 million blankets have been donated to children in need! It was appropriately named after the Peanuts character Linus, who carried his security blanket with him at all times. A blanket tag depicting Linus is sewn into each blanket before it is delivered to a child.
No-Sew Blankets Instructions
Blankets can be handmade in a variety of different ways, but our favorite are the “No-Sew” Blankets.
Begin with 1 1/2 yards of either a single layer or double layer of soft fleece. If using a double layer, pick a fun pattern for one layer, and a matching solid color for the second layer. (Your children will love helping to pick out the pattern!)
Cut 1″ strips (about 4″ in) around the edge of the fleece. Tie the fringe together (double knot is best) around the blanket. Check out a diagram and some blanket reminders.
Great Group Activity
With each blanket, a group of 4 can sit around each side cutting the fringes and tying the knots. This is a perfect group activity for all ages including scouts, sports teams, birthday parties, class projects, or more.
Finished blankets can be donated at various sponsors around the Omaha area including A Quilting Place, Country Sampler, Country Traditions, Kanesville Quilting, Quilted Moose, and Bergan Mercy Hospital. They accept new, handmade, washable blankets for giving to children ages 0-18, that are stored in a smoke-free environment and free of pet or animal hair.
Find out more about the Omaha Chapter of Project Linus, and how you can get involved!
