How To Add Decorative Tassels To Plain Throw Blankets Easily

Throw blankets serve both comfort and style in any living space. But even the most cozy blanket can feel a little too plain. A simple yet transformative way to elevate its look is by adding decorative tassels. Tassels bring texture, movement, and a handmade charm that instantly upgrades your decor. The best part? You don’t need advanced sewing skills or expensive tools. With a few basic supplies and a bit of time, you can customize any plain throw into a designer-worthy accent piece.

This guide walks you through everything from selecting the right materials to attaching tassels securely and creatively. Whether you're refreshing an old blanket or personalizing a new one as a gift, this project blends craftsmanship with creativity—and delivers impressive results.

Why Add Tassels to Throw Blankets?

Tassels are more than just decorative flourishes. They serve a functional role in textile design, historically used to prevent fraying on woven edges. Today, they’re embraced for their aesthetic appeal—adding whimsy, elegance, or bohemian flair depending on style and color.

Adding tassels to a plain throw transforms it from utilitarian to curated. It introduces visual interest at the corners or along borders, drawing the eye and creating a sense of intentionality. Unlike store-bought embellished throws, which often come with high price tags, DIY tasseling lets you control every detail: color, size, density, and placement.

Moreover, this customization supports sustainable living. Instead of discarding a worn or outdated blanket, you reinvent it. This small act reduces textile waste and encourages mindful consumption—one stitch at a time.

Tip: Match tassel colors to existing room accents like pillows or rugs for a cohesive interior design.

Materials and Tools You’ll Need

The beauty of this project lies in its simplicity. Most materials are affordable and widely available at craft stores or online. Here’s what to gather before beginning:

• Plain throw blanket – Preferably with a loosely woven edge (like fringeless cotton, wool, or acrylic knits) for easier attachment.
• Yarn or embroidery floss – Choose soft, durable fibers that complement your blanket. Cotton, wool, or acrylic blends work well.
• Sewing needle – A large-eye tapestry needle makes threading thick yarn effortless.
• Scissors – Sharp fabric scissors ensure clean cuts.
• Cardboard or tassel maker – For wrapping and shaping uniform tassels.
• Ruler or measuring tape – To maintain consistent tassel length.
• Pins or clips – Helpful for holding tassels in place during assembly.

You can also use pre-made tassels if you're short on time. These typically come with attached loops or cords for easy sewing. However, making your own allows full creative control over texture and volume.

Choosing the Right Yarn

Not all yarns behave the same when turned into tassels. Consider these factors:

Yarn Type	Pros	Cons
Cotton	Durable, holds shape well, washable	Less stretch, may feel stiff
Wool	Soft, warm, naturally resilient	Can felt when washed improperly
Acrylic	Affordable, wide color range, low maintenance	May pill over time
Chenille	Luxuriously soft, adds depth	Harder to wrap tightly, may shed

For beginners, medium-weight acrylic or cotton yarn offers the best balance of manageability and durability.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making and Attaching Tassels

Follow this clear sequence to create professional-looking tassels and attach them securely to your throw blanket.

1. Measure and cut cardboard: Cut a piece of cardboard to your desired tassel length. For standard throw blankets, 3–5 inches works well. Longer tassels (6+ inches) make a bolder statement but may tangle more easily.
2. Wrap the yarn: Hold the end of the yarn against the cardboard and wrap it around evenly 20–30 times, depending on how full you want the tassel. More wraps = fuller tassel.
3. Secure the top: Carefully slide the wrapped yarn off the cardboard. Cut a separate 6-inch piece of yarn and tie it tightly around the top bundle to form the tassel head. Knot securely.
4. Cut the bottom loop: Turn the bundle over and cut through the opposite looped end to release the strands.
5. Trim and neaten: Even out the ends with scissors for a clean finish. You can leave them blunt, angled, or slightly rounded based on preference.
6. Reinforce the neck: Optional but recommended: Wrap another short piece of yarn around the neck (just below the top knot) and secure it to prevent shedding.
7. Prepare the blanket: Decide where to place the tassels. Corners are classic, but you can also space them evenly along the shorter edges—every 6 to 8 inches—for a continuous trim.
8. Attach each tassel: Thread your needle with matching yarn. Insert the needle through the top knot of the tassel, then push it down through the corner weave of the blanket. Pull tight and repeat once more for security. Tie off with a double knot on the backside and weave in loose ends.

Tip: When attaching, pull the thread taut but not so tight that it distorts the blanket fabric.

Spacing and Placement Ideas

While corner tassels are traditional, consider these variations:

• All four corners – Balanced and symmetrical; ideal for minimalist spaces.
• Along both shorter edges – Creates a bordered effect, similar to Moroccan-style textiles.
• Alternating colors – Use two contrasting yarns to add rhythm and playfulness.
• Clustered accents – Group three small tassels at each corner for a layered look.

Use pins to test placements before sewing. Step back and view the blanket from a few feet away to assess visual balance.

Mini Case Study: Revamping a Hand-Me-Down Wool Blanket

Sarah inherited a cream-colored wool throw from her grandmother. While sentimental, the blanket looked dated and sat unused on the guest bed. She wanted to refresh it without altering its essence.

She chose dusty rose and sage green yarns—colors that matched her bedroom palette. Using a 4-inch cardboard template, she made eight tassels (two per corner). After wrapping each with 25 turns of cotton yarn, she secured them with tight knots and trimmed the ends evenly.

Attaching them took less than an hour. She placed one tassel at each corner, anchoring them with double passes through the fabric. The result was subtle yet striking: the soft hues added warmth, and the tassels gave the vintage piece a modern twist. Guests now compliment the blanket regularly, and Sarah feels proud knowing she honored family history while expressing her own style.

“Personalization doesn’t require replacement. Often, a single thoughtful detail—a stitch, a color, a texture—can renew meaning.” — Lena Torres, Textile Artist & Sustainable Design Advocate

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even simple projects can go awry without attention to detail. Watch for these pitfalls:

• Using weak knots: Single knots may loosen with use. Always double-knot and consider adding a dot of fabric glue for extra hold (test on scrap first).
• Inconsistent sizing: Varying tassel lengths disrupt visual harmony. Use the same cardboard cutout throughout.
• Overcrowding edges: Too many tassels can overwhelm a small blanket. Stick to corners or spaced intervals unless aiming for a dramatic fringe effect.
• Mismatched tension: Pulling too hard when sewing can pucker the fabric. Maintain gentle, even pressure.
• Ignoring fiber care: If your blanket is machine-washable, choose yarn that won’t shrink or bleed. Pre-wash dyed yarns if uncertain.

Do’s and Don’ts Summary

Action	Do	Don't
Attachment	Use double stitches and secure knots	Sew only once or skip knotting
Washing	Hand wash gently or spot clean	Machine dry or agitate heavily
Design	Match tassels to room palette	Choose clashing brights without testing
Storage	Fold neatly; avoid hanging long-term	Compress under heavy objects

FAQ

Can I remove tassels later if I change my mind?

Yes. Since tassels are sewn on rather than glued, they can be carefully unpicked with a seam ripper. Take care not to snag the blanket fabric during removal. The original weave should recover well, especially if the blanket wasn’t stretched during attachment.

How many tassels do I need for a standard throw?

For a classic corner look, four tassels (one per corner) are sufficient. For a border effect, plan for 8–12 tassels spaced 6–8 inches apart along the shorter edges. Measure your blanket’s width to calculate exact spacing.

Are there no-sew methods for adding tassels?

While sewing provides the most durable bond, you can use fabric-safe adhesive for lightweight tassels on non-washable decor throws. However, glue may fail over time with handling or washing. Sewing remains the recommended method for longevity.

Checklist: Adding Tassels to Your Throw Blanket

1. Select a plain throw blanket with accessible edge weaves
2. Choose yarn color and type that complements the blanket
3. Cut cardboard to desired tassel length (3–5 inches typical)
4. Wrap yarn around cardboard 20–30 times per tassel
5. Secure top with strong knot and cut bottom loops
6. Trim ends evenly and reinforce neck if needed
7. Decide on tassel placement (corners or spaced edges)
8. Sew each tassel using double stitching and secure knots
9. Weave in loose threads and inspect for consistency
10. Enjoy your refreshed, personalized throw!

Conclusion: Transform the Ordinary with Thoughtful Detail

Adding decorative tassels to a plain throw blanket is a small act with outsized impact. It requires minimal investment but yields lasting satisfaction—not just in appearance, but in the pride of creation. Every knot tied is a mark of intention, turning something generic into something uniquely yours.

This technique is accessible to all skill levels, and the process itself can be meditative. As you wrap yarn, trim strands, and sew each tassel into place, you’re not just decorating—you’re engaging in a tradition of handcraft that values care and individuality.

💬 Ready to personalize your space? Pick up a blanket and some yarn today. Share your finished project or tag someone who’d love this idea—because beautiful details are meant to be seen and celebrated.