A soft, personalized blanket is one of the coziest gifts you can make. With sublimation, the design goes right into the fabric, so it stays soft and won’t crack or peel.
They’re perfect for babies, moms, couples and anyone who loves Christmas.
I rounded up 9 sublimation blanket ideas, starting with gifts for kids, couples and moms, and finishing with three festive Christmas throws. Each one comes with the file.
Tip: Adding a name to a blanket? Try a few name styles first with our free Cricut Font Previewer.
Sublimation Blanket Blanks
Here’s what to look for:
- Fleece and minky throws: the most popular blanks. They have a white polyester face and come in sizes like 30 x 40 inches for babies and 50 x 60 inches for adults.
- Sherpa blankets: a printable polyester front with a fluffy sherpa back. They’re extra warm for winter gifts.
- Panel blankets: blankets with a smaller white panel in the middle. They’re easier to press on a regular heat press.
The face of the blanket must be polyester. Cotton won’t hold sublimation ink.
Tips for Pressing Sublimation Blankets
Big throws need a large format printer and press, or you can print the design in sections and press one area at a time. Line up each section carefully and overlap the edges slightly.
Use a lint roller first, then cover the blanket with butcher paper. Fleece can scorch, so use a lower temperature and check your blank’s settings.
9 Sublimation Blanket Ideas
Here are my favorite blanket designs, starting with gifts for kids, couples and moms, and finishing with Christmas throws.
1. Woodland Animals Name Blanket
Most Popular Blanket File
Baby deer, foxes, bunnies and squirrels scattered between little pine trees on a soft cream background.
The sample repeats the names Logan and Elliot, which makes it a sweet idea for a baby shower or a toddler’s first big-kid bed.
2. Mystical Unicorn Blanket
Best for Kids’ Rooms
A mama unicorn and her foal walking through a glowing forest under a crescent moon.
The deep navy and pink roses look magical on a bed. Little unicorn fans will want to take it everywhere.
3. You Are My Other Half Otters
Best Gift for Couples
Two otters snuggled together under the words “You Are My Other Half.”
It’s cute without being too mushy. Give it for Valentine’s Day, an anniversary or a cozy movie night.
4. She Is Mom Floral Blanket
Best Mother’s Day Blanket
“She Is Mom” with words like strong, chosen and greatly loved, each paired with a Bible verse.
Pastel flowers, bows and butterflies keep it soft and pretty. It’s a thoughtful Mother’s Day or birthday gift.
5. Wildflower Bible Verse Blanket
Best Faith Blanket
Rows of watercolor wildflowers, each labeled with a word like beautiful, enough or strong and a Bible verse.
There’s a name line at the top, so you can make it personal. It’s a lovely baptism, graduation or get-well gift.
6. I’m Retired Beach Blanket
Funniest Retirement Gift
“I don’t want to, I don’t have to, you can’t make me. I’m retired.” over a beach chair and sunset.
It’s a funny gift for a retirement party. The line art on navy looks sharp and works for anyone.
7. Vintage Christmas Patchwork
Best Christmas Blanket
A cozy patchwork quilt look with snowmen, wreaths, Christmas trees and stars in red, green and cream.
It looks like Grandma’s quilt without hours of sewing. Drape it over the couch from Thanksgiving to New Year’s.
8. Tartan Christmas Tree Blanket
Most Festive Blanket
A decorated Christmas tree with gifts, framed in gold on a green and red tartan background.
It looks rich and traditional. It’s a great pick for a Christmas Eve box or a cabin getaway.
9. Candy Canes and Bows
Prettiest Christmas Pattern
Candy canes and deep red bows on a soft cream background.
The trendy bow look is light and pretty, so it suits any decor. Pair it with a hot cocoa mug for a sweet gift.
Sublimation Blanket FAQs
What size should a sublimation blanket design be?
Match the design to your blank. A 50 x 60 inch throw needs a large file, so check the size in the product details before you buy.
Can you sublimate a blanket with a small heat press?
Yes, if you press it in sections. Panel blankets are the easiest choice for a 15 x 15 or 16 x 20 inch press.
Do I need to mirror blanket designs?
Yes. Mirror your design before printing so names and words read the right way.
How do I wash a sublimated blanket?
Wash it inside out on a gentle, cold cycle and tumble dry on low. Skip the fabric softener to keep the colors bright.
