After 30 years of creating comfort blankets for children and teens in need, we’ve learned that small details make a big difference in the quality and appearance of our binkies. The number one issue we consistently encounter with fleece tie blankets is proper selvage removal – a simple step that transforms an ordinary blanket into a gift that makes recipients feel valued and loved.
Why Selvage Removal Matters – Good Fringe vs. Bad Fringe
The selvage (those factory-finished edges on both sides of fabric) serves a manufacturing purpose. Still, it creates an unattractive, often discolored edge that curls and appears unfinished when included in fringe. When recipients receive a blanket with selvage in the fringe, it communicates a rushed job rather than the care and attention they deserve.
The Real Impact of Skipped Steps
When blankets arrive with the selvage intact:
- Each blanket requires an additional 30 minutes of volunteer time to fix
- This takes valuable time away from making new blankets (a complete new blanket takes only 45 minutes)
- Delivery to children and shelters gets delayed
- Our limited volunteer hours are spent fixing preventable issues
Recently, despite clear instructions provided through emails, phone calls, videos, and website guidelines, we received 15 blankets from a well-meaning college group – all with intact selvage. This created approximately 5 additional hours of volunteer work before these blankets could be distributed.
How to Make a Perfect Fleece Binky: The Right Way
Step 1: REMOVE THE SELVAGE FIRST
- Before doing anything else, trim off the entire selvage edge (usually 1-1.5 inches) from the two sides of your fleece. Top and bottom don’t have it, as it was on the roll.
- Look for the factory-finished edge that often has tiny holes, a different texture, or printed information
- Cut straight across to remove this entire section
Step 2: Then, Cut Your Fringe
- Only after removing the selvage, measure and cut your fringe to the recommended depth
- This ensures every piece of fringe will be soft, flexible, and attractive
Step 3: Tie or Secure the Fringe
- Following your chosen method, tie or secure the fringe according to the pattern instructions
Our Promise to Recipients
At Binky Patrol, we believe every child deserves to receive a blanket made with care and attention to detail. Our commitment to quality isn’t about perfectionism – it’s about ensuring each recipient feels valued and worthy of our best efforts.
For Volunteer Groups
We deeply appreciate every person and group who donates their time to create binkies! To ensure your generous work makes the maximum impact:
- Review our complete instructions before purchasing materials
- Watch our demonstration videos (available on our website)
- Reach out with questions before you begin your project
- Consider scheduling a quick Zoom demonstration for your group
Together, we can ensure every blanket brings both physical comfort and the emotional message that someone cares enough to create something beautiful just for them.
Thank you for your continued support of the Binky Patrol mission!
