Discover the Unique Style and Cozy Comfort of Ghille Blankets

What is a Ghille Blanket?

A ghille blanket, also sometimes spelled ghillie blanket, is a unique type of blanket that resembles camouflage. It gets its name from the Ghille suit, a type of camouflaged clothing worn by hunters and military snipers. Ghille blankets feature a woven, net-like texture with various strands of fabric interlaced throughout. This gives them a shaggy, three-dimensional appearance similar to artificial foliage. The strands are often made from fleece or other soft, fuzzy fabrics.

Ghille Blanket Origin

The ghille suit originated in Scotland and Ireland as a camouflaged cloak worn by gamekeepers and hunters stalking deer. The word "ghille" comes from the Gaelic language and means "lad" or "servant." Over time, the ghille suit evolved into a full body cloak and hood worn by military snipers for concealment in foliage. Ghille blankets borrow elements from the time-tested ghille suit design to create an eye-catching, ultra-cozy blanket.

Features and Uses

A ghille blanket has a number of unique features and uses that make it appealing:

• Camouflage appearance - The 3D, shaggy texture helps the blanket blend into natural surroundings like grass, bushes or forest floors. This makes it great for camping, hiking, hunting or backyard lounging.
• Soft and cozy - Ghille blankets are made from soft fabrics like fleece and plush that feel great against your skin.
• Lightweight - The open weave makes ghille blankets lighter than traditional blankets, easy to carry along.
• Decorative - With their eye-catching camo pattern, ghille blankets can make a fun, outdoorsy decoration for your home, cabin or tent.
• Pet bed - Pets love burrowing into the shaggy texture of a ghille blanket when curled up for a nap.
• Kids blanket - The 3D camouflage pattern appeals to kids and makes a comfy, machine washable blanket for playtime or sleeping.

Materials and Construction

Authentic ghille blankets are handmade using a variety of materials and construction techniques. Here are some of the most common:

• Fleece - Plush, synthetic microfiber fleece is a popular ghille blanket material. It's soft, lightweight, fuzzy and easy to wash.
• Cotton - Natural cotton provides breathability and softness for ghille blankets. Patterns are often printed onto the cotton fabric.
• Polyester - Like fleece, polyester is a lightweight, inexpensive synthetic favored for ghille blanket construction.
• Burlap - Some ghille blankets use natural burlap fibers woven into the ridges for added dimensionality and rugged texture.
• Yarn - Yarn in camouflage colors gets tied and sewn into the blanket to form the characteristic shaggy ghille texture.
• Hand knotting - Small sections of fabric are knotted together by hand, creating irresistibly touchable texture.
• Sewn ridges - Folds sewn into the fabric form dimensional ridges and valleys on the blanket surface.

Popular Colors and Patterns

Since they are inspired by camouflage, most ghille blankets feature colors and patterns designed to blend into natural settings:

• Woodland camo - Shades of green, brown and black resemble leafy forests and wooded terrain.
• Desert camo - Tans, grays and browns mimic desert sand and rocky surfaces.
• Winter camo - Whites, grays and pale blues blend into snowy landscapes.
• Mossy oak - Deep greens and browns look like mossy oak trees and forest floors.
• Realtree - Realistic nature scenes and bark patterns bring the outdoors in.

Purchasing Considerations

When shopping for a ghille blanket, keep the following tips in mind:

• Look for high-quality, soft fabrics that are machine washable and durable.
• Handmade blankets have more intricate textures and higher prices than mass-produced versions.
• Select an appropriate size based on intended use, ie twin, queen, throw.
• Consider your decor - pick colors and camo patterns that complement your style.
• SeeProduct reviews and photos to judge real-life quality before purchase.
• Pickbuiltins you plan to use outdoors - water/fade-resistance is key.

Caring for Your Ghille Blanket

Follow these tips to keep your ghille blanket looking and feeling its best for years:

• Check label and wash in cold water, delicate cycle to avoid damage.
• Tumble dry low to reduce shrinking or pulling of blanket strands.
• Avoid high heat drying which can scorch fleece fibers.
• Use a fabric shaver/defuzzer to gently remove pilling or loose strands.
• Spot clean stains immediately with gentle cleaner and cold water.
• Store folded or loosely rolled, not compressed tightly.

Conclusion

With their unique camouflage-inspired texture and ultra-cozy feel, ghille blankets are the perfect way to bring the outdoors inside. Choose one in your favorite camo pattern and colors to complement your decor. Care for your ghille blanket properly so you can enjoy its 3D shaggy softness for many years of outdoor adventures or home relaxation. Get ready to snuggle up on the couch, by the campfire or just about anywhere with these camo-inspired blankets!

FAQs

How are ghille blankets made?

Ghille blankets are handmade by knotting, weaving and sewing strands of fabric like fleece, cotton, yarn, and burlap to create a shaggy, camouflage-like texture. The strands are attached to a base fabric layer to form the blanket shape.

What size ghille blanket should I get?

Ghille blankets come in sizes ranging from small throws to large queen/king sizes. Choose based on your intended use - smaller for outdoor excursions, larger for cozying on a bed. Measure the area you plan to use it to get the right fit.

How do I wash and care for a ghille blanket?

Most ghille blankets can be machine washed in cold water on a delicate cycle, then tumble dried low. Avoid high heat. Use a fabric shaver to remove pills. Spot clean stains quickly with gentle cleaner. Store folded, not compressed tightly.

Are ghille blankets good for pets?

Yes, pets love burrowing into the soft, fuzzy texture of ghille blankets. The lightweight material is easier for them to walk, play and nap on versus thicker blankets. Just be sure to choose pet-safe fabrics.

Where can I buy a ghille blanket?

Ghille blankets are sold online through retailers like Amazon, specialty blanket stores, and direct from small makers on Etsy. Browse reviews and images to judge quality before purchasing.