Baby Quilt Projects: What Size Is Best?

One of the biggest concerns when planning to make a baby quilt or a blanket – and with many baby craft projects in general – is deciding what size the item should be. Babies and toddlers at different growth stages will require items of very different sizes. While a newborn might need only a small receiving blanket, baby quilts of a larger size are more appropriate for a toddler who will soon be sleeping in a regular bed.

When considering the age and the size of the child you're creating a baby quilt or blanket for, it's also a good idea to think about where the blanket will be used. A small “lap blanket” is a quick and easy craft project, and will keep babies warm and snug in a car seat. If your baby quilt is intended to be used in the crib, match it to the dimensions of the crib mattress. The standard baby crib mattress is 36” x 52” – take this into account when buying the fabric and definitely before you start cutting.

In addition to sizing via the dimensions of the crib mattress, there are also several other universal sizes for baby quilts and blankets. These include:

32” x 40”
36” x 36”
36” x 45”
36” x 48”
36” x 60”
40” x 52”
45” x 60”
60” x 60”

These baby quilt dimensions are suitable for a range of different infant and toddler sizes, with the larger sizes being ideal for the child to grow into. For example, a 32” x 40” quilt is a great size for fitting inside the crib or playpen or later being used as a wall hanging; while 45” x 60” and bigger baby quilts are considered a standard size to fit comfortably a toddler bed. Till this age comes they can also be used as generous size floor mats for the young baby to play on. Large baby quilts can stay with a child throughout their early years, while small quilts often live on as keepsakes and heirlooms.

Regardless of the size you choose for your baby quilt project, this is a great gift for the little one in your life. Quilting is considered a very loving craft, due to the care that goes into creating blankets to warm and comfort friends and family. That message of warmth and love will really show in the finished product, making the handmade baby quilt a cherished gift for years to come.