KB (Kennel Blanket): Single or double layered fleece sewn, (not the knotted type) for every day kennel use. It should be plain, without adornment or fringes because they will get more wear and hold up to more washings. Additional fabrics, such as flannel on one side is also acceptable. Again, it is important to be durable and machine washable. Crochet and knit blankets are not usable for KB’s due to heavy duty use. Adding an appliqued heart to identify the blanket as being from WIL is accepted but not required.
AB (Adopter Blanket): All blanket types accepted for AB’s. This includes knitted, crocheted, sewn, quilted and tied (no sew) fleece. These are the blankets that will go home with the dog to their foster home or their adopted home. This is where you can add style and flair. This is also where your Labels of Love are important. Many of these become family treasures.
All blankets and any other items have one additional requirement: LOVE.
Blankets made with yarn should not have large gaps or holes in the pattern because it can be hazardous for little puppy feet and toenails to get entangled. Please do not make granny squares or similarly patterned blankets.
SIZES: All blankets begin with one yard of fabric off the bolt. Fabrics have different widths, therefore each one will be a little different. You purchase a length of 36" (one yard) and the width varies according to the type of fabric and the manufacturer.
Regular/small: A regular adoption or kennel blanket uses that one yard of fabric cut at the fold, therefore 36" X half the width, as one side of the blanket. Use a complementary pattern or solid color for the other side and you have a regular blanket.
Large: A large adoption or kennel blanket uses the aforementioned one yard of fabric unfolded, rather than cut, at the fold. This makes a large blanket 36" X the full width of the fabric. XL: Occasionally we will get a request for large breed dogs and ask for the larges to be make XL. The recommended size will be greater than one yard, typically a yard and a half which is 54" X the width of the fabric. Cat Adoption Blankets: Kitties come in all shapes and sizes too. Some are small, and some like Maine Coons can get pretty large. Cat blankets when requested are exactly like a regular/small blanket, but are specified as cat blankets so you can have fun with the fabrics and make them cat themed. When smaller or specific measurements are needed, that will be specified for that specific rescue's rollout. Cat Kennel Blankets/Crate Pads: Often cat crates or kennels are smaller than the ones used for dogs. When we request them sometimes there will be a specific measurement requested, as well as extra padding. This will be detailed. The kitty kennel blankets in general can be smaller and is a great use for remnants, measuring 24" square or thereabouts. Remember, there are no blanket police. Exact measurements are not necessary. For people who sew or create with yarn, we are accustomed to specific measurements and following patterns, so this can be a difficult concept. Don't worry about the final product. Don't worry about straight seams or a skipped stitch. The animals don't care, not even a little. What they feel is the warmth and comfort of something soft, often for the very first time in their life. What you have given them is a gift of Love. Not perfectly square or rectangular? It doesn't matter. What matters is that YOU care enough to give this wonderful gift that can literally save a life.
Again, cats and dogs come in every size, shape, color and breed. Blankets should vary as well. There are no blanket police, so make what you can and make them with love. We know you WIL!