How to Make a Fort Out of Blankets

Every child should get a chance to build his own fort at least once in his lifetime. Forts made out of blankets are free, easy to make and packed with entertainment possibilities. Building a fort with your kiddo not only gives him a special place to play, it may also awaken your inner child that wants to come out and join the fun.

Things You'll Need

  • Chairs or couch cushions
  • Blankets and sheets
  • Clothespins
  • Pillows
  • Books
  • Flashlights
  • Toys

Instructions

    • 1

      Create the base structure for your fort. Chairs work well for this, as they are sturdy and provide enough headroom for kids and adults to climb around in the fort. Couch cushions will work, too, if your child is the only one going in the fort. Create at least three sides for the fort. Two may work, but the fort could cave in if the fort fun gets rambunctious.

    • 2

      Grab the outer covering to the fort. Sheets and blankets are a perfect fit. You will probably want at least two or three of these, if not more. With the help of your young assistant, spread the blankets or sheets over the top of the chairs or cushions and allow them to cascade down to the floor. Rearrange and adjust as needed. Use clothespins for extra support. Designate an entrance area for the fort. Leave that section open or position the blankets and sheets like a doorway that can be pushed to the side to enter.

    • 3

      Add the finishing touches to the fort. Pillows and extra fuzzy blankets help pad the floor and make it more comfy. Help your child make a sign for the fort. Use a small chalkboard or a cardboard cut out for the sign. Label it ̶0;Austin̵7;s Clubhouse,̶1; ̶0;Jenny̵7;s Secret Princess Lair̶1; or ̶0;Graham Family Story Fort.̶1; Get as creative as you want with the sign. Decorate it with non-toxic markers, glitter glue, sticky-backed jewels or stickers.

    • 4

      Supply your fort with kid-friendly entertainment. Forts can be used as an imaginative play area, a secret hide out from ̶0;bad guys,̶1; a special members-only clubhouse or relaxing storytelling area. Grab books, action figures, flashlights and stuffed animals -- just make sure there̵7;s still room for actual people to fit inside the fort.

    2. Previous:

    Next:

    • 5 Tips for Avoiding a Toddler Tantrum When Shopping
       If you’re planning a shopping trip with your toddler, you’ll be crossing fingers you can get him around town without a tantrum. But that’s easier said than done in crowded shops and long lines. Youngsters can quickly become bo
    • Activities for Kids in Ballantyne, North Carolina
      If you are like most parents, finding healthy activities to keep your kids entertained is a seemingly endless struggle. However, in Ballantyne, N.C., the odds are significantly in your favor. The Ballantyne region is packed with a large and incredibl
    • Gideon Bible Story Crafts
      The famous story of Gideon from the Old Testament has inspired young and old for generations. The tale of a man, timid and unwilling, who was plucked from obscurity to lead the people of God to victory, lends itself to many practical applications. Yo