Rocket Man by Yvonne McMillan Betts

When it comes to stitching projects for children, there are several design themes that are guaranteed winners. Fairies is one of them and for any of you who re-created ‘Fairy Dreams’ by designer Yvonne McMillan Betts from Inspirations issue #98, we are confident the lucky recipient would have been spinning cartwheels in delight!

Fairy Dreams by Yvonne McMillan Betts

Another hugely popular theme for kids, is anything to do with outer space, rockets and astronauts and so for Yvonne’s follow up project, she has created another stunning blanket this time called ‘Rocket Man’ in Inspirations issue #105.

Rocket Man is a delightfully modern project worked in appliqué and embroidery on a rich navy-blue piece of wool and cashmere velour.

Safely ensconced in his felt rocket, the astronaut, affectionately known as Glen, gazes outwards as he shoots into the velvety sky.

Surrounded by pinprick stars worked in simple straight stitches, and captured here, halfway between the blue-green earth and the mysterious silver moon, Glen is an adventurer that any child can relate to.

But the real delight comes from the fact that Glen isn’t confined to his rocket. This cute little fellow can leave his vessel at any time to explore, knowing he’s safely tethered and can return to his rocket when he’s ready to move on.

Although the blanket size is perfect for a cot, Rocket Man could be just as useful in a play tent, as a car blanket or even as a TV blanket for the bigger kids out there. We’re sure that once they see Glen peeping out of his rocket window, he’ll become a firm favourite for all children, whether aged 8 or 80!

Blankets are a wonderful way to start out with embroidery as they can be worked quickly, with simple stitches.

The other fabulous thing about blankets is the fact that once the embroidery is finished, they are backed, usually with a cotton fabric so that the blanket is smooth against the skin. Because the backing also covers the rear of your needlework, you don’t need to worry about keeping it perfectly neat so you can just relax and enjoy the stitching.

It is advisable to complete the surface embroidery – namely the moon, earth and stars, before you attach any of the felt elements.

Although we do know how tempting it is to get started with Glen the astronaut!

Perhaps once he’s been constructed, he can oversee your progress before you install him in his rocket and allow him to head for the stars.

Thank you, Yvonne, for once again creating an irresistible design both for kids to enjoy and us to stitch! We have no doubt Rocket Man is set to become an instant hit and a classic favourite for years to come.

Once Glen has been sent on his way, you might find yourself making Glenda the astronaut, or even Glennis, Gavin, Gary and Gretchen. We’ll be surprised if your family allows you to stop at making just one!

Make Your Own Rocket Man

Step 1 – Purchase Project Instructions

Rocket Man by Yvonne McMillan Betts is a cosy blanket for those with a sense of adventure and exploration.

Step 2 – Purchase Ready-To-Stitch Kit

The Inspirations Ready-To-Stitch kit for Rocket Man includes everything you need to re-create this gorgeous blanket: Fabrics (unprinted), wool felts, piping, fusible webbing, wadding, fibre-fill, hook & loop tape, plastic sheet, stabiliser, embroidery threads and needles.

Please Note: To cater for flexibility of purchase, instructions are not included with our kits. For step-by-step directions on how to create this project, please refer to the magazine/digital pattern.