How Many Pounds of Pellets Do You Need for a Weighted Blanket?

Creating the perfect weighted blanket starts with choosing the right weight. Too light and you won't get the therapeutic benefits; too heavy and it can feel uncomfortable or restrictive. This guide will help you calculate exactly how many pounds of pellets or glass beads you need for your weighted blanket project.

The 10% Rule: Your Starting Point

The general rule of thumb for weighted blankets is to use 10% of the user's body weight. This provides enough pressure for the calming, therapeutic effect without being overwhelming.

Weighted Blanket Weight Chart

User's Body Weight	Recommended Blanket Weight
40-50 lbs (child)	5 lbs
60-70 lbs (child/teen)	7 lbs
80-100 lbs (teen/adult)	10 lbs
110-130 lbs (adult)	12 lbs
140-160 lbs (adult)	15 lbs
170-190 lbs (adult)	18 lbs
200-220 lbs (adult)	20 lbs
230+ lbs (adult)	25 lbs

Adjusting for Personal Preference

While the 10% rule is a great starting point, personal preference matters:

• Prefer lighter pressure? Go with 7-8% of body weight
• Want more pressure? Try 12-15% of body weight
• First-time users: Start lighter and work your way up
• Sensory sensitivities: Begin with less weight and increase gradually

How Much Fill Do You Actually Need?

Here's the simple answer: The weight of your fill equals the weight of your blanket.

If you want a 15 lb weighted blanket, you need 15 lbs of fill (either glass beads or plastic pellets). The fabric, batting, and thread add minimal weight.

Glass Beads vs Plastic Pellets: Does It Matter?

Weight needed: The same! 15 lbs of glass beads = 15 lbs of plastic pellets in terms of blanket weight.

Volume difference: This is where they differ significantly.

• Glass beads: Much denser, so 15 lbs takes up less space. This creates a thinner, more flexible blanket.
• Plastic pellets: Lighter per volume, so 15 lbs takes up more space. This creates a fuller, more cushioned blanket.

Blanket Size Considerations

The size of your blanket affects how the weight is distributed:

Throw Size (40" x 60")

• Recommended weight: 10-15 lbs
• Best for: Lap use, children, or targeted pressure

Twin Size (48" x 72")

• Recommended weight: 12-18 lbs
• Best for: Single sleepers, teens, adults

Full/Queen Size (60" x 80")

• Recommended weight: 15-25 lbs
• Best for: Adult sleepers who want full coverage

Important: Larger blankets need more weight to maintain the same pressure per square inch. A 15 lb blanket feels heavier on a throw size than on a queen size.

Pocket Size & Weight Distribution

How you distribute the weight matters as much as the total weight:

• Smaller pockets (4" x 4"): Better weight distribution, more even pressure, prevents shifting
• Larger pockets (5" x 5" or 6" x 6"): Easier to sew, but fill may shift more

Calculating Fill Per Pocket

Example: 15 lb blanket with 48" x 72" dimensions and 4" x 4" pockets

• Number of pockets: 12 across × 18 down = 216 pockets
• Fill per pocket: 15 lbs ÷ 216 pockets = 1.1 oz per pocket

Pro tip: Weigh your fill as you go to ensure even distribution!

Victory Pellets Sizing Guide

We offer multiple sizes to match your project needs:

For Small Projects (5-7 lb blankets)

• Victory Pellets: 5 lbs or 7 lbs
• Victory Glass Beads: 5 lbs

For Medium Projects (10-15 lb blankets)

• Victory Pellets: 10 lbs or 12 lbs
• Victory Glass Beads: Two 5 lb bags or larger sizes (coming soon)

For Large Projects (20-25 lb blankets)

• Victory Pellets: 25 lbs
• Victory Glass Beads: Multiple 5 lb bags or larger sizes (coming soon)

For Bulk/Commercial Projects

• Victory Pellets: 50 lbs or 1,500 lb Gaylord boxes

Safety Considerations

Important safety guidelines:

• Children under 2: Weighted blankets are not recommended
• Maximum weight: Blanket should not exceed 10% of body weight for children
• Medical conditions: Consult a doctor before using weighted blankets if you have respiratory issues, circulatory problems, or temperature regulation concerns
• Secure construction: Double-stitch all pockets to prevent fill from escaping

Tips for Success

• Buy extra: Order 10-15% more fill than calculated to account for spillage and testing
• Test first: Make a small sample pocket to test weight and feel before completing the whole blanket
• Use a kitchen scale: Weigh fill for each pocket to ensure consistency
• Funnel is your friend: Use a funnel to fill pockets without spillage

Why Choose Victory Pellets for Your Weighted Blanket?

Victory Pellets and Victory Glass Beads are:

• Made in the USA since 2009
• Non-toxic, BPA-free, and hypoallergenic
• Washer and dryer safe for easy care
• Dust-free for clean handling
• Consistent size and quality for professional results
• Available in multiple sizes for any project

Ready to Create Your Perfect Weighted Blanket?

Now that you know exactly how many pounds of pellets you need, you're ready to start your weighted blanket project. Shop Victory Pellets and Victory Glass Beads to get started today.

Free shipping. No minimums. Made in USA. Woman-owned business.