Blankets have been in existence for several centuries.  For long, it was thought that blankets could be used only for covering the body to protect it from heat. As years rolled by, blankets came to be used for several purposes. People became innovative and started using blankets for other purposes as well. One of the most common uses of it is to spread it on the ground so that people can sit or sleep on it. People usually sleep on it when there is no bed available nearby. Those who go on picnics spread the blankets on the ground so that they can sit on it for rest or for having snacks or food.

Blankets are also used in cases of emergency like when there is a fire. They are very effective in putting out fires on various items and also on the human body. It has also helped save several lives during fires and is considered to be very effective.

Blankets are also given away as gifts in various parts of the world. In some parts of the world, presenting a blanket is considered to hold big respect for the giver as well as the receiver.  But the blankets that are given away as gifts are usually highly embroidered and are made to look beautiful. The embroidery can be done with simple thread and if the gifts are to be costly, then the embroidery is done using precious items like gold or silver. This increases the cost of the blanket and makes them a precious gift and the receiver would have it with them for long and cherish it.

Embroidered blankets are available in the markets and they are also available with some private people who make it as a hobby to do embroidery. In fact, this part of blanket making has spawned into a major business and there are several businesses in various parts which depend purely on embroidering blankets. The embroidering is done very intricately and a lot of effort is spent on making it look as beautiful and as rich as possible. The more intricate the embroidery, the higher is the price.

It is also noticed that the sale of blankets increases during the winter season around Christmas. While one reason, which of needing more blankets during winter to retain heat in the body, is straightforward, the other reason for this increase is that blankets are also given away as Christmas gifts, especially to elderly people. This shows the warmth that the giver and the receiver share and it also helps the receiver to keep warm!

As explained above, blankets have a variety of uses and it is restricted only by the imagination of the user on how he wants to use them. Though everyone uses blankets, they are usually the silent achievers as most people don't even realize their importance as long as they have one. It is only when the blankets are not available that most people truly realize the value of them. So, in case you don't have one or don't have enough, don't hesitate. Get out there and get them!