Personalised pet blankets have become one of Australia’s fastest-rising gift trends in 2025. Whether it’s for a birthday, a pet lover, or a cosy home décor upgrade, customised pet blankets are winning hearts everywhere.

But not all custom blankets are created equal.

On the market, you’ll find two main types:

✔ Printed pet blankets
✔ Handmade custom pet blankets

Even though they may look similar online, the difference in comfort, durability, and personalisation quality is huge.

Here’s a clear comparison to help you make the right choice.

1. How They're Made
Printed Pet Blankets

Printed blankets are created using large heat-press printers.

The pet photo is printed directly onto the fabric

Fast, factory-based production

Often made in bulk

Design sits “on top” of the material

These blankets are common on general print-on-demand platforms.

Handmade Custom Pet Blankets

Handmade blankets are crafted individually, usually by small creators or local makers.

Artwork is hand-illustrated or manually enhanced

Colours are integrated into the fibres, not just printed

Materials are chosen for softness and warmth

Each blanket is made to order

Handmade blankets offer a more premium, artistic and personalised finish.

2. Quality & Comfort
Printed Blankets

Usually thinner

Surface can feel synthetic

Prints may crack or fade over time

Good for budget gifts

They look good initially, but don’t always hold up long-term.

Handmade Blankets

Much softer and warmer

Often made with premium fleece or sherpa material

Vibrant colours stay consistent

Designed for long-term everyday use

If you're looking for something cosy, cuddly, and high-quality, handmade wins every time.

3. Personalisation Detail
Printed Blankets

Uses a standard photo

Limited editing

No artistic enhancement

Works for simple designs

Handmade Blankets

This is where handmade products shine.

Hand-drawn or digitally illustrated pet portraits

Custom shading, linework, and personal details

Option to add names, dates, or special messages

Every order is unique

At Snapshell, our custom pet blanket artwork is created one-by-one, giving it the depth and charm that printed blankets simply can’t match.

4. Aesthetic Value
Printed Blankets

Photo sits flat on the surface

Can look slightly pixelated

Basic layouts and designs

Handmade Blankets

Artistic, premium look

Feels like a real portrait

More visually appealing and gift-worthy

Handmade blankets often become home décor pieces — not just functional items.

5. Durability & Washability
Printed Blankets

Colours fade faster

Frequent washing affects print quality

Fabric may pill or stretch

Handmade Blankets

Colours remain vibrant

Durable stitching

Made to withstand frequent washes

Retains shape and softness

A handmade blanket is an investment that lasts years.

6. Gift Value

When gifting a pet lover in Australia, a handmade blanket offers:

✔ More emotional impact
✔ Higher quality
✔ Better presentation
✔ A sense of uniqueness

It feels thoughtful, personal, and special — perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, Christmas, or pet memorials.

Conclusion

While printed pet blankets offer a quick and budget-friendly option, handmade custom pet blankets stand out in quality, comfort, detail and emotional value.

A handmade pet blanket isn’t just a warm accessory — it’s a cherished keepsake that celebrates the love between a pet and their owner.

At Snapshell, we focus on creating premium handcrafted pet blankets designed to last, with artwork that captures your pet’s personality perfectly.