5-Minute Hanging Play Tent (No Sewing Required!)

Make this no-sew hanging play tent in just minutes using a sheet and an embroidery hoop—fun, fast, and kid-approved!

The weather’s cooling down, which means more play time indoors, and kids who are constantly asking for new “fort ideas.”

I’ve seen so many cute play tents online—but between the price tags and the sewing involved, I knew I wanted something faster, cheaper, and easier.Enter this hanging tent—made in minutes from a blanket (or sheet) and a giant embroidery hoop. It’s cozy, portable, and perfect for both indoor and outdoor adventures.

supplies needed to make a hanging play tent

What You’ll Need

1 large lightweight blanket or sheet
1 extra-large embroidery hoop (around 23–36 inches wide)
Twine, rope, or ribbon (to hang it up)
Hooks, tree branch, or ceiling mount (to hang from)
Optional: clothespins or clips to shape or secure the “door”

laying an embroidery hoop on a blanket to make a hanging play tent

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Separate the Hoop

Open your embroidery hoop so you have two rings—one inner and one outer ring. Lay your blanket or sheet over the bottom hoop so it drapes mostly even on 3 sides. The edge of the blanket that is the closest to the hoop will be the front of your tent.

pulling up the center of a blanket to make a hanging play tent

2. Secure the Blanket

Place the top hoop over the blanket, leaving a little give so the fabric can pull up through the hoop just a bit. Tighten the screw so it clamps the blanket in place.

tying a knot with string around some fabric to make a hanging play tent

3. Add the Hanging Cord

Cut a long piece of twine or ribbon. (The length will depend on how low you want your tent hanging from your branch or bracket.) Pull the center of your fabric up and then tie the string around a little “nub” of fabric.

long image of a hanging play tent for kids

4. Add Details (optional)

I was trying to decide if I wanted to leave this up in my daughter’s room, so I added some fun trim. This isn’t mandatory, but it sure looks cute!

close up of a finished hanging play tent

5. Hang It Up

Attach your hanging loop to a ceiling hook, tree branch, or playroom beam—anywhere sturdy and high enough to let the fabric drape freely.

If you’re outside, tree branches work great. Indoors, a command hook or curtain rod can do the trick for a short-term setup.

hanging play tent with stuffed animals and blankets on the floor

6. Style + Play!

Pull one side open to create a “door” and secure it with a clothespin or small clip.
Add a soft blanket and some pillows underneath for instant cozy vibes.

You now have a magical hanging hideout that takes less time to make breakfast.

My kids love using theirs for reading, snacks, and secret clubhouse meetings. And when they’re done? It comes down just as easily—no sewing, no mess, no problem.

So grab a blanket, find a sturdy hook, and get ready to earn “cool parent” status in five minutes flat.