How to Build a Blanket Fort That Stays Up

Learn the engineering secrets to building a sturdy, spacious blanket fort that won't collapse while you're inside. HowTo: Family Edition: family how-tos that actually help.

1. Set your foundation. Choose a spot in the room with sturdy furniture pieces, like two chairs facing each other or a dining table. Make sure your furniture is stable and won't tip over if a blanket is pulled on it.
2. Drape the roof. Spread your largest sheet over the top of your furniture. If the sheet is slipping, use your clothespins or binder clips to secure the fabric tightly to the chair backs or table edges.
3. Weight the edges. If you want your walls to reach the floor, drape extra blankets over the sides. Use heavy books on the floor to hold the bottom edges of the blankets down so they don't flap or lift up.
4. Add interior comfort. Once the structure is solid, crawl inside and arrange your pillows and blankets on the floor. Ask a grown-up if you can bring a battery-operated flashlight inside for better light.