Create your own memory quilt
More and more, people are recognizing the importance of slow design. Special, one-of-a-kind pieces that will last a lifetime. Handmade and sustainable, your quilt will be unique and filled with your memories.
Do you have some special fabrics and or clothing you’d like turned into a quilt or quilt coat? Whether it’s your grandad’s old dress shirts, or some special baby clothes, it’s a beautiful way to get your beloved pieces out of a box in the basement and into a piece you can use and love.
When you’re ready to get started, you’ll send me your fabrics. Once I unpack them, we’ll chat and go through your pieces, and we’ll see together what styles emerge. I’ll make a drawing or mock up mini-piece, and once I get your go-ahead, will start sewing. You can expect this process to take 4-8 weeks, depending on the scope of the project and time of year. I’ll send you progress photos as I go to ensure you’re thrilled with your quilt.
Let’s work together to create your heirloom piece.
Memory quilt for a soccer player on his way to play college ball. This quilt was built entirely around the soccer jersey he wore for years as a kid, in the top left hand corner. The piece also includes his childhood bedding, pajamas, shirts (including 2 of his dad’s dress shirts), and all of his high school denim. XL Twin.
Pricing
Prices and sizes are average, depending on how simple or fancy we get, and based on the materials that you send me. Below is a rough guide…
Baby 30”x40” $300+
Throw 45”x60” $400+
Twin 63”x87” $550+
Full/Double 78”x87” $700+
Queen 84”x92” $850+
King 102”x92” $1000+
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Quilt coat custom sizing $300-$600+
FAQs
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Depends on how big you want the finished product! We can feature as many as one item, and we’ll work together to find suitable fabric to make up the rest of the project, or you can send me a whole box of things!
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Nope! We can figure it out. I will often mix fabrics in my projects. I mean, a featherweight silk and heavy upholstery fabric and a stretchy Tshirt right next to each other is not ideal, but in most cases we can make it work.
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You’ll just box ‘em up, and I’ll send you my address.
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Yep. Let’s talk color and style and size and I’ll provide the fabric.
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just let me know and I will sew a narrow sleeve into the back of the quilt for you to run a dowel through to hang up your special piece!
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Handmade quilts can be expensive for several reasons:
Labor and Time: Creating a handmade quilt involves a significant amount of labor and time. Quilters meticulously cut, piece together, and sew fabric pieces, often following intricate designs. The process can take weeks or even months, depending on the complexity of the quilt pattern.
Skill and Expertise: Quilting is a skilled craft that requires a high level of expertise. Experienced quilters possess knowledge of various techniques, fabric choices, color combinations, and sewing methods. The quality of their workmanship, attention to detail, and artistic skill contribute to the value of the quilt.
Quality Materials: Handmade quilts often use high-quality materials, including fabric, batting, and thread. These materials are chosen for their durability, comfort, and visual appeal. Quality materials enhance the overall aesthetic and longevity of the quilt.
Customization and Design: Many handmade quilts are custom-made or designed to be unique. Quilters might work closely with clients to create personalized designs, incorporating specific themes, colors, or patterns. Customization adds to the value of the quilt.
Artisanal Value: Handmade quilts are often considered works of art. They can hold cultural, historical, or sentimental significance. As with any art form, the value of a quilt can increase due to its uniqueness and artistic merit.
Limited Production: Handmade quilts are typically produced in limited quantities. Unlike mass-produced items, each quilt is individually crafted, making them more exclusive and special.
Traditional Craftsmanship: Handmade quilts often reflect traditional craftsmanship techniques that have been passed down through generations. The preservation of these techniques adds to the value of the quilt as it becomes a tangible representation of cultural heritage and skilled work.
Market Demand: There is a market for high-quality, handmade goods. Collectors, art enthusiasts, and individuals who appreciate artisanal craftsmanship are willing to pay more for items that are thoughtfully made by skilled artisans.
Emotional Value: Handmade quilts can hold deep emotional value for both the creator and the recipient. They can symbolize love, care, and dedication, especially if they are made for special occasions like weddings or births.
Sustainability and Ethical Considerations: Handmade quilts often align with values related to sustainability and ethical consumption. Many buyers are willing to pay a premium for items that are made with environmentally friendly practices and support fair wages for artisans.
All these factors contribute to the cost of handmade quilts. While they might be more expensive upfront, the investment often pays off in terms of the enduring beauty, personal significance, and craftsmanship that these quilts represent.
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1.Spot Check for Stains or small tears/loose threads: Before washing the entire quilt, examine it for any visible stains. If you spot stains, consider treating them individually before washing the entire quilt. Use a mild fabric stain remover and follow the instructions on the product. Mend any small tears with needle and thread by hand before washing so the tear doesn’t grow in the wash!
2. Use a Gentle Detergent: Choose a gentle, pH-neutral detergent that's designed for delicate fabrics. Avoid using harsh detergents, bleach, or fabric softeners, as these can damage the fibers and colors of the quilt.
3. Prep the Quilt: Fill a bathtub or a large basin with lukewarm water. Place the quilt in the water and gently press it down to ensure it's fully submerged. Avoid agitating or wringing the quilt, as this can lead to distortion or damage.
4. Soak: Allow the quilt to soak for about 15-20 minutes. This helps to loosen dirt and debris without subjecting the fibers to excessive agitation.
5. Gentle Agitation: Gently swish the quilt in the water by hand, avoiding any rough or aggressive movements. If necessary, you can lightly press the quilt with your hands to help release dirt.
6. Drain and Refill: Carefully drain the soapy water and refill the tub or basin with clean, lukewarm water for rinsing. Gently agitate the quilt in the clean water to remove the detergent. You could also add 1/4-1/2 cup distilled vinegar to the rinse to soften the fabrics, remove any soap residue, and kill any germs/spores, etc.
7. Drain and Remove Excess Water: Once the quilt is thoroughly rinsed, gently press down on the quilt to remove excess water. Avoid wringing or twisting the quilt, as this can distort its shape.
8. Drying: Lay a clean, white towel (ok, a lot of towels!) on a flat surface and carefully place the quilt on top. Roll up the towels and quilt together to blot out more moisture. Then, transfer the quilt to a flat surface or a drying rack to air dry. Somewhere in the middle of this air drying process, I like to throw the whole thing in the dryer on medium heat for 20 min or so to fluff up and get rid of some more moisture.