Creating a quilt of memories isn't a matter of sewing skill or artistic talent. It's a creative project that helps keep memories alive through hand stitches and fabric scraps. From childhood garments and baby clothes to road trips and family vacations, memories and mementos combine in the form of a one-of-a-kind tribute.
Graphic Tee Quilt
Transform a collection of graphic tees from a bottom drawer stash into a hand-made blanket. From high school and college logos to commemorative events and vacations, the memories behind the colorful graphics live on long after the shirt has faced or grown a size too small. From Disney rides to sports events, diverse memories team up in the form of colorful quilt patches.
Use a large paper block as a template for sizing and cutting the graphic tee designs into squares. Cut both the front and the back if there are graphics on both. Because the blocks are uniform, sewing them together is easy. Use a sheet or fabric panel as a backing to create a soft blanket for a dormitory bed or cool cotton throw.
Four-Patch Childhood Quilt
Leftover fabrics from hand-made baby garments or worn-out childhood clothing is filled with memories for kids and grown-ups, meaning old garments often get tucked away in boxes rather than tossed out. From small pieces to full-sized clothing, a simple four-patch quilt can incorporate the pieces together into a beautiful memory blanket.
The diversity of fabric patterns, colors, and styles will enhance the character of the quilt; while multiple four-patch blocks may mean several quilts can be made from a pile of garments once consigned to the rag bag or attic. The four-patch family quilt promises years of parents and children reliving each story behind the fabric pieces.
Vintage Memories
Make a quilt of memories believed to be long forgotten through reproduction fabric patterns. From grandfather's favorite shirt to great-aunt Susan's wedding dress, the long-lost fabrics can be restored for a memory quilt that expands the concept used for the childhood quilt.
Vintage fabricsare often reproduced and available online or at fabric retailers. Family members will have fun searching through online swatches or bolts of bright patterns for memorable colors or patterns from the past.
Family Tree Quilt
Create a family tree quilt that traces family history and commemorates special moments or celebrated figures within its branches. Computer graphic designs of genealogy trees or family biographies can be transformed into fabric, thanks to computer technology.
Using computer-printable iron-on transfers, crafters can print out unique designs onto special iron-on paper. The design can then be ironed onto a fabric surface and cut into a square to form a quilt block. Intersperse the family date with family photos transferred to fabric, hand-painted blocks, and other unique family designs.
Memory quilts create fabric scrap book albums worthy of heirloom status. From wall hangings to sofa throws, a unique memory quilt both preserves and displays treasured memories for generations to come. Consider writing the history behind the memory quilt for future family members and allow its crafters to sign the back with fabric markers as well.
Sarah Briggs - For the last two years, I have designed primitive dolls and folk art sculptures (such as Edwin Drood and the Ghost of Marley) for Cordwood ...
Join the Conversation