Whether they have been in your family for decades or are a new tradition that you have started in your own home, heirloom quilts are a beautiful and meaningful way to pass down a piece of your family's history to future generations. In order for them to remain in good condition so that they can be enjoyed, they must be shown proper care so that they do not simply fall apart. With the proper attention, these quilts will continue to be passed along in your family for many years to come.
Obviously, if you are dealing with a quilt that was passed down to you, then you have no say in how it was constructed. If you are choosing or sewing one yourself to start your own tradition, though, you can keep a few things in mind when considering how long it will last. The construction should be based on a sturdy pattern with strong thread, and the fabrics it is made of should be able to stand up to a considerable amount of wear.
With older quilts that do not have these choices available, attempting to clean them yourself can lead to disaster. Rather than taking this chance, seek out a cleaner who deals with specialized pieces such as these if it needs to be washed. Particularly if it is made of more delicate materials such as velvet or satin, this can help you avoid disappointment if something goes wrong.
However, if you would like to tend to your heirloom personally, you can skip the washing if not truly needed and instead simply air it out. This is particularly useful if the piece is usually kept in storage rather than used or displayed. It will help keep musty odors from settling in, and will also prevent damage that can be sustained from keeping it wrapped or folded in a single position for too long.
Even if you do use your quilt on a regular basis, it is likely that you will want to put it away when the weather is warmer, and so you must consider proper storage for it. Extreme temperatures, either hot or cold, are not good for it, and neither is excessive humidity, so find a location that stays at room temperature. Do not put it in an attic or basement, as the conditions here are usually damaging.
The container that you choose to store your piece in is also very important. The right one will keep it from mildew and insects while still allowing air to circulate around it. Muslin bags are a good fit here, as they fulfill these requirements and keep the quilt contained, away from surfaces that can cause it harm.
When you do choose to make use of your quilt, location is very important. Direct sunlight can fade it or even break down the fabrics, so a shady place is best. Of course, they are meant to be enjoyed, so that should be your primary concern!
There are many things in a home that can be passed down to remember those family members who came before. Heirloom quilts are a wonderful example, and keeping them safe will mean that future generations can enjoy it as much as you have. With just a little care, it will provide joy for many years to come.
Obviously, if you are dealing with a quilt that was passed down to you, then you have no say in how it was constructed. If you are choosing or sewing one yourself to start your own tradition, though, you can keep a few things in mind when considering how long it will last. The construction should be based on a sturdy pattern with strong thread, and the fabrics it is made of should be able to stand up to a considerable amount of wear.
With older quilts that do not have these choices available, attempting to clean them yourself can lead to disaster. Rather than taking this chance, seek out a cleaner who deals with specialized pieces such as these if it needs to be washed. Particularly if it is made of more delicate materials such as velvet or satin, this can help you avoid disappointment if something goes wrong.
However, if you would like to tend to your heirloom personally, you can skip the washing if not truly needed and instead simply air it out. This is particularly useful if the piece is usually kept in storage rather than used or displayed. It will help keep musty odors from settling in, and will also prevent damage that can be sustained from keeping it wrapped or folded in a single position for too long.
Even if you do use your quilt on a regular basis, it is likely that you will want to put it away when the weather is warmer, and so you must consider proper storage for it. Extreme temperatures, either hot or cold, are not good for it, and neither is excessive humidity, so find a location that stays at room temperature. Do not put it in an attic or basement, as the conditions here are usually damaging.
The container that you choose to store your piece in is also very important. The right one will keep it from mildew and insects while still allowing air to circulate around it. Muslin bags are a good fit here, as they fulfill these requirements and keep the quilt contained, away from surfaces that can cause it harm.
When you do choose to make use of your quilt, location is very important. Direct sunlight can fade it or even break down the fabrics, so a shady place is best. Of course, they are meant to be enjoyed, so that should be your primary concern!
There are many things in a home that can be passed down to remember those family members who came before. Heirloom quilts are a wonderful example, and keeping them safe will mean that future generations can enjoy it as much as you have. With just a little care, it will provide joy for many years to come.
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