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Patchwork Quilts
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Quilt Information
Quilt Care
All of our quilts are constructed of 100% cotton shells with polyester or cotton batting. Because of the intricate hand-stitching in the quilts, care must be taken not to stretch the quilt unnecessarily while cleaning.
Washing QuiltsAll of our quilts are machine washable, but care is recommended. If possible, wash quilt in in large commercial washer on the gentle cycle to allow for plenty of room and thorough cleaning. While home washers can be used (if capacity allows),the agitators in home machines may stretch the patchwork or appliques. Always wash in cold water using a laundry product designed for delicate fabrics. This ensures the colors stay true. Always wash the quilt by itself at the fullest setting, and rinse in cold water. Fabric softners can be used and will minimize wrinkling. Tip: Add 1/2 cup of white vinegar in wash water to set and preserve colors.
Drying QuiltsIt is best to air dry quilts when possible as machine drying tends to lift and fade the threads on the surface of fabrics and cause the colors to appear faded. However, it is possible to dry the quilt in a large capacity dryer on a lower setting to minimize fading. Fabric softening sheets also help minimize fading. Commercial dryers offer the best air flow for larger quilts.
Mending QuiltsThe beauty of owning a patchwork quilt for life is that they are so easy to mend! After all, they are made of patchwork! Should a tear or hole appear in your quilt, find a similar fabric pattern from an old dress, shirt or sheet, cut to cover the rend and stitch! Not only is it an easy task, but it adds one more memory as the quilt is handed down to the next generation!
Storing QuiltsFind a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and fluorescent lighting for storing your quilts. The ultraviolet radiation in both daylight and fluorescent lights causes dyes to fade and fibers to become brittle. Refolding and rotating your quilts seasonally helps protect them from light damage.
Avoid attics, garages, damp basements, and other locations where quilts are exposed to high temperatures, high humidity, and stagnant air. Heat and/or humidity, and lack of ventilation set up the right environment for mold and mildew. An unused extra bed makes an ideal storage spot. Place cotton sheets between quilt layers to prevent dye transfer.
If you put your quilts away, avoid storing quilts directly on wooden shelves or in cardboard containers with gift-wrap-type tissue paper. Untreated wood and paper cause the yellow and brown spots seen on many old quilts. Instead roll cotton quilts (rather than folding) with acid-free tissue paper between the layers. Or, use polyester batting to cushion folds. To prevent permanent creases, regularly refold the quilts in a different way, then reroll them. Place rolled quilts inside cotton pillowcases or sheets to protect against light, dust, and contact with acidic materials. Do not use plastic bags as these tend to retain moisture and encourage mildew growth. If you need to store quilts on wooden shelves, place them in cotton pillowcases first. Then, use a layer of muslin or even aluminum foil to create a barrier between the wood and the pillowcase.
Dry Cleaning QuiltsOn occasion, we may offer quilts that are labelled Dry Clean Only. In this case, bring the quilt to your local professional dry cleaner and have them test a small section for color fastness in your presence.
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