Since our nation's infancy, commemorative quilts have been a part of our national conversation. From American flag quilts to double wedding ring patterns, quilts have been used as a platform to make a statement. Quilting declined after the 1960's, as women entered the workforce and their spare time was eaten up. Since the Great Recession began in 2008 though, sewing of all types is on the rise. Our nation is once again picking up an old American tradition. Unfortunately, quilting is no longer taught to us as children, so it is up to us to learn as adults. If you follow these steps you can begin to learn the intricacies of quilting.
1) Choose a quilting pattern that commemorates the life event, political statement or holiday that you are trying to memorialize. There are dozens of websites where free quilt patterns can be found. Fabric stores also carry patterns.
2) Choose an appropriate fabric. Most quilts are made from quilting cotton, but other fabrics can be used too. Crazy quilts, for example, are often made from satins and velvets. You will want to choose a fabric that will not fade or shrink and can stand up to normal wear and tear. Don't forget to buy batting and fabric for backing. The thicker the batting, the warmer the quilt. Your backing material will need to be at least 4 inches larger than your quilt face.
3) Cut out your quilt blocks. Be sure to cut out enough blocks of each color to complete your quilt. The more colors you choose, the more complex the pattern.
4) Iron your blocks and crease the edges with a 1/4 inch fold. Be sure that the fold is straight. Sew your blocks together in strips. Set your sewing machine to 1/4 inch seam allowance. Most beginners don't realize there is a difference in the seam allowance of clothing and quilting. The 1/4 inch seam allowance will ensure that your quilt has a smooth surface. Now sew your strips together to form the face of the quilt.
5) Lay all three layers of your quilt out on top of each other. The backing material should be laid down on the bottom; your quilt face should be laid face down on top of the backing and the batting material on top.
6) Sew together your layers using a sewing machine. Sew three sides of the quilt together completely, but on the fourth side, leave a two foot opening. Turn your quilt right side out and finish the edge by hand.
7) Sew the layers together using matching or contrasting thread. Begin in the middle of the quilt and work your way out. You can do this by hand or by machine.
The Patchwork Heritage quilt is an excellent example of a modern day commemorative quilt. To learn more about the Patchwork Heritage quilt and how it helps charity, visit blanket. http://www.blanketamerica.com
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