Commonly Asked Questions about Quilts
Quilt Restoration
In restoring a quilt you do want to find materials that would be of the same time period and quality as those that appear in your quilt, finding them in antique stores, on line through restoration dealers, or your local quilt guild flea markets are excellent ways to search for those fabrics.
Quilt Appraisal
When purchasing quilts remember the date of the quilt is determined by the finish date and the last fabrics added. You may not have an antique after all. But when you find one that you want to purchase make sure and ask questions about its maker and any history the owner has regarding the quilt. This will bring a better value to your quilt down the road when you have it appraised by a certified appraiser. It is worth the investment to have the date certified in writing to go with your quilt.
Quilt Preservation
Store your quilt to preserve the quality as it is. You do not want to cause further deterioration of the fabrics or assembly. Therefore, be careful when storing and cleaning your quilts.
Quilt Storage
Use acid free tissue paper for storing between the folds of your quilts if you keep them folded for storage, or when hanging over any quilt rack. During the time your quilt is stored, refold your quilt periodically so that the folds do not permanently stay in the fabric. You can get breakage in the threads and wear on the fabric at the fold lines as well as damage due to light exposure. Your quilt made of cotton is a natural fiber and it likes the same kind of climate that is ideal for you. Avoid extreme heat, humid environments, dust and mold, and extended sunlight. These are all destructive to fabric and to your heirloom quilts. You can store in cotton pillow cases or sheets instead of plastic.
Quilt Cleaning
It is a good idea makers to put a label on quilts for the cleaning and care of the quilt. You put a lot of time into it and you don’t want it to be destroyed by someone who didn’t know what to do. Use a label and also a pocket to include fabric from the quilt that was leftover then they will have some for repairs. Proceed with caution; see your local quilt store for suggestions or cleaning service, such as one who restores or cleans wedding gowns, or other precious garments. They may have some good suggestions if you do not want to tackle this on your own.
Remember if you have a stain, heat will set it, if there is damage like tearing of fabric, washing will only make it worse. If you wash, do so gently with Quilt soap, fully rinse till clear water. Only spin dry on gentle cycle or hand press in tub to remove excess water. Then flat air dry with air circulation under and over.
If you have a quilt project Kathy may be able to help you. Feel free to call or Click here to email her with your questions. Take pictures to send attached to your email so she can see what needs to be done. For more details go to the SERVICES link.
