Creating a quilt requires
much time and effort. Meant to be cherished and enjoyed, quilts can end up damaged
by improper use, cleaning, storage and display. Whether created for every day
use or as heirlooms, proper care will ensure that they last to bring the
pleasure intended.
Use
When planning a quilt
consider the intended use. What fabrics are used, the type of quilting done,
etc. are dependent on the intended use of the quilt. So decide if the quilt
will be used as an everyday quilt on a bed or is it meant to be an heirloom and
thus displayed but not used. Keep in mind that a quilt for a cot, child or lap
quilt definitely needs to be of a fabric that is durable and washable, as it
will require more frequent laundering.
Cleaning
Baby and lap quilts will
get soiled and need to be washed often. It is important that a mild soap is
used and that the quilt is rinsed well. Quilt shops carry products specially
designed for quilts.
Laundering a quilt may
not be necessary. Many will only require having the dust removed. The
best way to remove dust from a sturdy quilt is to place a nylon stocking, over
the nozzle of a vacuum and then gently vacuum the quiltpreferably on both
sides. Avoid surface abrasion.
Airing
a quilt can also remove odours and dust. There is no need to beat the quilt and
keep in mind that sunlight is bad for your quilt.
Dry
cleaning a quilt is not recommended. It is not a gentle method as large tumble
machines are used and harsh chemicals are applied, which can be quite damaging.
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Storage
Light and moisture are a quilts worst enemies. Direct sunlight will not only fade
the newest and highest quality fabric in no time at all, but it also will cause
the fibers to weaken. Moisture can cause mildew to form, which can be not only
difficult to remove, but impossible.
Many people use cardboard boxes and plastic bags with the intention of
protecting their precious quilts. Both of these gather moisture, causing stains
and encouraging mildew and musty smells.
They are bad choices for storage. The big plastic storage boxes are not
any better as they do not have ventilation.
A closet shelf is a much
better choice. Do not use open shelving as this exposes the quilt to light and
you will end up with fading along the folds. The storage area should be clean,
cool, dry, dark, and as free as possible from drastic changes in temperature
and humidity. If you have shelf space, it is a good idea to fold the length of
the quilt and roll, to eliminate creases. The next time, fold a different way
before rolling.
It is also essential that
the quilt is clean and dust free before put it away. Stains can attract insects
while dust particles actually create abrasion, causing wear.
Avoid storing near an
outside wall where condensation will occur particularly in winter. Be aware
that smoke for cigarettes and fireplaces can seek out stored textiles leaving
an ugly surprise.
One of the best places to
store a quilt is on a bed. Do you have a guest room? Pile your quilts on the unused
bed, in layers, and then top with a cotton sheet to block the light.
No matter where you
choose to store your quilts, it is important to inspect them every two to three
months. Take them out to air them for a few hours and examine, front and back.
It is a good idea to clean the storage area at this time before putting the
quilts back.
Display
Both
sunlight and artificial light will cause fading. Never display a quilt where
direct sunlight will reach it. If you have fluorescent lighting, it is wise to
cover the tubes with a UV shield.
When
hanging a quilt, use a method that will distribute the weight over the entire
width of the quilt. Sew a four inch wide tube or sleeve of fabric along the top
edge on the back of the quilt and stitch through all layers of the quilt every
inch or so. Do not use nails, pins or staples to hang a quilt. These can tear
through fabrics, corrode and cause staining and cause distortion of heavier
quilts.
Cherish your quilts and
they will reward you with years of enjoyment.