Whether it was a gift, a family heirloom or your own creation, many hours have gone into the making of your handmade quilt.
Much thought went into the selection of the colors and fabric.
The pieces were no doubt cut with precision and sewn together with a great deal of care.
Countless hours went into the quilting and then finally finishing off the binding.
With all that done, the finished project was a beautiful handmade quilt.
This lovely creation can last for years, even decades, but proper care is essential.
The following suggestions for tender loving care will assure that your handmade quilt will be as beautiful for years to come as it was when the last stitch of the binding was tied off.
o Wash your quilt rather than having it dry cleaned.
The chemicals used in dry cleaning are too harsh for the thread and fabrics typically used.
o Always wash your handmade quilt in warm or cold water using the delicate cycle on your washing machine.
The individual blocks may be made up of slightly different fabrics which will shrink differently.
Also, the vibrant colors may fade over time from hot water.
o Gentle detergent should be used when washing.
A gentle and inexpensive alternative to special "quilt wash" crystals is baby shampoo.
o Spin using the gentle cycle.
If you need to remove excess water, roll the quilt in an old blanket or large towels placed side by side before putting it into the dryer.
o Always use the low setting on your dryer.
It is okay to hang your quilt outside for a short period of time, or you can spread it out flat to finish drying.
Make sure it is completely dry before folding or storing.
o When you store your handmade quilt in a closet or drawer, if you feel the need to wrap it up in something, use tissue paper rather than a plastic bag.
Storing it in a plastic bag for a long period of time may result in yellowing and discoloration.
o Be especially careful not to store your quilt in a place where there could be a problem with bugs or unwanted visitors that would like to eat away at it.
Some brands of fabric softener sheets have been credited with repelling these unwanted critters.
In addition, the fabric softener sheet will keep it smelling fresh.
A cedar chest is an ideal storage place for your handmade quilt.
o By all means, display your lovely handmade quilt to give your home a personal touch.
You can be creative in the way you show off your handmade quilt for decoration in your home.
o Display your handmade quilt in a place where it is not exposed to direct sunlight for long periods of time.
This will eventually cause fading and deterioration of the delicate fabrics.
o Don't be afraid to use your handmade quilt.
The layers and the warmth of the batting make it perfect for keeping you warm cold winter nights.
Even after many years of use, this author has several quilts that are still in excellent condition.
o Refold your quilt every few months.
If it is folded the same way for long periods of time, the batting will become permanently creased and thinner where it is folded.
A lovely handmade quilt is something you can show off with pride.
It should be used, displayed and enjoyed.
However, the many tedious hours spent in making it would be wasted if it became shabby due to lack of proper care.
Tender loving care will assure that it will last a lifetime and even be passed down to your children and grandchildren.