Handmade Quilts: Not Just For Your Bed!
by Gail McCauley
Description: Tips for decorating your home with quilts.
The art of quilting has been part of American history for more
than
a century. Regardless of the climate where you live, you
can enjoy
quilts in your home year round. Quilts are quite versatile
and can be used
for many additional purposes more than the ever popular bed
cover! If
you are fortunate enough to own a quilt, think about using it for
any of the following
applications:
Quilt racks are sold in retail stores and through
catalogs. Quilts
look charming hung over a quilt rack in a master or guest
bedroom.
Besides their decorative appeal, they function as an additional
source of warmth
on those extra "chilly" evenings.
Quilts serve as a bold focal point when hung on the
wall. Hanging
quilts can be of virtually any size. They only need be in
proportion
to the size of the wall space where you choose to hang
them. Quilts may be
hung from "quilt hangers" (designed specifically for the purpose
of hanging quilts)
or simply by using small nails (try to place the nails in the
seam of
the fabric, so you do not damage the quilt). Smaller quilts
stand
out in frames and can be hung alone or in a grouping with other
artwork.
For a warm and "comfy" look, try folding your quilt and
draping it casually over
your staircase railing or over the back of your sofa. In
addition to accenting the decor in your room, your quilt is
easily within reach
for "cuddling" up in front of the fireplace!
One unique and also practical application for your quilt is as
a table covering
to enhance your eating area. The quilt does not have
to fit your table perfectly. Simply spread it over your
dining table and
instant charm and elegance is added to your kitchen or dining
room!
I would like to share an especially interesting and practical
application for
a handmade quilt. When your child is old enough to leave
home and attend college or have his first apartment, consider
gathering all
of their old t-shirts and having them appliqued onto a large
quilt! Your
child will possess a gift that is a true keepsake of their
past. What
a wonderful way to preserve your child's past with a gift they
can immediately use
as a decorative accent or blanket covering in their new home!
Quilting classes are often advertised in craft stores.
If you
are fortunate enough to know how to quilt or receive a quilt as a
gift, remember
that you own a treasure that has many applications besides it
beauty and can
be passed on as a family heirloom for generations to come!
Reprinted with permission.
