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There’s nothing cozier than snuggling up under Grandma’s old quilt – but what if Grandma’s stitches aren’t quite holding up or the fabrics are yellowing? Nonie England, a member of the Wichita-based Prairie Quilt Guild, offers these tips for keeping antique patchworks in good shape.
Restore when possible. Unfortunately, there’s only so much you can do about holes, broken threads and yellow spots. It’s difficult to match fabrics and colors exactly, but plain spots can be basted over with new fabric if desired. When in doubt, ask the professionals at a quilting shop.
Don’t take a treasured quilt to the dry cleaner: the chemicals will be too harsh. Instead, wash it yourself in the bathtub with gentle detergent. Let it air-dry outside on a nice day – spread it out over a sheet or tarp. Avoid hanging it on the clothesline: the crease it creates will be too severe. While newer quilts should be able to handle the washing machine, use the delicate or gentle cycle with as little agitation as possible.
Vacuum it! This is a great alternative to washing. Lay the quilt flat and cover it with metal mesh such as that found on a screen door. Use an upholstery brush to gently vacuum the quilt. Be careful not to trap ribbon or other embellishments; you may want to hold the brush just above the quilt while vacuuming.
Display with care. If you want to hang the quilt, use a special quilt rack or a curtain rod covered with a sleeve. It’s considered bad practice just to pin the quilt to the wall.
Consult the experts. There are several local quilt shops that can help you with antique preservation, including:
• Around the Block Machine Quilting: www.aroundtheblockquilters.com
• Sunflower Quilts: www.sunflowerquilts.com
• Hen Feathers Quilt Shop: www.henfeathersquilts.com
• Prairie Quilts: www.prairiequilts.com
For appraisals or other quilt-related information, visit the Guild at www.pqgks.com.
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