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. "Quilt Wash" is one such product. All commercial detergents are much too harsh and will strip colour from quilt fabrics. A great product for stains, yellowing or other stubborn marks is "Restoration".
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 quilt--preferably 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.
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.
Pauline Rogers has travelled throughout Australia and New Zealand for over 20 years, teaching the art of patchwork and quilting. She operates an award winning shop, Country Fabrics and Quilters, in Toowoomba, Queensland as well as a successful mail order and online service. She founded Quiltfest, an annual quilting event and Margie's Quilts of Hope, a quilting challenge which raises funds for breast cancer research. Visit her website at http://www.cfaq.com.au