Collaboration and the Memory Quilt

V's Memory Quilt

I have recently created my first commissioned quilt, and both the soon-to-be owner and I are pleased with the final product. Quilts are a unique way to keep a loved one close in both the literal and metaphorical sense.

My goal is for the quilting process to be collaborative. While I may be the one piecing and sewing, I seek input at all stages from the future owner. First, I ask the owner to look at the quilts I’ve already made and tell me their preferred style. Do they want a structured and more traditional feel such as Emily’s quilt? Or do they prefer one that is organic and curvy, such as Blue Curves? Knowing this from the beginning of the process is crucial, as it determines how I create the quilt blocks.

For this commissioned quilt, which I’ll call V’s quilt, I did not make any requests regarding color or type of clothing that V sent me – I let her select what meant the most. I received a mix of textures, colors, and types of clothing. I prepared the clothing for piecing by disassembling it in such a way that would allow me use of the majority of the fabric. As I began creating blocks and eventually putting them all together for the quilt top, I sent images to V to receive feedback. She was able to select her preferred arrangement, which is the end goal – to create something the owner will cherish.

I was challenged in that some of the clothing I received was not necessarily pieces of material that I would have selected when it came to color, tone, and texture. Yet I was able to take these much-loved items and arrange them in a way that was pleasing. For example, V’s commissioned quilt had a mix of pajamas in pale blue and pink cotton, an ecru pair of shorts with a lace-like pattern, bright blue and yellow flannel, linen shorts, and stretchy tank tops. I began to see connections that I had not made in my initial glance, and the variety of textures adds an element of surprise. I even managed to retain a few pockets that now live on the surface of the quilt and could hold a sachet or hankies.

Tablecloth backing for V's memory quilt

For the backing, V sent me several tablecloths. Tablecloths are excellent in that they are often large enough for a lap-sized quilt (the size I usually create), but more importantly because they represent the family table – the place where the family gathered for connection and nourishment.

Not only do I make memory quilts, but I also create smaller items from well-loved clothing that no longer fits. For example, my mother has given me a super funky 1970s halter sundress that neither she, I, or my daughter can fit into. I have made three totes that we each can own – still enjoying the dress but in a new and functional way with a retro feel.

If you are curious to learn more about the process or are considering a quilt or repurposed item of clothing, I am more than happy to speak with you – the options are endless!