Here at QuiltKeepsake.com we are all about memory quilts. The real interesting thing is that the term memory quilt means different things to different people and can take all different forms depending upon what is being remembered in the quilt.
Defining a Memory Quilt
In broad terms, memory quilts are a collection of special clothing items pieced together to celebrate important milestones, special events, or the life of a loved one.
Most memory quilts are usually made from clothing collected over a span of many years. Each quilt takes on the personality of the personal items, showcasing achievements, styles, events, and causes that celebrate each individual’s unique journey. At quiltkeepsake we've done thousands of memory quilts and each has it own unique design and twist. Every quilt is unique but one of our specialties is incorporating fabric items that make each quilt a truly unique keepsake. For example, we've made quilts from military uniforms, flags, dress ties, wedding dresses, ball caps, suits and mumus just to name a few of the non-standard clothing items people have requested sewn into their memory quilt.
Why Make a Memory Quilt
There are lots of reasons individuals make memory quilts but for most people memory quilts solve one of three issues:
- What to do with someone’s unique clothes after they have reached the end of their usefulness (ie. What do I do with the worn out concert tshirt that I love but can't fit into anymore)
- How to keep mementos of special events without having to keep stacks of old clothes around for years (ie. What do I do with all the kid's little league and gymnastic clothing that we've collected over the years but don't wear)
- What to do with baby items, athletic shirts or jerseys or special occasion clothing are often hard to part with because of their sentimental value (ie. I love this shirt and what I remember about those times and want to make sure I keep at least a piece of it)
By using small, decorative pieces of each item throughout the quilt, each special item will be preserved and remembered in one beautiful custom keepsake.
Types of Memory Quilts
Most memory quilts can be broken down into 3 main categories:
- Tshirt Quilts
- Memorial Quilts
- Baby Clothes Quilts
T-shirt Quilts
T-Shirt quilts are a great way to preserve and utilize a collection of t-shirts, sweatshirts or long sleeve shirts. These quilts are very popular for student graduations, birthday and anniversary gifts.
Memorial Quilts
Memorial quilts are popular remembrance gifts given to spouses, siblings, and children after a family member or friend has passed away. Memorial quilts can contain many types of clothing including dresses, suits, hats, ties and other unique items.
Baby Clothes Quilts
Baby clothes quilts made up of clothing from children’s early years make terrific Mother’s Day gifts. Special outfits, onesies, socks, and even bibs can be incorporated to a special keepsake blanket.