Custom Quilts
Memory Quilts
Memory Quilts have a special place in the hearts of those who sew and stitch quilts. They are a time-honored tradition of long-standing. These quilts were made to honor, or pay tribute, to a friend or loved one who had either died, or moved - perhaps emigrating thousands of miles away. Years ago, prior to the advent of telephones, modern travel, or regular mail-delivery; goodbyes were more permanent in nature. Before such things as photographs, or videos, this type of quilt played an important role in preserving the memory of a family member, or cherished friend. And that sentiment still holds true today, regardless of modern technology. There is something very comforting, even healing, about such quilts; whether it be a tapestry piece hung on the wall, or a blanket to curl up under. Love lives on in memory.
A very different type of Memory Quilt. This piece was based upon a resurrection verse found in Isaiah 61:2-3. The verse was chosen by the family, and read as part of the funeral service. It now commemorates the life of the loved one in a beautiful tribute piece.
"To comfort all who mourn, and provide for those who grieve, to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. They shall be called the oaks of righteousness, a planting of the Lord."
Measuring 50" across and 60" long, this piece was done in deep fall colors of rust, forest green, orange, and topaz on a background of marbled apple green...the colours of which echo brightly in the enclosing border. It incorporates the shades of late summer/early fall as the season of the loved one's passing. Further crystalizing time and event in the mists of memory.
The wall hanging depicts two entwined oak branches in all their autumnal splendour. Oak being the tree which symbolizes strength and courage - a testament to the life of the deceased.
This close-up shows a more detailed view of the brightly coloured oak leaves, with acorns dangling off their branches. A little touch of whimsy! Each leaf is topstitched (outlined) in a satin-stitch, using threads of matching colour, allowing for a more defined oak-leaf shape.
Here you can see the veining of the individual leaves. Such attention to detail makes this wall-hanging a one-of-a-kind piece; a family heirloom....and a memory worth treasuring.
The verse from Isaiah is done in calligraphy right onto the quilt itself, using permanent pigma-ink in colours of green and deep brown, which reflect the tones of branches and leaves.
The quilt is machine pieced and stitched. Tabs at the top hold a dowel to facilitate hanging. This is a very special Memory Quilt....one which makes a beautiful tribute to the beloved in a very unique and unusual way. Over time it will become a cherished family heirloom, one which can be passed down with pride to future generations...ensuring that the memory of love it represents lives on...never to be forgotten.
Lillian's Quilt
This is one of the simplest and most endearing forms of Memory Quilts. As such, it is easy to put together and consequently stitches up quickly. The piece works well as a wall-hanging, a small bed coverlet, or even as a lap blanket, or shawl.
It is made from 6" squares of fabric cut from the blouses, skirts and dresses of the family member who passed away. In this particular case, the husband had set aside these articles of clothing with the specific idea of having a memory quilt made. The squares are set in random rows of 10 across and 14 down measuring approximately 42" x 63". It includes a 1" red fabric binding, as red was the loved one's favourite color. A small floral-printed fabric makes up the back, and a sleeve allows for easy hanging
Photos of family and/or friends can be transferred onto fabric and sewn right into the quilt. Also, small appliqued and embroidered pieces, representing aspects of the loved one's life, (i.e. school logo, favorite flower or pet, hobby, or career), can be added to further enhance the design, giving even more substance to the memory...making it a truly beloved heirloom.
This quilt is tied, rather than top-stitched, to make it more durable and longer-lasting.
A close-up picture affords a better view of the fabrics, and how they fit together forming the whole. Ties join the corners of all the squares where they meet, for a clean, neat look.
There was enough fabric to allow for three such quilts to be made; one for Lillian's husband, and each of her two children. A very loving tribute which all the family could share in together. And a very unique way to preserve the memory of a beloved wife and mother.
For more information regarding Memory Quilts...or for ideas and suggestions in working out an appropriate design of your own....please contact us at Custom Quilts.