Recovering an Old Quilt
Sometimes, recovering an old quilt can be almost as much work as making a new one. If pieces are missing, you might find yourself spending hours searching for similar, authentic antique fabric to replace it. Because many of the flaws tend to be in specific areas of the quilt, you will likely have to fix them by hand rather than with a sewing machine. Because some antique quilts are quite valuable, have yours examined and appraised by a professional before beginning any work. Even though your recovery may leave the quilt looking better, it could dramatically reduce its resale value.
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Things You'll Need
- Very fine thread, preferably silk or cotton
- Needle
- Vintage or reproduction vintage fabric
Instructions
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Examine the quilt carefully. Before you start; know exactly what you are dealing with. Look for loose seams, ripped fabric, missing pieces and other damage.
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Sew any ripped seams back together carefully. Imitate the style of the quilt when you do this; if the stitches show in the rest of the quilt, show your stitches here too. If the stitches are hidden, hide your stitches.
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Sew a new piece of vintage or reproduction vintage fabric into any space where a piece of the quilt is missing. Try to use a piece that fits the style and color scheme of the original quilt, so it does not dramatically stand out.
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Applique a piece of fabric over any part of the quilt where the fabric has a hole or rip, but is not missing or split at the seam. Leave the original fabric underneath. This restores the appearance of your quilt while allowing you the option of hiring a professional later, as all the original material is still in place.
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Replace the binding -- the strip of fabric running around the edge of your quilt -- if necessary. According to QuiltHistory.com, you should use bias binding on a quilt made after the turn of the 20th Century and straight binding on ones made earlier. This helps keep your quilt looking authentic for its period.
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Add new batting if necessary. Replace the fabric on the back if you wish, but set aside the original fabric in case you ever wish to hire a professional to restore the quilt.
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Tips & Warnings
Practice some of your techniques -- such as repairing split seams or appliqueing over holes -- on a scrap piece of fabric before you move on to your quilt.
Do not attempt to recover a quilt that has significant monetary or sentimental value before you have consulted an expert.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Comstock/Comstock/Getty Images
