How to Hang a Quilt Without a Frame

Focus viewers' attention on the quilt, not the hanger.

Although it seems a simple task, choosing an appropriate way to display a quilt is very important. Avoiding damage to the quilt is a top priority, but it is also necessary to showcase the beauty of the quilt. Some options obscure the workmanship or put unnecessary holes in the quilt. A hanging sleeve is a quick and easy way to hang a quilt without damaging or obscuring the quilt itself. This can easily be sewn by even a less experienced seamstress in under an hour.

Things You'll Need

• Scrap of cotton fabric
• Thread
• Iron
• Sewing machine
• Serger (optional)
• Quarter-inch thick board

Instructions

1. Cut a piece of fabric as long as the quilt is wide and 4 inches wide.

2. Serge both ends of the fabric strip or make a small hem. To hem the fabric, press under 1/4 inch, then turn under another 1/4 inch and press it. Sew a straight stitch close to the edge of the first fold to keep the fabric from fraying.

3. Fold the fabric strip in half and press. Measure 1 1/2 inches down from the fold and mark with a pencil. Serge the raw edges on the length of the fabric strip together or sew a conventional seam and use the zigzag stitch along the raw edge of the fabric.

4. Baste the fabric strip (now a hanging sleeve) along the pencil line to the top of the quilt, just below the binding. Be careful to keep the stitches from showing on the front of the quilt.

5. Insert a thin board into the hanging sleeve. The board should be 1/4 inch thick and as long as the quilt is wide. Hammer nails through the board and into the wall to hang the quilt. The nails and the hanging sleeve will be hidden by the quilt.

Tips & Warnings

• A cotton fabric similar in color to the backing of the quilt will be less obtrusive.

• Quarter-inch basting stitches are large enough to sew quickly but small enough to ensure that the hanging sleeve is securely attached.

• Neutral fabric is the best choice for a hanging sleeve. Bright fabric will draw attention to the sleeve and away from the quilt.

References

• Springville Art Museum Quilt Show Guidelines

Resources

• Quilting 101: Quilt Display