Ways to preserve a quilt

February 11, 2007 12:18 am

— The News & Eagle asked quilt expert and shop owner Randa Parrish for tips on quilt preservation.
Q: Where should you store a quilt?
A: It’s fine to store on top of a bed, nice and flat, or store in a cotton pillowcase. Never a plastic bag! Acid-free boxes are fine, too.
Q: How should you store a quilt?
A: When folding, you’ll get a crease, so I suggest crumpling it or fold on a diagonal. Pull it out every once in a while and shake it.
Q: How can you display a quilt, other than on a bed?
A: You can hang a quilt by sewing a sleeve on the back. Some have to be framed. Either way, hang the quilt out of sunlight. If it’s around light, that’s the worst thing because it will fade (since it is 100 percent cotton).
Q: How do I remember where the quilt came from?
A: Put labels on the quilts, either by sewing it or writing it. Some quilters put it in the border. Include the date made and the name of the maker. In addition, include “This quilt was given to ... from ... in the year ...”
Q: How do you clean a quilt?
A: There are special quilt washing soaps, but don’t agitate the quilt in a washer. Soak it in a bathtub and then lay it out flat. Some quilts can’t be washed or they will fall apart.
Q: How do I carry a quilt from place to place?
A: When transporting or shipping a quilt, put it in a cloth bag and then a plastic bag (should it be exposed to the weather). Maybe put cotton in between the creases. If the quilt has wool batting, you don’t have the creasing problem.
Q: What is the appropriate way to share a quilt in show-and-tell?
A: When I show, everyone is given a plastic glove, so as not to touch the quilt (with their bare hands).
Q: So treat the quilt like the U.S. flag, not a blanket?
A: (Smile.)