Collecting: Handmade Quilts

A handmade quilt is more than something to keep you warm. It is a treasure that tells a story.

Quilts are awesome. Do you love gorgeous textiles? I collect handmade quilts and love every one for its unique design, story and visual appeal. They are more than something to keep you warm. I have handmade quilts that I have made, my grandmothers have made and women around the world have made. I treasure every single one, and use every single one.

My grandmother led a quilting circle at our church. I grew up sleeping under her handmade quilt treasures. A handmade quilt is comforting not only because it keeps you warm, but also because it tells a story. As an adult, I taught myself how to make quilts. My favorite one that I made is made with pieces of fabric from my parents old clothes. It has pieces of dad’s robe from the 70’s, mom’s vintage printed dresses. I treasure the double wedding ring handmade quilt my great grandmother made. Although it is very old, I still use it sometimes just because it makes me feel happy.

I also love collecting handmade quilts made by women around the world. My friend Peggy gave me a beautiful Hmong blue quilt that has unique symbols and botanic stitching. Kantha blankets have become very popular in recent years, and can be purchased from places like Serrv,Etsy,Kantha Home, and Vintage Kanta Quilt. I love to buy from Serrv in particular because it provides jobs to women around the world. These lightweight quilts are great for a couch throw. In our house, we have several single sized Kantha quilts so everyone can have their own. Garza Marfa has stunning Mexican inspired textiles and quilts also, vibrant with bright colors.

Consider a beautiful quilt as an alternative to a fleece, polyester or fuzzy, furry throw. The warmth and comfort of a handmade quilt feels so much better.