Episode 115: Quilt Preservation and Behind the Scenes at A Quilting Life

In this episode, Sherri and Chelsi discuss caring for quilts and quilt preservation. They discuss washing quilts, properly storing quilts and the importance of limiting sun exposure. The crew then gives a look into what happens behind the scenes here at A Quilting Life.
Show Notes Blog Post: www.aquiltinglife.com/?p=29977
Cozy Earth 30% off with our link (or code AQUILTINGLIFE): cozyearth.com/pages/quiltinglife
New Podcast Email Address: [e-mail]
All American (Quilt on the Wall): tidd.ly/3sk7nU8
United (Quilt on the Table): tidd.ly/45YrOeL
The Opt-Out Family: How to Give Your Kids What Technology Can’t: amzn.to/3zoHawO
Patchwork Garden Remix (Top Ladder Behind Chelsi): tidd.ly/42XntHk
Shine Remix (Bottom Ladder Behind Chelsi): tidd.ly/432zvPM
Happy Go Lucky 2 (Top Ladder Behind Sherri): tidd.ly/3IfpsNH
Tulip & Vine (Middle Ladder Behind Sherri): tidd.ly/3PPuF2R
Starry-Eyed (Bottom Ladder Behind Sherri): tidd.ly/49V0HSq
Flowers for Emma (Behind Billy): tidd.ly/48Z8tve
Garden Stars Sampler (On Far Wall Above Sewing Machine): tidd.ly/3qLszYh
NOTE: Some of the links provided here are affiliate links.
Where to Find Us:
Facebook: A Quilting Life with Sherri & Chelsi: / 459389991531728
A Quilting Life Blog: www.aquiltinglife.com
Chelsi Stratton Blog: chelsistratton.wordpress.com/
A Quilting Life Patreon: / aquiltinglife
A Quilting Life Instagram: / aquiltinglife
Chelsi Stratton Instagram: / chelsistratton
A Quilting Life Pattern Shop: www.etsy.com/shop/SherriQuilts
Chelsi Stratton Pattern Shop: www.etsy.com/shop/StrattonHan...
Music:
Lucidity By Kings • Video
Artist SoundCloud / onlyfeels
Music Promoted by goo.gl/5NfMV4

[@PennyLincoln]

Congratulations Chelsi on having your quilt on Jenny Doan’s porch!!

[@SewTeresa]

Love! Love! You all!!! Great hearing behind the scenes!!!❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@cherinamcfadden4232]

My mom had a quilt on her bed most of my life. She would fold it up and put it to the side of her bed and then when she made her bed the next morning, she would put it back on. This would be a great way to use the quilt when it is too hot.

[@sharonschier8620]

Chelsi, please do not be too sad about your girls putting their quilts away for summer. I grew up in Georgia, no air conditioning back then, and in summer we had only sheets on our beds, no quilts, for sure. Back then, the first sign of fall and colder weather was a quilt on my bed. It was an appliqued quilt -- kitten in a basket blocks -- which I dearly loved. My mother gave it to me decades ago, and I treasure that special quilt.

[@alechiaevans9117]

Loved this episode, good job Billy.

[@denisemahoney9373]

I have been following for about 2 years so have not seen all of the collections. I understand No. 20 is coming . Would be nice to see a fat quarter bundle or charm pack , etc from every collection and walk down memory lane as you explain and show each stack . It would be so cool to see a stack of each collection sitting on the table. Thanks for all you do for the quilting community. I really enjoy your family banter making it real.

[@cindyfaulk4656]

Chelsea, you should use your daughter's doodles in an upcoming fabric collection 😊

[@nhager]

my daughter was in high school when she put together her first quilt top. She pushed me into quilting so that I could help her since she barely sewed at the time. In her 20’smshe bought a gammill hand guided long arm and began quilting for others. She would be ignored in quilt shops. You should try folding your quilts on the bias. Really helps to keep the creases out.

[@colleenfrancis5899]

I use quilts all year long. Air-conditioning keeps my bedroom nice and cool.

[@kayleenleone1186]

Regarding quilt care, I learned the hard way that certain bugs like Silverfish love starch. So avoid storing fabric that is starched and wash a quilt once it has been finished if you used starch. These bugs will eat holes in the fabric like crazy!

[@Carol_Sews]

I keep vintage quilts from my grandmothers and quilt tops waiting for borders spread out on a spare bed. That makes fewer creases. I keep them covered with sheets and a quilt that I lay out back-side-up to prevent fading.

[@Love-to-sew-so-much-56]

Chelsie, how exciting to have your quilt and Jenny, Don’s porch! I can’t remember where I heard this but if you fold your quilts on the diagonal because it’s on the bias. The quilt shouldn’t make creases as bad as if you fold it on the grain. But I do like the idea of steaming the creases out! Thanks for sharing all your ideas! I love watching you guys.

[@lisamcq]

Chelsi - you should add hanging quilt bars in the girls rooms so that you can keep one folded in there in case they need it as well ad decorative from season-to-season.

[@lynneschultz316]

Folding quilts: Missouri Star has a video on folding quilts. As I recall, they fold on the diagonal.

[@lindakQOV]

According to AQS. folding your quilts with the right side out leaves fewer hard creases on the top of the quilt. However, folding on the diagonal is really best for saving the fabric over the years..........refolded often. There are some good videos on KZbin about folding diagonally.

[@cathyblood6864]

Clover Hollow sounds like a good name for a fabric collection.

[@carleenb9426]

I Love hearing the stories from Billy and Chelsea's childhood, love the episode when they told us about the "Cleaning club". Would love to hear more for end of July questions

[@elsafischer3247]

I made a quilt for my mother and she lived in a place where there is very hot. I didn’t place a middle. All I did was the top and the baking. It works and my mother loves her quilt

[@user-cr1mm1ys8e]

Billy,,, I live in Texas where it is hot. But no matter the temp we sleep under a sheet and a quilt!!! I have a dog that will NOT lay down on the sofa unless he has a quilt to lay on!!!❤❤❤❤❤

[@pampeterson3092]

Just one thought about the quilt that your Grandma made, I know you said it was well loved and well used. Your Grandma was happy that you used her quilt. I understand the sentiment and the drive to preserve your memories of your grandmother. I make my quilts to be used and loved. It warms my heart to see my family cuddling up with the quilt I made. Thank you for sharing all the quilts you make and the discussion on how to care for our quilts. Looking forward to the previous of your new fabrics.

[@sheilasanders7548]

Jenny Doan was the first video I ever watched on quilting. Congratulations!! I am just beginning to look for patterns for table runners and pillows to change out for the holidays and seasons.

[@amycoleman3994]

Love the content.

[@brendajackson294]

I was told to roll my quilts around a large cylinder(dowel) and that way no creases. Some people have dowels and a hanger on the wall to hang quilts. Or put tissue paper between the folds. Never store quilts in plastic.

[@slim215]

Gosh, Billy, I would really appreciate if you would have your wife come on the show and show us how to use the steamer appropriate. I would love that. Thanks for all you do.

[@tracywilliams5779]

Oh, just try and keep me away from checking out the new fabric line. And I just wanted to say, great topic Billy. You both talked about selling your excess quilts, but have you ever thought of donating your quilts? I felt like I had more to say, but honestly I don't know what it is now. I am a night shift nurse and I stay awake so I can watch your podcast. And I just don't remember, I also had a dental appointment after work which made me even later getting to bed. I love all that you guys put out have a great day. 😊 And just to back up my tired point, when I opened my tablet this evening I realized I had not sent the message 😮

[@susanyearout1709]

This has been a good video. It reminds me to change how I fold my quilts. Your videos are a great way to start my Monday.

[@marylynnlutenski9196]

Hey thanks for the tip to not download from Etsy on our phones. I recently bought 2 cross stitch patterns I can’t download. I’ll use my lap top and try. Love Chelsea’s Americana quilt!! It’s on my list to make💙

[@debbuckingham2313]

Oh my gosh! Loved this video! So much goodness! ❤

[@user-uu7eo9vv3o]

I think you guys are great. I have ordered patterns through Etsy and you have always been fast and efficient.

[@debbulgrin589]

Chelsi, oh my good ness are you not so excited to see where your daughter could go. I drew constantly, so when my daughter came along of course it was nothing to sit at the table and draw and color. i always encouraged her to create. And today, I am happy to announce she is an amazing stylist specializing in hair color, and hair color corrections. she does amazing things. I love to see how it happens. You just watch, she could be the next designer!!! Can't wait for Friday!!!!! thanks guys for another great podcast!

[@debbulgrin589]

uh oh.....I think i saw a preview of something i shouldn't. Fat quarter shop dropped a bomb. Alli can say is I LOVE IT!!!!

[@michellejaggard9657]

Talking about caring for quilts, long ago when quilts were the main warmth for the bed there was a (beard cloth) sewn at the top of the quilt. It was usually a peice of muslin sewn to the top of the quilt and while the bed was made it was tucked under and when slept under it was pulled out and used on top of the the quilt for the beard to lay on. In a Shed?? Dust is a killer for cloth, as well as plastic.

[@nancypage8061]

Good morning from Schertz Texas

[@marileekgriffith1812]

Can’t wait to see your new fabric & all the projects you make with it!! I do love your YT VIDEOS & all conversations about your sewing & designs. You make it real for all of us who “love to quilt.”

[@mariawells8026]

Yes, your podcast is marvelous, loving, down to earth and perfect for us to enjoy. Thank you all for everything!!

[@kristiparker7185]

I know that you all live in a very dry climate, but another consideration when storing quilts is moisture. It is important to store quilts in a dry place to avoid mold and mildew damage.

[@michellejaggard9657]

I think you are a wonderful group. I love each of you and appreciate you all. I buy from your shop and you are both always responsive, sweet and kind.

[@sheryllanciano7808]

Years ago I watched a video on Missouri Star on how to fold quilts to minimize creases. The folds are on the bias I think, and I do think their method really works.

[@mandmscheevel8191]

Re: Creases - my favorite batting is a wool / cotton blend because I think it helps minimize the creases. Also, I have a “princess and the pea” bed in my guest room where I lay lots of quilts flat on top of the bed. Of course moving the stack when we have company is always a fun endeavor. 😀 When I do have to store a quilt folded, I fold on the bias rather on the NSEW axes.

[@jbaum8220]

I fold my quilts lengthwise and roll and store in pillow cases. Keeps majority of creasing out. Jayne B

[@rcstitches6243]

Love the family connection and the creativity you bring to our community. Your topics are so relevant. So appreciated.

[@cherylthompson4250]

I understand that if you fold your quilts on the bias, the creases aren’t as ‘permanent.’

[@lindakendall9943]

I've been trying to roll my quilts to store them to avoid so many creases. The ones on the ladders or quilt racks I refold as often as I can. I'll trade them out for rolled ones and then roll the ones from the rack.

[@mariarogers3760]

I don't use my quilts while I'm sleeping in the summer, but when I make my bed I always put a quilt on my bed.

[@jewelschneider5955]

Thanks! I love your podcast and KZbin channel. Thank you all for the fabulous content, beautiful fabrics and fun patterns. ❤

[@debbieparrish4369]

I bought my first Strawberry and Lemonade charm pack here in the UK. So excited to make my first ever quilt after watch many tutorials for the last 18 months.

[@gailmckay2709]

Great podcast. The International Quilt Museum in Lincoln, Nebraska. They are accredited by the American Alliance of Museums, and explain in great detail how they care and conserve their quilts. Can’t wait until Friday! 🥳

[@jillgainey5609]

A local designer advised us to fold our quilts on the diagonal. Less wear and tare on the fibers. And of course re-fold occasionally.

[@maryrose6302]

Thanks to all of you for your KZbin channel! I have a great time learning from you while I'm sewing. I'm having such a hard time waiting for your Laguna Sunrise to ship. I also got in on the Strawberry Lemonade reprint. Congratulations! Mary

[@theresabaethke4983]

Sheri, I was listening to your KZbin and when you said you sometimes have hard time responding to emails when you’re traveling I had a thought. Have you thought about putting an out of office reply on your email just to let people know that you are traveling and that you may not be able to answer an email right away. I use out of office all the time for work and since this is your work, I thought it might help. This podcast. And I loved all of the suggestions on caring for quilts. I try to put instructions with the quilts that I give away and I will be using some of those in my printout. Thank you so much.

[@sharonstarr6338]

This was such an informative podcast. I love all of them but this one was so practical. Using a steamer is such a practical tip and I look forward to hearing how Billy’s wife uses one. Also, I have often wondered how the behind the scenes worked as you have always been prompt sending patterns and fabric. Thank you for this bit of sunshine every other Monday. Can’t wait until Friday!

[@martikline4522]

Enjoyed today's episode. Can't wait for the new fabric line reveal! I refold my quilts twice a year.

[@TheMistea]

Ah so happy it’s winter here and it’s three quilt nights at present.

[@aliciahouston4234]

Yes, we should meet! :-)

[@amandaschoeph1539]

Printing these 2 patterns as I'm watching this. Ordered them after seeing Chelsi's IG post.

[@susannapastorik5547]

Cannot wait to see your new collection! Very excited for your 20th collection! And of course I’ll have to purchase new collection . 20 is a milestone 😜

[@michellesubbert7646]

Roll your quilts up instead of folding. I do that for my seasonal ones

[@user-qh5tf8yd2y]

I've been following you all for quite some time and have purchased your fabrics and patterns. Now that I know it's mostly been only you guys who run the behind-the-scenes business end, I'm even more impressed with your talents and abilities. Thank you so much for all you do. PS Sherri, I hope your other daughter is able to help you with your email load. Just the fact that you know you need that help, and that it means enough to you that you are seeking a solution, is a [yet another] testament to your character. It matters to you that people who reach out to you don't feel as though their concern is unimportant. That's rare these days.. I appreciate you :)

[@ellischaefer6949]

looking forward to Friday!

[@paulafilipowich1524]

You all do a fantastic job. No need to reply

[@Coastalanne54]

Cedar chests or a cedar lined closet are wonderful for precious fabrics. No moths or mildew,especially if you live in a damp climate!

[@kathysipe797]

Hey thank you for all you guys do! I love all the ideas and videos and the blog that comes out!!

[@terrijones113]

Can’t wait for Friday!! 😮❤

[@kathysipe797]

Oh my gosh I can't wait to see your new line coming out on Friday!!!!

[@baseballquilter]

I am very aware of sun damage to quilts. Both my sewing rooms do have large windows. To help with the too much natural light I purchased black out curtains for both windows. And I love them. Great quality and very pretty. I need to put one of Chelsi's patterns on my to do list. I love that she is very beginner friendly when it comes to her patterns. I am sorry to say I did not see your pattern from Jenny. Thanks for all that you do! Keep up the good work. I look forward to seeing your new line on Friday!

[@marykauffman3686]

Another great podcast- am so looking forward to the new fabric line you are sharing with us on Friday. QUESTION : Since this is your 20th fabric line wouldn’t it be great to do a fabric line that has something in it from all 20 of your lines? Since you changed the background fabrics from ivory to more white it might be challenging. - hope you continue having 108 backings!

[@carmenbailey1560]

Now that you ladies are talking about creases in folded quilts, I have a ? about folding quilts on the bias weather it would actually make a difference? I’ve watched videos about this method, but yet to try. And another thought when you pack clothing. It’s a plus to use sheets of tissues between folds, maybe this is a possibility. Thanks as always 👍❤️🙂

[@shirleythomas6377]

Speaking of high temperatures, SE Wyoming is going to be 100 to 107. Very hot here for early July. Love your quilts and podcast.

[@vickypetry1049]

I love your podcasts and look forward to everyone you post!!

[@amymiller258]

Can't wait to see the new collection AND the new patterns! And speaking of creases in quilts....has anyone ever tried Downy Wrinkle Release? I wonder if that would work. It works great on clothing!

[@linneareece6827]

I fold mine on the bias to minimize creases

[@marykauffman3686]

Thanks!

[@cherylhughes8659]

I've recently learned the type of batting you use can minimize wrinkles. Cotton batting leaves creases.

[@StitchingisElementary]

I keep a quilt on my bed year round! Just need to keep that ac on cool!

[@cindyw-c]

Would love to hear more about “steaming”. What brand did you get, etc.

[@cathybarnes8303]

Do not store in a plastic bag. Be careful with humidity, heat, and bugs. There is a folding instruction reel somewhere, for diagonal folding. I think Missouri Star might have one.

[@robinburt7196]

I have summer quilts for when it is to hot to be under a standard quilt at night. My summer quilts are very very thin. Two of them don't even have batting just a front and a backing. It's more like sleeping under a sheet than a quilt. But the top still looks very pretty.

[@jackiearagon1268]

I’m so sad will be camping on the 12th will have to catch when I get back the following week.

[@debbiebrugman4543]

All American is on my list. And I would love to have seen Jenny’s version of your quilt on Jenny’s porch. Where was it shown/posted?

[@charlenemorris6391]

Humidity and critters

[@helencowen135]

Your email discussion ties back to the book about getting away from technology- once upon a time businesses were open Mon-Fri 8-5 only. Do not feel guilty about getting the balance " kind of ok". Not everything needs to be dealt with yesterday,

[@slim215]

I love your book suggestions I really appreciate your love of books as much as love of quilting thanks Chelsea. You’re adorable too.

[@cathyblood6864]

Silverfish will eat everything. I would store insect repelling tablets with quilts. Also cardboard can stain fabric! So weird but it happened to me.

[@jodiebanks6817]

You did not talk about how you actually wash your quilts in your washing machine. What temperature of water do you use, what detergent do you use, how gentle does the agitator or spin speed need to be??? Also, do you dry them in the dryer?

[@rebeccasewing]

I rarely wash quilts but if I do I use baby soap and I wash them in cold water and drape them over our large drying rack to dry.

[@rebeccasewing]

Piece of advice - train your dogs to stay off the furniture especially big dogs. Best thing we did when my husband brought home our lab as a puppy. I've been in houses where pets are alllowed on the furniture and the whole house smells like dog.

[@RaggityAnn]

Try folding on the diagonal to reduce fold lines that won’t hang out. It seems that diagonal fold lines are more resistant to permanency. Particularly if it’s over a shorter time like travelling with quilts to a show.

[@LakesideQuiltmakingArts]

Be a nerd! It’s a wonderful way to be!

[@donnabagshaw2124]

When you were talking about the younger people owning quilt shops and quilting, I thought "It is because of all of you!!!" You have made the thought of making a quilt, or other projects seem less daunting. A quilt is a huge undertaking, somewhat expensive if you use fabric other than your scraps. Watching and listening to you each week gives me that extra boost of confidence to go on and get started, with whatever I have or can afford, and I want to thank you for that! ❤

[@brendawall7846]

I am watching this on Thursday July 11. I ask a question about the template you used for your Hexagons to trim the charm squares. Inwas so pleased to get a response the next day and was able to order the acrylic template the next day. Thank you.

[@marciaash7755]

Cotton batting has more memory than a cotton/poly blend or than poly batting. Therefore, if your quilts are quilted with cotton batting, the creases are harder to remove.

[@Leellka]

a book for Sherri - R. Lustig ''The Hacking of the American Mind''

[@susannapastorik5547]

I have a quilt that dates back to the late 1800’s. It’s a crazy quilt and four generations of my family made it. It was completed in the 1950’s. It is the largest crazy quilt on record. It is so big that it’s difficult to refold twice a year. No one in my family wants it. So with that said…should I donate it to a museum? And if so what museum? I would like it to be seen not stored. Thank you for any information.

[@nevaannegrant453]

You could donate to the Quilter’s Hall of Fame in Indiana.

[@elestehorn4290]

Fat quarter shop christmas quilt along has started and I made the first block already.

[@AllisonNorris13]

💟☮️

[@nikkireynolds9514]

I understand that FQS, or Kimberly I guess, uses a Laurastar steam iron. Does FMQ have a separate steamer, or do they just use the Laurastar? I’m just wondering whether a separate steamer is worth the money, especially given how much the Laurastar costs.

[@JeanMcDoniel]

I just watched about EPP. I want the template and the paper hexagon. I went to your Etsy store and had no luck. Fat Quarter Shop, they have iron on papers but no template. Please help me out if you have time. Thanks 👍

[@CheapEngineerCrafts]

My front door faces south and my hanging bleach very quickly. Is there any product to spray on to extend the life of fabric colors?

[@Sylvia907]

I’d like a ladder in room for quilts. To display when not in use.

[@michellesubbert7646]

Can you share where Jenny Doan shared a picture of your quilt on her porch? I'd love to see it!

[@dianelindberg4376]

Chelsea just buy her art supplies on a whim and she if she uses it to expand her drawings. I learn when kids want to talk keep your mouth shut other then to answer or say some kind thing or answer their question. Sometimes they just need someone to listen to them. Just make compliments on her drawings. I have a granddaughter that free draws and her drawings are fantastic. She got that ability from my mom. I cant draw nothing i’ll stick to sewing quilts

[@nevaannegrant453]

MSQC has a video on folding quilts on the bias for storage. Otherwise stored quilts should be refolded every 3 months. Heat is as deadly for quilts as light so they should only be stored under climate controlled conditions.