When it comes to finishing a quilt, adding quilt labels is the final touch that adds a personal sentiment and preserves the story of the quilt for generations to come. While a simple handwritten tag may serve the purpose, why not make the quilt label as creative as the quilt itself? This guide will explore some creative ways to label a quilt, ensuring your unique creation carries your signature in the most artistic manner.
Why Should You Use Quilt Labels?
Labelling a quilt is crucial for a number of reasons. Firstly, it serves as a record of the quilt’s history, detailing who made it, for whom, when, and why. This adds a personal touch and helps future generations connect with their heritage. Secondly, it provides important information in case the quilt is ever lost or stolen. Lastly, if your quilt is an art piece, a label serves as your signature, attributing the work to you just like a painter signs a painting. In essence, quilt labels complete the story of the quilt, making it not just a piece of scrap fabric, but a piece of history. I always add them to baby quilts as it makes a great memory for the receiver.
What is a Quilt Label?
A quilt label is a piece of fabric, typically placed on the back of the quilt, that carries important information about the quilt. This might include the name of the quilt-maker, the date of completion, the intended recipient, and any other details that add to the story or significance of the quilt. Quilt labels might also carry a personal message, a quote, or a piece of wisdom passed down through generations. It’s the final touch that gives a quilt its identity, turning it from a simple bedding item into a piece of art and a cherished keepsake.
Quilt Historians – Why They Love Them
Quilt historians find immense value in quilt labels as they provide a wealth of information about the quilt’s origin, age, and purpose. These custom labels work like a breadcrumb trail leading back to the maker, offering insights into the period when it was created, the cultural context, and sometimes the social status or personal story of the quilter. This information is invaluable in tracing the evolution of quilt-making styles, techniques, and trends over the years. Furthermore, messages, quotes, or wisdom shared on these labels also shed light on the societal norms, beliefs, and values of the time, lending a unique perspective to historical studies. In essence, quilt labels serve as significant primary sources, helping historians in their quest to unravel the intricate tapestry of human history through the lens of textile art.
What Information Do I Include?
- Name of the Quilt Maker: This could be a full name, initials, or a special nickname.
- Date of Completion: This includes the day, month, and year when the quilt was completed.
- Geographic Location: The city, state, or country where the quilt was made.
- Quilt Title or Pattern Name: If the quilt has a particular name or pattern, include it.
- Intended Recipient: If the quilt was made for someone specific, include their name.
- Occasion: If the quilt was made for a special event (like a birth or wedding), note the occasion.
- Personal Message or Quote: A meaningful phrase, quote, or message can be added to make it a more personalized quilt label
- Care Instructions: Provide details on how to ideally care for and maintain the quilt.
- Signature: A physical or digital signature of the quilt-maker.
Quilt Labels can be used as an easy way to note the date, pattern name, quiltmaker’s name and other details. You can use permanent fabric markers or embroidery floss to write your labels to ensure they stand the test of time. Be sure to wash your hands before writing on the quilt as oils from your skin can damage delicate fabrics. For a truly unique quilt label consider using an embroidery machine or hand stitching to make your label. Be sure to think about how the quilt will be used and stored when deciding on a label that will stand up to wear and tear. Keep in mind that custom labels can also be used for other items such as pillows, bags, table runners, etc.
Quilt Label Ideas
Handwritten Labels
Handwritten quilt labels offer a personal touch to your quilt. These can be written directly on the quilt fabric or on a separate piece of cloth that is then stitched onto the quilt.
Typed Labels
Typed quilt labels provide a neat and formal look. These labels can be created using a computer and printer, allowing for clearer text and the possibility of adding images or logos.
Embroidered Labels
If you have an embroidery machine, then an embroidered quilt labels add a touch of elegance and are durable. You can embroider the quilt label by hand or with a machine, using threads of different colors to make the text and designs stand out. A hand or machine embroidered label always stands out.
Photo Labels
Photo quilt labels allow you to incorporate a picture into the label. This could be a photo of the recipient, the event the quilt is commemorating, or even the quilt maker.
Fabric Paint Labels
Fabric paint quilt labels are fun and creative. You can use fabric paints to write or draw directly onto the quilt or a separate fabric piece.
Appliqué Labels
Appliqué quilt labels involve applying cut-out designs or letters onto the quilt fabric. This method allows for a wide range of creative expressions as you can use different fabrics and shapes.
Where To Put the Label?
The placement of the label on a quilt is largely a matter of personal preference, although some traditional locations are often favored. Typically, many quilters place their label on the bottom right corner of the back of the quilt. This location is unobtrusive yet easy to find. However, you can also place the quilt label in the middle of the back of the quilt, or even incorporate it into the quilt design on the front if you prefer it to be more prominently displayed. It’s best to securely stitch the label onto the quilt to ensure it remains attached through use and washing.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, the intricacies of quilt labeling provide a unique blend of creative expression and practical information. Whether you choose to use printed custom labels, embroidered labels, photo labels, fabric paint labels, or appliqué labels, the ultimate goal is to personalize your quilt and provide context for those who will appreciate it in the future. Remember, the placement of your quilt label is an equally important aspect, so choose a location that aligns with your personal preference and the overall design of your quilt. Enjoy the process and let each label tell a story about your quilt.
Frequently Asked Questions
Each type of label has its unique advantages. Choose the one that best suits your creative style and the quilt’s overall design.
It’s best to securely stitch the label onto the quilt to ensure it stays attached through use and washing.
The placement of the fabric label depends on personal preference. Typically, many quilters place the label on the bottom right corner of the quilt’s back. However, you can also place the label in the middle of the back, or even incorporate it into the quilt design on the front.
Yes, a photo label can be a unique and personal way to label your quilt. Just be sure to use a method that ensures the photo will withstand washing.
While it’s not mandatory, labeling your quilt provides context and personalizes your work. It’s a way to tell the quilt’s story for those who will appreciate it in the future.
Hello and welcome to my website! My name is Shannon and I have been and avid quilter for over 25 years. My love of quilts came at an early age where I was taught by my grandmother when I was around 12 years old and her patience and love of quilting brought me to where I am today.
