There’s something inherently special about a handcrafted creation.
Now, that’s not to say there isn’t a time and place for manufactured goods. It’s a feat of the modern age, after all, and being able to churn out a high volume for a low price is very convenient, indeed. When you’re buying something memorable for a loved one, however, going the extra mile is the best way of showing how much you care. This is the commitment that is knitted into handmade quilts, crafting your future memories stitch by stitch. With a new year underway, a great place to start brewing up ideas is by getting back in touch with your homely side.
Custom quilts are a delicate and lovely investment that will quickly become apart of your loved one’s life.
Quilting is an ancient art that can trace its roots back many thousands of years. Historians have determined quilts to have existed in ancient Egypt and China — the technique that began it all emphasized three layers of fabrics. These are the top, the batting for warmth, and the backing. This incredible technique made it possible to change the thickness and keep all the goodness from slipping back out. The oldest quilt today is The Tristan Quilt, dating back to 1400!
How about the world’s largest quilt? The AIDS Memorial quilt weighs over 50 tons and is just one of many examples on how this art form can be used as a force for good. Canada has a national quilt organization that was founded back in the 1980’s — the Canadian Quilters’ Association has 20,000 members and holds annual conferences every year. This includes their National Juried Show to showcase the best designs around. The United States, however, is not to be outdone!
Quilting is an incredibly popular hobby among all age groups. It’s quite relaxing and helps promote reduced anxiety, improved self-esteem, and personal expression. A 2014 study found over 20 million people quilt on a regular basis. That same study would also show quilting to be a stunning $3 billion industry, ranging from manufactured quilts for companies to thriving small businesses. Around 15% of American households are home to at least one active quilter.
Custom memory quilts and t-shirt quilt makers are standing out in a world defined by the automated process. The five main hand stitches today are the outline, the satin, the lazy daisy, the cross, and the French knot. Among the most dedicated quilters, over 80% are traditionalists, while 40% embrace art quilting. It’s thought that the dedicated quilter will own, on average, nearly $15,000 worth of tools and supplies. That’s not including the stashes of fabric, which can easily exceed $5,000!
Handmade quilts are a cozy, beautiful ornamentation for any household. They can be tossed over a sofa to provide a pop of color or displayed on the wall as a stunning art piece. They’re passed down from generation to generation and hold within them powerful memories. Memory quilt makers are ever in tune with what their clients need, committing many hundreds of hours to the craft to get every last detail right. The new year is ready and waiting to provide holidays, birthdays, and special occasions.
What could handmade quilts do to show someone how much they mean to you?