Strategies for Repairing a Damaged or Old Quilt

If you have an old or damaged quilt that you’ve been trying to preserve, you should consider repairing it. Just because a quilt is old, that doesn’t mean it can’t be restored to its former quality, or at least something similar. There are several ways you can go about repairing it. Learn some strategies for repairing a damaged or old quilt by reading below.

Patch Damaged Squares

Patching is especially helpful if your quilt has holes that are very large. It should be noted that there two ways you can go about patching. The first method is referred to as the quick and easy method. While this method is quick, it requires you to ignore quality design practices. This means you won’t be lining everything up and using the perfect fabric. Simply take a swatch of fabric that you have lying around and sew it to the quilt to patch the hole.

The second way is more systematic. You’ll create a template to match the shape of the hole exactly. You can do this by making a paper template, then using it to cut a fabric piece that’s slightly larger. After pressing and removing the paper, you can sew it in using a tight zig-zag stitch.

Use Simple Stitches

If you’re trying to repair small holes and rips, this method is great. It can incorporate the new stitches as part of the quilt’s design rather than trying to find a way to hide them. Get some different colored threads that contrast, as this will help the stitches stand out more as a design. If you want to avoid having the stitches stand out, simply stitch with a thread that’s the same color as the fabric you’re repairing, so it’ll blend in.

Deconstruct, Then Reconstruct

Deconstructing and starting again is one strategy for repairing a damaged or old quilt that can’t be as easily patched or stitched. You’ll need to start by trimming away all the usable fabric, which you can use to create new pieces to reconstruct the quilt. In some cases, old, large quilts can be transformed into baby quilts, which helps retain the sentimental value of the original. You can also try to find similar fabrics to replace missing pieces that were too damaged to reconstruct.

Add Applique Patches

This option allows you to create a fun design that gives your quilt new life. You can stitch the applique patches in place of any holes and rips. You could make your own patches out of fabric swatches, or you can order pre-made appliques. Just make sure the patches are large enough to cover any of the damaged areas.

Any fabric for repairing a meaningful quilt should be of the highest quality. Visit Lindley’s General Store where you can buy quilting fabric online from Canada, as well as other materials from an extensive collection.