I am often asked about sizing for T-Shirt quilts, though, size is only one factor in having a quilt you love. I want the website to be as useful as possible, so I decided to add Classic T-Shirt Quilt sizing to the descriptions of that product. The Classic T-Shirt quilts have specific sizing because they are a set grid pattern with sashing. Often I am asked about the sizing in terms of throw or bed size quilt, too, for a specific number of shirts, so I am providing both the inches and throw/bed size. Of course if you decide not to have sashing in the quilt, then the size will be smaller than with the sashing.
The picture shows a Custom T-Shirt Quilt, meaning all of the blocks are different sizes, and this quilt has navy blue batik sashing and inner border and a brown batik outer border. This quilt also has added t-shirt pieces appliques around the quilt, creating a fun collage like feel.
Custom T-Shirt quilts are harder to size, even knowing the number of pieces or shirts we are planning to use because the layout and design of the quilt is based on the specific graphics in the shirts. Block sizes vary across the quilt, so only when the layout is complete do I know the actual size of the quilt. I can work towards a certain finished size while I am working on the layout, though, and you can look at the Classic T-Shirt Quilt sizes to get an idea of where your quilt might fall on the size spectrum.
This picture shows a Custom T-Shirt Quilt with no sashing and a blue outer border. The left side of the quilt is folded over to show the gray back of the quilt with the Finished Fibers, LLC Label.
Size is not the only consideration when pulling together items for a t-shirt or memory quilt. My advice to clients is to begin with what is most important to include. Which shirts or clothing are most meaningful? What pieces must be in the quilt? Also think about how you want the quilt to be used. Do you want to have it on a bed? Do you want to snuggle under it to watch TV? Do you want to hang it on the wall?
I always say to clients that I want them to love their quilt, and I think using meaningful items and thinking about the use of the quilt can both add to the decisions about size. And don’t hesitate to ask questions! You may be new to the process of having a t-shirt quilt made, but I have literally made hundreds of quilts! I am happy to answer your questions and talk through what you want for your quilt.
Sending Quilty Love,
Ginger
Reading This Week: I finished Alice Munro’s collection of short stories, Too Much Happiness. I love the last story of the same title, and my favorite story is probably “Some Women;” I love the narrator’s voice and the complexity of the relationships. The boys are sunburned and squabbling in Lord of the Flies…Simon is so smart. A naive heart is definitely growing up in The Death of the Heart by Elizabeth Bowen, just as I suspected. A cozy mystery next maybe?
Be kind and listen to NPR for unbiased, informative news, so that you can make well informed choices.