Signature Quilt
A Signature Quilt is a quilt with blocks signed in ink or with embroidery. They became popular in the 19th century as a gift to people moving west or as a fundraising tool (donations were collected from anyone that signed the quilt). A signature quilt is a precious keepsake as it represents the relationships and memories of the time the quilt was made. Contemporary Signature Quilts are exchanged among friends, made for classroom fundraisers and given as celebratory gifts. They now often go beyond the signature and also include messages or notes of thanks.
Benefits of a Signature Quilt
- A Signature Quilt can document family relationships.
- A Signature Quilt can be used as a fundraiser for an organization or school.
- A Signature Quilt can celebrate friendships.
Tools and Supplies for a Signature Quilt
You'll need the following for your Signature Quilt:
- Basic Sewing Supplies and Fabric for your Quilt
- Quilt blocks for signing - paper pieced blocks work well for Signature Quilts
- Embroidery floss and needles (if the signatures are to be embroidered)
- Permanent marking pens
- To hold the fabric or block in place while being signed - Use a piece of masonite or illustration board with a piece of ultrafine sandpaper glued to the top, place the block or fabric to be signed on the sandpaper. Another option is to iron freezer paper on the back of the area to be signed.
What I Wish I Knew When I Started making a Signature Quilt
SIGNATURE QUILTS are fun for kids too! Signature Quilts make a wonderful wedding present. Be sure to supply the pens you want used for the signatures as not everyone will know what a Permenant Marking Pen is. If you don't have time to make the blocks... use an erasible marker to designate where you want the signature or message to be written - or the writing will be right out to the seam allowance!
