What size is a Hospice quilt?
 

I am using some of my stash to make quilts for Hospice. I have called their office and asked for the "ideal" size, and they seem very vague, but recommended lap size. I've done a search on the quiltingboard and Google. I know lots of you make Hospice quilts. I've seen some beautiful ones on here. What size do you make? Are there parameters as to how small is too small or how big is too big? I'm open to any suggestions. Thanks for the help.

I would go with 45-50" x 60-65" - not huge, but big enough to cover the bland blankets they use there and brighten the place up - and hold in warmth.


I think lap quilts are a little smaller - around 36-40" x 45-50"?

Hope that helps! :)

In my experience (my mother), most Hospice patients try to remain at home; that's the whole point of Hospice. I'd make lap size (60x60 range) because that can be used in a great many ways....in bed, on the couch, over the shoulders, in the car, even taken to the hospital or Hospice House if/when necessary...with minimal trouble for patient or caregiver.

They may be vague, particularly if they have not had quilts donated before.

There are different types that might be known as a "Hospice Quilt".
* on the bed of the patient
* for the family members to snuggle with while with the patient
* in the living area of the Hospice, outside of the bedroom area
* as a passage quilt
* and there may be other uses ... this is just what comes to mind right now.


For the patient, probably 50x70. It goes nicely on top of the bed, though they don't need extreme coverage, as they already have sheets and blankets provided. Small enough that it's easy to fold and set aside ... or easy enough to push off the bed if not needed. Yet large enough to do some good!

For passage quilts, our Hospice requires it to be 60x80, as that is what has worked best for them. However, others who have posted on this subject in the past have noted totally different sizes that are required by their Hospice facilities.

If your Hospice is vague ... what about just making one or two ... and then ask them for feedback before you make more.

Before anyone gets busy and makes a bunch ... please be sure to check with the Hospice in your area. For example, our local Hospice does NOT accept quilts for use in the Hospice House rooms, as they only use their own bedding and covers. Otherwise, the families are welcome to bring their own from home, in order to have the personal and familiar items with their loved ones. Nor ours does not distribute quilts to those using their services outside of the Hospice facility.


Also ... be sure to consider the "washability" of your fabrics and battings. You want it to continue to look good for a long time and thru a lot of washings. Remember, those washings will not be the TLC we can provide in our homes. It'd be best for you to pre-wash all the fabrics in hot water/dryer, to know the shrinkage has been taken care of, as well as any signs of bleeding.

My husband says, "As big as your stash allows" LOL! Does he know quilters or what? He works at one here in AZ and I have worked for one in the past. The last batch I made were just big enough to cover the lap and legs when sitting in a chair or wheelchair. I used 6-12 inch finished blocks with large border and the larger blocks I didn't put any border around. [ATTACH=CONFIG]306854[/ATTACH][ATTACH=CONFIG]306856[/ATTACH][ATTACH=CONFIG]306855[/ATTACH]

I also put flannel on the back for warmth. Just make sure that they can stand up to multiple washing. It is just like a baby blanket, they get wet and pooped on and need a bath frequently :).... I am sure they would be happy with any size quilt you want to make. They always love to be able to give a little extra 'love' where it is needed.

Thanks for the replies. I knew someone on the board would have the information I needed. I really do appreciate you taking the time for such complete answers.

washable---light---flannel on the back stops them slipping----colour is a joy to combat hospital bland--like with kids they should be given to a person then the family can do what they want with them--passing them between patients is a no no--yes even in a hospice

Each Hospice has their own protocols on these blankets as to whether they go from patient to patient ... or are sent home with the families ... or that they don't even allow them (as explained in my earlier post)

I'm sure they are well laundered between patients.