Over the last several months I have seen many people complain that their quilts don't get used and complain that their quilts do get used.

Are we supposed to give directions with the quilts when we give them?

Something like: if you aren't going to use this quilt please return it OR if you are going to use this quilt please return it.

I, personally, am elated when my quilts get used. I don't even get upset when I am told there is an "owie" on the quilt. I just say, "bring it back, I'll fix it". If it's beyond repair (as I know one heading my way is) then it's time to make a new one.

Just curious: why do you give your quilts and what are your expectations of use?

It's not mine after I give it away. No expectations, but I do offer life long mending for it ;-)

I want it so throughly used there's nothing left but shreds. I found out years ago a baby quilt I made for a friend's child became his security blanket and he drug it around after him until kindergarten. It was worn and had holes. My friend asked me embarrassed if there was any way to save it and was worried I'd be upset. I told him of course we could patch it up and I was thrilled something I made was soooo loved and cherished by his son. I'd love that to happen to all my quilts!

I agree, once I give it away, it is no longer mine. But that said, I do love it when they are worn out. My favorite quilt has holes worn all the way through it from use. It has been used for sleep overs, picnics, car trips, and cuddles on the couch. I would not take a million dollars for it, and no one would give me ten to take it.

It is yours if I give it to you. How you use it is up to you. I would rather know it was used and even worn out then to think it was saved in a drawer for ????????????, but again, that is up to the owner.

I expect them to be used, but not abused. I know that they will be dragged around and then washed when dirty. I don't expect them to be put on the floor for the dog to lay on. If they get worn out, I know that they have been loved and like you, I will make another. If I am particularly attached to a beautiful quilt I may keep it awhile until I find someone "quilt worthy". I want the person to feel loved and hugged by my gift.

I love to have my quilts used and loved but if they want to put it away and not use it that is their choice. Once a quilt is given it's no longer mine. No hurt feelings here.

I want my quilt to be used, loved and appreciated. I know once I give it away, I should have no say about how it is used or not used. However as quilters we all get a little hurt if our treasured quilts that we have worked so hard on get ill treated.

I definitely give it to be used. All but few of the quilts I made are for use. I do not like it to be abused though. I have a harder time with people who overly treasure my quilts. I made a twin for an adorable aunt and she has it hanging center on her living room wall like a piece of art. I had made it picturing her grand kids snugling in it or draped over a favorite chair for use. I am so glad she likes it but I was surprised I felt a little sad it was not used. So I am definitely more a please use my quilts person. Part of giving quilts is the hug I am sending along with it.

Please use this quilt! That's what I tell everyone I make one for. I made one for my late mother and she tossed it in the closet, to me that is hurtful. My sister went to live and take care of her and she pulled it out and put it on the back of the couch so my mother could see it everyday. I got that quilt back when she died and I passed it on to my daughter that was married in September :-) I even had to patch two holes before giving it to her.

Vicky