i made several quilts out of ties. i washed them all by hand and hung them outside to dry. took all seams and insides out. then i used light weight fusible interfacing on the backs of the ties so they did not stretch. i use them just like regular fabric and picked a pattern i liked. also used cut up suits of different colors to go with them as background. i am trying to figure out how to post pictures. these were ties from my father and brother who have passed away. i made 4 and gave to my remaining brothers. the book daddy's ties is a good one for inspiration. just go for it and experiment.