For those that have been asking ... What is a Passage Quilt?
Generally, the concept is that the quilt is used to cover a body, as it is removed from the place of death. That may be at the hospital, Hospice House, personal residence, accident scene, etc. Without a doubt, a tastefully made quilt is certainly more comforting than to see a loved one in a body bag. Similarly, for those who perhaps have no connection to the one who has passed, and by circumstances are present.
Who has them?
It is my understanding that this is a common practice at Hospice Houses, across <st1:country-region w:st="on">Canada</st1:country-region> and the USA. This practice may be used in your area, though you may never have heard of it, for not having had any direct involvement. Some funeral directors keep them in their van/hearse that would be used to pick up a body. And too, there will be local variations.
Does the family receive the Passage Quilt?
These are not meant as "keepers" for the family. They are used repeatedly. At our local HH, they keep them there, using them as the body is removed from the room and their home, and into the funeral director's van. It is then folded and carried back in by one of the staff members. All that being said, some HH have "quilts" that are given for use in the final days, that the family may keep. These are not passage quilts, as such.
If I am going to make one, what next?
A word of caution, please DO NOT make a passage quilt without speaking with the intended recipient (i.e. HH, funeral director). Being that these are repeatedly used, their inventory will not need replenishing too often. Plus, because the quilts will not have rough-tough use, they will last for an extended time. Also, some individuals/groups have given the commitment to make the new quilts, as needed.
What size should I make?
Each organization will know what size works for their purposes. The HH I have made for, asked for 60x80". On the other thread, I noticed the size was 60x90". Earlier I learned that one group is required to make them 90x120".
What colour and quilt design should I choose?
Again, please see above, and take the guidance from those who will use them. Some may have very specific requirements and may want to approve before you start. For the most part, I am sure you will be guided to something that is pleasing to the eye, calming, and soft colours. Even with their guidance, I have a hard time choosing the quilt pattern, and fabrics, as I know this is not the time for my quilt to jump forth and say, here I am!! Remember, this is to help the family and loved ones in their grief process and not to create a different discomfort.
Bless You!!
For all that have made or will make a Passage Quilt, Bless You for your kindness. I have not been the recipient of the comfort of a Passage Quilt, though know the discomfort, in there not being one. Making them for our local HH has given me rewards beyond what I thought would happen ... a different sort of comfort and peace. I'm glad that I have made this commitment.
By no means, is this all there is to know about Passage Quilts!!!!!
I felt it was a good discussion to start, and chose to give some insights as to what I have learned along the way, and hopefully to help others
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And too, I hope this helps inspire others to get involved.
I know there are others who are more knowledgable than I.
And please, please please, Everyone ... add your further comments and join the discussion.
And please do not forget to add PHOTOs of Passage Quilts you have made!!
Thank you!
Last edited by QuiltE; 08-01-2012 at 06:51 AM.