I am a new member. So glad I found someone who likes to share this activity. I am on my 4th tie quilt. They are all made from the generations of the men in my family to new borns in the family. I do wash the ties first. Put them in a dryer on low. This is only if you are going to actually use the quilt and not hang it on wall.I take them apart, and iron them flat removing the muslim lining. I hand sew the ties into designs as an appliqué, as well as embroidery details.
My designs have included Kites, a dragonfly, shimmering cross, and now I'm trying a peacock. If anyone knows how I could detail the bird face, I'd so appreciate it.