we had quilts from the 30s and 40s that were made by grandmothers and relatives. they were mostly "birthed", with heavy wool battings. to prevent wear and tear on them, my mom's ritual was to cover the top, every year, with a length of sheeting, so dad's whiskers wouldn't wear them out. i got lots of practice with basting stitches, helping her. i'd forgotten about that... thanks for the random memory!