Making a Whole Cloth Quilt from Antique Table Cloth
Hello
I need some advice regarding hand quilting a wholecloth quilt.
Many years ago, in a house we had just bought, I found an antique whitework table cloth made of very fine cotton. In the centre is a padded monogram (and the three initials match my own so this has to be some sort of sign!); and these are framed by a “wreath” of very delicate pulled thread work. In the corners are pulled thread work motifs of ribbons and bows. The condition is so perfect I don’t think it has ever been used on the table.
The cloth is large enough for a king size quilt. I plan to back the sections just behind the pulled thread work with a coloured fabric to highlight the motifs and to prevent the wadding/batting showing.
It will be quilted in a hoop. I have a general idea which pen to use for marking out the quilting lines but…
What batting/wadding to use – as it is so large, I don’t want it too heavy. I prefer natural fibres and a relatively low loft. As for future laundering it will have to be sent out as my washer won’t take anything that large.
What kind of backing fabric – plain or pattered; white or colour?
What brand of quilting thread – I have hand quilted two quilts before (1 whole and 1 patchwork) with YLI Glazed thread and I do not like it. It is like quilting with fishing line and in this instance it would be too thick. Guttermann quilting thread isn’t great either.
Quilting Motifs and design – Thinking about keeping it simple to let the embroidery shine but just a plain grid is too boring? What do you think?
I am setting myself the goal to do it now that winter is here and get it done by the summer.
Any tips, hints, suggestions, recommendations will be gratefully received.
Many thanks
HettyB