I hope I know how to ask this question correctly without offending anyone or starting a political discussion. I need to make a baby quilt for a couple from China.

Background: my DH's company sent him to China 4-5 times per yr. He became very good friends with a young engineer and to this day they still are even tho DH is no longer employed. DH even went to his wedding.

Problem: we just found out they are expecting their first (and due to China's one-child policy) prob only child. I want to make a baby quilt for them.

Question: does anyone know what are typical "baby colors" or themes for babies in China? They are a very educated and well-to-do hard working couple so are very "modern". I don't know if some colors are taboo or offensive or shouldn't be used for babies.

If anyone has any ideas or can help me out I'd really appreciate it. In my opinion, babies are babies are babies!! I just don't want to do the wrong thing.

Thanks-Jan

google Chinese quilts
there is a site 100 Good Wishes Quilts that is all about making quilts for babies

if I knew someone from another country and they made something special for me, I would want it to be representitive of their customs, etc. my 2 cents. :-P

Please keep us posted on this in case others of us face the same dilemna! I can't wait to see the pics of the baby quilt when you get it done!

They're either going to fold up the quilt and put it away as a keepsake for the child or they're going to display it and tell their friends that it was made by the wife of an American friend as a special gift for the baby. Either way, I think you should make what YOU would consider the best baby quilt ever made.

I hope they let the baby use it and promote international friendship by showing it to their families and friends. We need more of that in today's world.

What a wonderful thing to do. Keep us posted on what you decide.

I, too, would want to be sure not to use anything that might offend tradition.

Jan, you stated your question respectfully, courteously and perfectly. It is very important to respect the traditions of other countries. I feel you are being wise to know before you sew.
Are you shipping it to China?
If so, call your air freight carrier or the post office to ask what is and is not accepted into that country.
As well, ask what the Customs duty rate is.
Ask if you are able to pay the duty or if only the recipient can pay it.
I didn’t search long so there are more sites out there. These two have a gift giving section with important information on gift giving.
Chinese Culture, Etiquette, Customs, Manners and Protocol
http://www.kwintessential.co.uk/reso...y-profile.html
This link includes a section for gift giving that has some important information in it.
Chinese Customs, Manners and Etiquette
http://factsanddetails.com/china.php...=4&subcatid=19
The link also includes a section for gift giving that has some important information in it.
As I thought about it more I did this search: baby gift customs in china. I got lots of hits and would encourage you to take a look.
I feel you are being wise to know before you sew.
Regards, Dorothy

I know that the color red is good luck to them and very special. Whatever you decide to do, I am sure they will treasure it! Post a picture when you are done.

very nice of you, can't wait to see the finished quilt