[quote=Dmacc502]I just became interested in quilting. I plan to start my first quilt soon. I've been reading a lot on the subject. I have a question I can't find an answer to. My grown daughters just lost their Father, and they want me to use his shirts to make a quilt. I know this will be different than using material. Any tips?[/quo

If the shirts are 100% cotton, you have no problem. Use the shirt material as any other cotton. If you want to make a tshirt quilt using his favorite tshirts, use a iron on stabilizer on the back of the square that you have cut out of the tshirt. You can also use the stabilizer on other fabrics in your quilt that are not cotton. This helps them keep their shape. Hope this is some help.

Sorry for your loss. Welcome from Clanton,Alabama

welcome!

I made one for Daughter in law after she lost her father I did try to use cotton fabrics of about the same weight and chose just a simple block pattern she loved it.

I'm sorry for your loss and for your daughters' loss. When I lost my two sons, I made quilts for their children from their father's shirts. One extra touch that I did, was to cut some of the squares or triangles that would catch the brand names of the shirts that they loved so much...you know some shirts have the logo, etc right on the front. I included a small part of a sleeve placket removing the button, but sewing it back on later after quilting. I also included one area of the front buttoning area, one partial pocket, etc. I also machine embroidered "I love you, Daddy" on one block. Just some more ideas for you.

Such nice touches, Thank you.

Scraps & Shirttails: Reuse, Repurpose, Recycls! The Art of "Quilting Green" by Bonnie K. Hunter has lots of good patterns using recycled shirts. Have fun and I'm sure your DDs will love it.

Hello and welcome from West Texas. I don't know enough to offer any advice. I'm sorry for your family's loss. A quilt is a wonderful idea.

Welcome to the board. I'm sorry for the loss of the girls' father. My mon's cousin makes quilts from shirts and ties of deceased loved ones. She made some things from some of my grandfather's things when he passed away. They are treasured keepsakes now. I think it's basically the same as sewing with new fabric. I would just be careful to avoid stretching when pressing. You might find that spray starch adds some body and crispness to the fabric. I like Best Press. You can buy it at any fabric store, even Hancock's and Joann's carry it now. I used to only find it only at LQS. Good luck with your project. Please post pics when you're done, if you can. This board is one of the best places for support and encouragement you''ll ever find. We'll help you too.

Thank you all for the great advise.