Memory Quilt questions
 

I am in process of making a memory quilt of clothes from my brother-in-law, who passed recently and I have a couple questions. There is a variety of different fabrics and thicknesses (t-shirst, plaid shorts, jackets, robes, etc.). 1. Should I add interfacing to all pieces, or just to the knit fabrics? In order to have enough 10-1/2" blocks, I am taking the fabrics from two similar t-shirts and making a 4-patch. 2. I am unsure if I should join the squares and then add the interfacing? Or add the interfacing first? I am afraid if I add the interfacing first that it will be too stiff at the seams. 3. What is the best fusible interfacing - one that will be soft after washing so the quilt is cuddly and comforting?

Thanks much (in advance...LOL) for all your help. Rose

IMHO, you should interface the t-shirts before you start cutting them. Otherwise, the edges will stretch, curl and start to unravel. I use the Pellon Shir-Tailor interfacing for my t-shirt quilts. It feels stiff when you cut it, but once it is fused to the t-shirt, it is much softer. The cuddle factor will depend on what type of batting you use. Wool is always good. The Crooked Nickel website also has a fusible grid for 10" squares plus 2" sashing that helps make quilts like this much easier to put together. There's a video tutorial on the website.

One way to much the quilt more interesting is to use pockets, sleeve plackets, etc. in your blocks.

I always use a very lightweight fusible non-woven interfacing (pellon from joannes is inexpensive & works well) - it is very lightweight (like a dryer sheet) so does not add bulk to your seams- keeps everything square and neat so no stretching. I would interface any fabric that may stretch, or fray a lot- and press the interfacing to the backs of the fabrics before cutting, definitely before any construction- since it is used to keep the fabric from stretching out of shape- give stability.

I am in the middle of a big memory quilts project myself, and I put interfacing just about everything - except bluejeans. I used Pellon Featherweight... but this is my first time using interfacing so I am far from an expert. But I can tell you that after I ironed on the interfacing the tshirts are actually more "soft and cuddly" because they have some body to them.. they did not get stiff in anyway. My seams did not get bulky at all

I interfaced before I cut my squares and I am glad that I did... because as others have said the curling of the edges on the tshirts.

Good luck.. I am sure your quilt will turn out great!

Marti Michelle has a 1 inch iron on fusible web that you could use in the seams around the edges of the interfacing. You could cut the interfacing a little smaller than your block and then iron the fusible web. Then there won't be as much bulk in the seams. Just a thought :)