size to make quilt
 

What size is good for quilts that will be used when having chemo treatments?

"lap" sized is what I used. That was for a recliner type chair.

I make mine 40-41.5" wide so that I can use only 1 width of fabric for the backing. The length varies by the pattern... somewhere between 50-60". The infusion center where I donate likes this size. You might want to check with the cancer center to see what they like if you are making quilts for donation.

Is for someone in particular or just a general size you're asking about? If someone specific, make it long enough to cover them from neck to tucked-in-under feet and around their sides in a chair. Those rooms get cold. No one wants to fight their covers when fighting illness.

zozee....I just need a general size.

Kitsie....what measurements would be considered lap size?

I made mine that were gifted 50" x 62"... but I don't think there is a hard set rule

I made one for a friend that ended up being 63 x 63".

All I know is those rooms are cold. My sister's friend is going through it right now and my sis told me the room is freezing. I'd say a large lap size.

Why are the chemo treatment rooms always so cold, I wonder? Does chemo make people hot?

I donate large lap size for chemo. 40"x50" or so...

We make our prayer quilts 45x54 and many are used for chemo. The width may have to be adjusted down a bit as fabric is getting narrower and I like to be able to use it wihout piecing.

No, they have to keep the rooms colder to prevent as much contamination as possible. Same for the OR.

Same for the doctor's office. I swear I'm going to take a sweater Friday. My friend came out of dialysis freezing. They chilled the blood as they washed it.

As a chemo nurse for 35 years, I can attest to the fact that those rooms are not really that cold. The cold sensation comes when the patient is lying or sitting still, having I.V. fluids running into their veins which hydrates them, thus cooling them, and the fact that many of the I.V. drugs/fluids have been in the refrigerator. In addition, many of the pre-meds given to prevent nausea can cause a lowering of the blood pressure, which also helps to "cool" the patient. If the nurses are wearing sweaters, Then the room is too cold.

If you know the person ask them what size they would like. We asked a coworker what size blanket she would like for chemo and she told us "something big enough to wrap myself up in cause the chair is chilly!"

I can attest to being so cold while undergoing chemo treatments. Where I had it done, they provided blankets that were warmed. What a nice thought to make a quilt. Just need something to cover you up from neck to feet. I would think 40-45 inches wide would be plenty.

I bought a crib size batting (45 x 60) to practice FMQ on and it seems to be a nice size for a lap quilt.

How about making a little pocket on one end into which to tuck feet. That would keep it in place.

I have a beautiful quilt that some friends went together and made me for when I had chemo. The length is more important than the width as you're in a recliner so if it's wide enough to cover you that's fine. I liked mine because it went from my neck to around my feet. You don't want a huge one as it is too heavy to manage and lug to chemo each time. Now my quilt gives me great comfort to snuggle up at home with.

My friends love the soft, warm flannel I used as backing.

I personally wouldn’t want a pocket for my feet. I can see it being warm, yes, but A trip hazard or something that might be frustrating if they happened to get the quilt upsidedown. when you’re strong and healthy, turning a blanket around is no big deal, but when sick, tired, weak, bedridden it takes a lot of effort.

I would judge the width and length by the person I'm making it for. If she's of average height and body I would make it 50 something " by 70 something. I would also be sensitive to her feelings about a quilt with cancer related fabrics. Some people want a quilt that lifts their spirits; not remind them of their cancer.

I have 2 days to get 1 made so am using a layer cake(6x7) with fleece or minky on the back, no batting. It needs get packed next wk for my trip to MI for AQS & family visit. I will be adding a 3-4 in strip on top & bottom to make sure it is long enough. If I make it long enough for myself I know it will fit my cousin.:)

When I think of a "throw" size, I think of 60" X 72". 72" is 6 feet.

"Lap" size would be about 45" X 60," but I don't think that would tuck under the person's feet. 60" is 5 feet.

Also, you might want to consider a matching/coordinating tote to make it easier to bring to treatments. If possible a slippery lining, like satin, jacket lining etc. will make it much easier to take out & put in.

Consider the size of the recipient. Just finished one that is 60" x 72" for my son-in-law who is a big guy. Admittedly, size was also driven by the pattern.

Thanks for all the helpful information and the tips and suggestions. Already started the quilt and think I will go for a 60X 72" size.