Need Help with Best Way to Hang a Heavy Memory Quilt
 

I am creating a large memory quilt for my niece. The finished size is 79" x 100" (approximately a dbl size). I chose to do a simple 7.5" square block pattern with 4 blocks equaling 15". I pieced and sewed the squares and then sent it to be quilted by a local long arm company. I had a border printed around each photo and I'm attaching the photos by sewing around each one at the border line and then using a blanket stitch to sew the edge down to the quilt.

I'm now adding the photos, which I have had printed by Spoonflower on poplin cotton. I have 31 photos to sew onto my quilted quilt. When I received the photos, I realized that you could see the quilt pattern through the photos. To fix this issue, I used 2 layers of light weight stabilizer behind each photo.

As I began to add the photos, I realized that the quilt was going to be quite heavy when the photos are all attached. I decided to sew the binding on the quilted quilt before I continued adding the photos.

My niece wants to use wooden clamps to hang this quilt on the wall. It will hang about 30 feet high.

My question is: With a "wall hanging" this heavy, would it be smart to sew on a rod pocket just in case they decide to use a rod. My concern is the height of the wall hanging on the wall and the heaviness of the quilt.

Any input regarding a large, heavy wall hanging from this community will be greatly appreciated.

Attachment 634478

This is a problem I've never really been directly impacted by... I've certainly added pockets before, typically for hanging in a show, but I make my quilts to be washed and I have been asked to help with hanging solutions before.

I would add a pocket if the quilt is going to be hung up, it will give other options than the clamps should the decor or location change. It won't hurt anything to have the pocket being there unused.

I would suggest instead of a continuous one that you split it into a couple sections so that middle supports can be added, wall studs are commonly spaced 16" apart but where that is in relation to the wall and the quilt may not be so ideal. So I'd think about 3 segments maybe? One in the middle with a reasonably large gap on either side and one on each end.

A quilt this large and with this much weight is going to need more support than clamps. Maybe solid clamps might work but you want the pictures to hang smoothly with no ripples. Ripples will cause distortion of faces, etc.

I would put on a rod pocket and make spaces for support rods across the top. You've done a beautiful job and want it to display well.

Need Help with Best Way to Hang a Heavy Memory Quilt
 

Ice Blossom, Tartan and Nanna Up North!

Thank you for your replies. You have given me the support that I need to continue with this quilt and add a rod pocket. I have two pieces ready, however, with your advice and support, I will do at least three.

You have made my day. Thank you again. Yolanda aka littlebitoheaven!

You did a beautiful job incorporating the pictures! Just curious…any idea how much it weighs?

https://www.hangitdangit.com/faq.php

This will hold 40 lbs. I have one of these, and I am pleased with it, but my quilt doesn't weigh much! It really does hang level with one hook. It does need a sleeve.

that is nice i like. great job

I would always put on the sleeve. Even if it goes well with the hangers the sleeve could be a back up and if it is there already you are safer.

I tend to make two sleeves now for the top. the hanger mentioned clips onto the quilt and tends to make the center pucker. with an opening for that clamp or any middle support, the quilt has a better chance of being nice and straight. I second using a curtain rod for hanging your quilt though. sturdy!!