Memorial
Video: Lori Mason on Quilting Memories
Details and Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Memorial Quilt?
A Memorial Quilt honors the life of someone special and is made from his/her clothing or other keepsake fabrics.
Do you work with clients long-distance?
All the time.
Which types of fabrics can and can't you use in your Memorial Quilts?
I have found t-shirt fabric and other stretch knits to be problematic; the integrity of the pattern is difficult to maintain, so I avoid those. Otherwise, it really depends on the end use of the quilt. Wall hangings are more forgiving when combining different types of fabrics like thin silks, rayon, etc. Functional bed quilts do better with stable fabrics like cotton, linen, and lightweight wool.
Do I have to supply all of the material for a Memorial Quilt?
No. Many of my quilts have been a blend of fabrics that I have received from clients and fabrics that I have in stock or have purchased to enhance specific design elements. Sometimes there’s not enough clothing material submitted to piece together a border for a larger quilt, so I might propose using one of my linens or wools to frame the pieced body of the quilt.
How do I prepare the fabrics/clothing I send to you?
I ask that ALL fabric, especially clothing, be washed before you send it. This may include dry-cleaning certain fabrics according to their care instructions.
How do I choose a quilt pattern?
You may choose from any pattern you see in the Memorial Quilt Gallery, or you may work with me on a custom pattern. Likewise, if there is a pattern you like anywhere else on my website, we can discuss its viability. It is important to note that the same quilt pattern looks completely different from quilt to quilt based on the highly individualized groups of fabrics each person supplies.
Is it possible to get a Memorial Quilt made from a pattern in one of your other quilt sections?
Absolutely. Pricing depends on which pattern you use with your keepsake fabrics.
I can't decide whether to order my Memorial Quilt as a wall hanging or a functional bed quilt.
This decision is a personal one and needs to be given due thought: some people love the idea of being literally wrapped up with the memories of a loved one, others prefer those memories encapsulated in a wall piece that they can walk by every day. I am happy to talk you through your decision-making process if you’re unsure.
What is the average time it takes to complete a memorial quilt?
12-16 weeks on average. Memorial Quilts require time-intensive work that involves the careful deconstruction of special garments and an individualized reconstruction process. Once the quilt top and back are complete, I work with Nancy Stovall, a highly respected machine quilter, to quilt the layers together.
How do I care for my quilt?
Quilts that use primarily cotton, linen, and some blends may be laundered in a front loading, tumble washer only. Cold water, gentle cycle, air dry. Quilts that may include various combinations of synthetic fabrics should be dry cleaned only. **All fabrics should be laundered according to their instructions before being shipped to me.
Ordering
Ordering a MEMORIAL QUILT always begins with a conversation via e-mail or telephone. It is important for me to gain some understanding of you, the loved one you are honoring, and the types of fabrics you would like to use in your quilt. From there, we discuss what quilt pattern would be a good fit as well as its size and end-use. There are times when it’s easier for me to see the actual fabrics first before discussing which quilt patterns would be best. Pricing For pre-established quilt patterns, as seen in the Memorial Quilt Gallery, prices range from $600 for a small wall-hanging to $3,200 for a king-size bed quilt. I will send you a quote after we discuss your specific preferences. For any CUSTOM-DESIGNED quilt pattern, there is an additional $250 non-refundable design fee. Memorial Pillows (a great option when there are numerous recipients – everyone gets their own pillow.) $125 for a 16″x16″ pillow $175 for a 20″x20″ pillow Terms PAYMENT: 50% deposit required with each order, becoming non-refundable 7 days after order confirmation. Final payment due once you have received your quilt. DELIVERY: Standard delivery is 14-16 weeks from receipt of deposit. SHIPPING: All packages will be shipped via UPS Ground or USPS Priority. Shipping costs will be added to final invoice. FINAL QUILT dimensions may vary slightly in production. PRICES are subject to change.
Recent Collaborations
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Tom’s Improv
Tom was an actor and a teacher who was passionate about his craft.
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Justin’s Grid 1
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Justin’s Grid 2
Justin loved his family and was a dedicated public servant.
Justin’s Penny 1
Justin loved his family and was a dedicated public servant.
Justin’s Penny 2
Justin loved his family and was a dedicated public servant.
Justin’s Penny 3
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Justin’s Penny 4
Justin loved his family and was a dedicated public servant.
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Rich’s Tree I
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James was a hard-working, compassionate man.
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James was a hard-working, compassionate man.
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James’ Flower Garden
James was a hard-working, compassionate man.
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James was a hard-working, compassionate man.
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James was a hard-working, compassionate man.
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A tree to remember.
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Clyde & Margaret’s Square Dance
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Joan’s Pink Lady 1
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