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.) $150 for a 16″x16″ pillow $185 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
Chip’s Tartan 1
Chip was a dedicated fashionista who wasn't afraid to go bold.
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Chip’s Tartan 2
Chip was a dedicated fashionista who wasn't afraid to go bold.
Chip’s Tartan 3
Chip was a dedicated fashionista who wasn't afraid to go bold.
Aurelio’s Chimes
Aurelio believed in the practice of forgiveness.
Tom’s Soliloquy
Tom was an actor and a teacher who was passionate about his craft.
Tom’s Improv
Tom was an actor and a teacher who was passionate about his craft.
Ethan’s Puzzle
Ethan radiated kindness and loved a good puzzle.
Justin’s Grid 1
Justin loved his family and was a dedicated public servant.
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
Justin loved his family and was a dedicated public servant.
Justin’s Penny 4
Justin loved his family and was a dedicated public servant.
Dan the Man
Dan was a Harley-Davidson riding wild man.
Fly Me to the Moon
Rich felt most at peace near the water with his fishing rod in hand.
Rich’s Tree II
Rich felt most at peace near the water with his fishing rod in hand.
Rich’s Tree I
Rich felt most at peace near the water with his fishing rod in hand.
Bob’s Projects
Bob created every manner of brick path and stone wall in the woods around his rural Pennsylvania home.
Mary & Maynard: Two Pines
Mary and Maynard were hard-working seed farmers in Eastern Washington.
Grandma Mia
Mia taught pre-school, loved animals, and was dedicated to her church.
Jack’s Legacy
Jack's sharp wit was evident in his humor and his dedication to analyzing the law.
Tony’s Chevrons
Tony was an author and professor of creative writing.
Tony’s Library
Tony was an author and professor of creative writing.
Tonia’s Hawaiian Garden
Tonia loved flowers and her family.
Grandpa’s Chemistry
Grandpa Eric was a learned man from a different age.
John’s Tree
John was a talented artist and craftsman.
Jack’s Palm
Jack served in Vietnam and survived his time as a POW.
Barbara’s Flower Patch
Barbara spent her life in service to others.
Barbara’s Starburst
Barbara spent her life in service to others.
Barbara’s Penny
Barbara spent her life in service to others.
Michael’s Robes 1
Michael was a fair and dedicated judge.
Michael’s Robes 2
Michael was a fair and dedicated judge.
Michael’s Robes 3
Michael was a fair and dedicated judge.
Al’s Dress Blues
Al served his country and his community for many years.
Al’s Colors
Al served his country and his community for many years.
Luke’s Penny
James was a hard-working, compassionate man.
Jack’s Penny
James was a hard-working, compassionate man.
James’ Stars and Stripes
James was a hard-working, compassionate man.
James’ Log Cabin
James was a hard-working, compassionate man.
James’ Harvest
James was a hard-working, compassionate man.
Michael’s Tune
Michael was a talented musician and dedicated hospice physician.
James’ Flower Garden
James was a hard-working, compassionate man.
James’ Prairie
James was a hard-working, compassionate man.
James’ Petals
James was a hard-working, compassionate man.
James’ Solace
James was a hard-working, compassionate man.
Colin’s Tartan
Colin was committed to the preservation of Africa's big cats and elephants.
Dirck’s Islamic Star
Dirck loved Islamic art and architecture.
Emma’s Tree
A tree to remember.
Lizzie’s Tree
A tree to remember.
Margaret’s Flower Patch
Margaret loved to garden.
Renda’s Red Nova
Renda loved the color red.
Renda’s Silver Orb
Renda was a talented musician.
Clyde & Margaret’s Mesa
Clyde and Margaret were quite a team.
Clyde & Margaret’s Square Dance
Clyde and Margaret were quite a team.
Sam’s Trees
Sam loved to write poetry and song lyrics.
Sam’s Tree II
Sam was committed to protecting the environment.
Sam’s Tree I
Sam had a special connection to the natural world.
Youssef’s Mandala
Youssef was a man of many talents.
Jim’s Sails
Jim loved sailing and the outdoors.
Sorrel’s Flower Patch
Sorrel was a beautiful little girl who left before her time.
Nina’s Gran
Nina's Gran was a devoted caretaker.
Alfredo’s Map
Alfredo was an engineer and always had a project going on his workbench.
Debbie’s Tartan II
Debbie was a strong, passionate woman who had a wry wit.
Frances’ Flower
Frances adored flowers and had immaculate taste in clothing.
Amanda’s Flowers
Amanda loved coloring books. This quilt was inspired by some of her colorings.
Mary’s Fish and Flowers
Mary loved the ocean and the seashore.
Debbie’s Tartan 1
Debbie was a strong, passionate woman who was not afraid to call a spade a spade.
Zadie’s Bow Ties
Zadie was a bow tie kind of guy.
Laura’s Penny
Laura was celebrated for her curious and loving spirit.
Genevieve’s Red Cross
Genevieve was a vibrant, hard-working woman who had a great sense of humor.
Joan’s Pink Lady 2
Joan was a generous member of her community.
Joan’s Pink Lady 1
Joan was a generous member of her community.
Remembering Lewis
Lewis loved his family and enjoyed living life to its fullest.
Remembering Andy
Andy was a professor who loved teaching and inspiring his students.
Norman’s View
Norman was a native of Bermuda who was proud of his family.
Home
Home is where the heart is.
Richard’s Conversations
Richard owned a beautiful hotel in Bermuda.
Shirley’s Pillows
Shirley had a loving family full of strong women.
Starry Night
A contemplative quilt about finding solace in the stars.
Tree
A sweet quilt showing the strength and comfort of a tree form.
Marjorie’s Dance
Marjorie had a great sense of humor and was one tough cookie.
Eva’s Night Out
Eva was an exceptional artist and loved dressing for an occasion.
Eva in the Garden
Eva loved tending her garden and making bouquets from her cut flowers.
Barbara’s Penny
Barbara loved to paint was an accomplished watercolorist.
Diane’s Squares
This quilt is a reconstructed outfit worn by Diane at her wedding.
Eva In New York
Eva loved to shop and acquired an amazing collection of garments over the years.
Ronny’s Ties
Ronny was known for his wry wit.
