Transforming Wedding Gowns Into Quilts: A Creative Guide

Creating a quilt from a wedding gown is a unique way to commemorate a wedding. Wedding quilts are often a couple's first family heirloom and symbolise the life that the couple will share together. Making a quilt from a wedding gown is a special way to upcycle the dress and create a cherished keepsake. With the right materials, a step-by-step guide, and some creativity, anyone can make a beautiful quilt to last a lifetime.

Choosing the right materials

Fabric Choice:

• Cotton fabric is a popular choice for wedding quilts as it is soft, durable, and easy to work with. It also offers a wide range of colours, patterns, and textures, making it perfect for unique designs.
• Silk fabric adds a luxurious and elegant touch to the quilt. It is lightweight, durable, and has a subtle sheen.
• Linen fabric is a strong and lightweight option. It is highly absorbent and will retain its shape over time. Linen also comes in a variety of colours.
• Polyester fabric is easy to work with, wrinkle-resistant, and offers a broad range of colours and patterns.
• Wool fabric is known for its durability and ability to retain its shape. It is available in various colours and textures, making it versatile for different designs.

Embellishments:

• Ribbons can be used for both function and design. They can be knotted, tied in bows, or used to create unique patterns.
• Buttons add a unique touch and can provide a pop of colour to the quilt.
• Embroidery allows for intricate designs and a personal touch.
• Fabric paint is perfect for adding photos or custom designs to the quilt.
• Sequins create a sparkly and eye-catching design element.

Batting:

When layering the quilt, choose a soft, breathable, and lightweight batting for maximum comfort. Avoid polyester batting, as it can be abrasive and lumpy. Cut the batting to the same size as the quilt top to ensure a flat and even surface.

Thread:

Select threads in a variety of colours that coordinate with the fabrics in your quilt. This will help blend the stitching and create a cohesive look.

Cutting and sewing the fabric

Cutting the Fabric:

• Measure and cut the fabric: Determine the desired size of your quilt. For example, a queen-sized quilt is typically around 90" x 90". Measure and cut your fabric accordingly.
• Design the quilt layout: Arrange the fabric pieces into a pattern or draw out a design on paper. Consider the size of the quilt and the number of squares needed.
• Draw the quilt square: Use a quilting ruler and quilting pins to draw the quilt square on the fabric. You can also trace the pattern onto paper, cut it out, and then transfer it to the fabric.
• Choose a pattern: Select a quilt pattern that fits the wedding theme and your personal preferences. Consider the size, colours, and complexity of the design.
• Cut the fabric: Cut the fabric pieces according to the chosen pattern. If you plan to include embellishments like lace or applique, cut out the necessary pieces for those as well.

Sewing the Fabric:

• Prepare the fabric pieces: Cut out the fabric for the front and back of each quilt square, ensuring they are the same size and shape. Place the fabric pieces together with the right sides facing each other and pin them around the edges.
• Sew the quilt square: Sew around the edges of the quilt square using a straight stitch. Leave a seam allowance, typically around a half-inch, and then trim the excess fabric. Turn the quilt square right side out.
• Assemble the quilt: Lay two pieces of fabric together, right sides together, and stitch along the edges. You can use a sewing machine or hand-sew the pieces together using a basic running stitch. Repeat this process to join all the pieces and form the quilt top.
• Layer the quilt: Once the quilt top is complete, layer it with the batting and backing fabric. Pin these three layers together to prepare for quilting.
• Quilt the layers: Using a quilting stitch, sew through all the layers of the quilt to secure them together. You can do this by hand or using a sewing machine.
• Bind the quilt: Attach binding fabric to the edges of the quilt, stitching it in place. Trim off any excess fabric, and then hand-sew the binding for a neat finish.
• Embellish (optional): If you wish to add embellishments like ribbons, buttons, embroidery, fabric paint, or sequins, do so before completing the final binding.

Remember to take your time and enjoy the process of creating something unique and meaningful from your wedding gown.

Layering and quilting

Preparing the Layers:

Before you begin quilting, it is essential to prepare the layers of your quilt, which include the quilt top, batting, and backing. Here are the steps to follow:

• Cut the Fabric: Using a rotary cutter, ruler, and quilting ruler, cut the fabric for the quilt top, batting, and backing to the desired size. Typically, a queen-sized quilt measures around 90" x 90".
• Design Layout: Experiment with different layouts by arranging the fabric pieces into patterns. You can also draw out patterns on paper before transferring them to the fabric.
• Draw the Quilt Square: Once you've decided on a pattern, use the quilting ruler and quilting pins to draw the quilt square on the fabric. This step ensures accurate placement of the design.
• Choose a Quilt Pattern: Select a pattern that complements the wedding theme. Consider the size, colours, and complexity of the design. Opt for a simple block pattern like a nine patch or explore more intricate options like the log cabin.
• Cut and Sew Fabric: Cut the fabric pieces according to your chosen pattern. Then, sew them together to create the quilt top. This step involves piecing the quilt top together using a sewing machine or hand-stitching.
• Layer the Quilt: After completing the quilt top, it's time to layer the quilt sandwich. Place the backing fabric, facing down, on a flat surface. Then, lay the batting on top, followed by the quilt top, facing up. Ensure that all layers are smooth and aligned.

Quilting Techniques:

Quilting involves stitching through all layers of the quilt to secure them together. Here are some common quilting techniques:

• Straight-Line Quilting: This technique involves stitching straight lines across the quilt, either by hand or using a sewing machine. You can create various patterns, such as grids, diagonals, or channels.
• Loop Quilting: Loop quilting adds a playful element to your quilt. Create loops of different sizes and directions, forming whimsical patterns.
• Floral Quilting: For a more delicate and intricate design, consider floral quilting. Stitch floral patterns, such as flowers, leaves, or vines, across the quilt.
• Hand Quilting: Hand quilting is a traditional method that creates a unique, handcrafted look. Using a needle and thread, stitch through all layers of the quilt by hand, following your chosen pattern.
• Machine Quilting: If you prefer a faster and more efficient approach, machine quilting is an excellent option. Use a sewing machine to stitch the layers together, ensuring that the quilt is properly aligned and tensioned.

Finishing Touches:

After quilting, there are a few final steps to complete your wedding quilt:

• Binding: Attach binding fabric to the edges of the quilt, stitching it in place. Trim off any excess fabric, and hand-sew the binding for a neat finish.
• Embellishments: Personalise your quilt with ribbons, buttons, embroidery, fabric paint, or sequins. These additions can enhance the design and make your quilt stand out.
• Care Instructions: If your quilt is made from machine-washable fabrics, provide care instructions to the recipient. Include information on washing, drying, and any special care needed to preserve the quilt's beauty.

Remember, the layering and quilting process is a creative journey where you can experiment with different techniques and designs. Take your time, and enjoy the process of bringing your wedding quilt to life!

Binding the quilt

Step 1: Calculate and cut your binding strips

Measure the perimeter of your quilt by adding the length and width of your quilt and multiplying that by 2. Then add an extra 10″ to deal with seams and corners. Next, take this measurement and divide it by 40. This will tell you the number of strips you will need to cut. Cut your strips at 2 1/4″ wide.

Step 2: Sew the binding into a continuous length

Place two strips with right sides together at a 90-degree angle. Sew them together at a 45-degree angle across the diagonal. Sewing mitered seams like this helps distribute the bulk. If you are using solid fabric, you can use a pin or piece of tape to designate the right side. Be sure to trim the starting edge of your binding at a 45-degree angle, too.

Step 3: Press the binding

Press the binding wrong sides together along the entire length.

Step 4: Attach the binding to the quilt

Trim off the excess backing and batting before you attach your binding. Starting at least 6″ – 8″ away from the corner, place your binding on the front side of the quilt and leave a tail of about 6″ – 8″. Line up the open binding ends with the edge of your quilt. The folded edge should be facing toward the quilt. Stitch the binding onto the front of the quilt with a 1/4″ seam allowance. When you get to a corner, stop stitching 1/4″ away from the corner and sew off the corner. Take the quilt off the machine and fold the binding up and away from the quilt. Keep the edge of the binding in line with the edge of the quilt. Bring the binding back down, creating a tuck of fabric underneath. This will form the miter on the front of the quilt. Starting from the edge of the quilt, stitch the next side of the binding down until you reach the next corner and repeat this process for all four corners. Leave an ending tail of 6″ – 8″ of binding. Trim off the excess, leaving a few inches of overlap to work with. Open up the end of the binding and place the beginning tail inside it. Using the cut and angled end as a guide, lightly mark a line right up next to it. Then cut 1/2″ away from this measurement to account for seam allowances on both ends. Put the two tail ends right sides together, and sew with a 1/4″ seam to complete the continuous loop of binding. Close up the binding and finish stitching it down on the front of the quilt.

Step 5: Secure with clips

Secure the binding to the back of the quilt with clips before you begin hand-stitching it down.

Step 6: Hand-stitch the binding on the back

Thread several needles with the same thread you used to sew on the binding. Clip off about 18″ of thread to use at a time. Wrap the thread around the needle three times and pull it to the end of the thread to create a quilter’s knot. Tuck the knot underneath the binding, then grab a bite of the backing of the quilt and then a bite of the binding to complete each stitch. Continue forming each stitch by bringing the needle in behind each previous stitch and pushing it out ahead of the last stitch. Pull the thread slightly taut as you go. When you get to the corners, be sure to sew them closed. Take a few stitches on the back to close the miter. Push the needle through to the front, stitch the front of the miter closed, then push the needle back through to the back again.

Adding embellishments

• Ribbons: Use ribbons to tie the quilt together and create a special design. You can knot them, tie them in bows, or even use them to make patterns.
• Buttons: Buttons can add a unique touch to the quilt's design and bring a pop of colour.
• Embroidery: Embroider intricate designs on the quilt for a personal touch.
• Fabric paint: Add photos or designs to the quilt with fabric paint.
• Sequins: Create a sparkly design with sequins to make the quilt stand out.
• Lace: Use lace to embellish and add a delicate touch to the quilt.
• Beads: Beads can be used to add texture and sparkle to the quilt.
• Appliqué: Include appliqué in your quilt to enhance its visual appeal.
• Crazy quilting: Consider exploring the art of crazy quilting, which involves free-form stitching and the use of various fabrics and embellishments.
• Personal touches: Incorporate special elements such as snippets of the bridesmaid dresses or embroidery with meaningful messages.

Frequently asked questions