What Clothing Can Be Used in a Custom Memory Quilt

Introduction

When I lost my husband Larry, it was his clothing that kept bringing me down. His clothes smelled like him. One sniff and then all the memories would come flooding back. I would find myself with my nose buried in his shirts sobbing.

Clothes still aren’t just clothes. They are a very powerful reminder of your loved one. "This shirt was the one they wore on the day you went to the fair or this sweater you bought for them on a family vacation."

Donating their clothing to a Goodwill or a resale store might not be something you are able to stomach.

A memorial T-shirt quilt — sometimes called a custom memory quilt — is one of the most meaningful things you can make from a loved one's clothing. These quilts are sad and you should expect a good cry when you your quilt back. But over time, a quilt will become a comfort.

Planning a memorial quilt or pillow?
Here are step-by-step directions for ordering your Too Cool quilt or pillow.

What Can You Use in a Custom Memory Quilt?

Generally, we can mix and match any clothing items. With that said, some items work better than others. Below are two list. One of items to consider using and the other of items to think about leaving out.

If you send us something that cannot be used, we will let you know and return it with your quilt. 

Items to Consider Putting in a Custom Memory Quilt

1. T-shirts, Sweatshirts, Jerseys, Tank Tops
2. Dress Shirts, Work Shirts, Polo Shirts
3. Blankets, Quilts
4. Sweatpants, running shorts
5. Blue Jeans  
6. Slacks
7. Logos from Baseball Caps
8. Bathrobes
9. Coats, Gloves, Hats
10. Neckties
11. Photographs transferred onto fabric. Read more here.

Things to Consider Leaving Out of a Custom Memory Quilt

1. Underwear & Bras
2. Socks and hosiery
3. Anything with a bad memory associated with it
4. Jewelry
5. Shoes – with perhaps the exception of soft-soled baby shoes
6. Things that are not soft and that would not be fun to curl up with
7. Something that, if it were you who died, you would not want in a quilt.

You Can Mix and Match Any Fabrics in a Custom Memory Quilt

The one important thing to remember is that when you mix and match fabrics, you must follow the cleaning directions of the most delicate fabric. So, if all the items in your quilt are machine wash, tumble dry, that is how you would care for the quilt.

But, if one item were machine wash, line dry, then you would have to care for the quilt in that manner.

This is most important when you mix dry-clean only items with regular wash and dry clothing. If there is one clothing item that is dry-clean only, then your quilt needs to be dry-cleaned.

You will remember to dry-clean your quilt. But, will someone in two or three generations remember to dry-clean the quilt? The memorial quilt you have made should last generations. Think ahead to the long-term use of this memorial quilt.

Summary

A memorial quilt made from your loved one’s clothing tells their story. We can mix and match just about any cloth item into your quilt. You are more than welcome to send us anything you would like in the quilt. If we are unable to use it, we will let you know and return it with your quilt.