The Art of Making a Home for Antique, Vintage Collectible, and Leftover Quilt Blocks

Quilt blocks hold immense history and nostalgia. Whether you have inherited a collection of antique quilt blocks, stumbled upon vintage collectibles, or found yourself with leftover blocks from a recent project, there are numerous creative ways to make them a part of your home. In this article, we explore various ideas on how to incorporate these treasured quilt blocks into your living space, turning them into beautiful decor elements that showcase both their craftsmanship and unique stories.

1. Display Quilt Blocks as Wall Art

One of the most striking ways to showcase your quilt blocks is by turning them into wall art. A simple and elegant solution is to mount each block in a shadow box frame. This not only protects the quilt block from damage but also creates a stunning display piece.

When selecting a shadow box frame, opt for one with a deep enough space to accommodate the thickness of the quilt block. Choose a frame color that complements the colors and patterns of the block itself. Once framed, hang the quilt blocks on a wall in a visually pleasing arrangement. Experiment with different orientations and patterns to create an eye-catching display.

Orphan Block Quilts: Making a Home for Antique, Vintage, Collectible and Leftover Quilt Blocks

by Tricia Lynn Maloney (Kindle Edition)

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	7457 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	130 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE

2. Create a Quilted Table Runner

If you have a collection of smaller quilt blocks or leftover blocks, you can repurpose them into a beautiful quilted table runner. This project allows you to incorporate multiple blocks into one cohesive design.

Start by selecting the blocks you want to feature on your table runner. Pay attention to color schemes and patterns to ensure they harmonize well together. Sew the blocks together, adding sashing or additional fabric strips in between each block to create a visually appealing layout. Finally, quilt the runner to enhance its durability and design.

3. Transform Quilt Blocks into Cushion Covers

Cushion covers are a creative way to display and utilize your quilt blocks. Choose blocks that match your existing home decor or ones that stand out as statement pieces.

To create cushion covers, simply sew the quilt blocks onto appropriately sized pieces of fabric. If needed, add a backing fabric to enclose the cushion. Don't forget to leave an opening to insert the cushion filling, and then neatly sew it closed. Your quilt block cushion covers will bring a unique touch of elegance and comfort to any room.

4. Craft a Quilted Wall Hanging

For those who prefer a larger quilt project, consider transforming your quilt blocks into a beautiful wall hanging. This allows you to showcase multiple quilt blocks in a cohesive and visually appealing arrangement.

To create a quilted wall hanging, plan your layout by arranging the blocks on a design wall or floor. Experiment with different configurations until you find a pleasing arrangement. Sew the blocks together, adding sashing and border fabrics as desired. Finally, quilt the wall hanging to provide structure and enhance its aesthetic appeal.

5. Incorporate Quilt Blocks into Pillows

If you have numerous quilt blocks and want to create an assortment of decor items, pillows offer a versatile option. Select blocks that complement each other or go for mismatched patterns to add an eclectic touch to your space.

To make quilt block pillows, sew the blocks onto appropriately sized fabric pieces, just like in the cushion cover project. Once sewn, stuff the pillows with cushion filling and neatly sew the opening closed. Arrange the pillows on your couch or bed to instantly add charm and character to the room.

Your antique, vintage collectible, or leftover quilt blocks have immense value beyond their historical significance. By incorporating them into your home decor, you not only celebrate their craftsmanship but also infuse your living space with a sense of warmth and heritage. Whether you choose to display them as wall art, create table runners, cushion covers, wall hangings, or pillows, these quilt blocks have the power to transform any room into a captivating and cozy sanctuary.

Orphan Block Quilts: Making a Home for Antique, Vintage, Collectible and Leftover Quilt Blocks

by Tricia Lynn Maloney (Kindle Edition)

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	7457 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	130 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE

Make a home for your orphaned blocks!

Orphaned blocks can find their way into any quilter’s life. Whether they are leftover from an unfinished project, collectible blocks found at a garage sale, or even antique blocks discovered in your great-aunt’s attic, Tricia Lynn Maloney will teach you how to care for your orphan blocks, and make a home for them.

Orphan Block Quilts includes:

*14 projects, with 11 variations. From full-size bed quilts to table runners, these projects incorporate blocks from the 1880s to the 1950s.

*Instructions on caring for your orphan blocks. Find out about the common problems you might encounter with your orphans, and how to work with them.

*Advice on designing a setting. Not only does Tricia provide guidance on creating companions blocks and finding companion fabric, she also offers insight on how she overcame the design challenges of each project.

*The story behind each quilt. In addition to historical information about various fabrics and blocks, Tricia shares the stories of two of the blockmakers, providing a precious glimpse of the lives sewn into the seams of the blocks.

If you don’t have any orphan blocks, Tricia gives you advice on locating potential sources, whether from your own family or online. And it’s easy to substitute brand-new blocks, and make a new quilt from the ground up. Check out the 11 variations in the book, where Tricia did just that!

Whether your orphan blocks are antique, vintage, collectible or simply leftover from a recent project, you can sew the perfect setting that will let the blocks shine!