Documenting Projects with Labels

 

Whether it is a pillow, wall hanging, table runner or quilt, add a label. But what should you include?

Why Label Quilts & Projects? 

Jungle Buddies

We may not think about how long some of the items that we make will last, but it is important to document your works of heart.

Vintage Deer
Painted Poinsettias

Thankfully, many of our ancestors did label their quilts, giving us great insight into our history.  

Sea Buddies

Don't forget about other projects that can easily become heirlooms, like picture books and totes.

Anatomy of a Label 

Car Buddies ITH Book

To preserve the legacy of the piece, here are a few of the things you should include on your label:

• The name of the project.
• The reason it was made – birthday, wedding, holiday?
• The person who pieced/embroidered the item.
• The person who quilted the piece.
• Date and place it was completed.
• Fabric and batting content.
• Size. Other details to add:
• Age of the maker.
• Techniques used.
• Fabric line and designer.
• Cost to make or purchase.
• Appraisal value.
• Signature of the maker.
• A personal message. 

Chutes and Letters
Airplane Adventures

Originally, labels would have been hand embroidered. With today’s embroidery machines, we can easily stitch them.

Snow Buddies

Labels can be easily created on fabric scraps and stitched or appliqued using small fonts.

• Use a light coordinating color fabric so that it is easy to read.
• Use a small font that is clean and easy to read.
• Use a small needle (60-65) and thin thread (65 wt.)
• Make it square and choose an applique shape that complements your project.

Feathered Flowers 

How do you label your quilts and projects?

Debbie Henry
Sew Inspired by Bonnie