Hello, quilt-loving friends!
I want to talk about something near and dear to every quilter’s heart: the quilt label. We pour so much love, time, and creativity into each quilt, and a personalized label is the perfect finishing touch to make it truly special! A hand-embroidered label adds a charming, timeless feel that elevates your quilt into a cherished heirloom.
Whether you’re gifting your quilt or keeping it close to home, a little label at the back tells its story. Let’s dive into making one together!
Step 1: Gather Your Supplies
You’ll need just a few simple tools:
• Fabric for the label (a cotton or linen blend works great)
• Embroidery hoop to keep the fabric taut
• Embroidery floss (choose a color that complements your quilt)
• Embroidery needle (a size 5 or 7 works well)
• Water-soluble pen or pencil to trace your design
• Sticky water-soluble stabilizer (optional but makes transferring designs a breeze!)
• Computer and printer (optional, for printing out your design)
• Iron and scissors
Step 2: Decide on the Details
Think about what you’d like to include on your label. Here are a few ideas:
• Quilt name (I love giving each quilt a name – it adds so much personality!)
• Maker’s name (That’s you!)
• Date completed
• A little note (This could be a message of love or the inspiration behind your quilt.)
Sketch out your text and any designs on paper or, if you’d like a more polished look, type it out on your computer. Using a simple font can give a lovely, clean look that’s easy to embroider.
Step 3: Print Your Design and Use Sticky Water-Soluble Stabilizer
Once you’re happy with the layout, print your design on paper first to double-check sizing. Then, print it directly onto a sticky water-soluble stabilizer sheet. Place the sticky side onto your label fabric, smoothing out any bubbles.
This stabilizer will hold your design in place while you stitch, and the best part? You can rinse it away once you’re finished!
Step 4: Start Stitching!
This is the fun part! For hand-embroidered lettering, I find the backstitch to be a perfect choice – it’s easy to control and gives your label a lovely, consistent look. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can add little details with a French knot or stem stitch.
Take it slow and enjoy the process. You’re adding a little piece of yourself to this quilt, after all.
Step 5: Rinse Away the Stabilizer and Press
Once your embroidery is complete, gently rinse your label in lukewarm water to dissolve the stabilizer. Let it dry completely, then press it with a warm iron. Now you’ve got a clean, beautiful label ready for your quilt.
Step 6: Attach the Label to Your Quilt
Position your label on the back of your quilt, usually in a bottom corner, and hand-stitch it in place with small, even stitches. This is the finishing touch to make your quilt complete!
And there you have it – a beautiful hand-embroidered label that captures the heart and history of your quilt. I can’t wait to see your creations!
Happy Stitching!
