Quilt Labels

Whether it is a full sized quilt, lap quilt or wall hanging, quilt labels are a must!! Future generations will try to track down who made these quilts. As quilters, we go through old quilts passed down to us and wonder who made it when a signature is not on the back. So label it!

I usually machine embroider the quilt name, my name, the date, who it is for and a coordinating design if possible on a piece of fabric. I then cut it down to the size I need. If I get this completed before the quilt is layered together and quilted, I attach it using a decorative stitch. If the quilt is completed, I turn the raw edges under and hand tack it on the back where I want it.

I have on occasion when I am running out of time and it is a small project, just used fabric pens and written the data on a corner on the back. This should be done even if you attach a separate label. That way if the label gets torn off or the quilt gets stolen and someone tries to claim your work, the true author's name will still be there. You can't erase ink! Write the info in ink under the attached label and it won't show that you have the same info twice!

I thought this label information was helpful from McCall's Quilting. Using freezer paper makes it much easier to trace and cut a fun label design!

Always identify your quilts. Attach a label that tells who, when, where, and any other pertinent information you may want to add.
Reduce or enlarge the design, using a copy machine, to make any size label.
Trace motif onto fabric of your choice using a permanent, waterproof pen. Trace outside line using a washable marking pencil of your choice.
Cut fabric 1/4" away from traced line for seam allowance.
Tip: Cut a piece of freezer paper larger than the label. Press paper, using a dry iron, to the wrong side of the fabric, shiny side against fabric. Trace the design. The paper will help to make the process of tracing the lines easier. After design has been traced, remove the paper.