Are you looking for a creative way to upcycle keepsakes and preserve memories? I help people turn meaningful items into custom memory quilts that tell their story. If you’ve been holding onto old linens, baby items, or household fabrics and wondering what to do with them, this post is for you.
When most people think of memory quilts, they immediately think of t-shirts or baby clothes, and those are great options. But the beauty of a memory quilt is that it’s deeply personal. It can include any fabric that holds emotional value, even if it’s not clothing. Over the years, I’ve helped families create quilts using all kinds of upcycled materials—items that were once sitting in drawers or closets, now stitched into something comforting, beautiful, and lasting.
Here are five unexpected things you can use to make a memory quilt, besides clothing:
1. Pillowcases and Bedsheets
Linens often carry rich memories. Maybe it’s a cartoon pillowcase from childhood or a floral bedsheet from your grandmother’s guest room. These fabrics are typically soft, well-worn, and filled with sentimental value—perfect for quilt blocks that evoke a sense of familiarity and comfort.
2. Baby Blankets
Baby blankets are more than just soft—they’re filled with emotion. Whether it’s a newborn’s hospital swaddle or a favorite blankie from toddler years, these pieces can add a warm, nostalgic touch to your quilt.
3. Uniforms and Aprons
Uniforms and aprons tell the story of someone’s work, service, or passion. Whether it’s a military uniform, nurse scrubs, a scout sash, or a kitchen apron, these pieces add depth and meaning to a quilt, honoring a person’s journey.
4. Towels and Washcloths
Towels might seem like an unusual choice, but they’re great for texture. I’ve worked with beach towels from family vacations, monogrammed hand towels, and baby bath cloths—all of which bring a unique personality and memory to a quilt.
5. Home Décor Fabric
Curtains, tablecloths, or even old couch covers can be full of personal history. These fabrics bring in memories of the home itself—meals shared, holidays celebrated, or quiet moments in a favorite room.
If it can be stitched, it can be quilted. If it holds meaning, it deserves to be part of something new. I’d love to help you upcycle your keepsakes into a one-of-a-kind quilt that tells your story. If you’re in the Atlanta area, please reach out and let’s start designing memories quilt together.