memory quilt

Memory & Bereavement Quilts from Meaningful Clothing

Introduction

Loosing someone is never easy. If you have shirts, polos, sweaters, or other clothing with sentimental value, you can turn them into a memory quilt that honors your loved one’s life while preserving precious memories.What Makes a Bereavement Quilt Different

What Makes a Bereavement Quilt Different

Here are some items that usually can be used in a quilt that maybe you never thought of:
  • Jackets
  • boxer shorts
  • ties (while we don’t do specific “tie” quilts we will incorporate 1 or 2 ties in these quilts).  
  • nightgowns
  • pajamas
  • blankets
Some materials change the look—like dress shirts without prints—but most often, the focus is the story behind each piece, not appearance.   


Design Considerations & Best Practices 

  • Stabilized fabrics: Materials like dress shirts or knits may need an interfacing to prevent stretching

  • Layout flexibility: Depending on the items, quilts may take on a softer, patchwork-style look

  • No limits on meaningful items: Quilts have been made from fine knit sweaters, pajamas, polos, and even nylon jackets.

Healing Through Quilting

Creating a memory quilt can bring real comfort:

One woman shared her quilt made from her husband’s sweaters—she said that while no one can bring him back, she treasures wrapping herself in the quilt he made.  Another woman shared:  I have two memory quilts... it’s so comforting to know their hands wrap around me when those quilts are around my shoulders.”


Who It’s For 

These quilts are meaningful for:

  • Families honoring a parent, spouse, or grandparent

  • Individuals seeking emotional comfort through quilts made from their loved one’s clothing

  • Anyone wanting a personalized keepsake using items beyond traditional t-shirts

 

Ordering Details & What to Expect 

Steps to create your bereavement quilt:

  1. Reserve with $100 deposit using our standard order process

  2. Mail your items—shirts, sweaters, and meaningful fabric pieces—to our studio in Southport, NC

  3. Choose quilt size & style (Traditional, Boxed, Framed, or Economy)

  4. We craft the quilt (6–8 weeks) then you receive remaining balance and shipping invoice

Important note:Certain fabrics—like sequins, leather, or dry-clean-only items—may not be suitable or require special handling.


Why Choose QuiltMyShirts.com? 

  • Over 20 years of experience crafting memory quilts from a wide range of fabrics
  • Handcrafted in Southport, NC using professional materials and stabilizers
  • Compassionate and personalized service — we’ve created thousands of quilts honoring lives

 

FAQ Highlights

Can you use dress shirts or fine knit sweaters?
Yes—we stabilize most them and include them in quilts, though final appearance may vary. Are printed quotes or photo blocks available?
Yes. Add embroidered names, dates, or photos to personalize further.How many clothing items are needed?
Typically 12–42 items depending on quilt size and style. 
This Traditional T‑Shirt Quilt features sweaters. Notice how the sashing and block colors coordinate.
 This quilt was made out of fine knit sweaters. Gloria absolutely loves her quilt. No one can bring her husband back, but she treasures this quilt with his sweaters.     

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