Have you ever considered using quilts as part of your outdoor décor? One of my favorite ways to showcase a quilt is by taking it outside. Quilts can be a delightful addition to your garden, patio, or backyard, adding warmth, color, and a touch of whimsy. It can also be a great way to rotate your quilts around your home, allowing the space to feel fresh and new. Plus nothing says "You're welcome here" like a quilt over the front patio chair.
The Sisters Outdoor Quilt show just occured not too long ago, and as I scrolled through their instagram feed, (you can find them on instagram at @sistersoutdoorquiltshow )
I couldn't help but be enamored with all the amazing quilts hanging in the sunshine & blowing in the breeze. So often we think of only displaying our quilts in doors over couches and beds. But there are so many more possibilites for more dynamic and engaging ways to enjoy our quilts. Let’s explore some creative and practical ways to incorporate quilts into your outdoor spaces.
Quilts as Outdoor Canopies
Create a cozy and inviting space in your garden or patio by using quilts as canopies. This not only provides shade but also adds a splash of color and pattern to your outdoor area.
Ideas for Quilt Canopies:
Pergolas and Gazebos: Drape quilts over the top of pergolas or gazebos to create a soft, shaded area. Secure the quilts with clips or ties to keep them in place.
Between Trees: String a strong rope or wire between two trees and drape a quilt over it to create a whimsical canopy. This is perfect for picnics or outdoor gatherings.
Tips for Quilt Canopies:
Weatherproofing: Choose quilts that you don’t mind being exposed to the elements or use weatherproof fabric sprays to protect them from moisture and UV rays.
Secure Fastening: Ensure the quilts are securely fastened to prevent them from blowing away in the wind.
Ideas for Using Quilts on Furniture
Patio Chairs and Benches: Fold quilts neatly and drape them over patio chairs or benches. This not only adds color but also provides extra warmth on cooler evenings.
Hammocks: Lay a quilt over a hammock for a cozy and comfortable spot to relax. The quilt can also act as a cushion, making the hammock even more inviting.
Tips for Outdoor Quilt Use:
Choose Durable Quilts: Opt for quilts made from sturdy, durable fabrics that can withstand outdoor conditions.
Regular Cleaning: Keep quilts clean by washing them regularly, especially if they are exposed to outdoor elements like dirt and pollen.
Quilts as Decorative Accents
Incorporate quilts into your outdoor décor as decorative accents. This can add a unique touch to your garden, patio, or backyard.
I personally love hanging unfinished tops outdoors for brief periods of time before I quilt them. There's an absolute magical quality to seeing the sun shinning through the patchwork.
I'm a huge advocate of documenting your quilt as you go. Besides the plus side of sharing my progress on social media, I like the idea of these progress shots as being a way to tell the story of the quilt to family or friends when I'm gone.
Even when I get older, it will be nice to look back at these photos to remember and trigger details I might otherwise forget.
Ideas for Decorative Accents:
Porch Railings: Drape quilts over porch railings for a charming, farmhouse feel. Change the quilts seasonally to keep your outdoor space looking fresh.
Hanging on an outdoor wall: Consider making a quilt the focal point of your outdoor space. This can add an anchor point for your eye amongst your patio. Putting a quilt on an outdoor wall in a small patio or yard space allows you to make the most of an otherwise limited space.
Fence Art: Hang quilts on fences to create a colorful backdrop for your garden. This can be a great way to display older quilts that you might not use indoors anymore. Just because a quilt has gotten older, doesn't mean it can't be still of some use!
Picnic Blankets: Use quilts as picnic blankets for a comfortable and stylish outdoor dining experience. They are perfect for family gatherings, picnics in the park, or beach outings. I personally have very fond memories of picnic/park quilts from my childhood. I have set out recently to make my kids their own picnic + play quilts. These quilts don't have to be fancy!! They can be quick and easy quilts. My go to quick picnic quilt pattern right now is Sew Simply Meg's Riverwoods Gingham Quilt pattern. You can make your own here
Bringing Quilts Outdoors: a livestyle choice, not a fad
Don't be afraid to show your quilts in different ways! It may seem wild to take a quilt and place it somewhere where it could get wore or damaged. Especially when quilts can take a good investment of time, energy, and resources to create. But consider what holds more value to you- a quilt that stays stasthed away and hardly gets used, or a quilt that is well loved even if it's over a patio chair.
Bringing quilts into your outdoor spaces can add a warm and inviting touch to your décor. Whether you're using them as canopies, draping them over furniture, or incorporating them as decorative accents, quilts can enhance the beauty and comfort of your garden, patio, or backyard. Embrace the versatility of quilts and let your outdoor space reflect your unique style and creativity.
I'd love to hear if you've taken your quilts outdoors & what are your favorite places to take them!
Happy Stitching my Quilty friend,
Sondrasa
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