by Gail McCauley
he art of quilting has been part of American history for more than a century. Regardless of the climate where you live, you can enjoy quilts in your home year round. Quilts are quite versatile and can be used for many additional purposes more than the ever popular bed cover! If you are fortunate enough to own a quilt, think about using it for any of the following applications:Quilt racks are sold in retail stores and through catalogs. Quilts look charming hung over a quilt rack in a master or guest bedroom. Besides their decorative appeal, they function as an additional source of warmth on those extra "chilly" evenings.
Quilts serve as a bold focal point when hung on the wall. Hanging quilts can be of virtually any size. They only need be in proportion to the size of the wall space where you choose to hang them.
Quilts may be hung from "quilt hangers" (designed specifically for the purpose of hanging quilts) or simply by using small nails (try to place the nails in the seam of the fabric, so you do not damage the quilt--this isn't recommended for heirloom quilts). You can also sew a long tube to the back of the quilt, thread doweling through it and hang the quilt by the doweling. Smaller quilts stand out in frames and can be hung alone or in a grouping with other artwork.
For a warm and "comfy" look, try folding your quilt and draping it casually over your staircase railing or over the back of your sofa. In addition to accenting the decor in your room, your quilt is easily within reach for cuddling up in front of the fireplace!
One unique and also practical application for your quilt is as a table covering to enhance your eating area. The quilt does not have to fit your table perfectly. Simply spread it over your dining table and instant charm and elegance is added to your kitchen or dining room!
I would like to share an especially interesting and practical application for a handmade quilt. When your child is old enough to leave home and attend college or have his first apartment, consider gathering all of their old t-shirts and having them appliqued onto a large quilt! Your child will possess a gift that is a true keepsake of their past. What a wonderful way to preserve your child's past with a gift they can immediately use as a decorative accent or blanket covering in their new home!
Quilting classes are often advertised in craft stores. If you are fortunate enough to know how to quilt or receive a quilt as a gift, remember that you own a treasure that has many applications besides it beauty and can be passed on as a family heirloom for generations to come!
Gail McCauley is a feature writer, with an expertise in color and paint, for the Rohm and Haas Paint Quality Institute (PQI), http://www.paint.com. Gail lives in Scottsdale AZ and is also a freelance writer for nationally syndicated shelter magazines such as Good Housekeeping's Do-It-Yourself, House Beautiful's Home Remodeling and Decorating, and House Beautiful's Home Building. The majority of Gail's work focuses on providing innovative ideas and inspiration and the decorative power of paint.
Technorati Tags: 
