If you visit eBay and key in the term “cutter quilt,” you will find some interesting offerings. Today, I looked at just page 1 which included several books for “rotary cut quilts,” but that is not what we are talking about here. The term, “cutter quilt” refers to an old quilt that has been re-purposed: cut up to make Christmas stockings, ornaments, and even pieces of jewelry.

Let’s examine the reasons why a quilt might be given this designation of one to cut up. One seller provides four common justifications: 1) the quilt smells musty; 2) it has a lumpy batting; 3) it has “blown-out blocks” and 4) it is stained.

First of all, the “musty” smell could mean that the quilt has been exposed to less than ideal storage conditions and has some mold and/or mildew. Avoid buying anything that has that odor. You do not want to introduce mold/mildew into your home, nor expose yourself to it (as a health precaution).

Lumpy battings can be replaced easily, if the quilt is tied. In fact, if the quilt had been heavily-quilted, the batting would not have shifted to that degree, in the first place.

A good restorer can replace “blown-out blocks.” However, if every block in the quilt has damage (holes/rips) and fading due to cleaning agents and bleach, it truly becomes a hopeless situation fast.

Stains are another situation. They can be difficult or impossible for either the novice or the professional to remove, if they have set for a long time.

Some silk quilts are inherently self-destructing but I get a little nervous when I see folks cutting up Victorian crazy quilts which often have some very unique silk ribbons or features, including embroidery stitches. Silk crazy quilts are not good candidates for re-use in other projects. I have found that some dealers indiscriminately cut up old Crazy Quilts. I have a remnant of one that I wish I’d been able to view the whole piece as the piece I now own is fantastic!

In my latest e-book, generic viagra 50mg, I do discuss this idea of “cutter quilts” and ask the reader to question his/her own motive for collecting any old textile. The e-book is a treasure trove of ideas, information, and practical facts that anyone can use who owns or loves textiles, quilts, and embroideries. For more information, please visit: . There is still time left to order this book for a holiday gift, for yourself, a friend, or a library!

Patricia Cummings

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