Oh, wow, Kate - I don't blame you for getting emotional about it!

Are you on the Home Quilting System Yahoo group? There was a discussion recently about restoring old quilts. One of the members had done it and shared her process. They just shut the group down the other day and reopened it, so I don't know how many (if any) of the old posts may still be there.

Here's a link to the International Quilt Study Center's resources page. I don't know if they have any info that can help, but maybe it's a start.

Donna

Here is a link that might be useful: Int'l Quilt Study Center

Hope you'll share what you find out - I have a very old one, thankfully no sentimental value to it - and it's in pretty bad condition. I would like to restore it but not knowledgeable enough to know where to start or even if it's salvageable.

I have a very old quilt I found when I was at my folk's house a few years before she died. I asked her where she got it and she said 'it was your grandmother's'. (my father's mother who was born in 1884). It wouldn't surprise me if it wasn't handed down to her! It is fragile, and has only one block needing restored and one of these days when I am brave enough, I may try to reinforce it in that spot. So, I'm watching this thread as well for hints. Good luck....I have every confidence you are up to the challenge.

The year I went to the quilt retreat Jennifer was working on a very old fragile quilt, so maybe she can give you some ideas. I think one of the considerations is what is the future of the quilt....as a hanging, display on quilt rack or sofa?

Something I read recently was, as you touch and hold the quilt, think about the person who made it and what she was thinking to see if you get any 'vibes' from her. It doesn't necessarily have to be about the quilt. @:)

SharonG/FL

I have very limited knowledge on old quilts BUT here's what I know. A quilts age is determined by the newest pieces of cloth in it. So if you want to keep the value you need to replace worn and torn pieces with fabric from that time period.
IF all you want to do is preserve the quilt so it continues to be useful and you can continue to display it then fixing it with fabric from the same time period isn't required.
Quilts do better rolled and not folded for storage. Acid free paper helps extend the life of a quilt when it is stored.

Thank you for your suggestions and comments!

Good articles and information here on quilt restoration:
http://www.quilthistory.com/restoration.htm
as well as a list of experienced quilt restorers.
Take good care of your family quilts!
BlueBars

Here is a link that might be useful: Quilt Restoration

I would be crying too Kate, it is beautiful!!!!! I will never have that problem, because (to the best of my knowledge) no one in my family has ever quilted. Sad isn't it??