Quilts can be repaired using a number of different needle and thread combinations. Quilt patches are one of the most common types of commercially available quilt repair products, as they are either premade or come as kits with everything you need. These premade patches come in a variety of shapes and sizes to repair just about any type of hole that you might have in your quilt.
To fix your quilt:
-Pick out a patch for the size and shape hole on your quilt that corresponds to the fabric colors and patterns on you existing stiches -Thread new needles with contrasting color thread (e.g., if your current stitches are red, use blue) -Stitch around the outer edge of the hole, securing the new patch onto your quilt and making sure not to pierce the fabric
Other quilting tips, How to Choose Quilt Patterns
-If you are using a quilt pattern with large patches, you may need to trim the existing stitches to make room for the new patch
-If replacing more than 3 or 4 stitches, start over and try to slide the needle just outside of where you want it on that side of your quilt
-When finished, remove old needles and thread a few feet of stitching thread through them before knotting them (this will prevent.them from sticking through your quilt)
-For best results, carefully remove the old stitches after stitching with non-contrasting thread (so that new stitches are left on the patch in a nice neat pattern; use sew and press or iron on a flat surface for this step)
Quilt Patch Features
-Makes meandering patches easy by sewing around the edge of the hole to prevent pierce marks
-Prevents holes from spreading by allowing you to secure the patch directly onto your quilt material and then reattach.
-Patch kits come in different sizes and shapes for you to use as needed
-Patches can be used as a way to even properly create Zig Zag style stitching by sewing around the edge of the hole
To patch a quilt using commercial, ready-made patches:
First, decide what size hole you will be patching. (If your patch kit comes with various sizes, pick based on the size of the hole.) Look at your quilt top and find a contrasting thread to use for sewing around the edge. Lay the patch facedown onto the quilt top; make sure you can see the design (patterns, colors) from the quilt top through the hole. Next, lay your batting tautly over it, then lay the backing material over that. Finally, pick up the needle and thread and start to sew around the edge of the hole, securing it to your quilt with a running stitch. Use enough yarn to secure it well.
For best results, use the same thread that you will be using on the rest of your stitching so that it matches. Also, use matching color thread if possible. If you are using a special kind of fabric (such as polyester), try using a darker color than you normally would with light colored fabric. This will make it easier to see where you have stitched.
Learn to Quilt by Hand
The last step is to use a seam ripper and carefully remove the holes around the edge of your quilt one by one. This will leave neat, secure stitches around the quilt hole, ready for you to easily sew over and finish.
You can sew around the outside edge of the patch before you actually pull out the last stitches to give your quilt a neat, clean look. Use contrasting thread so that you can see where you have stitched. Tie knots in each end before pulling it tight so that there are no loose threads hanging on your quilt and then cut off any excess thread.
Patch kits now come with modern methods such as fusible webbing and self-adhesive patches. These allow for easy patching of holes with a very clean, neat look.
Additional Tips
Sew along the bottom (or “free hand”) before proceeding to working from the top down. This helps ensure that you don’t accidentally pull out any stitches around your patch.
See also, How to Make a Crochet Rag Rug
When sewing along the edge of a patch, take care not to pierce the batting or quilt fabric, as this can cause a permanent hole in your quilt and lead to unraveling.
There are many types of thread choices and combinations. Use a contrasting thread to make your patching process very easy to see when each new stitch is complete.
If you are having problems with an existing patch, try opening the patch and sewing from the bottom up. You can also try using a spray starch to help reduce puckering or an iron on starch for a really crisp finish.
Conclusion
As seen, there are a variety of ways you can repair or patch a quilt using quilt patches. These patches come in a variety of shapes and sizes so that you can easily repair a wide range of damage to your quilt. There are also various methods and materials used in patching so that you are able to get the same quality of patching as if you had purchased a new quilt.