You have decided to make a memory quilt for your son or daughter and have broken out the old fabric pieces from favorite outfits and blankets past. The problem is that as you are examining the fabric, you notice that a lot of it is stained and dingy. The memory quilt won't be the same without these pieces of fabric, but it also won't look so great with them in it. The trick is to get these stains out and get the fabric looking up to snuff. Some quilting experts have suggested that you take 1 gallon of water, 1 quart of buttermilk, and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice and mix them together. You then soak your fabrics in the mixture and then wash them with a mild detergent. Many times this will help bring back colors that have faded out. Experts also suggest that pencil marks can be removed by making a solution that is 1 part water, 3 parts rubbing alcohol, and 1 or 2 drops of Palmolive or Joy dishwashing liquid. Soak a cotton swab in this mixture and then dab it on the quilt, scrubbing with a toothbrush. You can then wipe it dry with a cloth. It is important to note that you can’t use Dawn dishwashing liquid as it contains chemicals that could bleach out your quilt. It is also important that you test this solution on your quilt before you apply it to the whole blanket. You wouldn't want to discover that you have bleached out an entire antique quilt in splotches. If you are having problems reviving old fabrics, it is also a good idea to contact your quilting friends and see if they have any secrets. One of the great things about quilting is the sharing of ideas and the building of friendships, so take advantage of it and tune into their wisdom. Before long you'll have a memory quilt that is picture perfect.
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