First, how fragile is the quilt? I probably wouldn't use the below technique
for silk quilts, but most sturdy cotton quilts could be hung with it.

I suggest applying a band of cotton webbing (about 4" wide) with 2-3" wide
velcro (the loop side) applied to it to the reverse top with a zig-zag
running stitch by hand (making sure to catch the top, middle, and bottom of
the webbing/velcro strip evenly as you work). This can be kind of tough on
the fingers. Then have a slat with the velcro hook side bolted to the wall
or hung from the ceiling with eye hooks. I think using the velcro with the
webbing more evenly distributes the weight of the quilt than the old "dowel
through fabric casing" method.

Make sure when you stitch you are not going through any heavily damaged or
fragile areas, such as those with dark brown dyes. The stitching should
cover the width of the cotton webbing.

Good luck.

Becky Fifield
Collections Care Specialist
Department of Textile and Fashion Arts
Museum of Fine Arts, Boston
www.mfa.org

 -----Original Message-----
From: schwenkfelder library & heritage center
[mailto:[log in to unmask]]
Sent: Tuesday, April 10, 2001 5:57 PM
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: quilt display



Thanks for all who responded to my relaxing rolled documents post.

Now I'm on to quilts...I've seen quilts backed for hanging in an exhibit
many times but have never done it myself, and will have to give it a try
with a co-worker who's skilled with the needle.   Would someone provide me
with instructions, or suggestions for other display techniques?  I should
add that I don't have room for an angled board (this has been suggested in
the past) that would hold the quilt without sewing.

Thanks all!  It's finally spring here in PA!

Candace Perry
Schwenkfelder Library & Heritage Center
[log in to unmask] <mailto:[log in to unmask]>
www.schwenkfelder.com <http://www.schwenkfelder.com>

=========================================================
Important Subscriber Information:

The Museum-L FAQ file is located at http://www.finalchapter.com/museum-l-faq/ . You may obtain detailed information about the listserv commands by sending a one line e-mail message to [log in to unmask] . The body of the message should read "help" (without the quotes).

If you decide to leave Museum-L, please send a one line e-mail message to [log in to unmask] . The body of the message should read "Signoff Museum-L" (without the quotes).