Quilts of Valor Specifications
QOV Size should be: 50" x 60" minimum 72" x 87" maximum Ideal size: 54" x 67"
Fabrics: Use quality fabrics, preferably 100% cotton. Please DO NOT use scented fabric softener if you pre-wash your fabrics. Many folks are allergic. Your backing fabric should be 4" to 6" larger than your quilt top. Use fabrics with patterns that are appropriate for adults, keeping in mind that most of the wounded are males. One in ten wounded is female so it's a good idea to make quilts that are either neutral or masculine in nature. You do not need to use patriotic fabrics and any pattern may be used. For pattern ideas, click here. For an efficient and unique method of piecing your QOV backing fabric, visit www.flynnquilt.com/freepattern.html.
When you have completed the QOV top, please attach a Quilt Submission Label (download here) before you pass it on to a coordinator, quilt shop or machine quilter.
Batting: If you have surplus batting, it would be nice to pass it along to the machine quilter otherwise they may supply it.
Label: Your completed QOV must include a fabric label for the back of the quilt. The label is a means of identifying who made the quilt and provides a written history. It can be computer printed, embroidered or hand written with indelible ink. Click here for a page of computer printable labels. Or, click Special QOV Fill-in Labels - you can fill in the blanks on this label and print it out but you cannot save the data you typed. Or, your label could include the following:
- Piecers name and city/state*
- Quilter's name and city/state*
- A line to write in the recipient's name and date awarded
- Name of quilt*
- Date and time it took to make the whole quilt*
- Dedication from both/either piecer or quilter*
- Signature*
* Optional information
Presentation Case: Each QOV is put into a presentation case when it is presented to the veteran. This case is basically a custom made pillowcase that can be made out of any fabric you desire but hopefully it will coordinate with fabric in your QOV. Click here for a simple pillowcase pattern.
Optional but very much appreciated by the recipients:
- Letter to recipient – please include a personal note from you.
- Journal/diary entries from quilting your wartime Quilt of Valor.
- Photos of you and the quilt can be downloaded to this site or printed and sent with the quilt.