There is nothing more comforting than a warm quilt wrapped around you when you are sick. It provides reassurance and a sense of protection. Each year more than 6 million children are hospitalized away from home with serious and life-threatening illnesses. Downy and Quilts for Kids have come together to help provide a touch of Home and Comfort to these children by handing out handmade quilts, and the best part is that you can be part of this amazing program by donating and volunteering your time by....QUILTING!
To get you started request a Quilt Kit free of charge and shipping costs. It comes complete with simple pattern instructions, label, pre-cut fabric for the top and back. You only need to provide the batting. The quilts need to be machine quilted due to daily washings. When you return your quilt you can donate another quilt made from your fabric stash (we all have them), because it costs the same to ship one as it does two. Why not double the love? I requested my kit a week ago, and within two days it was on my front door step!
These quilts are just the right size for piecing in an afternoon. This particular one measures approximately 44 1/2" x 38 1/4". My sister and I are "sharing" in the quilting process. I enjoy piecing quilt tops, and she enjoys quilting + she has a long-arm quilting machine which makes for easier quilting!
Remember this quilt top I mentioned earlier? I love putting fabrics together to create fun quilts, but I must say that we have reached a limit of quilts and blankets at our house. I'm so happy that I can sew and make quilts to my hearts content and give them to someone who needs warmth and comfort! After making the quilt from the kit I couldn't just stop there, so I went to the fabric store and stocked up on some great fabrics for future quilts. One yard or less is all you need to make a 38"x 45" crib/lap quilt or 36"x36" NICU quilt.
I encourage you to watch this short Downy Touch of Comfort documentary and the Quilts for Kids video to get a better idea of how much these handmade quilts mean to children and their families. Also there are some great stories, quilt galleries and free patterns to download. You don't have to turn out quilt after quilt to make a difference. I know that realistically I can only complete 1-2 quilts a month. Don't let quantity stop you from sharing your love. ONE is better than NONE!
