You can use and enjoy your one- of- a kind traditional handmade quilts for years by following a few basic rules:

* Light and dirt are the biggest culpits to your quilt.  Try to shield it from direct sunlight and heat.  If possible, avoid displaying it in direct sunlight or under a direct heat vent.  Avoid dusty or damp areas, cigarette smoke, animal dander and aerosol sprays.

*  If you have an antique or vintage quilt with special needs, consult a quilt conservator or appraiser for expert advice.

* WASHING:  Wash your traditional handmade quilt only when absolutely necessary.

*  FRESHEN:  Hang in a protected open air area.

*  VACUUMING:  Gently vacuum to remove dust.

*  DRY CLEANING:  NOT recommended, as it leaves harmful chemicals.

*  Use a recommended amount of a mild soap with no chlorine bleaches added.  If you use a dryer sheet, set the dryer cycle on cool setting.  Too hot of a dryer can cause oily spots.  If you are not sure if the fabrics were pre-washed, test for color fastness.  Soak one corner in luke-warm water for approximately 30 minutes.  If water is not clear, use a fabric dye sheet in the wash to caputue any dye bleeding. (Just to be on the safe side, I always use one).  Make sure the washer tub is large enough to hold the quilt.  If the tub is too small, go to a commercial laundromat or use the bathtub.  This is a little more trouble, but better for the quilt.    Use only cold or luke-warm water.  If you have a particular stain, treat with a recommended stain remover for 100% cotton fabric. Let the quilt soak for approximately 15 minutes.  Rinse several times to remove all soap.  Don't wring or twist , because this will weaken the fabric and stitches.  Gently pat or squeeze out the water.  Get out as much water as possible.  Carefully lift and support the quilt as you remove it from the washer or bathtub.  The quilt may be heavy from the weight of the remaining water.  You can roll the quilt between towels to help remove the remaining water.

*  The recommended procedure for drying the quilt is to lay it on a flat surface.  To dry outdoors, choose a dry, non-windy day.  Place in a protected, shaded area between sheets (you don't want any bird surprises) and let it almost dry.  If your dryer is large enough you can finish the drying process on a cool setting to fluff the quilt.  If the quilt is a small one I use the hood of my car for the drying surface. It's not recommended to put a wet quilt in the dryer, as the weight and agitation can damage the fabric and stitches.

HAVE A GREAT SUMMER...SEE YOU IN SEPTEMBER!