Quilting for a Good Children's Cause
How to Make Blankets for Kids in Crisis Through Project Linus
May 2, 2008
Project Linus is a national nonprofit organization that gives new, homemade blankets to seriously ill or traumatized children, including those in hospitals, shelters, and foster care. If you want to get involved as a “blanketeer,” the best thing to do is find a chapter in your area through the Project Linus website. The chapter can provide you with details on what sort of blankets they need, who needs them, and where to bring them. Some chapters even have get-togethers where you can network with other quilters.
Some chapters also maintain a fabric pantry with donated fabric you can use to make quilts for the project. You can also donate some of your own fabric to the pantry. (Be sure to check with the chapter for donation guidelines. Many chapters are only able to accept fabric donations of one yard or more, due to space and storage limitations.)
Tips for Quilting for Project Linus
Here are some general guidelines for making quilts for Project Linus. Check with the chapter in your area to see if they have any additional recommendations.
Choosing Materials
- make sure the blanket is new, and made from new materials (save grandma’s old sheets for another project)
- use fabrics that babies, children, or teens would love
- use cheerful colors and prints
- pick colorful cottons, soft flannels, or cozy fleece
- use embroidery floss rather than yarn for tied quilts (it will hold up better in the wash)
- avoid using decorations such as buttons that could come loose and pose a choking hazard
Size Guidelines
Most chapters cannot accept quilts smaller than crib size (no doll quilts) or larger than teen size, since these are security blankets rather than full-size bedspreads. Use the following measurements as a general guideline:
- Baby blankets: 30” x 36”
- Children's blankets: 42” x 60”
- Teen's blankets: 45” x 72”
Choosing a Quilt Pattern
The quilt can be as simple as two pieces of fabric sewn together around a layer of batting, or a complex creation full of piecework and appliqués. Remember, though, that the blanket should be cheerful and appropriate for children, and be sturdy enough to go through the wash. You can find free quilt patterns on the Project Linus National Headquarters website, and on some of the chapter websites.
Before Donating the Blanket
- complete the quilt
- make sure the batting is securely quilted in place
- remove all the pins (check and double-check)
- make sure the blanket is clean, from a smoke-free environment, and free of pet hair to avoid causing allergies
- check with the chapter for a list of drop-off sites (many chapters have agreements with local fabric and craft stores to make donating as convenient as possible)
If you don’t have a chapter in your area, the closest chapter may be able to accept donations by mail.
Making blankets for Project Linus is a great way to use your quilting and sewing skills to have fun and make a difference in the lives of children in your community.
