Memory quilts are a wonderful way to preserve your most treasured memories in a beautiful, usable work of art. Memory quilts are made by incorporating cherished fabrics or clothing in a way that can be used for many years to come. People appreciate receiving a quilting craft made from fabric that holds sentimental value. We compiled the most heartwarming patterns to make in your weekend quilting project!
Free Memory Quilt Patterns – Top Picks
1. Free Quilt Pattern: T-shirt Memory Quilt
Don’t know what to do with your old T-shirts? Well, why don’t you turn them into T-shirt blanket quilts? These memory quilts from clothing are easy to make, which makes them perfect for beginner quilters. The combination of shirt fabrics highlights an artistic and unique quilt. Not to mention that they have carried unforgettable memories for you. You will only need your old T-shirts and your choice of fabric for sashing that will serve as the base for the quilt. Aside from a blanket quilt, you can have five different sizing options you can choose from in making memory quilts made from t-shirts :
- 12 shirts will make a throw-size quilt, approx. 48″ x 64″ – 3 across x 4 down
- 20 shirts will make a twin-size quilt, approx. 64″ x 82″ – 4 across x 5 down
- 30 shirts will make a full-size quilt, approx. 82″ x 96″ – 5 across x 6 down
- 36 shirts will make a queen-size quilt, approx. 96″ x 96″ – 6 across x 6 down
- 42 shirts will make a king-size quilt, approx 110″ x 96″ – 7 across x 6 down.
Designer: Jen Hadfield of Tatertots and Jello
2. Free Quilt Pattern: Neck Tie Memory Quilt
Designer: Jenny Doan of Missouri Quilt Co
Learn to be creative with your old ties by replicating this quilt pattern! They can easily be reused into a distinctive and quirky memory quilt. Quilters of all levels will find themselves enjoying recreating this quilt pattern. It is originally designed by Jenny Doan. Jenny outlined the step-by-step process in a video tutorial.
3. Free Quilt Pattern: Men’s Handkerchief Quilt
Designer: Claudia Porter of Create with Claudia
A handkerchief is a sentimental but sometimes overlooked item of clothing. It’s used to wipe away your hard work’s sweat and painful or joyful tears. This charming handkerchief quilt designed by Claudia Porter will remind you of your father. Artistically sewing these handkerchiefs evokes various emotions. Memories of your father are bundled up in this simple yet discerning quilt. Quilters of all levels will surely appreciate recreating this men quilt. The finished size measures 28 inches x 28 inches.
4. Free Quilt Pattern: Graduation Memory Quilt
Designer: Hidden Treasure Crafts
Feel free to reminisce about all your late study nights and fun school memories! Use your uniform, certificates, classroom pictorials or certificates that remind you of your school memory. You can print your chosen photos and certificates on printer fabric sheets. Then start assembling them all together to create your very own keepsake quilt! It is straightforward and perfect for beginners and expert quilters alike.
5. Free Quilt Pattern: Signature Memory Quilt
Designer: Emily of Homemade Emily Jane
This special quilt can be used as a graduation gift, a wedding gift, a birthday gift, an anniversary gift, etc. It highlights the pattern of stars where anyone can write their heartfelt message. The unique messages make it even more sweet and endearing.
6. Free Quilt Pattern: Photo Quilt
Designer: Melissa Mortenson of Polka Dot Chair
Discover the heartwarming art of creating a Photo Quilt with this free tutorial by Melissa Mortenson of Polka Dot Chair. Inspired by the idea of capturing cherished memories, this quilt lets you keep your loved ones close, even when far away. Crafted with simplicity in mind, it features 9″ squares of fabric, making it accessible for quilters of all levels. This memory quilt becomes a cozy, comforting companion, wrapping you in the warmth of nostalgia, perfect for staving off homesickness and preserving those precious moments.
7. Free Quilt Pattern: Old Clothes Memory Quilt
Designer: Heather Lynne for HowDoesShe
Step into the world of quilting with the Old Clothes Memory Quilt, a free tutorial thoughtfully crafted by Heather Lynne for HowDoesShe. Designed with picnics and outdoor adventures in mind, this quilt takes a sentimental twist by repurposing cherished clothing items. Gather those beloved garments that hold memories—whether they’ve been outgrown, worn, or stained—and transform them into a beautiful, functional memory quilt. Each stitch weaves together the stories of your family, making it a cozy companion for outings.
BONUS Memory Quilt Patterns For Sale from Online Shops
1. Necktie Memory Pillow Cover (Downloadable Pattern For Sale)
Designer: Heather Butler of Stay Little Sewing
Unleash your artistic self with this eccentric quilt by Heather Butler! Reusing old neckties from your loved ones can easily piece a charming pattern resembling a flower. It is another way to commemorate your dad, uncle, brother or husband. If you are a beginner quilter, this is perfect for you. It is suited for quilters of all skill levels. The finished size measures 18 inches x 18 inches.
2. Memorial Hearts Quilt Pattern (PDF Printable Pattern For Sale)
Designer: Sweet on Stitches
The Memorial Hearts Quilt Pattern by Sweet on Stitches features a large heart made up of smaller hearts at the center. This versatile design is perfect for creating a heartfelt memorial quilt, a sweet Valentine’s gift, or a charming baby quilt. The pattern includes detailed instructions for making a 60″x 60″ finished quilt. Its thoughtful design and straightforward assembly make it a meaningful and beautiful project for quilters of all levels.
Our group members tested out these Memory Quilt Patterns and here is their feedback:
Equine Show Ribbon Quilt by Susan Dano Torisky
“This quilt is an Equine Show Ribbon Quilt I made for my niece, Jordan, when she turned sweet 16. The finished size is 45” X 84”. She has been competing in barrel racing and pole bending for 12 years now and she’s only 22. She had seen a quilt made out of show ribbons and asked if I could make one with her ribbons. She showed me a design she liked. My biggest challenge was finding how to sew show ribbons together while keeping the place #, date and location of the show visible. My second challenge was how I was going to place the ribbons. The quilt she showed me had a French Braid pattern. I decided to sew them in order by placement #. The ribbons in this quilt are just a few she and her horse, Izzy, won competing in barrel racing. She has this quilt hanging in her living room on her wall.” – Susan Dano Torisky
Memory Quilt with Photos of Baby by Robyn Harman
“In honor of baby’s first year of growth.” – Robyn Harman
Memory Quilt of Painted Landmarks by Pat Mccullough
“This memory quilt is for a friend who paints local landmarks and donates them to local sales. Knowing how much joy her works bring to others, thought it a nice gesture to make a quilt of the paintings…. Still not finished, but it’s in the frames being quilted by hand” – Pat Mccullough
Memory Quilt from Men’s Shirts by Rene Long Stookesberry Great Nephew
“My Great nephews quilt made out of his Great Popa work shirts” – Rene Long Stookesberry
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Here Are More Memory Quilt Pattern Ideas For Inspiration
Photo Source: Handmade Myrth
Photo Source: Kind Heidi Quilts
Photo Source: Kids Kraft
Photo Source: Sunshower Quilts
Photo Source: Vicky’s Sewing Adventures
Photo Source: Nikki’s Quilted Creations
Photo Source: Sassy Sunflower Quilts
Photo Source: 46th Ave Quilts
Photo Source: Betsy lahaussois
Photo Source: Journey Back Quilts
It’s time to take out your quilting materials and relive the memories! Start searching for your memory-rich fabrics and recreate these easy memory quilt ideas.
