ejhuds

This is my first post, as I am a new member.
I have begun something new to me, quilting with neckties. My husband passed away last year and recently I decided to try making something with his neckties that I could look at every day. He did not have very many ties, so I found a source for more so I would have enough.
I plan to make blocks like a string quilt, and use muslin for the backing of the blocks. I have taken apart the ties and removed all the stuff from inside, now ready to start applying strips onto the muslin squares. Finished size of the blocks will be 6” and I will make a wall hanging 4 blocks wide and 5 vertical. The space I plan to use for hanging would not accommodate a larger one.
My question is, should I use starch to help strengthen the bias cut ties before cutting? Or should I fuse an interfacing on them? All ties are cut on the bias. Maybe one of you quilters have done this and know how to advise me. Thank you.

MartiMorga

This question was posted a few days ago too. I didn't add anything because I hadn't made one. But I do machine embroidery, and I use a lot of stabilizers. The more I thought about it, I would starch heavily. Since you are using the muslin as a foundation I don't think you would need more stability..

nygal

I recommend you buy the book "Daddy's Ties" by Shirley Botsford from Amazon. It has a lot of nice things you can make with your husbands ties. I only wish I knew about this book when my Dad passed away years ago. I own the book now and it has nice things to make tastefully done. I am sorry for the loss of your husband.

auntpiggylpn

When I use ties, I apply Pellon SF101 before I cut. You can get it at Joann's or Hancock Fabrics by the yard

Skyangel

Here is a cute wall hanging that only uses 5 ties:

http://mckennalinn.com/all-tied-up.html

QuiltnNan

what a cute wallhanging... and the favorite ties to not get lost in a sea of different ties.

vanginney

I use ties to create handbags. They see a lot of wear & tear. I find a medium weight interfacing gives the fabric nice stability and stops the distortion. Here are a few pics - http://createquiltsew.wordpress.com/...ross-over-bag/ and http://createquiltsew.wordpress.com/...9/another-bag/

Don't forget about re-using the tie's cloth labels in your design. I find some of the labels beautiful!

Would love to see pics of your finished project.

vanginney

I also forgot to say - what a great memory to use your hubby's ties!