Quilt binding and mitered corners

 

 

 

How to make a Chemo Quilt

 

 

Niki and her quilt 2018

 

I have an amazing friend who is going through her 20th round of Chemo therapy. Niki is brave, and kind, creative, sincere, and loving, and a dear Christian sister. She is a multi media artist, working with everything from paint to thread, to wood. And, she is a cancer survivor. But her fight isn't over. When I heard earlier this year, that cancer had once again spread through her body, I was shocked. This woman who has fought so hard and so many times, was once again getting ready for a life threatening battle. Her friends started up another meal plan. I brought her family a meal, and sent her a card. I left messages for her and did my best to encourage her. But I was left wanting to do more. I wanted her to have something tangible yet useful. Something that she could physically hold onto. Something that would bring her comfort when words could not. A physical reminder that she was being lifted up in prayer and was more loved than she could possibly imagine. I did a little research on how to bless a friend who is going through cancer treatments, and came across a person who made "Chemo Quilts." I loved the idea! So I found some fabric that I knew she would love, Disney Princesses for the back, and a beautiful royal purple and contrasting pastel for the front, and got to work. For the pattern, I chose my tried and true favorite, The Single Irish Chain. It is simple, and for a lap sized quilt, goes together quickly. While I cut, and stitched, and ironed, I prayed for Niki. I prayed for healing, for comfort, and for endurance. Each stitch is covered in prayer. And when I was done, I had some of her closest friends sign their name and a get well wish with a permanent fabric marker. The result, as you can see above, is a physical reminder that she is dearly loved, and diligently prayed for. If you would like to make a Chemo Quilt for a friend, I would suggest finding out their favorite color or theme, and mixing that with an extra soft fabric such as Minky or a flannel, especially for the back that their delicate skin will come in contact with. Use a lightweight batting because you don't want a heavy blanket that could irritate their skin, especially if they are also going through radiation therapy. Quilt the layers together instead of knotting it, so that the end result will be smooth. Lastly, keep it small, such as a lap or baby size so that it can be placed in a small tote bag and easily pulled out when needed. If you do make one, and I hope that you do, please send me a picture, I would love to see what you make. And if you could pray for my sweet friend Niki and her family, I would greatly appreciate it.