close up of handmade quilt
Insights & Inspiration

30 Creative Ideas For Labeling Your Quilts

We explore the importance of labeling your quilts & share creative ideas for designing your labels
2024-08-12
copy Link copied to clipboard
 minimal quilt label on light blue towel

Labeling homemade quilts is an essential yet often overlooked step in the quilting process. Whether you're a seasoned quilter or just starting your quilting journey, adding a label to your finished masterpiece is the perfect way to leave a lasting mark on your creation. 

In this blog, we'll explore the importance of labeling your quilts, share creative ideas for designing your own labels, and offer practical tips for choosing the right label materials and placement. Whether you're gifting a quilt to a loved one or keeping it for yourself, a thoughtful label adds that final, personal touch that turns a beautiful quilt into a cherished heirloom.

 collage of 3 quilt labels by customers

10 ideas for Where to Place Your Quilt Label:

  1. Hidden Pocket Label: Sew the label into a small hidden pocket on the back of the quilt.
  2. Corner Triangle: Attach the label as a triangle in one of the back corners of the quilt.
  3. Under a Folded Corner: Sew the label under a folded corner flap that can be lifted to reveal the label.
  4. Along the Binding: Stitch the label along the binding, making it a subtle part of the quilt's edge.
  5. On the Backing Fabric: Integrate the label directly into the backing fabric, using a contrasting fabric or embroidery.
  6. Edge Label on the Back: Attach the label along the back edge, either vertically or horizontally.
  7. Appliqué Style: Incorporate the label as an appliqué on the back, using a fabric shape that complements the quilt.
  8. Hanging Sleeve: Include the label on the hanging sleeve if your quilt is designed to be hung on a wall.
  9. In the Quilting Pattern: Quilt the label into the design, making it a part of the quilt’s overall pattern and texture.
  10. As a Hang Tag: Label your quilts with custom hang tags. Once your quilt has been given to its final recipient, they can remove the hang tag.
 collage of different quilt labels by customers

10 Ideas for Designing Your Quilt Labels:

  1. Incorporate Quilt Patterns: Use a small version of a block or pattern from the quilt design itself as part of your label.
  2. Add the Year: Include the year the quilt was completed as a permanent record of when it was made.
  3. Personalized Message: Design your label to include a heartfelt message or dedication to the recipient.
  4. Use Decorative Borders: Frame your label with a decorative border that complements the quilt’s theme.
  5. Photo Transfer: Add a small, printed photo onto the label for a personal touch, like a picture of the quilter or the recipient.
  6. Embellish with Embroidery: Enhance your label with embroidered details such as flowers, vines, or other decorative elements.
  7. Incorporate a Quilt Title: If your quilt has a name, include it on the label to make it more special.
  8. Signature Label: Incorporate your own signature, either handwritten or printed, to add a personal touch.
  9. Include a Poem or Quote: Add a short poem or meaningful quote that relates to the quilt’s theme or recipient.
  10. Patchwork Label: Create a small patchwork label using leftover fabric scraps from the quilt itself.
 collage of different quilt labels by customers

10 Ideas for Making Labels for Your Quilt:

  1. Custom Woven Labels: At Dutch Label Shop, we can custom-make woven labels to almost any shape or size, with up to twelve colors per label.
  2. Hand Embroidered Labels: Create a personalized touch by hand embroidering your quilt labels with names, dates, or special messages.
  3. Machine Embroidered Labels: Use an embroidery machine to craft precise and intricate quilt labels with detailed designs.
  4. Hand-Drawn Labels: Get creative by hand-drawing your labels using fabric pens and markers, giving each label a unique, artistic flair.
  5. Screen Printed Labels: Produce sharp, professional-looking quilt labels through screen printing, ideal for larger batches or intricate designs.
  6. Printed Labels: Order high-quality printed labels from Dutch Label Shop, available in a range of sizes and styles to match your quilt's aesthetic.
  7. Custom Fabric Stamps: Use a custom fabric stamp to create consistent, easy-to-apply quilt labels that can be stamped directly onto fabric.
  8. At-Home Fabric Printer: Print your quilt labels at home using a fabric printer, offering flexibility and convenience for custom designs.
  9. Cotton Labels: Dutch Label Shop’s custom cotton labels are perfect for cotton quilts, providing a soft, natural touch that complements your fabric.
  10. Printed Ribbons: Incorporate printed ribbons as quilt labels for a decorative and functional option that adds a touch of elegance to your work.

If you have any questions about designing your custom quilt labels, our friendly customer service team is always available to help!