Quilts of Love

Both St John of God Hospital and Ballarat Health Services are in need of "Quilts of Love" which are given to parents of babies that are stillborn, or have died for some reason. The parents are very grateful for these quilts, as it helps with the grieving process by giving them something tangible that is part of the memory of their baby.

The best size is approx 20 inches x 24 inches, or a square of similar dimensions.

The wadding used should be thin, pellon is ideal, but any wadding is Ok, so use up those scraps.

Blocks can be very simple, any practice blocks you have around would be ideal.

Because the parents choose the quilts themselves, (and as you know we all have different tastes), any colour is suitable.

Quilting can be minimal, or even none at all - it's up to you.

It would be really nice if the person who makes the quilt puts their name on the quilt, and perhaps short message such as, "A memory quilt made by ....", or "Made by ... as a quilt of love to help you through this sad time." , or use one of the Ballaarat Quilters' labels. Whatever you want really.

There is a higher incidence of male deaths. Quilts - 'boy', 'girl' or gender neutral are all welcome.

The Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at the Royal Children's Hospital is also in need of "Quilts of Love" for the babies admitted who have survived birth but do not survive the ensuing complications whether surgical, medical or congenital in that first year. For some of these babies their entire brief lives are spent in the NICU.

The best size for the NICU Quilts of Love is larger - about 24 inches x 30 inches, or a square of similar dimension. Other than the larger size, follow the guidelines above.

If you are interested in making a quilt for the "Quilts of Love" program please send an email to info@ballaaratpatchwork.com.au