frequently asked questions

What does 'handmade' mean?

Handmade means each item is individually made from start to finish mainly by myself and sometimes my mum. See how I make a cot quilt here. For quilts and blankets we use a sewing machine for part of the construction, but each is hand-stitched to finish. Patchwork balls cannot be done on a sewing machine and are entirely hand sewn using the traditional paper-piecing method.

Where does the fabric come from?

We buy fabric in various fabric shops locally and online such as www.cottonpatch.co.uk, and also trawl local charity shops for suitable clothes etc. which can be incorporated into patchwork, which means that buying our materials supports charity, and is a more environmentally-friendly way to make patchwork by reducing our reliance on new fabrics and the global cotton production industry. We sew using 100% cotton thread. The fleece presently used for blankets is a soft white anti-pill fleece bought from FabFabric2. It is 100% polyester and imported from China or Taiwan. We are looking for an affordable fleece fabric made from recycled plastic bottles to use instead.

What is the difference between a 'crib/pram blanket' and a 'cot quilt'?

Cot quilts are the larger size and crib/pram blankets are smaller. Exact sizes are listed in the individual product details. Crib blankets will fit a crib, moses basket or pram, and are all backed with white fleece fabric so they are warm and cosy. Cot quilts are made to fit a standard-size cot. They have a patchwork top quilted onto wadding with a cotton backing. They are a bit thicker than the crib/pram blankets but still light, and are backed with white fleece or sometimes cotton fabric - as specified in the product description.

Are your quilts washable?

All the elements of the quilts and blankets are made from materials which can be machine-washed at 40 degrees. Upcycled fabrics have been pre-washed at 40 degrees to ensure they will not shrink or bleed dye. For environmental reasons and to ensure the patchwork lasts longer, we recommend hand-washing or washing in a machine at 30 degrees. Wash similar colours together. Do not tumble-dry. The patchwork blankets can be ironed using a cool iron but the wadding used in the quilts may be flattened by ironing.

Are the patchwork soft balls washable?

All the materials used to make the balls are washable at 40 degrees, but soaking the ball may result in a damp centre which could become mouldy. For this reason, we recommend simply wiping the ball using a damp cloth rather than soaking it. Do not tumble-dry or attempt to iron! The patchwork cover is not removable.

Can I have an item gift-wrapped?

We are very happy to beautifully gift-wrap using tissue paper, wrapping paper and ribbons for an additional charge, and to deliver it to an alternative address if it is a gift for someone else. See our delivery policy for more information.

Do you make an additional charge for postage and packaging?

We are pleased to say that for the cot quilts and crib/pram blankets we make no additional charge for postage and packaging. Items arrive beautifully wrapped in tissue paper in a white recycled cardboard box. At present there is still a charge for postage and packaging for bags and patchwork toys. We post all items first-class using the Royal Mail. See our delivery policy for more information.

Can I return an item?

See our terms and conditions.

Do you take commissions?

Yes, we are delighted to take on commissions for particular items, fabrics, colours or something different - just contact us to discuss what you would like.

Are your products hypoallergenic?

No, sorry, we are not able to guarantee hypoallergenic materials and fabric dyes.

Are your products organic?

Not at present, but we are looking to develop an organic range in the future using organic cotton and fabric dye.