Lightweight Summer Quilts

Just because summer is here doesn't mean you have to give up your favorite hobby of quilting. Quilts are supposed to be warm, but what can you do to make them not quite so heavy? Summer is here and the warmer weather makes regular quilts a little oppressive. But just because it's summer doesn't mean all your quilts have to be exiled off your beds. Lightweight summer quilts are breathable, comfortable, and perfect for the summer months. Here are two tips for making lightweight summer quilts. 1) CHOOSE THE RIGHT FABRICS. Obviously this is not the time to use chambray or denim. Cotton is the best choice for a lightweight, breathable fabric. But there are differences in weight of cottons between the manufacturer. The thinner the fabric is.....the lighter the quilt. But beware of choosing broadcloths or other cottons so thin that the batting will show through. Batiks are a nice lightweight fabric for summer quilts.

Cotton double gauze is also a beautiful option for lightweight quilts. Originally made and designed in Japan, this extremely gauzy fabric is gaining popularity by some of the major fabric manufacturers in the United States. We have recently picked up some soft double gauze cottons for our store. 2) DECIDE ON A BATTING. The biggest factor in making lightweight quilts is your choice of batting. Polyester feels extremely lightweight and would seem to be the perfect choice for a summer quilt. However, a synthetic fiber like polyester is not as breathable as some other choices and will result in a warmer quilt. Perfect for winter but not for summer. Wool is definitely the warmest of natural fibers, and is NOT recommended for summer quilts. Cotton is slightly better, but it weighs a lot and will feel heavy even as it breaths. I recommend bamboo batting for lightweight quilts. It's silky and lightweight with excellent breathability. It is perfect for a summer quilt.

Another traditional option for summer quilts is to go "commando".......no batting at all. Simply quilt the top to the back and be done. Personally, I like the feel of a lightweight batting in my summer quilts, but it's a matter of preference. So don't give up your favorite hobby just because it's summer. Instead, make a lightweight summer quilt!