Island Batik Ambassadors Kennel Quilts

Island Batiks, along with other quilt industry partners created the Piece for Shelter Pets initiative in 2016.  As part of the ambassadors program we were asked to make kennel quilts to donate to our fine furry friends.  A worth goal!  You can learn more about it here.  There are directions and free patterns available.

Here are the guidelines:

• Materials used should be 100% cotton (biodegradable).
• Pre-wash fabrics (pets can have allergies just like humans).
• Finished size should be 12" x 18". This fits the most commonly used small kennel used at shelters.
• When piecing, use a small stitch length (e.g. 14 stitches/inch).
• Do not use binding as it can be hazardous to pets if it becomes loose. Layer, sew around the edge using a small stitch length, and turn quilts pillow-cover style. Whipstitch the opening with small, tight stitches.
• Use only simple appliques that are secured with tight stitches along the edges. Avoid using fusibles.
• Keep the quilting simple and use small tight quilting stitches that won’t catch on pet claws. Do not tie quilts as the ends can get caught in claws or chewed off.
• Do not use any metallic threads or other embellishments (e.g. beads, charms, buttons, ribbons, lace, trims, etc.) of any kind. Do not add handles or loops to the quilt.

I pulled out some five inch strips and got to work!  I decided to sew them together and make a modified bargello for my kennel quilts.

I had enough fabric to make two.  They will go off to local pets in need this week!

I hope you get to quilt today!
Suzy