How to easily hang an art quilt
This method of hanging art quilts is simple and quick.
It uses simple tools and methods. Of course, various factors will determine how simple: if you have cement walls rather than dry wall; if your quilt is very large and needs a hardwood dowel; etc. You will need to determine for yourself how to accommodate for your specific factors and circumstances. This is the basic method to get started.
Selecting your dowel. This method uses natural wood dowels (no stains or varnish). You can use rounded or square edged dowels.
Select a dowel that has the smallest diameter (round) or perimeter (square) that can still withstand the weight of the the quilt as gravity pulls on the bottom center of the quilt.
Hardwood dowels will be able to withstand more weight without bowing in the middle than softer wood dowels. (Metal or PVC dowels will not work with this method.)
2. Measure the dowel to the inside of the binding edge on the back of the quilt
Leave enough room on the sides that the binding edge will hide the eyelets from view when the quilt is hanging.
3. Cut the dowel to the measured size. I use a small hacksaw.
4. Find and mark the centers of the ends of the dowels. This is where you will insert the eyelets.
Use an awl or drill to make starter holes where the eyelets will be inserted.
Screw the eyelets into the starter holes you made with the awl. Use a set of pliers to help you get a better grip if needed.
5. Determine where you want your quilt hung on the wall. Measure for height and centeredness. The pre-cut dowel (steps 2 & 3) will determine the width.
6. Use one end of the dowel, i.e., one of the eyelets, to mark the spot where you will insert your nail.
Remove the dowel from the wall. Use a nail with a head that the eyelet will easily fit over, yet will not slip off. The nail can be inserted at a slight angle, if necessary.
7. Pull your dowel through the hanging sleeve on the back of your quilt.
8. On the nail you just inserted into the wall, hang your dowel (with the quilt) from the eyelet.
Swing the other end of the dowel up until the quilt hangs straight. (Accurately measure for best results.)
9. Mark the spot using the other eyelet (the one not hanging from the nail).
Remove the quilt and dowel from the wall. Drive the second nail into place where you marked the spot.
10. Pull the dowel through the quilt sleeve again. Making sure the side of the quilt you want to see is facing forward towards the room, hang one eyelet on one nail and the other eyelet on the second nail.
Have any questions about this art quilt hanging method? Did I miss a step or not explain something well enough? Let me know in the comments below!