M&D Newsletter #1- "Pink Pillow Punch"

Pink Pillow Punch

Featuring Rose Buffalo, Velour Deep turquoise and Indigo Gems.

This was M&D's first custom project, and we are quite proud! Our client redesigned her adult daughter’s bedroom as a surprise while she was away at university.  She had already done such a great job choosing new furniture, paint and curtains; we just came in to add the finishing touch.  We settled on two euro size pillows in a gorgeous light pink buffalo check fabric and added two pillows in a fun indie fabric.  To complete the look we added a splash of colour with a velour lumber pillow.  We also created a small lumber pillow for the corner reading chair featuring a whimsical bird pattern fabric.  The ending look is an on-trend, dreamy space fit for any age.  

Featuring Bamboo Rose pillow

If this project interests you, please check our other pillows and quilts online.  For custom services please contact us at magelledreamer@gmail.com.

"Pre Fab" Quilts vs. M&D Quilts

So I'd like to share with you all the difference between a "Pre-fab" or machine made quilts vs. a handmade quilt like we offer at Magelle & Dreamer.   Here are some basic points to consider:

1.  Workmanship - A handmade quilt from M&D is just that, HANDMADE.  Quilts bought in stores or through online retailers such as Pottery Barn or Anthropology are not.   These quilts are made on industrial machines by people overseas, not in Canada with love and attention.  Although I personally do not know anyone in Asia sewing quilts, but I'm pretty sure they do not have 20+ quilting experience like my Mom does. This is not to insult anyone in this industry overseas, its just to point out that their work is not handmade and really shouldn't be called "Quilts" at all.

2. Materials!  This is a big one because most people have no idea how much money good quality fabric and threads cost - let alone the price of a sewing machine.  At M&D we pride ourselves on using only top of the line premium materials for all our items.  The cost of our materials is reflected in our prices, but we believe our items are treasured heirlooms - you won't find a Mercedes at Wal-mart and you won't find a Magelle & Dreamer quilt either :-)

3. Construction - The construction of a quilt is very important not only for the look of the quilt, but more importantly for the longevity of the quilt.   Pre-fab quilts do not have strong bindings (the trim of the quilt) so often after a few washes the binding becomes weak and threads begin to show.  Often the quilting of the pre-fab quilts does not go through the back of the quilt, only the front. This creates a problem as the batting is not sewed into the quilt but rather floats around inside it.  

Example of strong binding on the "Division Quilt."

A quilt from M&D has well-made sewing on the top of the quilt AND the back, as well as excellent batting and binding therefore making it strong, well weighted yet cozy to touch. Our quilts will stand up to countless washing (cold water only please!) and in fact improve the feeling of the quilt making it softer vs. a pre-fab quilt which will probably come apart.  A real quilt from M&D is truly a heirloom that can last a lifetime.  In fact, my sister and I are currently using our grandmother's quilts in our homes which are over 75 yrs old!  Basically, I think many of us can agree that you get what you pay for.  At M&D we pride ourselves on quality workmanship and design - we hope you think so too, please check out our selection of items at our shop. 

I'd love to hear your comments about this hot topic, please post below! Cheers, M&D.

How to "design" with a quilt

So many some of you have persued our website already and thought you'd like a quilt, but are unsure where it would go in your house? Here are our top recommendations on how to incorporate a beautiful, handmade quilt into your existing decor.

Option #1- Use as throw quilt- this is considered the easiest way to display a quilt - simply drape it over your favorite chair or back of the sofa in the living room, or place at the base of the bed.  Some of our quilts have flannel backing which make the quilt extra cozy for snuggling.  This is also the most cost effective option as throw quilts are typically between 50" x 60" and use less fabrics and materials than larger quilts.  As you can see in the picture below a throw quilt is quite versatile.  

Chair features our "Chevron Dreams" quilt in navy's and gray's.

Option #2- Use a bedspread- this option is quite stunning in a chalet or a child's twin bed.  We are currently working on three Christmas (what?! already I hear you saying) quilts for my children's queen beds.  Here's a sample of the work in progress for my son's quilt.  Follow us in later posts to see our progress on this project.

Option #3- Display as a piece of artwork.  This is personally my favorite option.  One of the best examples of displaying quilts as art is none other than the Canadian queen of design herself, Sarah Richardson.  As you can see from her design work from little girls room, the quilt is displayed as a focal point of the room and is quite stunning. (You can read more about this project here).

Yet another example from Sarah Richardson is from her Cottage Home of a quilt on display as artwork, or perhaps easy to grab off the rack for the occasional afternoon nap? 

I hope these suggestions make it easier to incorporate a handmade quilt into your home.  Please check out our selection of quilts at our shop.  If there is something you rather see in custom colours to match your current decor, please do not hesitate to contact us. Cheers, M&D.