Though it’s not a great picture, I created this quilt over 20 years ago in the aftermath of 9/11. I distinctly remember yarn-tying each and every little intersection with hunter green yarn. The news was on all day, and doing something with my hands was the only way to stay calm.

The quilt was enormous. It is a giant square, so 40 % of it is hidden on the other side of the railing. The squares are homey, comfy flannel. It was designed to say “cozy” every step of the way. Of course, even my first quilt, knowing absolutely nothing, I didn’t use a pattern–just laid it out in a way that seemed pleasing to me.

I didn’t have any idea how to quilt, though…thus the yarn-ties. And I put it together, like a pillow case. Turning the whole quilt sandwich inside out, I sewed 3 sides, turned it right side out, and managed to secure a seam along the remaining side. Then I started tying.

And it does work. You really could make a quilt that way.

However, the yarn started to fall out. Every night on our bed, I would find another one or two strings. And the quilt was so massive, that it was impossible to find where the yarn came from. After a few weeks, I decided that it needed some more work.

So I put it away.

In a closet.

For 20 years.

My nephew recently married, and he and his wife have a cabin-themed home…they love all the pine trees, the deer and northwoods-type atmosphere.

I went back to the closet and pulled out this quilt. I sent a pic of the pattern to my sister: Will they like this? Oh yes, was the answer. That’s just their style.

I examined the quilt and that night I got out the seam ripper.

I took off the entire backing and pulled out the batting. I straightened and corrected and made sure the quilt top was completely solid again.

I found some neutral backing which had also been in my closet…hmmm…maybe 7-10 years now.

And I laid the whole quilt sandwich out and quilted it for the first time, on my home machine. This time done right.

It really was a huge quilt to attempt at home, and remember the top is flannel. Not lightweight.

But I got it all quilted with an overall pattern and an edging that gives it some distinction. I still have to make a label and bind it, but I think it will make a perfect Christmas gift for them.

An heirloom, in their style, with a breath of fresh life. Nothing thrown away–just recycled, re-used and re-incarnated.

I wish I were better at re-purposing. I think it’s a skill I want to improve and increase.

May your holiday season take you on a spiritual journey… to loved ones, to the Earth, and possibly to the back of your closet.