Fidget quilts

[SusieQ51]

I want to make several "fidget" quilts for the local group home where my brother lives. The clients are older and many do not have family that visit often. I have looked for information on the web and have kind of a general idea but would appreciate any assistance you could offer.

Thanks in advance.

[grammy65]

OK...I'll be the first to ask...What is a Fidget quilt?

[SusieQ51]

They are quilts that have pockets, fringe, any kind of soft decoration to keep a person's fidgety hands busy. It is a touchy feely quilt. I didn't know if there is a particular pattern or anything special that I should use to make it.

IF I get my act together in time, I will complete one and post a picture for all to see.

That is a big IF, by the way.

[CoyoteQuilts]

I would look at baby quilt patterns. One that comes to mind is only squares of different types of fabrics-chenille, minke, cotton, velvet, etc. Very easy & simple. I think that this project is a very good idea for the older generation. Some of us regress to our childhood as we grow older & touch is an important sense because it can convey love, frustration, or hate to a person that has lost their hearing, sight or mind. Good luck on this project. S

[gardenquilter]

never heard of a fidget quilt would love to see photos

[Oasis]

CoyoteQuilts. . . . .

Those are very good points to remember when making quilts for the elderly. I always use flannel when I make children's quilts but the pockets (for glasses, kleenex, etc.) are an excellent idea for older people.

[SusieQ51]

Great ideas, Ladies. I will give them a try.

[carrieg]

I know toddlers like the feel of the pre-made satin binding you can put on blankets. The grandson of some friends had his blankee the other day and was turning the entire quilt corner to corner while running the satin thru his fingers. All this while his thumb was in his mouth too LOL

[quilterliz]

What about making rag quilts with flannel? It would be soft, yet also have the fringy stuff to play with? They would go together quickly, and you could use scrappy fabric.

[qltsbme]

Quliterliz, I was also thinking ragtime quilts would be great for this. For added interest, you could even embroider some of the squares - gives yet another texture.