Handmade quilts are a work of art. The designs are endless, with many traditional patterns, as well as personalized ones. The meanings behind the patterns are rich in history. Quilts can be used to serve both functional and decorative purposes. They work beautifully as bedding and throws for winter warmth. They also definitely add a cozy feel to any home. Many of our quilts were handmade by my hubby’s grandmother, and are considered heirlooms.

Here are some of the ways that we use them in our home, Comfy Lane Cottage.

This quilt was made by my hubby’s grandmother just for him. She created the design, the scales of justice, to celebrate his journey in practicing law. The back side of the quilt has a completely different pattern and color scheme. I like that his grandmother showed him through the quilt that there is more than one side to life, more than just one’s career. At night it’s time to “turn the quilt over” to enjoy loved ones and other shared interests.

Ladders and railings are wonderful ways to display quilts. A few vintage pieces and my Mother’s Day roses help to tie in the bold colors of this beautiful handmade quilt with its rhombus cube pattern. This is another work of art by my babe’s grandmother.

Not all quilts are made of patchwork pieces. This one’s beauty is in the paisley quilted stitching. It makes a warm throw for a chilly day or evening. Red is versatile, making this the perfect quilt for many holidays and seasons including Fourth of July, autumn, Christmas, and Valentine’s Day.

This solid blue quilt works perfectly in an old wagon from PaPa to his grandkids. Whether it’s a wagon ride or just being creative with seating, quilts are the perfect solution. If you know me, then you know that I have a fondness for the color blue in my home, so you’ll find this quilt does lots of traveling throughout the house!

This little seating area near our fire pit is perfect for family as we gather to enjoy fireworks and s’mores for the Fourth of July. It is amazing how you can “shop your home” to find items that will work perfectly for special occasions, without spending any money! The quilts tie everything together and make this whole setting festive and cozy.

Quilts are perfect for picnics. This striking star quilt was made by my babe’s grandma. Normally, you’ll find it displayed on a ladder or hung over a railing in our entryway.

Speaking of railings, this one is in our entryway. We live in a split-level type home, where a railing is typical for the upper level. I like to hang quilts over it. They hide my babe’s many (and I mean MANY) cords to his various technology devices. I remember the first time I was invited to his home for dinner. The first thing I saw in the foyer was a mess of tangled cords. He was so proud of how he was able to reach through the balusters to work on his devices. These quilts became the perfect solution and compromise. Upon entering our home, quilts will warmly greet you, and my babe just pulls them aside like draperies to reach the back of a computer or television. Had I not shared, you would have never known!

Quilts can also help create a romantic date or anniversary setting like this one, especially if there is a sentimental meaning behind it. The blanket can be used as a shawl for warmth if the weather is chilly or placed upon the ground to sit on.

Quilts can serve many purposes, even as a tablecloth like this one. Draped across the table, it is all set for a patriotic holiday gathering. Pinwheels, stars, and flowers are all popular quilt designs. (quilt from Walmart, Better Homes & Garden brand)

Of course, the most obvious use for quilts would be as bedding. This one was a wedding gift and has beautiful embroidered flowers that match the floral fabric along the sides.

I like to use more than one quilt on the bed, layering them. The navy quilt is draped across the bottom of the bed to use as needed for extra warmth. It also coordinates with the reversible floral and check quilt. This is what we call in our home, function meets frou frou! (floral quilt from Steinmart)

Tucking a quilt in a corner nook adds a colorful cozy touch. This one hangs over an old 1940’s schoolhouse door.

This particular quilt was my first big girl quilt, purchased decades ago. It was a nice quality brand, Better Homes and Garden, but bought as a bargain on clearance at Walmart. Its bright colors and pattern drew me in, not to mention the price! Although quality handmade quilts can be costly and an investment, quilts can also be thrifted, gifted, and bargain purchased like the quilts throughout my home.

Folding quilts along the back of a couch and across the seating adds color and texture. With children and pets, there is no need to be concerned about dirtying the furniture, as they can be easily removed and washed.

An ordinary brown couch is totally transformed into a comfy place to sit, just by using quilts, throws, and coordinated pillows. As the seasons change, so do the quilts, bringing in various color schemes. Over time they become part of the family tradition and can even one day be passed down as family heirlooms, giving meaning to the homes of our children and their children. (ivory quilt from Sears)