How to add a Label to a Quilt

I am frequently asked about how to add a label to a quilt. It really is such a simple step – and yet, I’ve been notoriously bad about doing it. It’s definitely on my list of things to make a better habit! I’m updating this post in 2021 with some new ideas for labeling a quilt + a simple tutorial to show you how.

I am THE. WORST. at labeling my quilts. For years I’ve said I’m going to start doing it. I think of the dozens of quilts I’ve made over the years (which is not a few) I’ve labeled maybe 10. It’s a travesty.

I have all kinds of excuses. One being I don’t like my handwriting on fabric. The second being, it’s just one more added step that I need to think about and isn’t part of my routine.

Here are a few recent resources that I’ve found to help you label your quilts. (Unfortunately, Modern Yardage where I got the above labels is no longer in business.) But here are some other good options!

Unique Quilt Label Ideas

One of my favorite’s is Crazy Mom Quilt’s quilt label tutorial– she makes is so simple to do. I’ve used this method – simple, no thinking, easy to sew on.

If you’re looking for a sheet with a fun variety of printed label options, Spoonflower had a bunch of different options including here, here, here, and here.

Or if you’d like to make your own custom label (with option to add a photo too!) check out this Custom Quilt Label Tutorial. 

How to Sew a Label to a Quilt

Whether you make your own or get some custom labels, here is an easy method for sewing a quilt label to your quilt. Give the label a little spritz of starch to make it nice and crisp. Using the starch, fold back the sides of the label – starting with the top and bottom, then the two opposite sides. The starch will make the edges nice and crisp and easier to sew.

You could also fold the fabric back on the straight edge of a piece of a cardboard cereal box to make sure your edges are perfectly straight.

Pin the label on your quilt – I like to put it in one of the bottom corners – and using a hidden applique stitch, sew the label in place. Slide the needle through the label, the backing, and batting, avoiding going all the way through the front of the quilt. I personally would recommend sewing it to the back of a new quilt before it’s washed, whenever possible. That way your quilt itself is still a little more stiff and then if you wash before you give the quilt away, you can make sure the label is still securely in place.