Hanging a Quilt on The Wall: A Complete Guide
From my experience as an interior decorator, hanging a quilt on the wall can transform any boring space into a stylish, cozy retreat. But it’s important to do it properly so your precious quilt stays preserved and looks its best. Here’s my tried and true step-by-step guide to hanging a quilt with tips I’ve learned over the years.
Choosing Where to Hang Your Quilt
When deciding where to display your quilt, first consider the room you want to hang it in. Is it a high-traffic area or more private space? Do you want the quilt as the focal point or as an accent? Place it above a bed, sofa, fireplace, or eat-in dining area to make the biggest decorative impact.
Next, evaluate the wall space. Is it large enough for the quilt’s dimensions? Allow for a few inches border on each side for optimal presentation. Also check for wall studs to attach securely. Avoid hanging over windows or doorways which can damage fabrics over time.

Preparing Your Quilt for Hanging
Here are some key steps:
- If the quilt has been folded in storage, lay it flat for a day or two to allow creases to relax. This helps it hang nicely.
- Gently vacuum and spot clean the front and back to remove dust, grime or stains.
- Consider adding an acid-free quilt backing for protection if it’s an antique or delicate textile.
- Check if the quilt’s top edge has a hanging sleeve – a folded channel about 8 inches wide. If not, have one sewn on the back evenly along the width.
I once spent a week trying various DIY sleeve methods with poor results. Finally I broke down and paid a local seamstress $50 to sew a perfect one. Well worth it for such an important preservation step!
Choosing Hanging Methods
The main decision here is whether to go with fixed hanging via rod pocket sleeve or use adjustable ties, clips or velcro tabs to allow variable display.

Hanging Sleeve with Rod:
- This is best for straight rod over bed or window.
- Insert wooden dowel or curtain rod through sleeve.
- Secure rod ends firmly into wall brackets.
- Allows quilt to hang neatly and smoothly.
Ties/Clips/Velcro Tabs:
- Great for hanging on walls or display stands.
- Placement can be shifted for perfect positioning.
- Don’t tug hard or permanent creases can form.
- Check attachments frequently for slipping hazards.
From past mishaps, I don’t recommend amateur sewing ties or tabs directly onto antique quilts. Better to clip or velcro specialty hangers carefully to edges instead.

Hanging Your Precious Quilt Securely
Nothing’s worse than seeing your cherished heirloom creation come crashing down in front of party guests. Here are my top safety tips:
- Attach hanging hardware directly into wall studs, not just drywall anchors. Use a stud finder to be sure.
- For long/heavy quilts, use two rods and secure firmly at three stud points.
- Check for loosening and re-tighten hardware every few months.
- Keep high traffic, pets or children away from quilt to prevent accidental tugging.
- Consider plexiglass box frame over quilt for very delicate or fragile pieces.
I once displayed a sampler quilt made by my great grandmother over my piano using just drywall hooks. Big mistake! My exuberant dog Brutus jumped to look out the window, snagging the quilt which plummeted to the ground. Luckily the damage was minor, but what a fright! Now I always over-engineer the mounting hardware for irreplaceable textiles.
Creatively Showcasing Your Fabulous Quilts
While traditional rod hanging over beds is popular, why not get innovative? Here are some striking quilt display ideas I’ve used for clients:

- Hang horizontally as a headboard or valance over windows
- Showcase sections in decorative frames around room
- Mount quilt “diamonds” creatively on walls
- Create ring display with circular stand or hoop
- Incorporate as alternative art above mantles or shelving
- Feature as backdrop inside shelf or bookcase niches
- Use as table runner down long dining tables
So don’t hide your glorious quilted creations away! With these hanging tips, you can easily display quilts as captivating focal points bursting with beauty in any room. Get creative with positioning or framing to show off their vibrancy. Change displays seasonally to refresh spaces. Finally give your quilted labors of love the dazzling exhibitions they deserve!
Let me know if you have any other questions! I’m always happy to share my quilting decoration passion and learnings.
Quilt Type | Hanging Method | Hardware Needed |
---|---|---|
Small quilt | Command strips | 8-12 command strips |
Medium quilt | Curtain rods | Curtain rod and brackets |
Large quilt | Quilt hanger bars | 2 hanger bars and mounting hardware |
Heirloom quilt | Acid-free canvas sling | Acid-free canvas, dowels, mounting hardware |
Here is a FAQ on how to hang a quilt on the wall:
FAQ
What’s the best way to hang a quilt on the wall?
- The easiest method is to use a quilt hanging rail. Simply screw the rail into the wall studs, then drape the quilt over the rail. Quilt hanging rails have clips to secure the quilt in place.
- You can also hang a quilt using quilt hangers that attach directly to the quilt. Sew or clip the hangers to the top of the quilt, then hang it on nails in the wall.
- For a quick DIY method, some folks basically put a wooden dowel or even a flat board across the back top of the quilt. Then hang the dowel on nails or wall hooks. Not the prettiest, but it works.
Should I hang the quilt taut or loose?
- It’s generally best to hang the quilt fairly taut, not loose. You want it to lie flat against the wall without bunching up. But not so tight that it stretches out the quilt. It’s a balance.
- If the quilt is really heavy, like a thick wool one, consider additional support rods along the bottom to take some of the weight. Otherwise the top may start to sag over time from gravity’s toll.
Any tips for preventing quilt damage?
- Use quilt hangers made specifically for quilts. Ones with rounded clips that won’t crease the fabric.
- Consider placing a fabric sleeve along the top back of the quilt. This helps distribute the hanging stress across the entire width, protecting the quilt.
- In general, avoid hanging quilts in direct sunlight, as the UV rays will fade colors over time. Also rotate them seasonally to evenly distribute light exposure.