15 Reasons to Get Addicted to Kantha Quilts
How to get the most out of unused Kantha fabric and justify adding a few more pieces to your collection
redagape
11 April 2015
Kantha quilts originate from Southern Asia and are made from old saris, layered on top of each other and stitched together. What follows are beautiful and unexpected colours, an abundance of embroidered running stitches, intricate patterns and a touch of the exotic! It’s easy to find yourself addicted to Kantha quilts. If you’ve managed to collect a few over the years, congratulations on your wise investment; you’ll be pleased to hear that they aren’t going anywhere just yet. Yay!
If you have a little stash of blankets, but they aren’t getting used as much as they should, then look no further than these ideas to increase the versatility of your Kantha quilt collection. You may even feel justified to add another one or two to your stash. Go on, you know you want to.
If you have a little stash of blankets, but they aren’t getting used as much as they should, then look no further than these ideas to increase the versatility of your Kantha quilt collection. You may even feel justified to add another one or two to your stash. Go on, you know you want to.
1. This vibrant and exotic sleep space
By far my favourite thing to do with Kantha quilts is to layer them on top of each other as bedlinen, as their lightweight nature makes them perfect for the job. Just like layering your clothes, this technique adds physical warmth, but also a casual elegance that seems like you haven’t tried too hard. Take this bedroom for instance; the mixture of colourful embroidery draws the eye to the focal point of the room, the sleep space, but also the precious light coming from the window.
By far my favourite thing to do with Kantha quilts is to layer them on top of each other as bedlinen, as their lightweight nature makes them perfect for the job. Just like layering your clothes, this technique adds physical warmth, but also a casual elegance that seems like you haven’t tried too hard. Take this bedroom for instance; the mixture of colourful embroidery draws the eye to the focal point of the room, the sleep space, but also the precious light coming from the window.
2. This understated and elegant sleep space
Most Kantha quilts are double sided, so they’re great for introducing an instant mix and match of pattern to add interest to a neutral bedroom scheme. To create this look, use a crisp white bedcover and layer your Kantha quilts over the top (turn down the top of your blankets for a sneaky peek of the pattern underneath). Make sure you stagger them, so that one quilt sits higher than the other – this way both quilts are on display. Find accessories like books, plates or cushions that echo some of the colours in the quilt to tie the look together; in this case, it’s pink and yellow accessories.
Kantha: eBay
Most Kantha quilts are double sided, so they’re great for introducing an instant mix and match of pattern to add interest to a neutral bedroom scheme. To create this look, use a crisp white bedcover and layer your Kantha quilts over the top (turn down the top of your blankets for a sneaky peek of the pattern underneath). Make sure you stagger them, so that one quilt sits higher than the other – this way both quilts are on display. Find accessories like books, plates or cushions that echo some of the colours in the quilt to tie the look together; in this case, it’s pink and yellow accessories.
Kantha: eBay
3. This table setting
Why didn’t I think of this sooner? Kantha quilts make stunning tablecloths! There is no need for fancy cutlery or crockery here, because all eyes will be focused on the beautiful table cover. I’ll also let you in on a little secret: this floral display is the ultimate disguise for spills and drips at dinner time.
Why didn’t I think of this sooner? Kantha quilts make stunning tablecloths! There is no need for fancy cutlery or crockery here, because all eyes will be focused on the beautiful table cover. I’ll also let you in on a little secret: this floral display is the ultimate disguise for spills and drips at dinner time.
4. This upholstered chaise
Like a knight in shining armour, this handsome Kantha fabric has been draped across the seating area of this stunning pink velvet antique sofa.
TIP: If you’re keen to try some DIY upholstery, I recommend using proper upholstery thread, not regular sewing cotton, and make sure you use good quality foam, too. This will ensure your hard work will stand the test of time.
If you’re not comfortable with re-upholstering your precious furniture, find a local professional in your area on Houzz to do it for you.
Like a knight in shining armour, this handsome Kantha fabric has been draped across the seating area of this stunning pink velvet antique sofa.
TIP: If you’re keen to try some DIY upholstery, I recommend using proper upholstery thread, not regular sewing cotton, and make sure you use good quality foam, too. This will ensure your hard work will stand the test of time.
If you’re not comfortable with re-upholstering your precious furniture, find a local professional in your area on Houzz to do it for you.
5. This show-stopping scalloped chair
The colours and patterns found in these blankets are so versatile that whatever the combination, they seem to work together. Here, a cheery scalloped chair is upholstered in a kaleidoscope of Kantha fabric made from vintage saris.
More ways to give an old chair a new lease on life
The colours and patterns found in these blankets are so versatile that whatever the combination, they seem to work together. Here, a cheery scalloped chair is upholstered in a kaleidoscope of Kantha fabric made from vintage saris.
More ways to give an old chair a new lease on life
6. These colourful ottomans
Resting your feet has never been so stylish with ottomans and footstools covered in heavenly Kantha fabric. They are such a statement piece even when not in use – they ooze a sense of the exotic. Plus, they’re practical too – you’ll thank yourself for these handy seats when you’re fumbling around with your shoe laces. If you aren’t feeling brave enough to slice up your quilts, hire a professional to upholster them for you.
Read more on how to use ottomans to your advantage
Resting your feet has never been so stylish with ottomans and footstools covered in heavenly Kantha fabric. They are such a statement piece even when not in use – they ooze a sense of the exotic. Plus, they’re practical too – you’ll thank yourself for these handy seats when you’re fumbling around with your shoe laces. If you aren’t feeling brave enough to slice up your quilts, hire a professional to upholster them for you.
Read more on how to use ottomans to your advantage
7. These winter warmers
Looking for a lap blanket or something to take the edge off the cold when dining outdoors? Lightweight and well sized, Kantha blankets are perfect for popping on your lap. Draped over the back of chairs, diners will be able to access them with ease.
More: Outdoor Party Planning: 20 Tips and Tricks
Looking for a lap blanket or something to take the edge off the cold when dining outdoors? Lightweight and well sized, Kantha blankets are perfect for popping on your lap. Draped over the back of chairs, diners will be able to access them with ease.
More: Outdoor Party Planning: 20 Tips and Tricks
8. This bedhead
Attaching a beautiful Kantha quilt to a bedhead is a creative way to preserve and display a precious blanket. As most Kantha quilts are double sided, I would recommend a semi-permanent method of attachment – such as safety pins or velcro – so that you still have the option to flip the quilt and show off the reverse side.
Attaching a beautiful Kantha quilt to a bedhead is a creative way to preserve and display a precious blanket. As most Kantha quilts are double sided, I would recommend a semi-permanent method of attachment – such as safety pins or velcro – so that you still have the option to flip the quilt and show off the reverse side.
9. And this bedhead
An intricately shaped bedhead will call for a more permanent attachment of the quilt, so it remains firmly in place. This will make a great project for a Kantha quilt with damage on one side. What a nice way to retire worn blankets for preservation.
More creative bedheads to inspire you
An intricately shaped bedhead will call for a more permanent attachment of the quilt, so it remains firmly in place. This will make a great project for a Kantha quilt with damage on one side. What a nice way to retire worn blankets for preservation.
More creative bedheads to inspire you
10. These cushions
When shopping for Kantha quilts, it is sometimes overwhelmingly hard to choose which one … or two that you should buy. Keep in mind that they can be made into cushions, which means you can take advantage of all the colours and patterns that are on offer. Kantha cushions are also readily available to buy, so if cutting up a Kantha quilt scares you silly, you don’t necessarily need to get out the scissors.
TIP: If you decide to make the cushions yourself, try using plastic snaps instead of zippers, as they are much easier to attach. I also recommend using a variety of different Kantha fabrics, so your cushions aren’t too ‘matchy- matchy’. There is beauty in mixing, especially when it comes to Kantha.
When shopping for Kantha quilts, it is sometimes overwhelmingly hard to choose which one … or two that you should buy. Keep in mind that they can be made into cushions, which means you can take advantage of all the colours and patterns that are on offer. Kantha cushions are also readily available to buy, so if cutting up a Kantha quilt scares you silly, you don’t necessarily need to get out the scissors.
TIP: If you decide to make the cushions yourself, try using plastic snaps instead of zippers, as they are much easier to attach. I also recommend using a variety of different Kantha fabrics, so your cushions aren’t too ‘matchy- matchy’. There is beauty in mixing, especially when it comes to Kantha.
11. These DIY pillowcases
Let’s take the cushion love one step further and use Kantha for pillowcases. While store bought Kantha pillowcases are not as readily available as cushions, I love this idea for old Kantha blankets that have been ripped or damaged, but still have lots of good fabric left in them. Pillowcases are a cinch to make, and who wouldn’t want to rest their head on one made from a Kantha quilt?
Let’s take the cushion love one step further and use Kantha for pillowcases. While store bought Kantha pillowcases are not as readily available as cushions, I love this idea for old Kantha blankets that have been ripped or damaged, but still have lots of good fabric left in them. Pillowcases are a cinch to make, and who wouldn’t want to rest their head on one made from a Kantha quilt?
12. This boho-chic kids’ chair
If you are looking for a more permanent way to make over a chair, you may like to consider using a Kantha blanket. It’s amazing how versatile Kantha is when combining it with different decorating styles. It seems to complement almost any setting by adding just a touch of colour and pattern, but not so much that it overtakes other elements in a room.
If you are looking for a more permanent way to make over a chair, you may like to consider using a Kantha blanket. It’s amazing how versatile Kantha is when combining it with different decorating styles. It seems to complement almost any setting by adding just a touch of colour and pattern, but not so much that it overtakes other elements in a room.
13. This wall hanging
Each Kantha quilt is like an original piece of art and they deserve to be treated as such. Hang your Kanthas on the wall and they will be adored by all. And the bonus of a Kantha wall hanging is that you can turn it over to reveal the pattern on the reverse side whenever you’re ready for a change.
To hang your Kantha quilt, fold over the top edge about an inch and stitch into place (either by hand or machine). This will create a channel where you can insert a curtain rod or similar. You can attached rope or ribbon to this rod to hang it onto the wall, or simply position the rod between two hooks on the wall.
Each Kantha quilt is like an original piece of art and they deserve to be treated as such. Hang your Kanthas on the wall and they will be adored by all. And the bonus of a Kantha wall hanging is that you can turn it over to reveal the pattern on the reverse side whenever you’re ready for a change.
To hang your Kantha quilt, fold over the top edge about an inch and stitch into place (either by hand or machine). This will create a channel where you can insert a curtain rod or similar. You can attached rope or ribbon to this rod to hang it onto the wall, or simply position the rod between two hooks on the wall.
14. This throw
Are you still unsure of what to do with your Kantha quilts? When in doubt, throw it just about anywhere in your home. It’s hard to go wrong with such a beautiful and versatile quilt!
Are you still unsure of what to do with your Kantha quilts? When in doubt, throw it just about anywhere in your home. It’s hard to go wrong with such a beautiful and versatile quilt!
15. This bench
Over the back of a chair, on a bench, as a table runner or even as a picnic blanket. There are so many options for using your Kantha quilts. I don’t know about you, but I think I’m ready to add a few more to my collection.
TELL US
How do you use your Kantha quilts at home?
MORE
Colour in Soft Furnishings: How to Mix and Match
Mix Master: How to Clash Prints and Patterns Like a Pro
Fabric Shopping: Where to Find the Best Materials for Your Needs
Over the back of a chair, on a bench, as a table runner or even as a picnic blanket. There are so many options for using your Kantha quilts. I don’t know about you, but I think I’m ready to add a few more to my collection.
TELL US
How do you use your Kantha quilts at home?
MORE
Colour in Soft Furnishings: How to Mix and Match
Mix Master: How to Clash Prints and Patterns Like a Pro
Fabric Shopping: Where to Find the Best Materials for Your Needs
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I bought two kantha quilts from etsy last summer and made roman shades out of them for our enclosed front porch. They look wonderful!
Robin Toulouse do you have a picture? I just ordered a couple to make roman shades with and I can't seem to find a photo anywhere!
My wife absolute;y love these Kantha quilts. They are so versatile to use. Got a couple from kanthadecor.com Initially we used it as sofa throws. One later used to upholster the footstools.