Questions about Carvers Quilts

[KettleKarver]

Our club is planning a carver's quilt as a donation for a cancer care fund-raiser. We haven't done one before and can use some advice.

1. What is a good thickness for each panel? We figuring on low relief and chip carving.

2. About how many panels should be used to make a 2 ft. x 3 ft. quilt?

3. What's the best way to assemble and frame the panels?

4. What is a good hanging system for something this heavy?

5. Any other tips or tricks?

TIA,
Jim

[Irish]

Jim,
I have though about how to respond here several times and I think that you need to first consider two variables. How many carvers want to participate. That would determine how many squares you will want. And how many board feet of the same width you would need.

Then I would plan a simple shadow box framework that could support each square. 1/4" lattice would work nicely.

So ... if my math is correct this early in the morning ...

For approx. 2'x3' you could have 24 squares each 5 3/4" with four high and 6 wide would give you a finish of 2' 1/4" x 3' 1/4" for easy cutting.

If that's not right someone will quickly correct me!

I would use 3/4" basswood as it's easy to obtain and you can buy enough board feet in the same width.

Susan

[KettleKarver]

Thanks for the response, Susan. 3/4" is a bit thicker than I originally thought but it makes sense. If we adhere to the general rule of carving 1/2 the thickness of the material, that means our carvings are only 3/8" deep.

I'm hoping to order wood from our supplier this week.

Jim