WTC Quiltstitched with care since 2001

Memorial quilting

How to cross-stitch a memorial square

Hundreds of people answered the 9-11 Memorial Quilt Project’s call by stitching a single square. If you’ve been asked to stitch one for a memorial quilt, these steps will help yours fit in and last.

Close-up of a cross-stitch in progress: a needle threaded with navy floss working the Twin Towers in navy, with red and blue stars around them on cream fabric
Simple shapes in two or three colors read clearly once a square is set into a quilt.

Follow the organizer’s guidelines first

Every group project sets its own fabric, size and theme. If anything below conflicts with the guidelines you were given, follow the guidelines.

Materials

14-count Aida is the usual fabric and the easiest for beginners; cut it at least 3 inches larger than the design on every side. Use six-strand cotton embroidery floss, two strands at a time on 14-count, and a size 24 or 26 tapestry needle. A hoop or frame keeps the tension even. Take the fabric out between sessions so the hoop doesn’t leave a ring.

Choosing a design

Pick something simple enough to finish on time and clear from a few feet away, since the quilt will be seen hanging. Flags, hearts, stars, ribbons and a short phrase or name all read well. Our free flag chart is sized to fit a typical square on 14- or 18-count fabric.

Stitching it cleanly

  • Start in the center of the fabric and the center of the chart so the design is centered.
  • Don’t knot your thread. Use a loop start or weave the tail under the back of a few stitches; knots make lumps under a quilt top.
  • Make every top stitch slant the same direction.
  • Don’t carry dark thread more than a few stitches across the back, or it will show through light fabric.

Finishing and mailing

Illustration of a memorial quilt of stitched squares, including a flag, a firefighter's helmet, an eagle and a tree, draped over a wooden chair beside a lit lantern
An illustration: finished squares joined into one quilt.
  • Wash the finished square gently in cool water, roll it in a towel and press it face down on a soft towel so the stitches stay raised.
  • Don’t trim the fabric unless you’re asked to; the quilter needs the extra margin for seams.
  • Pin or attach a note with your name, town and any dedication.
  • Mail it flat in a sturdy envelope with a piece of cardboard, inside a plastic sleeve to keep it dry.

Organizing a quilt yourself? Read how to organize a memorial quilt. Once the squares come in, how to make a quilt covers the sewing from there.