How to Make a Quilt Label (Free Printable Quilt Labels + Placement Guide)
A quilt label might seem like a small detail, but it’s one of my very favorite parts of finishing a quilt.
I’m the maker behind Bessie Pearl, and for the last ten years I’ve helped other makers actually finish their quilts and sewing projects — those last steps that are so easy to rush… or skip entirely. Long after the fabric has softened and the stitches have been loved, the label is what tells the story: who made the quilt, when it was made, and why.
It’s a quiet, meaningful detail that turns a cozy object into something remembered.
Quilts Are Heirlooms in the Making
Quilts have always carried stories. Historically, quilt labels weren’t always fancy — sometimes they were simply stitched initials or a date — but they served the same purpose they do today: preserving history.
When a quilt is passed down, that tiny piece of information becomes priceless.
Without a label, quilts easily become anonymous and their stories slowly fade away.
Add Some Fun Flair ✨
Labels don’t have to be formal. This is actually where your personality gets to show up.
You can include:
a name and date
a favorite quote
a scripture
a message to the recipient
or a playful note like: “Made with love and probably a little coffee.”
If designing feels overwhelming, Bessie Pearl offers free downloadable quilt labels. Just download, print, and sew — done and done.
Where to Place Your Quilt Label
There’s no single right location, but these are the most common:
Bottom corner of the quilt back (most popular)
Along the binding (subtle and clean)
Center back (heirloom quilts)
Wherever you place it, choose a spot that won’t get excessive wear but is still easy to find.
Supplies You’ll Need
Finished or nearly finished quilt
Free quilt label files
Sewing machine
Iron
Thread
Fabric pen (optional)
Transfer printer paper
Scrap fabric or lightweight cotton webbing
How to Make a Quilt Label (Step-by-Step)
Step 1 — Download Your Free Labels
Edit and download the free Bessie Pearl quilt label templates.
Step 2 — Print Your Labels
Print directly onto transfer paper following the manufacturer instructions. Then cut around each label.
Step 3 — Iron Onto Fabric
Peel the backing and iron the label onto your fabric scrap using the protective sheet included with the transfer paper.
Step 4 — Trim and Prep
Trim the fabric to your final label size.
How to Attach the Label
You have two great options:
Tag Style
Place along the quilt edge and sew into the binding.
Square Style
Pin anywhere on the quilt back and stitch around the edges.
Want to Personalize It?
Add your:
signature
date
recipient name
message
Many quilters love using a fine-tip permanent marker for this step.
Because labeling your quilt isn’t just another step —
it’s the finishing touch that tells the whole story. 🧵
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