Quilt Ladders are one of my favorite ways to display blankets or… my quilts!
My grandfather – Leon was a wood maker man. He had his own workshop out the back of his home where he cut and sanded a bunch of little wood projects. My mom got a great idea (this happens alot) and sent him some instructions to make 5 quilt ladders. One for each- my sister, and 2 sister in laws, me and of course herself as well.
Leon was one to please and set out to put them together. I’ve had mine for over 8 years and while I still have to finish the ladder, I have it out and it’s always loaded with quilts.
This is where it was found in my bedroom before we moved. See– blonde wood. Unfinished. But I love it.
It’s just the right side for loading heavy quilts on and propping on the wall. I can easily move it around and re-station it where ever I feel like it.
There are 4 rungs on mine which are quite spaced out…but with the diy quilt ladders- you can customize it to whatever will fit what you need.
My quilt ladder features a wider top bar that is removable and has a bottom plate to keep it more securely in place, but really a super simple quilt ladder will do the trick.
After looking for a bit I’ve come up with a little collection you can use as reference if you are looking to make your own.
They are a little bit of work, but if you have a handy man around the house- I’m sure you will be just fine! (or maybe that handy man is you!)
There is a variety of styles including dowel bars, flat bars, some are painted, others stained. You could even pick and choose the style and finish and then using the tutorials get it done!
Why Quilt Ladders Are the Best Quilt Display Ever!
Let’s be honest—quilters love showing off their work, and a quilt ladder is one of the easiest (and cutest) ways to do it! Here’s why every quilter needs one in their home:
1. No More Folding and Forgetting
Instead of piling quilts in a closet where they never see the light of day, a quilt ladder lets you display them beautifully. Plus, you’ll actually use them more when they’re within reach!
2. Instant Home Décor Upgrade
A quilt ladder adds a cozy, handmade touch to any space. Whether your style is farmhouse, modern, or somewhere in between, a ladder filled with quilts is an effortless way to warm up a room.
3. Show Off Your Hard Work
Quilting takes time, and those beautiful stitches deserve to be seen! A quilt ladder keeps your masterpieces on display without taking up extra space.
4. Easy to Swap Out for the Seasons
Love decorating for fall, Christmas, or spring? Quilt ladders make it simple to switch out quilts whenever you want. One quick swap, and your home has a whole new seasonal vibe!
5. Saves Space but Keeps Quilts Accessible
Unlike bulky shelves or blanket chests, a quilt ladder leans against the wall and takes up almost no space. But when you need a cozy quilt, it’s right there—no digging required!
6. Works for Any Size Quilt
From baby quilts to full-size bed quilts, a quilt ladder holds them all. Drape them over the rungs, layer them up, or hang them neatly—there’s no wrong way to do it.
7. Handmade Meets Handmade
If you love making quilts, why not DIY your own quilt ladder? It’s a fun project that pairs perfectly with your sewing skills—and makes your quilt display even more special!
Basically, quilt ladders are the best. They’re practical, stylish, and the perfect way to celebrate all the gorgeous quilts you’ve made (or collected!). What’s not to love?
Design Variations
When making your own quilt ladder, there are plenty of ways to customize the design to match your space and quilting style. From materials to finishes, here are a few things to consider:
Material Choices
- Wooden Dowels – A lightweight option that gives a smooth, rounded look, great for a modern or minimal aesthetic.
- Flat Wood Slats – Sturdier and can hold more weight, offering a rustic or farmhouse feel.
- Metal Rungs – Adds an industrial touch and extra durability but may need padding to prevent quilt creases.
Finishes
- Natural Wood – Keep it simple with a clear sealant to show off the grain and warmth of the wood.
- Stained Wood – Choose a stain that matches your home’s décor, whether it’s a rich walnut or a light oak.
- Painted – Go bold with a fun color or stick to neutrals like white or black for a clean, modern look.
- Distressed or Antiqued – Sand down edges or use chalk paint for a vintage farmhouse feel.
Size and Spacing
- Height – Standard quilt ladders range from 4 to 6 feet tall, but you can go smaller for tabletop or wall-leaning designs.
- Rung Spacing – Keep rungs 10 to 12 inches apart so quilts have enough room to drape without bunching.
- Ladder Width – 16 to 24 inches wide is a good range, depending on the size of quilts you plan to display.
Customizing these details ensures your quilt ladder fits both your space and quilting collection perfectly. Whether you love a clean, modern look or something with vintage charm, small design choices can make your quilt display unique to you!
Quilt Ladders you can Make~
Safety and Maintenance Tips
- Stability: Ensure the ladder is securely positioned to prevent slipping or falling.
- Quilt Protection: Use smooth finishes to avoid snags and consider padding rungs to preserve quilt integrity.
- Cleaning: Advice on dusting and maintaining both the ladder and the displayed quilts.
Ready to Show Off Those Quilts?
Quilt ladders are hands down one of the easiest (and prettiest) ways to display your quilts without stuffing them in a closet or piling them on a chair. Whether you DIY your own or grab one ready-made, they instantly turn your handmade quilts into home décor. Plus, they make it super simple to swap out quilts for the seasons or just whenever you feel like a change!
So if your quilts need a better home than the back of your couch, it’s time to give a quilt ladder a try. Get creative with the design, pick a finish that fits your space, and start stacking up those beautiful quilts where everyone can see them. Because let’s be honest—quilts this good deserve to be shown off!
More Quilt Room Organizing Resources:
- 30 days of organizing your sewing room
- How to fold your fabric
- Storing your spools of thread
- Batting storage
- Ironing board stations
Looking for other fun ways to organize your sewing studio or supplies that aren’t in a quilt yet? Head on over to here- sewing studio help!
Becky Jorgensen is the creative quilter behind Patchwork Posse, the Patchwork Planner and her online quilt group Patchworkers Plus. You can find her patterns in books, magazines, and her quilt membership. Gather your quilting supplies, organize your sewing space, explore the process of disappearing quilt blocks, or finish a free quilt pattern. I'll help you use what you have, finish what you start and make your quilting journey fun!
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These quilt ladders look amazing! Thats why wooden ladders will be timeless, there is always something you can do with them after using them for general DIY!
Quilt Ladder are indeed a great way to display blankets and quilt. Plus, It indeed is a great decorative idea. Thank you for sharing this amazing post with us.