Chenille bedspreads have a way of capturing hearts. Whether it's the nubby texture, the nostalgic patterns, or the pure kitschy charm, there's something undeniably special about these tufted treasures.
And if you’ve stumbled across one at a thrift store, estate sale, or in a box of craft remnants, you may have asked the age-old question:
To cut or not to cut?
Chenille is one of those materials that tugs at your heartstrings and your creative brain. All that texture. Those tufted florals. The perfectly faded pastel peacocks. It’s nostalgic and inviting and ridiculously good for projects. But it’s also… kind of a relic. And once you make that first snip, there’s no going back.
So what’s the move?
Let’s talk it through.
The Case for Cutting
Not all chenille spreads are in heirloom condition. Some have bald spots. Some have mystery stains. Some are holding on by a thread—literally. And that’s where the magic of creative reuse comes in.
Chenille makes everything look cooler. Quirkier. Cozier.
Think:
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The softest-ever quilt with vintage flair
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A tote bag that turns heads at the farmers market
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Puff-pillow pouches you’ll never stop touching
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A jacket that screams “I make stuff and I’m proud of it”
There are makers out there slicing and stitching these bedspreads into works of wearable art.
The Case for Keeping
But sometimes… the piece is just too good. Maybe even museum-worthy. And suddenly you’re sweating over the idea of hacking it into pieces.
Some chenille bedspreads—especially the older ones made in the South—are true collectibles. If you’ve scored one in great shape (and you like it as-is), maybe let it stay whole.
Ideas for the non-cutters among us:
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Toss it over your couch or bed for an instant time warp
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Use it as a dreamy backdrop for your maker market booth
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Fold it lovingly and stare at it whenever you need a hit of inspiration
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Drape it in your studio just to remind yourself that yes, materials matter
And if you’re in the market for a spread you won’t feel guilty about chopping up (or cherishing intact), check out CottageDivine on Etsy. A seller with a constantly evolving collection of chenille bedspreads and a long-time favorite. Their collection of bedspreads is in the museum-worthy category.
Find this dreamy peacock bedspread listing here.
Snag this magnificent midcentury bedspread here.
Whatever You Decide...
Cut it. Keep it. Frame it. Patch it. Wear it. Hug it.
There’s no wrong answer—just a lot of ways to honor a piece of fabric that’s already lived a few lives.
At Remnants, we’re fans of both. And we’re always on the lookout for secondhand textiles that inspire the next wave of makers.
P.S. Are you Team Cut or Team Keep? Comment below and tell us.
Tag us in your chenille projects—or share your story about that one spread you maybe still regret slicing into. We get it.
