Sew Them Up

• You can use old handkerchiefs as quilt squares. Sew them together and stuff them with batting, using plain fabric for the backing. Even if you are not an experienced quilter, you can simply sew the ends of your hankies together to make a big square or rectangle. If your handkerchiefs are family heirlooms or hand-me-downs, this quilt can serve as a memorial tribute to the hankies' original owner.
  
  For a smaller project, use two hankies sewn together to make a floral sachet. Or use one hanky folded and sewn around the edges for the same effect. You can also sew a few together and stuff them to make a decorative throw pillow, or sew a few together to make a blanket for your daughter's dolls.
  
  

No-Sew Options

• If you have some old throw pillows in your home, use a lace or monogrammed hanky to spruce them up. You don't even have to own a sewing machine. Center the handkerchief on top of the throw pillow, and use fabric glue to glue the edges of the hanky to the pillow. Now a plain, boring pillow can be transformed into a monogrammed or lacy work of art.
  
  You can also use handkerchiefs as gift wrap; for smaller gift items, wrap them in the hanky instead of paper. Tie with a ribbon and the recipient gets two gifts in one.
  
  You can even put your hankies in a frame and hang them on the wall, or organize them in a scrapbook next to photos of the family members who owned them.