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A silver-haired woman sews a blue patchwork quilt while a small terrier sleeps on it and a harlequin Great Dane lies nearby. 16 / 21

Grandma June Spread Out Her Quilt to Sew. One Corner Was Taken Within Minutes.

AI imagegreat danequiltingterrier mix

Every stitch on this blue patchwork quilt is going in slowly, mostly because half of it is currently occupied. Grandma June sits on the couch in her cream cardigan, head bowed over her needle, carefully joining squares of faded floral and gingham fabric. Pip, the little scruffy terrier mix, has burrowed into the folds at her side and is sound asleep, his paws tucked under his chin. Down on the wooden floor, Domino the harlequin Great Dane lies with his big head raised, watching the needle go in and out. A basket of fabric scraps, a stack of folded cloth, a teacup, and a pair of slippers are scattered around the cozy room.

Dogs gravitate to piles of fabric for good reasons. Soft textiles hold warmth, and anything that smells like their favorite person is extra appealing. That said, a sewing area has a few hidden hazards. Needles, pins, and thread are a real danger if swallowed; thread attached to a needle is especially risky because it can lead to internal injuries. Pincushions, spools, and buttons should be kept up high or in closed containers, and it is wise to count pins before and after a project. Many quilters give their dogs an old quilt or blanket of their own nearby, which satisfies that urge to snuggle into fabric without putting the dog near the sharp bits. If you think your dog has swallowed a needle or thread, contact your vet right away.

The quilt may take a few more evenings to finish. With such devoted company, Grandma June does not seem to mind at all.

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