The Art of Creating Heirlooms: Why Every Family Needs One

My grandmother Estella Campbell is a tremendous influence in my life. An Afro-Panamanian woman with roots in both Barbados and St. Vincent; she worked in a factory, as a housekeeper, and as a nurses aid. She was incredibly industrious -a big fish type storyteller, brave and hard working. Most of all she had an incredible flair for decorating that transformed every space she touched. Her incredible style and love for fabric and design was evident in her home. When she passed away at the age of 97, we gathered to honor her memory, and my mother and I had the task of going through her belongings. The fabrics she collected over the years were the most meaningful to me. They told the stories of her travel, her style and her passion.

Heirlooms in all their forms are not merely objects; they are metaphorical vessels that carry the essence of our journeys; and that is particularly true within the context of the African Diaspora. Creating or gifting an heirloom allows us to inscribe our family's history, values, and dreams into a tangible form that can be cherished for generations. This act provides us with a sense of continuity and a way to honor the many ways our ancestors are still with us.

There are several compelling reasons why every family needs heirlooms. First, they serve as reminders of our roots, helping to instill identity in younger generations. Heirlooms encourage storytelling, allowing families to pass down rich traditions and oral histories that might otherwise be forgotten. They also create a feeling of belonging, as family members can see the love and care that went into creating or selecting these special items.

Moreover, in a world that often pushes us toward the transient trends of "fast fashion," the art of making heirlooms invites us to invest in durability and longevity. By turning away from the wastefulness of fast fashion, we embrace the idea of creating and choosing items that can stand the test of time. Each piece from Baby Yams is crafted with such care, using high-quality materials that promote sustainability. Our quilts and baby blankets not only provide comfort but also become cherished keepsakes—gifts that embody the warmth of family love and the richness of tradition.

I encourage every family to live in real luxury, and invest in the art of creating heirlooms. Whether it’s a beautiful quilt, a hand-crafted toy, or another unique item, these heirlooms can become points of connection, endurance and legacy within your family narrative. 

In every stitch and fabric choice, Baby Yams strives to create a lasting history that celebrates love, protection and authenticity. Let us ground and surround our children, and create an awareness in them of a capital T Truth: they come from strong roots.