What Quilting Is

Quilting is a sewing form that is comprised of various stitches made with needles and thread to form patterns on fabrics to make bed coverings and wall hangings or other decorative items. Quilting may be done by hand or by using a sewing machine. The process generally involves three layers, two of fabric and a center between the fabrics, most commonly consisting of batting. The batting used as the “filler” may be made of cotton or fiber fill.

The art of quilting dates back to medieval times when “quilted” garments were made for warmth and were also worn under the armor used in that era. In the 14th to the 17th century, quilted garments were considered fashionable by the European men. Old Egyptian sculptures appear to feature quilted garments as well. The colonial period in America produced bed coverings (quilts) using blankets that had outlived their usefulness as the batting between the two layers of fabric to give new life and warmth to the old blankets. Some even used available paper as patterns that became an insulator and was found between the layers. There were also some quilts made with no insulating materials between the fabric layers and these were referred to as summer quilts.

Early quilting fabrics were taken from clothing and cut into pieces which were then sewn together to form the cover, hence the name patchwork quilt. Today, very decorative stitching, such as combinations of embroidery or appliqué, may be used and various fabrics and intricate designs comprise a multitude of artistic articles.