What Are Quilts?



Quilts are bed coverings made up of three layers: a quilt top, a layer of batting, and a layer of material for backing. The layers are usually combined using the technique of quilting. Quilting is the process of using a needle and thread to combine two or more layers of cloth. This step may be only functional, or if more elaborate, for decoration and design.

Tying is another method of connecting the layers in quilts together. This method is usually chosen when a quilt is needed quickly for functional purposes. The three layers still need to be prepared and basted. Thread or yarn is used for the process. Square knots are used to finish off the ties, which are placed 3-5" apart all over the quilt. A quilt that is tied is sometimes called a comforter.

Once upon a time quilts were created for necessity. Today creating quilts has become an art form. Gifted quilter's are called fabric artists instead of the outdated seamstress or quilter. Not only are bed quilts popular, but quilted clothing and wall hangings as well. Handmade quilts may sell for hundreds of dollars and hang on museum walls, not just bed frames. Amish quilts from Pennsylvania and Ohio are especially sought after, as are vintage and antique quilts.

If you are lucky enough to have inherited or purchased such an heirloom, taking proper care of it will maintain and perhaps increase its value. Quilts should never be stored in plastic bags, cardboard boxes or wooden trunks. Quilts should be aired at least twice a year, but not in direct sunlight. Very old quilts should be aired flat to avoid stressing the stitches. There is always a risk in washing antique fabric. Spot test it first. If you are using a machine, wash in cold water with a mild detergent and a gentle cycle. Dry your quilt on a flat surface. Using a fan and rotating it will speed up the drying process.

Quilts throughout history tell the stories of their times and makers. This is especially true during the depression when fabric was scarce. Some historians even believe secret messages and codes were hidden in handmade quilts at different times throughout history. One such story relates to the Underground Railroad. A certain quilt pattern would mean it was safe for escaping slaves to continue on their journey. Not all historians believe this theory, however it is true that signature quilts were a popular method of raising funds both before and after the Civil War. Signatures were added after a donation was made. These quilts were also known as friendship quilts.

While not all historians agree on this usage in the past, it is becoming increasingly popular today. Memory quilts and t-shirt quilts are popular and treasured gifts. Technology has even made it possible to add photos to fabric. Quilts are still used to raise money at raffles and charity events. Quilt guilds are being created and growing at a rapid rate, preserving and passing on treasured patterns and techniques.




Comments

*Name:
*Email:
Website URL:
Title / Subject:
Hide my email
*Comments:
*
 



Menu


My Articles

All About Appliqué
How To Choose The Right Batting
All About Quilting
All About Hoffman Fabrics
Discovering RJR Fabrics
Add Life To Your Quilting With Embroidery
Quilting 101
How To Use Templates In Quilting
Quilting Is A Hot D.I.Y. Craft!
Sewing Tips For Beginning Quilters
Patchwork Techniques
The Best Quilting Pattern ForYour Needs
So You Want To Make A Quilt
How To Use Stencils For Quilting
Where To Find Free Quilt Patterns
What Are Quilts?
Best Books For Quilting
All About Thread For Quilting
Essential Supplies For Quilting
Choosing Fabrics For Quilting
Moda
Choosing Quilt Fabric
Choosing And Preparing Fabric
Making Sense OF Quilt Patterns






My Articles


Essential Supplies For Quilting If the quilting bug has bitten you, you may be confused..


Choosing And Preparing Fabric Choosing fabric for a quilting project can be as much fun as doing the project..


Best Books For Quilting Whether you are a beginning quilter, or an advanced practitioner of the..


Choosing Fabrics For Quilting Many crafters are drawn to quilting because of the wide..



Related Videos:

Related News:

 
No item elements found in rss feed.