Quilts are a marvelous invention. They’re a great way to stay warm, not to mention they’re great decor pieces and make great gifts. But how did such a versatile item come to fruition? Your grandmother has probably done her share of quilting, but it must have begun earlier than that.
In fact, quilting dates back centuries, though the origin is unknown. The true definition of a quilt is two layers of fabric with a soft substance, such as wool, down, or cotton batting secured between the two. There is evidence of such a piece in ancient Russia where a quilted linen carpet was found in a Mongolian cave. The ancient Egyptians and Chinese also have relics reminiscent of historic forms of quilting.
Quilting most likely got its name, however, in Europe. Quilted garments were made to be worn for comfort under knight’s armor in the 12th century. This practice evolved into a doublet, and then into quilted petticoats and underskirts for English women in the 18th century, and then finally into quilted bedding.
Fine needlework was extremely important for English women in the 18th century, and they received their fair amount of practice on quilts. When the American Colonies were formed, quilting came too, and American quilting got its start.
Quilts were uncommon in the lower class, since commercial and woven coverlets were much cheaper to make than a quilt was. Beautiful, finely stitched quilts were a decorative item that was also a sign of wealth and sophistication in the upper class.
For the wealthy, quilts were not made of leftover pieces of fabric and patches. They were pieced together with fine cloths and carefully chosen colors. These quilts were called whole cloth quilts because they were made with a single cloth front and back. The decoration was created with elaborate needlework. Applique designs were also popular among the wealthy.
The patchwork quilt was invented by the lower colonial class who needed warm bed coverings in the winter. They pieced together layers for the quilt using old bed coverings, clothing, and coats.
As the years progressed, patchwork became not a desperate means of staying warm through the winter, but a design statement for many a quilter. As the world progressed and became more technologically advanced, quilting became fashionable in many social circles, and many a young lady took it up as her hobby.
When the Great Depression hit, the air of desperation returned, and many women resorted to patchwork quilts in an effort to stay warm during winter. Homemade quilts were also made and sold to support the Red Cross during both world wars. Some of these famous quilts are immortalized in museums today.
Though a general disinterest in quilting followed this time period, due to advancements in technology that allow for manufactured quilts, many people still quilt as a hobby. That’s where we come in. We have all the best quilting supplies to make your quilting experience “sew” easy.