|
|
What Is A Quilt?
Is it a thick blanket, a wall hanging, a table runner, a
jacket, a lap warmer, a conversation piece, a large purse... Exactly
what is a quilt?
A quilt in simple terms is an item composed ot three layers (a top
or facing layer, a filler layer, and a backing layer) that are sewn
together.
Most people think of bed
coverings when they think of quilts, and they are right. The typical
bedding quilt has a quilt top, a layer of batting, and a layer of
material for backing. It is sewn or tied together to make a heavy
blanket.
When I was a child, two
elderly neighbor ladies made quilts for my brother and I. They
were fantastic. For years, long after I was married and had
children of my own, I would not sleep without my quilt.
The process of joining these
layers together is called quilting. The most common practices
are to either hand sew or machine sew the layers together.
Therefore we have the terms, hand quilting and machine quilting.
We define quilting as: "The
process of sewing the three layers of the quilt together is called
quilting. It may give many different appearances with designs, hand
stitching, and various machine quilting stitches." Needle and
thread connect the layers together forming a complete piece.
Quilting may be strictly
practical or functional using simple straight stitching or even
tying techniques; or it may involve elaborate decorative designs.
A quick functional way to
finish a quilt is to use a hand sewing technique called Tying or
Hand Tying. The three layers are prepared and basted.
The quilter uses a hand sewing needle with a large eye and thread or
yarn. Square knots are used to finish off the ties, which are placed
3-5" apart all over the quilt. Comforters unlike most quilts have
less frequent ties to hole them together giving them a puffy
appearance.
When we look at quilts, there is often a sense of nostalgia, because
for hundreds of years, quilts were made simply to keep people warm.
They were a necessity.
Today making quilts is an
art. Gifted quilter's are called fabric artists instead of the
outdated seamstress or quilter.
Bed quilts are popular, but
quilted clothing, wall hangings, home decor, and purses
are also very common quilting applications.
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.
Since quilts are most often made of natural fibers, they require
care to maintain their beauty and quality condition. 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. Do not store quilts 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.
So, What Is A Quilt?
A quilt in simple terms is an item composed of three layers (a top
or facing layer, a filler layer, and a backing layer) that are sewn
together. But it can be so much more. A quilt can be a
treasured heirloom, a symbol of culture and history, a warm
comforter, a beautiful wall hanging, a purse, a jacket, so much
more. A quilt is indeed what you make it.
AUTHOR:
Donna Trumble is a professional designer, seamstress, author, sewing
educator, and sewing business owner. She leads several
Sewing Show And Tell groups in her stores guiding participants to
shop sewing machines and learn about sewing and quilting.
RESOURCE:
For more information on sewing show and tell groups, check out
"Sewing, The World's Greatest Hobby"
by Donna and David Trumble. And check out the local Sew And
Quilt Stores in Killeen, Temple, and Waco, Texas or at
www.sewandquiltstore.com.
|
