Quilting

Quilting is a craft that makes warm blankets called quilts. Quilts have three layers sewn together. The top is often made of small pieces of cloth in pretty patterns. Quilts are used for beds and to keep people warm.

How Quilts Are Made

First, small pieces of cloth are sewn together to make a top. This is called a patchwork. Then a soft middle layer called batting is added. Last, a bottom layer is sewn on. All three layers are stitched together.

Women sitting together and sewing a big, colorful quilt by hand.
Women sitting together and sewing a big, colorful quilt by hand. (Andre Natta / Wikimedia Commons)

Quilts and History

Quilts have been made for hundreds of years. Pioneer women in America often got together for quilting parties called bees. Each quilt can tell a story with its pattern. Some quilts are passed down in families.

Fun Facts

  • Some old quilts have hidden messages sewn into them.
  • The AIDS Memorial Quilt has over 48,000 panels and is huge.
  • A quilt can have thousands of tiny stitches by hand.

Did You Know?

In Gee's Bend, Alabama, women have been making famous quilts for many years. Their quilts have been shown in big art museums.