Patchwork quilts

A patchwork quilt, such as that shown to the left, is an item of bedding made of three basic elements. The quilt top, the middle layer of wadding or batting and the quilt back. These three elements are then quilted or stitched together so that the inner layer stays in place. Over time these basic elements have acquired more decorative aspects. The quilt top is the most decorative and is made up of different pieces or patches of fabric that form intricate patterns. The quilt stitching meanwhile has also become less functional and enhances and emphasises patterns on the fabric.

Watercolour Railfence by Liz Sewell.

Below is a patchwork quilt illustrating the main constituent parts

parts of a patchwork quilt

Patchwork blocks

A traditional patchwork quilt is commonly made up of blocks. The block itself is made up of a number of squares or patches and is often termed a four, nine or sixteen patch block etc. depending upon the number of patches. Below is a list of just some of the many block designs that exist.

	Log Cabin
	Nine-patch
	Roman Square
	Wheel of Fortune
	Robbing Peter to Pay Paul
	Ohio Star
	Puzzle Boxes
	Wedding Ring
	Fox and Geese
	Churn Dash
	Pinwheel

A Sampler Quilt is collection or medley of different patterns on one quilt. In this case the different blocks function as a way of learning different techniques and construction methods.

To the left is a example of a Sampler Quilt. You can click on the quilt for a larger image.

Folk Art Sampler Applique Quilt. Designed by Hiver Pruden and quilted by Beryl Cadman of Custom Quilting. Photography by Neil Porter.

Patchwork Quilts as Art

Over time the patchwork quilt has broken out of its main role as an item of bedding and the technique is now found on an array of objects. Jackets, purses, cushions and bags have all had the patchwork treatment. In its ultimate expression the patchwork quilt has become a piece of art and the exhibits at major quilt shows such as Malvern or the Festival of Quilts at the NEC bring this art-form to an enraptured audience.