The Rich History of Quilting

The history of quilting goes back centuries ago. People from different regions of the world such as in East Asia and the Middle East and some parts of Africa have long used quilted clothing. Researchers assume that quilting originated in China and Egypt at about the same time.

The history of quilting in Europe began when the Crusaders brought a type of quilting into the region from the Middle East. Records of history showed that knights wore quilted clothing under their armor for added protection and warmth.

Quilting further grew when the Europeans started making quilted bedcovers, introduced by the Romans. With the freezing winters during the 15th century, wearing quilted garments was necessary to fight the cold. With the invention of the quilting frame, quilted items started to feature more refined stitching rather than the rough stitch work of the first quilts. People then started regarding quilts as works of art. It became very popular from the 17th century well into the 19th century.Mid-19th century

The mid-1800s brought great change in the history of quilting. During this time, developments in technology brought about textile manufacturing. This significantly altered the lives of women in the country. They no longer have to spend their days weaving to create fabrics for clothing. Moreover, commercial textile became very affordable, hence, creating great interest in quilting. Women had a wide selection of cotton fabrics to purchase for their quilting. It is in fact a myth that women during earlier times used only scraps for quilting.

Changes came about as progress in technology deeply affected the number and styles of quilts made during the middle years of the 19th century. The industrial revolution brought about the most dramatic change as textiles came to be manufactured on a broad scale. Women no longer had to spend time spinning and weaving to provide fabric for their family’s needs. By the 1840s the textile industry had grown to the point that commercial fabrics were affordable to almost every family. As a result quilt making became widespread. A great variety of cotton prints could be bought to make clothing and even specifically for making a quilt. Although scraps left over from dressmaking and other sewing projects were used in quilt making, it is a myth that quilts were always made from scraps and worn out clothing. Examining pictures of quilts found in museums we quickly see that many quilts were made with fabric bought specifically for that quilt. Another major shift was in the style of quilts made. Although a few earlier quilts were made in the block style, quilts made up of blocks were uncommon until around the 1840s. With so many fabrics being manufactured quilters could create their blocks with a delightful variety of fabrics.

The Civil War also contributed to the history of quilting in America. Women made quilts for solders to keep them warm and comfortable. They also sold quilts to raise funds to support certain movements during that time.

Indeed, the history of quilting is long and rich and it is with pride that quilters today continue this wonderful tradition.