quilted

Quilted is an adjective used to describe fabric, garments, and other items made by joining three layers: a top fabric, a middle padding or batting, and a backing fabric. The layers are held together by stitching, which forms a decorative or functional pattern and creates a raised, padded texture.

The stitching can be done by hand or by machine. Common quilting techniques include straight-line channel quilting, grid patterns, echo quilting, and free-motion quilting. Patchwork, where small fabric pieces are sewn together before layering, is another approach that yields intricate surface designs. A related technique, trapunto, adds extra padding in selected areas to create dimensional effects.

Quilting has deep historical roots in many cultures. Early quilts appear in Europe and the Americas from the medieval period onward, serving as bed coverings, insulation, and artistic expression. In the 19th and 20th centuries, quilting became a widespread domestic craft in North America and Europe. Today, quilting includes traditional bed quilts as well as contemporary art quilts and fashion items.

Materials commonly used include a top fabric (often cotton or linen), a batting or padding layer (cotton, polyester, wool, or blends), and a backing fabric. Threads, needles, rotary cutters, and sewing machines are typical tools. Care requirements vary with materials, but many cotton quilts are machine washable on gentle cycles, while delicate or antique pieces may require hand washing or dry cleaning.

Quilted fabric appears in clothing, accessories, home decor, and technical applications. In fashion, quilted jackets, bags, and vests provide insulation and a distinctive texture, while in technical contexts quilted panels offer padding and insulation for equipment and protective gear.