quilters

Quilters are artists and craftspeople who create quilts, which are textiles traditionally made of three layers: a top layer of fabric pieces or appliqué, a middle batting, and a backing fabric, anchored by stitching. The term covers hobbyists, guild members, and professional artisans who design and sew quilts for utility, display, or collectability.

The process commonly involves planning and design, selecting fabrics, cutting shapes, piecing the top, adding appliqué or embroidery, basting the layers, quilting through all layers, and binding the edges. Techniques include patchwork or piecing, appliqué, foundation piecing, and whole-cloth quilting. Quilting uses various tools: sewing machine or long-arm quilting machine, rotary cutter, cutting mat, rulers, pins, needles, thread, and batting. Finishing choices affect texture and drape.

Quilting has deep historical roots in many cultures. In Europe and North America, it became a communal and domestic craft, with quilting bees and quilts used for warmth and storytelling. In the 20th century, the Craft Revival and modern quilting movements broadened the field to include bold patterns, improvisation, and art quilts.

Quilters contribute to communities through charity quilts, education, and preservation of patterns. The field includes traditional quilters who reproduce historical blocks and modern quilters who experiment with abstraction and new techniques. Quiltmaking also preserves cultural heritage and provides a venue for personal expression.

Patterns and styles range from traditional blocks such as log cabin, nine-patch, and stars to appliquéd scenes and larger wall pieces, reflecting a spectrum from functional craft to contemporary art.