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Choosing fabric for a quilting project can be as much fun as doing the project itself.   Even if two quilters choose the same quilt pattern,  different choices of fabric will make each quilt unique.   Most quilters prefer using fabric that is 100 % cotton because cotton is easier to sew,  mark,  press and hand quilt.  If you are shopping for fabric in a quilt shop you will rarely find fabric that is not pure cotton.   Fabrics will also probably be arranged according to colors and print types.

With more experience, fabrics other than cotton may be added for variety.    Not all fabrics are suitable however.   If you are using an unusual fabric for the first time, or want to use different types of fabrics together,  try a small test block first.   Fabrics of a medium density, with an even weave work well.   Loosely woven fabrics are prone to distortion,  as are stretch fabrics.   Silk, lightweight wool and some plastics may be used with experience.

Both the color and tone of the fabric you choose will influence the overall effect of the pattern that you choose.   Tone may be used to create depth and interest with greater effect than when using color alone.    Good planning is necessary to achieve the desired look.

Color is greatly affected by the colors around it.  Using contrasting colors will make pieces of a quilt block stand out from each other.  Combining certain warm colors such as reds, yellows and oranges in the same quilt block as cool colors like blues, greens or violets, will make them look more vivid.

Combining fabrics with various print scales and styles can add visual texture to your quilt.   Interesting visual effects may also be achieved by using colors of graduated values.   Printed cotton fabrics are available in many designs and styles including batiks, homespun plaids and florals, tiny-grained prints that look like solids, reproduction prints, and soft flannels.  Solid-color fabrics come in jnearly every color, shade and tint that you can imagine.

Quilt blocks made from fabrics of the same or various shades of one color,  but of contrasting textures can create pleasing results. Fabrics with a nap such as velvet, or fabrics with sheen like taffeta also provide interest.

Whatever fabric you choose for your quilting project, you must prepare it properly before you begin.  Most cotton fabrics shrink when they are washed and dried.  If you do not preshrink your fabric before you make your quilt, the fabrics may pucker at the stitching lines and the finished product may shrink in size the first time it is washed.

To prevent this, wash all fabrics first in a washing machine on a short gentle cycle.  Use cool or warm but never hot water.   You may use a mild detergent, but it is not necessary unless the fabric is soiled.  Wash like colors together in case they are not colorfast.  Machine dry the fabric and press it with an iron. You are now ready to begin your project.

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Quilts are bed coverings made up of three layers:  a quilt top,  a layer of batting,  and a layer of material for backing.   The layers are usually combined using the technique of quilting.   Quilting is the process of using a needle and thread to combine two or more layers of cloth. This step may be only functional, or if more elaborate,   for decoration and design.

Tying is another method of connecting the layers in quilts together. This method is usually chosen when a quilt is needed quickly for functional purposes.  The three layers still need to be prepared and basted.   Thread or yarn is used for the process.   Square knots are used to finish off the ties, which are placed 3-5″ apart all over the quilt.   A quilt that is tied is sometimes called a comforter.

Simply Delicious Quilt

Once upon a time quilts were created for necessity. Today creating quilts has become an art form.   Gifted quilters are called fabric artists instead of the outdated seamstress or quilter.  Not only are bed quilts popular,  but quilted clothing and wall hangings as well.  Handmade quilts may sell for hundreds of dollars and hang on museum walls,    not just bed frames. Amish quilts from Pennsylvania and Ohio are especially sought after, as are vintage and antique quilts.

Caring For Your Quilts
If you are lucky enough to have inherited or purchased such an heirloom,  taking proper care of it will maintain and perhaps increase its value. Quilts should never be stored in plastic bags, cardboard boxes or wooden trunks.  Quilts should be aired at least twice a year, but not in direct sunlight. Very old quilts should be aired flat to avoid stressing the stitches.  There is always a risk in washing antique fabric.   Spot test it first. If you are using a machine,  wash in cold water with a mild detergent and a gentle cycle. Dry your quilt on a flat surface. Using a fan and rotating it will speed up the drying process.

Old Quilts Often Tell A Story

Quilts throughout history tell the stories of their times and makers.  This is especially true during the depression when fabric was scarce.   Some historians even believe secret messages and codes were hidden in handmade quilts at different times throughout history. One such story relates to the Underground Railroad.   A certain quilt pattern would mean it was safe for escaping slaves to continue on their journey.  Not all historians believe this theory;  however it is true that signature quilts were a popular method of raising funds both before and after the Civil War. Signatures were added after a donation was made.   These quilts were also known as friendship quilts.

Fireworks Quilt

While not all historians agree on this usage in the past,  it is becoming increasingly popular today.   Memory quilts and t-shirt quilts are popular and treasured gifts.  Technology has even made it possible to add photos to fabric.  Quilts are still used to raise money at raffles and charity events.   Quilt guilds are being created and growing at a rapid rate,  preserving and passing on treasured patterns and techniques.

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