A Labor of Love

They give comfort, provide warmth, are family heirlooms and can even be a piece of decorative art. Quilts. Derived from the Latin word “culcita,” which means a stuffed sack, quilting has been around for even long before Christ. The earliest known quilted garment is depicted on a carved ivory figure of a Pharaoh and is dated around 3400 B.C. The Tristan quilt is one of the earliest surviving quilts in the world. Created in Sicily around the year 1360, it can still be seen in part today at museums in London and in Florence, Italy.

The process of quilting is typically done in three layers – the top fabric, the batting material and the backing material. The three layers are joined together using a needle and thread and can be done either by hand, using a sewing machine or by a specialized longarm quilting system. The process also involves other steps such as designing, piecing, applique and binding.

While quilting has been around for centuries, it was not until the late 18th and early 19th centuries when looms could produce expansion of cloth large enough to cover an entire bed surface. Because only the wealthy had the leisure time for quilt making, most women until this time were busy spinning, weaving and sewing to clothe their family and provide warm blankets for them.

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. And while you may think that quilts were always made from scraps and worn out clothing, that is a myth as is evidenced by looking at photos of quilts found in museums. If you examine those pictures, it shows that many quilts were made with fabric bought for that specific quilt.

With the introduction of the “installment plan” by the Singer Company in 1856, more families were able to afford a sewing machine. By the 1870s the number of homes that had a sewing machine had increased significantly.

But quilts came to serve a much more important role than simply providing warmth. During the years leading up to the Civil War, quilts were created to help raise funds in support of the abolitionist movement. During the Civil War years the quilts were then made to raise funds for the war effort and to also provide warmth and comfort to the soldiers. Quilts connected to the abolitionist movement and the Civil War were made for a cause, many representing the relevant flag.

While the passage of time has brought a decrease in those who quilt out of necessity, it may surprise one to know that there are an estimated 21 million quilters in the U.S. today. Whether they are created for everyday use, special occasions, fundraisers or weddings, comforting our soldiers or someone going through a difficult time, quilts are treasured by all who receive one. They are the true expression of a priceless labor of love.

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