Patchwork quilt
A patchwork quilt is a quilt in which the top layer consists of patchwork consisting of pieces of fabric sewn together to form a design. The quilting design does not necessarily follow the patchwork design.
Originally, this was to make full use of left-over scraps of fabric, but now fabric is often bought specially for a specific design; today some people even buy a quarter yard of material to supply one small square patch.
Designs can be geometrical and formal or imaginative.
The quilt is formed of three layers: the patchwork, a layer of insulating wadding (UK) or batting (US) and layer of backing material.
These three layers are stitched together (i.e. quilted), either by hand or machine. This can either outline the patchwork motifs, or be a completely independent design.
The Amish people are famous for their geometric patchwork designs with independent patterns and quilting; typical motifs include floral designs and heart shapes.
In 1934 Carl Carmer published this list of quilt patterns mastered by "Mattie Sue" who was required by her parents in rural Northeast Alabama to complete one hundred quilts before being married.
Garden of Eden Circle Saw Joseph's Coat
Star of Bethlehem Golden Gates Solomon's Crown
Tree of Paradise Solomon's Temple Art Square
The Cross Forbidden Fruit Tree Lady of the Lake
Wonder of the World Air Castle Wheel of Fortune
Love Rose Charm Friendship Quilt
Lover's Links True Lover's Knot Old Tippecanoe
Lincoln's Platform Wedding Knot Democrat Rose
Radical Rose Harrison's Rose Handy Andy
Hobson's Kiss Whig Rose Joseph's Necktie
Old Maid's Puzzle Widower's Choice Necktie
Churn Dash Baseball Ice Cream Bowl
Sugar Loaf Log Cabin Drunkard's Path
All Tangled Up Old Bachelor's Puzzle Hairpin Catcher
Hearts & Gizzards The Road to California Aunt Sulky's Patch
Crosses and Losses Tangled Garters Swinging Corners
Odds and Ends Bed Time Devil's Claws
Economy
References
Carmer, Carl (1934). Stars Fell on Alabama. New York: The Literary Guild.