Quilt - Uses

Uses

There are many traditions regarding the design and characteristics of quilts, and they may be made or given to mark important life events such as marriage, the birth of a child, a family member leaving home, or graduations. Modern quilts are not always intended for use as bedding, and may be used as wall hangings, table runners, or tablecloth. Quilting techniques are often incorporated into garment design. Quilt shows and competitions are held locally, regionally and in national shows. There are international competitions as well, particularly in the United States, Japan and Europe.

The following list summarizes most of the reasons a person might decide to make a quilt:

• Bedding
• Decoration
• Armoury (see Gambeson)
• Commemoration (e.g. the "Twentieth Century Women of Faith" quilt on the Patchwork page)
• Education (e.g. a "Science" quilt or a "Gardening" quilt)
• Campaigning
• Documenting events / social history, etc.
• Artistic expression
• Traditional gift