Different Types of Quilts To Add To Your Project List

Updated on August 31, 2021
Different Types of Quilts To Add To Your Project List

It’s easy to get hooked on quilting, in part because of the limitless variety of techniques. If you’re new to it, you’re sure to find a style and method that appeals to you. And if you’ve tried it, you can expand your skills with these ideas. Get some inspiration from these different types of quilts to add to your project list.

Rag Quilt

A rag quilt is a chance to experiment with unconventional fabrics. The edges of each block are frayed on purpose and are so cozy that they’re perfect for babies. Rag quilts are fast, easy, and fun to make. You can try different textures like denim, flannel, fleece, or whatever inspires you. One trip through the wash, and they start to fray. After that, they just get softer and softer.

Photo Quilt

Yes, you can transfer your favorite photos to fabric for a cuddly montage of family moments. Some services will charge you hundreds of dollars to do the same thing, but it’s more rewarding to make a quilt yourself. It can commemorate an event, memorialize a life, or just make people smile. It’s perfect if you have photos of all the grandkids.

Memory Quilt

When you have to let go of someone, all kinds of fabrics can invoke their memory: scraps of clothing, sheets, aprons, upholstery, handkerchiefs, ties, and even embroidered dish towels. Any material can be part of a quilt that’s rich with meaning for you or someone who needs comfort. It’s a way to literally wrap yourself in someone’s memory and celebrate their life.

Trapunto Quilt

Trapunto is a technique that uses extra padding to emphasize the quilt’s design. It has a more 3D effect that can bring out the shapes that the stitching creates. It makes the quilting puffier with additional padding that you insert through a slit in the underside. It can really make contrasting fabric stand out or make a solid-colored quilt more textured.

Crazy Patch Quilt

If you want to approach your project in the spirit of anarchy, go for it. Sew your pieces together in different shapes as you go, or stitch them to a foundation fabric for more stability. If you want to think about most quilt patterns as improvisational jazz, then crazy quilts are punk rock. These look spectacular when you embellish them with embroidery, trims, and even beads.

But Wait—There’s More!

There are so many different types of quilts to add to your project list that it can be hard to know where to begin. If you want to simplify things, start out with a kit that will have everything you need, including the fabric. Or look into these other styles and techniques:

  • Hawaiian
  • Amish
  • Lattice
  • Bargello
  • Medallion
  • Art
  • Appliqué
  • Lap
  • String
  • Wall

Choose one for your next masterpiece or combine styles. Try a smaller project like a baby quilt. There’s likely a local quilting community that can help when you get stuck. There are no wrong choices here, so pick your project—and get stitching!

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