Quilting is the craft of stitching two layers of fabric together with a layer of batting in between, creating a padded, dimensional textile. The stitching holds the filling in place and forms a pattern across the surface, giving quilts their characteristic warmth, texture, and softness.
How quilting works
At its most basic, quilting joins three layers: a top fabric, a soft middle layer of batting, and a backing fabric. Rows or patterns of stitching pass through all three, securing the batting so it cannot shift and creating the gently raised, cushioned surface a quilt is known for. The stitching is both functional and decorative, and the patterns can range from simple geometric grids to elaborate floral and figurative designs.
Quilting patterns
The stitching pattern is central to a quilt's character. Geometric designs like diamonds, squares, and channels give a clean, structured look, while floral and freeform patterns lend softness and intricacy. The density and style of the quilting affect both appearance and feel: closer stitching creates a firmer, more sculpted surface, while more open stitching leaves the piece loftier and softer.
Quilting versus matelassé
It is worth distinguishing true quilting from matelassé. A genuine quilt is layers of fabric stitched over batting, so it has actual padding held in by the stitches. Matelassé, by contrast, mimics that quilted look through weaving alone, with no separate batting layer. Both offer texture and dimension, but a quilt provides real loft and warmth from its filling, while matelassé is a single woven cloth.
Caring for quilted pieces
Wash quilted bedding with a gentle, phosphate-free cleanser and avoid chlorine bleach to protect the fabric, stitching, and batting. A gentle cycle is best, and because the batting holds water, ensure quilts are dried thoroughly on low to moderate heat to prevent any dampness from lingering inside. Shaking the quilt periodically while drying helps keep the filling evenly distributed.
For related reading, see what matelassé is and the difference between a duvet, coverlet, and quilt.
This guide was prepared by Fig Linens and Home, a specialist in luxury bedding, bath, and table linens.
