If you have ever looked at a quilt and thought it should be hanging in a gallery, you were probably looking at an art quilt. Art quilts are special works of quilting art. 

The Magic of Art Quilts

What is an Art Quilt?

An art quilt is a quilt that deviates from traditional blocks and patterns. Art quilts tend to be used as wall hangings as opposed to bed quilts. Art quilts can contain fabrics alone or embellishments including embroidery, beading, or other architectural enhancements.

A History of Art Quilts

According to Quilting Daily, “in the 1960s and 1970s, a core group of trailblazing artists developed quilts as an art form. Their exhibitions, publications, and studio workshops helped to create a groundswell of enthusiasm for contemporary quilt art.”

Art quilts are quite common now. I find them interesting and sometimes have no idea how the quilt was constructed.

Art Quilt Designers

My favourite art quilt designer is the immensely talented Veruschka Zarate of Pride and Joy Quilting. Her quilt, Dignity, won Best of Show at this year’s QuiltCon (2025). Dignity, is a two sided quilt based on the Dignity statue located in South Dakota, USA. This quilt is beyond stunning.

I discovered Katherine Jones of Tasmania, Australia when she won Best of Show at the 2017 QuiltCon with her beautiful Bling Quilt. Apparently, this quilt was based on an improv technique.

There are a lot more art quilters out there, these are just two of my favourites.

How to Make an Art Quilt

You will want to start with an idea of what you want to make. Then you need to choose your materials. Since this quilt will not be used as a bed quilt, the sky is the limit. Don’t be afraid to upcycle/recycle fabrics and use fabrics not traditionally seen in quilts.

Once you have gathered your materials you could piece normally, improv piece, applique, etc. The sky is the limit in making your beautiful art quilt.

Don’t be afraid to add texture through threads. Whether it be machine embroidery, hand embroidery, techniques like sashiko or even crazy quilting. Keep in mind the thickness of the thread you choose to use which can add more volume to your embroidery designs.

There is no need for a standard straight binding on an art quilt. If you like, trim your quilt so your binding will be circular or a zig zag, etc.

My Final Thoughts

I hope you found value in The Magic of Art Quilts. Art quilts can be a little intimidating due to the less predictable rules in creating, but it can also be very freeing for the same reason. Start with a small project and see how you like it. You can always go bigger next time.

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