Rag Quilting is believed to have started in the 1700's. Houses were not insulated against the harsh and cold winters and pioneer women found inventive ways to provide solutions for warmth and insulation. Rag quilts were made from leftover fabric and worn out clothing. These quilts had many uses. They served as blankets, curtains and draft stoppers under doors.
Modern day rag quilts are used as blankets, play rugs, memory quilts and art quilts. They come in all shapes and sizes. The nicest ones are made from preloved clothing, flannel shirts and use flannel sheets as batting.
They are a lovely gift for a new born.
They are usually made with 3 layers, front and back and a layer of polyester or flannel batting in the middle. In colder climates people sometimes put an additional 2 or 3 layers of flannel batting for added warmth. The "fringes" can be anywhere from 1 to 3 inches long.
Rag quilts are normally stitched together then cut, brushed, washed and dried to create the ragged effect.
One of the things that I like about a rag quilt is that it is very easy to mend. A torn or stained square can be removed and mended or changed very easily. The more that you use and wash them, the softer they become.
For more rag quilt ideas and techniques follow our pinterest board here
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