At a recent event where I was promoting Stitch, I was approached by many people asking if the quilts I had on display were hand-quilted or machine-quilted. When I shared that they were pieced and quilted on my domestic sewing machine, a few people said it wasn't a real quilt.
I am not sure why this myth exists. A quilt is a beautiful heirloom regardless of the construction process and if a machine was used. Consider this; both handmade and machine-created quilts consist of three layers: a pieced top (or flimsy as we refer to them as), a batting layer and the backing. They are both held together by numerous stitches and then the edges are bound with a small width of fabric. They are both created with love and take countless hours to create.
I have often shared this analogy: if someone had cataracts, would they prefer their eye surgeon to continue to use the old technique of removing the cataract with a knife or the current technology of the advanced laser method? I know that cataract surgery is not the same as quilting, I am just proving a point! Technology advancements in the sewing industry has resulted in amazing sewing machines and long-arm quilting machines. We have seen new products and notions that have made this hobby more enjoyable and easier. Why not use these advances that have enhanced the sewing and quilting industry? A quilter can certainly continue to use any method they choose, but we can also opt to use an incredible machine too!
Do quilters still hand quilt? They sure do! Do quilters machine quilt? They sure do! Can quilters gather together with like-minded creative people as they did in the past. Yes!
Let's dispel this myth once and for all. A quilt, regardless of how it was created, is still a priceless heirloom and should be appreciated for the cost of materials and the countless hours spent on it. If you are blessed to receive a quilt, enjoy your quilty hug!
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