Common Quilt Lingo
This is a blog all about common lingo used when describing vintage and antique quilts. Some of these words can be misused, and it can be confusing if you are new to the quilt collecting world. We will add to this list as time goes on and more questions pop up from new collectors/customers. If you ever have a question about what we are referring to in a quilt/textile listing, please reach out. We are happy to explain.
Postage Stamp
Traditional postage stamp quilts are constructed with 1 inch finished size squares. The squares are usually cut one at a time, 1 1/2 inch unfinished size. Sometimes, the maker will use their scrap fabrics to complete the postage stamp quilt because of how small of scrap pieces can be used for the design. It’s a great way to use saved fabrics from other quilting projects.
Being that “Postage stamp” refers to the size of the square pieces in the quilt — the pattern can be any number of styles: 9 patch, Irish chains, Around the World, & the list goes on! Anything larger than 1” squares should not be considered a “postage stamp” quilt.
SPI
Stands for “Stitches Per Inch”. Which is literally as it sounds: the number of stitches in each inch of quilting. You measure only one side. Why does this matter?
Normally, the stitches per inch indicates the quality of the quilting done by the quilter. Which can be a contributing factor to the overall quality of the quilt.
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The rule of thumb for SPI:
Novice — 5 stitches or less.
Average – 6 stitches per inch.
Accomplished – 8 stitches per inch.
Expert – 10 stitches per inch.
Master/Professional – 12 stitches per inch or more
Scrappy or Scrab Fabric
This is a common term used in the quilt world — but it’s used incorrectly frequently, in regards to condition, rather than what it actually means. “Scrap quilt” or “scrappy” does not mean a quilt is in poor condition — it’s a term used to describe a quilt that has a vast variety of fabrics, normally fabrics that are saved over time in collection of “scrap” or extra fabrics from other projects leading up to the scrap quilt.
Maker’s Marks
Original pencil outlines that guide the quilt makers’ quilting lines/stitches, or embroidery details. A special characteristic that shows the handmade nature of vintage and antique quilts; and the “plans” that created the overall design.
Treadle machine quilting
Can you tell treadle machine quilting from modern machine quilting? To determine the possibility of the quilt being treadle machine made or quilted, there are other clues to the time period in which the quilt was made.
Fabric dating
Quilting design/style
Dated/signed
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Can you tell 100% sure? — In our opinion, no you cannot. The quilting itself can be the same when comparing a treadle machine and a modern machine. But using deductive reasoning you can be “pretty sure” of a quilts construction/piecing and quilting being modern or treadle.
Cutter & Restoration
A cutter quilt is an antique or vintage quilt that is seriously worn. However, there are pieces of it that can still be used for small or large projects.
Restorations quilts have flawed areas that would need to be “restored” back to their original condition. Often times these quilts are used for display or decor. They have larger areas that are still in great shape, with less flaws than a cutter quilt.