Explore the Artistry & Craftmanship of Amish Quilts

Lancaster County is famous for its Amish quilts which are both decorative and practical. Amish women started quilting in the mid-1800s. As the Amish eschew modern conveniences and pleasures, there was some initial resistance to quilting because it is a social activity. However, the practicality of quilts led the Amish to embrace the quilt-making tradition.

Amish quilting remains a community activity for many—much like a barn raising. While most quilts are pieced together by one woman, it is common to have a “quilting bee,” where a group of women gathers to help quilt the pieced-together patches. Because they are made by hand, each patchwork quilt is unique. Traditional Amish quilts come in many different shapes, patterns, and sizes. Some are used for bedding, while others are decorative arts, e.g., wall hanging or a table runner.  

In recent times, the social activity of quilting has evolved into a business enterprise for Amish women, who sell quilts to subsidize the family’s income. The craftsmanship and quality of locally-made quilts make them the perfect gift or take-home remembrance. There are many places to buy authentic handmade Amish quilts within a short drive of the After Eight Bed & Breakfast. Before beginning to shop, here are a few tips:

• Measure the bed or wall space to determine the size needed. Unlike commercially-made bedspreads, handmade quilts do not necessarily come in standard sizes. For a bed, also consider how you want the quilt to lay or hang, e.g., to the floor, tucked in, with a dust ruffle, etc.
• Bring color samples for the room where the quilt will live to ensure complementary or matching colors.
• Consider design options, including “pieced” (designs made by sewing together cut pieces of different fabrics), “applique” (cut pieces sewn to a larger portion of material, or “whole cloth” (a single piece of cloth intricately hand quilted).

Below is a list of nearby quilt shops. You’ll find additional options on the Discover Lancaster website. For those who would like to try their hand at quilting, visit one of these area fabric and quilting supply stores.   

Hannah’s Custom Quilts
3123 Irishtown Road
Gordonville, PA 17529
(717) 768-8290

Lantz Homestead Quilt Barn
870 Musser School Road
Gordonville, PA  17529
(717) 661-1265

Nancy’s Corner
3503 Old Philadelphia Pike
Intercourse, PA 17534
(717) 768-8790