How to Buy an Amish Quilt

One important part of buying an Amish quilt is to dispel myths associated with such quilts. There is more diversity among different Amish communities than many people think; therefore, Amish quilts are more varied than commonly thought. Discovering these differences can help you acquire a prized Amish quilt that others might miss.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Know that Amish quilts are not only made with solid-colored fabrics, and applique quilts can be counted among the types of quilts created in some Amish communities, despite popular notions.

2. Expect to find machine stitching on Amish quilts. The patchwork is almost always sewn together using a foot-powered machine. Nonetheless, the actual quilting is done by hand. Additionally, Amish women have sometimes made quilts from commercial patterns.

3. Consider that some Amish quilts share particular characteristics. For example, Amish in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, are known for creating quilts with large, all-over patterns on a large center square.

4. Buy authentic Amish quilts online or by visiting stores near Amish communities. Pennsylvania's Lancaster Trading Company offers authentic Amish quilts online. The company says Amish and Mennonite women of the Pennsylvania Dutch Country have made quilts at least since the mid-1800s, if not earlier.

5. Look up the Quilt Shop at Miller's in Ronks, Pennsylvania. The shop sells quilts from Amish, Mennonite and other local artisans. According to Miller's, it was established in 1929, and it offers handmade quilts as well as wall hangings.

Resources

• Lancaster Trading Company
• Quilt shop at Miller's