A quilt has three layers: top (patchwork design), batting (cotton or wool), backing. Sewn together by hand with thousands of stitches.
Process
Cut patches by template. Sew into blocks. Blocks into rows. Rows into a top. Layer over batting and backing. Quilt — small stitches through all three layers. 200-500 hours of work.
Patterns
Log Cabin: strips around a center square. Double Wedding Ring: interlocking rings (wedding gift). Lone Star: eight-pointed star from diamonds. Nine Patch: simplest — nine squares.
Rules
Amish quilts use only geometric patterns. No flowers, animals, people (that would be imagery = vanity). Solid fabrics (no prints). Dark colors with bright accents.
Quilting Bee
Women gather at someone's home, set up a frame, and quilt together. Social event: conversation, gossip (yes, Amish gossip), lunch. 8-12 women finish a quilt in 1-2 days.
Price
Handmade Amish quilt: $200-2,000. Museum quality: $3,000-5,000. Collectors pay $10,000+ for antiques. Most expensive sold: $264,000 (auction, 2015).