Q is for Quilt

According to Wikipedia, "quilting traditions are particularly prominent in the United States." It was an activity that combined practical needs (warm bedding) with creative and social elements. Wedding quilts were often given to the new bride, as she would not have enough time to complete quilts of her own for her family right away, to help her establish her new home. Other sources suggest that the bride was expected to make 13 quilts during the time of her engagement, in preparation for her marriage.

The wedding quilt traditionally includes symbols of love and good fortune in the design. In the 1800s, quilting bees were held to mark special occasions (often upcoming weddings) and women in the community would gather together to help sew quilts (Let's Talk about Fabric). These events were often considered engagement announcements.

"Wedding ring" quilts are a common quilt pattern, popularized in the 1930s.

 

 

A quilt can also serve as a unique idea for a guest book. Have guests sign squares of fabric that can later be sewn together into a quilt.

 

Check out these quilt-inspired wedding cakes from MarthaStewartWeddings.com