The Debate about Quilting Machines and Hand-Quilting
Quilt-making can be traced back to the 12th century when Chinese, Russian and Native American civilizations created three-layer garments that provided warmth during the cold winters and protection when metal for armor was scarce. The crude needles of the time became valuable tools to quilt makers who crafted their work to provide basic needs rather than decoration. Throughout time, until the modern age, needles, thread, and quilting frames were the basic tools of the quilter.
We live in today’s world of mass-production, where machines have taken the place of the hands-on artist. Most modern-day quilts are the result of factories and machines. But even those quilters who choose to create their own quilts often choose a quilting machine to make their work error-free and much faster. Without a modern quilting machine, it took months of steady work by a sewing artist and his/her friends to produce a beautiful, durable quilt.
In Amish societies, quilt-making is a social event as well as a way to create serviceable but beautiful home bed coverings and decorations. Without quilting machines, Amish women of today still use hand-made quilting frames to keep the fabric tight while the three-layered quilt is meticulously stitched together. Modern artists, regardless of religious faith, who choose to create a quilt without the benefit of a quilting machine, find pleasure in assembling a quilt “the old-fashioned way” instead of succumbing to the luxuries of modern tools.
Are Quilts Made with a Quilting Machine “Authentic?”
The answer to this question depends upon two things: your own definition of “authentic” and how your quilt is viewed by other quilters. Not that opinions by others should be an “absolute,” but quilters who exhibit and/or sell their work may wish to take this into account. Some hand-quilters regard the use of quilting machines as nothing short of blasphemous.
If you choose to use a quilting machine, you have a lot of company! With a machine, say users, you can create a masterpiece within a fraction of the time that a hand-made quilt can be constructed. If you need to make your quilt quickly as a gift or other occasion, a quilting machine can save the day.
When buying the machine, be sure to try it out yourself in the store; make sure it’s easy and comfortable to use and does what you need for it to do. Bring your own fabric and thread to try the machine on – just what you’ll be using at home.
A good quilting machine shouldn’t cost more than $450-500. Consider buying your machine at a craft and quilting store rather than a department store; this is where you will find expert advice on using the machine and maintaining it in prime condition.