Types of Amish Quilts: Plan a Weekend in Lancaster to Learn More

In Amish and Mennonite communities, quilts mark milestones such as marriage and birth. The creativity, craftsmanship, and detail that goes into each quilt makes them highly desirable and valuable. You will find Amish quilts displayed in art museums, admired for their beauty and the skills needed to create them. Yet, they also are available in local country stores here in Lancaster County.

What are the types of Amish quilts?

In Lancaster, you will find Amish quilts in these general categories:

Applique: These quilt types are extremely time-consuming to make. The Rose of Sharon is a popular example of an applique quilt. Typically, the quilter will hand-draw the design element and hand-stitch it onto the quilt, making sure to turn under the edges of the entire applique so that it is fastened to the quilt beautifully.

Pieced: A pieced quilt is sometimes called a patchwork quilt. Pieced quilts are made using different fabrics which are sewn together in various patterns, using various colors. They can feature geometric patterns, purposeful shapes, or completely random.

Whole cloth: Whole cloth quilts are created using one large piece of fabric. Stitching one square at a time, using firm back stitches to create depth and form the pattern.

Amish Quilt Designs: What Do They Mean?

The design of an Amish quilt often has a specific meaning. A popular example is the Wedding Ring pattern which symbolizes eternal love. Other patterns are named for their shapes, such as the Log Cabin or Sunbonnet Sue. Some patterns mimic lace, while others feature animals or other objects that have special meaning to the quilter or special meaning to the buyer/recipient.

Common Amish quilt designs include Wedding Ring, Log Cabin, Sunbonnet Sue, and Lace. Typical Amish quilts have a dark background with splashes of bright, solid colors. They are made with three layers: two layers of fabric with a layer of batting in between. The batting is usually polyester. Binding around the edge of the quilt finishes the blanket.

Where to find Amish Quilts for Sale?

Since the 1870s, the Plain community has defined what goes into creating a quality quilt and Lancaster County is among the top destinations for quilt shopping, workshops, and quilt supplies. Conveniently located near numerous quilt shops, AmishView Inn & Suites welcomes many quilters and quilt buyers who travel to Lancaster County specifically for its beautiful quilts. Our favorite place to shop for authentic hand stitched Lancaster County quilts is The Quilt Shop at MIller’s. The Quilt Shop at Miller’s is where you can view over 600 quilts hand-stitched by local Amish and Mennonite artisans. Plus, they offer many other hand crafted quilted items and gifts.

Quilt Shows in Lancaster County

Each spring, the Lancaster Quilt Show is at the Lebanon Valley Expo with over 50 vendors and over 30 classes. In 2025, the dates are March 26-29. In the fall, American Quilt Society puts on Quilt Week at Spooky Nook in Manheim with classes, demos, quilt exhibits and more. For 2024, dates are September 11-14. If you are a quilter, you won’t want to miss these shows. Can’t make the shows? Don’t worry, Lancaster County has plenty of places to buy and see amazing quilts.

Where to Stay to When Coming to See the Quilts

Plan an extended weekend in one of our rooms or suites, enjoy the best complimentary breakfast in the area, and then begin your quilt shopping experience at AmishView’s sister business.

Then, you can embark on a quilt shopping adventure throughout the rest of Lancaster County.  Quilts created by the local Amish women are some of the most sought-after bed coverings.

When you take in the breathtaking views of Amish Country, you can relax seeing the simpler way of life the views convey. Escape workaday stressors and visit this hub for Amish quilts.

Visit Lancaster County, Pennsylvania

If you’re interested in the history and culture of the Amish, a visit to Lancaster County is a must. When you visit Lancaster, be sure to set some time aside to explore the many types of Amish quilts that are available. You may even find a design that has special meaning to you.

In addition to quilts, there are many other types of traditional crafts made by the Amish that can be found throughout the county. From furniture-making to metalworking, you’ll find something interesting and unique around every corner.

AmishView Inn & Suites is the perfect place to stay when you visit Lancaster County. We look forward to welcoming you soon!