Traditionally, felt quilts are machine sewn into blankets. Wool felt comes in a variety of classic colors. For beginners, there are many different quilt patterns available to provide accurate instruction. Traditional quilts consist of a top blanket made of patchwork and a plain backing layer. Quilts are made by cutting out many squares with various kinds of fabric then piecing them together like a puzzle. Each block must be pressed carefully with an iron. The quilt blocks are sewn together on a quarter-inch seam. Batting is usually placed between the two layers, and the top and bottom layer are machine sewn together.
Some felt quilts can have squares that are cut into different shapes, such as diamonds, which are sewn together to create an interesting design. Quilts can be embellished with stitched embroidery and handmade or store-bought appliques. Some applique designs include shapes, such as people, animals, nature and more. "Fashionetta" quilts are quilts that have pre-made appliques of fashionable girls, clothing and accessories that are perfect as gifts for young girls. Artists can also draw their own designs, cut them out and sew them onto felt quilt blocks for a personal touch.
Some non-traditional uses for felt quilts are as mats for babies, wall hangings and doorknob hangers. Many quilts can have creative, three-dimensional appliques that can be hung on the walls of bedrooms or living rooms. Quilts can be transformed into wall hangings by sewing a thick ribbon on the top of the quilt that can be looped onto a hanger. Felt quilts can also be cut into a round shape and embellished with appliques to make small area rugs.
Machine sewn felt quilts are not just used as blankets. Machine felted quilts can be sewn into pillows, handbags, shawls, scarfs, clothing and Christmas stockings. Felt quilts can be sewn into pillows by creating a patchwork layer of quilt blocks on a smaller scale with a plain backing, sewing them together and putting cotton in the middle. Felt quilt handbags, clothing, shawls, scarves and Christmas stockings can be made from traditional patterns with quilted patchwork sewn onto the felt.