Page "Quilting" Paragraph 37

Quilting can be elaborately decorative, comprising stitching fashioned into complex designs and patterns, simple or complex geometric grids, " motifs " traced from published quilting patterns or traced pictures, freehand, or complex repeated designs called tessellations.

The quilter may choose to emphasize these designs by using threads that are multicolored or metallic, or that contrast highly to the fabric.

Conversely, the quilter may choose to make the quilting disappear, using " invisible " nylon or polyester thread, thread that matches the quilt top, or stitching within the patchwork seams themselves ( commonly known as " stitch in the ditch ").

Some quilters draw the quilting design on the quilt top before stitching, while others prefer to stitch " freehand.