The True Cost of a Quilt

In an era dominated by mass production, the true cost of handcrafted items, such as quilts, often goes unnoticed. In a world that often prioritizes speed and affordability over craftsmanship, many people may not fully appreciate the materials, time, and skill required to create a beautiful quilt. This year marks a significant milestone for the Edmonton Quilt Festival, as it will feature quilts available for sale for the very first time. Read on as Kim Caskey explored the monetary cost involved in both a simple and elaborate quilt.  

For those who are not quilters, it may be difficult to fully understand the true value of a handmade quilt and to grasp the time, effort, and financial investment involved. At quilt shows, people often admire the beauty and artistry of quilts without realizing the extensive work and costs behind them. As a passionate quilter, I believe it’s important to educate the public about what truly goes into making a quilt and why these handcrafted pieces should be valued accordingly.

Some people assume that quilts are just made from scraps of fabric, but the reality is far different. A single metre of high-quality quilting fabric can cost anywhere from $18-$25 or more. Depending on the size of the quilt, several metres of fabric are needed for the quilt top alone. Add to that the batting—the layer that provides warmth—which adds another expense, ranging from $20 to $40/metre or more, depending on the fiber content. The backing fabric is another essential component which adds to the total cost.

Thread might seem like a minor detail, but when you consider the sheer amount of stitching involved in a quilt, the cost quickly adds up. Specialty threads, metallics, and embroidery threads can be expensive, with some spools costing $15 to $20 each. Then there are embellishments such as crystals, beads, or intricate appliqué, which can turn a quilt into a showpiece but also increase the financial investment significantly.

One of the biggest aspects often overlooked is the time/labour involved in making a quilt. From drafting an original design or choosing the perfect pattern, cutting fabric and then piecing the design together, pressing seams, and assembling the quilt sandwich, each step requires patience and skill. The quilting process itself—whether done by hand or machine—can take weeks or even months to complete. If a quilter chooses to have their quilt professionally quilted, the cost for longarm quilting services can range anywhere from a few hundred to over a thousand dollars, depending on the size and complexity of the design.

Quilting is not just about fabric and thread—it also requires specialized tools and equipment. A high-quality sewing machine suitable for quilting can cost anywhere from $1,000 to $10,000 or more. Longarm quilting machines, often used for professional quilting, can range from $10,000 to $30,000 or beyond. Additionally, rotary cutters, rulers, cutting mats, irons, and design walls all contribute to the overall investment in the craft.

ESTIMATE: “3-Yard Lap Quilt”
SKILL: Beginner, simple
Size: 50” x 60”

ESTIMATE: “Fleur Bed Quilt”
SKILL: Advanced
Size: 72” x 72”