What is a Coverlet?

Coverlets are woven bedcovers. Unlike quilts, most of which were made by cutting and sewing pattern pieces to a ready-made backing, coverlets were woven on looms. The weaver constructed the textile itself, one row at a time, creating the pattern at the same time. In many cases, antique coverlets predate quilts. Coverlets were woven in many states and made in several different weave structures, all of which will be represented at the Museum.