ABSTRACT
Quilting (to include patchwork) has a long history across the world to encompass thrift, utilitarian, and purely decorative uses. Individual testimonies indicate that it has a positive impact on health and well-being, supported by some research evidence. The aspects of quilting that are associated with positive outcomes include the design process, focus and “flow”, social aspects of quilting in groups, and filling time productively. Some people quilt in response to difficult personal circumstances or as part of the rehabilitative process. The main benefits are the maintenance of general well-being, helping reduce stress and anxiety, or personal or family problems including health issues and loss. One study considered the impact on memory, but the results were not significant and related to very specific circumstances. Most research is qualitative, experimental studies being difficult, and needing to consider the quilter and aspects of the quilting process as well as the outcome. There are few barriers to quilting as it requires only basic skills and equipment to start, particularly for hand sewing. Making quilts for community or altruistic purposes has a long history, with the Linus project possibly being the best known. The AIDS memorial quilt not only commemorates those lost, but has also contributed to public education.
