What is Patchwork & Quilting, and How Are They Different?

If you’re new to sewing or simply curious about fabric crafts, you might be wondering: what is patchwork, and what is quilting? While these two terms are often used together, or even interchangeably, they each have a unique role in making a quilt. Whether you’re just getting started or brushing up on the basics, understanding the difference between the two will help you piece together your next project with confidence.

Let’s walk through it together, one stitch at a time.

What is Patchwork?

Patchwork is the fun, creative part where it all begins!

It’s the process of stitching small pieces of fabric (called patches or quilt blocks) into a bigger, beautiful design. These fabric pieces are usually cut into shapes like squares, triangles, or hexagons, then sewn together into the decorative front of your quilt, also known as the quilt top. There are endless ways to bring your pieces together, with patterns like the Log Cabin, Flying Geese, and Pinwheel.

This gives you a chance to make it truly personal. From soft pastels to bold colours, you can choose from our selection of quilting fabric in Australia to create a unique piece. You’ll also find patchwork used in many types of handmade creations, including cushions, tote bags, and even clothing.

Want a shortcut to matching prints? Our guide to buying Moda fabrics is a great place to start if you’d like everything beautifully coordinated from the get-go.

Next, What is Quilting?

Once your patchwork quilt top is ready, it’s time to move on to quilting. Quilting is the stitching that brings all the layers together: your quilt top, the fluffy batting in the middle, and the backing fabric underneath. This final step adds both structure and softness, turning your layered fabrics into a finished quilt.

You can quilt by hand or machine, and the stitching can be simple lines that follow the edges of your patchwork blocks (called “stitch in the ditch”) or more decorative with loops, swirls, or custom designs using free-motion techniques.

But what is the difference between quilting and patchwork, and does quilting have to involve patchwork? The short answer is no. You can opt for a whole cloth quilt, which is made with a single piece of fabric on top, and the stitching itself becomes the star.

If you’re new to this part, check out our beginners quilting kit for a friendly starting point.

What is the Difference Between Patchwork and Quilting: Are They a Package Deal?

Though they work together beautifully, patchwork and quilting have very different roles.

What about a patchwork quilt? That’s when these two techniques come together. Many quilters love the personality patchwork offers, while quilting adds structure and brings it all to life. Together, they create something that’s both functional and full of heart.

Get Creative Today

Knowing what is the difference between patchwork and quilting is the first step in crafting a piece you’ll treasure. Want to get started? Learn how to cut fabric for quilting so every piece is perfectly right, or start with a curated fat quarter bundle.

Whether you’re making your first patchwork cushion or quilting a keepsake for someone special, Cozy Corner Quilts is here to guide and support you.

Create something beautiful and truly meaningful today!