What Is a Cutter Quilt? And How Do I Find Them?
What is a Cutter Quilt?
If you've ever stumbled across a soft, well-worn quilt at a thrift store or estate sale and wondered what could be done with it, you may have just discovered a cutter quilt. A "cutter quilt" is an old, often damaged quilt that’s no longer suitable for its original purpose—keeping someone warm on a bed—but still has so much life left in it. These quilts may have holes, tears, or stains, but they often feature beautiful hand-stitched blocks and vintage fabrics that deserve to be seen and loved again.
Before we get started, please enjoy this video highlighting more about what cutter quilts are and why I love them!
Why I Fell in Love with Cutter Quilts
My love for cutter quilts started when I kept seeing them pop up during my thrifting adventures. I was instantly transported back to memories of my late grandmothers, who both spent countless hours quilting. I remember the care and love that went into each stitch, and it broke my heart to see these heirlooms sitting forgotten and falling apart.
That’s when I knew I had to do something. I wanted to honor the women who originally created these precious quilts and give them a second life in a meaningful, beautiful way. This desire led to my quilt jacket collaboration—where we transform old quilts into wearable, one-of-a-kind pieces like jackets and vests. Read about the original collaboration HERE, and find my latest collection HERE. Each one carries its own story, stitched with love decades ago, now reimagined and ready for new adventures.
My Granny Elsie with one of her quilts.
Where Do I Find Cutter Quilts?
One of the biggest questions I get from you is: Where do you source your cutter quilts?
Here’s a peek behind the curtain at how I hunt for these treasures:
Estate Sales – My number one source. I use EstateSales.net to find local sales and always keep an eye out for homes that list vintage textiles or quilts. It’s helpful to get there early for the best finds.
Thrift Stores – I’ve discovered a few gems in local thrift and antique shops. You never know what you’ll find, and that’s half the fun!
Facebook Marketplace – Lately, I’ve been keeping an eye out for quilt listings here. You can often negotiate prices and find sellers nearby. And, you can even expand your search because some sellers are willing to ship.
While buying online is an option, I prefer to see quilts in person whenever I can. It allows me to check for:
The level of wear and tear
Any odors (mildew and mustiness are common). I always hand wash and hang dry my quilts, but it is still a good idea to look at them.
And most importantly, the colors and fabric patterns. Sometimes it is hard to see the true color of quilts unless they are in person.
Personally, I’m always drawn to quilts made in the 1930s, especially those made with feedsack fabric. The colors and patterns from that era are vibrant, playful, and timeless. There’s something truly special about holding a piece of that history in your hands.
What Can You Make from Cutter Quilts?
Oh, the possibilities are endless! Here are just a few of the pieces we’ve made from cutter quilts:
Quilt Jackets & Vests – Our most popular pieces, combining cozy nostalgia with modern style.
Stockings – Especially around the holidays, these become instant keepsakes.
Tote Bags – A charming way to carry a piece of history with you.
Pillows – Add a soft, vintage touch to any room.
Wall Hangings – Frame a beautiful block and display it like the art it is.
Ornaments, Aprons, Pincushions – Even small scraps can be used creatively!
Each time I cut into a quilt, I do so with intention and respect. I think of the woman who made it—maybe with scraps of her children’s dresses, or old shirts from a husband long gone—and I let her legacy continue.
Final Thoughts
Sourcing cutter quilts can be a time-consuming, tedious process—but for me, it's filled with joy and nostalgia. Each quilt I find reminds me of my grandmothers, and each piece I make is a way to keep their love for creating alive.
So the next time you see a worn quilt at a sale or tucked away in a dusty bin, take a second look. It may just be the start of something beautiful.
*All photos by JoAnn Mytyk.
