In patchwork, pieces of fabric are cut into shapes and joined together either by hand or machine sewing. The different types of patchwork are:

• Single-shape - patches are cut into the same shape.
• Block - patches are cut into different shapes and joined to form a block, such as a square, rectangle, etc. These blocks are then sewn together as in Single-shape patchwork.
• Crazy - patches are cut into irregular shapes.

Patches may be further decorated with applique, embroidery, beadwork, iron-on transfers, or quilting stitches.