Quilting is used in clothing, table-linen, or bed-linen (quilt) using three layers of material of the same width and length:

• Top Layer - a single sheet of fabric which may be a plain colour or decorated with applique, or assembled patchwork pieces.
• Middle Layer - a natural (cotton/wool) or synthetic (polyester) filling needed for the soft, padded look of quilting.
• Bottom Layer - usually a plain sheet of fabric to be used as the backing of the quilted item.

The three layers are held together with hand or machine sewn straight stitches. These stitches may form intricate designs in themselves.