Coverlet vs. Quilt: What’s the Difference?
Whether a quilt or coverlet is the better option when choosing comfortable bedding comes down to decor style and sleep preference. These similar bedding pieces are often used as lightweight, lovely layers in any season, and understanding the key differences between a quilt and coverlet can help you decide which to purchase.
Quilts and Coverlets Are Made Differently
When compared to comforters, quilts and coverlets are thinner and they’re not filled with down or down alternative. Both are lightweight options for warm weather and make good extra layers during cool months and shoulder seasons; the primary difference between them is how they’re constructed.
What Is a Quilt?
A quilt is a traditional bedding item constructed with two outer layers of fabric stitched over an inner layer of batting. Quilts come in a variety of styles, from understated designs to elaborately embellished creations with appliqué, decorative stitching, or embroidered accents. There are two main types of quilt:
- Patchwork or pieced-style quilts are constructed with multiple small fabric shapes to create a larger pattern or design.
- Wholecloth quilts feature a single, complete length of fabric for the topmost layer.
What Is a Coverlet?
A coverlet, also referred to as a ‘bedspread,’ is a lightweight blanket made to use as a polished top bedding layer. Because it is made without the inner layer of batting, a coverlet is thinner than a quilt and can be an ideal lightweight option to top the bed in the summer or to layer beneath a comforter or duvet in cooler months. A coverlet may also be folded and placed at the foot of the bed for an element of style and an easy-to-reach extra layer.
