Hi Pam
Traditional Amish quilts were pieced not appliqued. It's not part of Amish culture. They consider it a frivolous practice, decorative without providing added warmth. The few examples of Amish applique limit the technique to a simple central solid color medallion.
Nowadays Amish quilters may produce appliqued quilts for "the English" (as they refer to non-Amish peoples). This style may also made by Mennonites living in the Lancaster, PA area. Being pragmatic, these quilters adjust to the demands of the market.
It is equally possible that contemporary "Amish" quilts are produced by the H'mong, Vietnamese mountain people driven from their homes in the 1970's because they had sided with USA. Skilled H'mong sewers in the Lancaster area prefer American/Amish quilting. It's easier and quicker than their traditional needlework.
Ann
