International Quilt Museum
About This Museum
Tucked away in Lincoln, what truly sets this place apart is its sheer scale and global reach—it's not your grandmother's quilting circle, though you'll find plenty of those traditions honored here. The museum grew from the passion of a local professor and his wife, Ardis and Robert James, whose own collection became the foundation for something much bigger. It opened its doors in 1997 and has since become a destination for textile lovers from all over. Walking through, you're struck by how these layered fabrics tell stories of artistry, community, and history from across centuries and continents.
Collection Highlights
You can wander from a stunning Amish piece with bold geometric simplicity to a breathtakingly intricate Baltimore Album quilt bursting with appliquéd motifs. Their crown jewel is arguably the massive collection of quilts from the 1800s, where you can see the evolution of techniques and styles up close. They also have incredible contemporary works that push the boundaries of what a quilt can be.
Visitor Information
Give yourself a good couple of hours to really take it all in without rushing. The lighting is kept soft to protect the textiles, so on a bright day the whole space has this quiet, almost reverent glow. It’s easy to spend an afternoon here just marveling at the handiwork.
Architecture & Building
Housed in a spacious, purpose-built modern building with a clean-lined facade that lets the vibrant colors inside do all the talking.
Contact & Location
Address: International Quilt Study Center and Museum, 1523, North 33rd Street, Clinton, Lincoln, Lancaster County, Nebraska, 68503, United States
Phone: +1 402-472-6549
Website: Visit Website
