In my excursions around northern Illinois and southern Wisconsin, I’ve noticed a few barns with unique, squared designs.

I thought these were a family crest kind of thing but never looked into it – until now.

While Out Running Errands…

I decide to take a detour down a side road.

I’d been down this road many times but was always in a hurry or too busy overthinking life to stop and appreciate what was right before my eyes.

I remember seeing a cool looking design on the side of a barn and today’s last minute detour was to get a closer look.

The Designs Are Called Barn Quilts…

My initial thought was it’s kinda dumb to nail a quilt to the side of a barn – but I’ve since learned these quilts are not made of fabric.

Barn quilts are made from a variety of materials such as plywood, scrap wood or composite aluminum with the quilted design being painted on.

Quilting isn’t just for Grandma’s sewing room, it’s also for Grandpa’s workshop!

Apparently, this trend has been around for almost 300 years!

Did You Know There Are Barn Quilt Trails?…

Barn quilts have been around for a few centuries but the first official barn quilt trail wasn’t established until 2001.

These trails are great tourist attractions and, according to Google, the trails are usually within walking or short driving distances from one another.

Parting Thoughts…

Exploring barn quilt trails sounds like a fun way to unwind and enjoy the countryside.

My summer is pretty booked (helping a family member) but, who knows, maybe I’ll find myself wandering down a barn quilt trail or two!

Have you seen barn quilts in your neck of the woods or been on any of the trails?

---

Photo taken on June 7, 2024 while driving the backroads in Stephenson County, Illinois.

---