Some creative reuse of fabric did occur among colonial quiltmakers. Heavily quilted petticoats were in fashion among women in both the colonies and across the Atlantic. High style ones were silk, but wool ones were common among less elite women. And once they were out of style, some were recycled into bedcovers. This type of quilt is an example that frugal making due did exist, but not with the sort of scrapbag quilts we imagine.

Pattern: 
Medallion
Maker: 
Maker unknown
Circa
1775
1795
Probably made in
New York
United States
84
88.5
IQM, Gift of Doug and Arlene Pritchard
2002.006.0001