The original Crazy quilts were made by the nobility. Those women were so limited in what they could do that most of 'em did a lotta hand work. They did have access to left over rich fabrics. Like velvet, silk, brocade..... These fabrics don't play well together when sewing 'em together. That is why ya need a fabric foundation. Now if ya decide to make yours outta just cotton there would be no reason to have a foundation.
They were so heavy that they weren't quilted & didn't have any batting. Just a backing & then were tied. They were for display only.