by Mary Jo
I've always liked quilts. Throughout my childhood, I slept under a blue and white quilt a neighbor gave to my mother because the neighbor didn't want it anymore. A lot of quilts were passed around as old fashioned and uninteresting in those days, I think.
But these days quilts are very popular, partly because they represent authenticity 
and a link with the past. Not to mention that they're beautiful usable art that can be lived with and appreciated every day.
(Like most Americans I have a rather romanticized image of pioneer women gathering together for a quilting bee, both to make quilts and to share female companionship. The reality is inevitably more complex.)
I have several friends who quilt. One who is a writer, Annette Mahon, has created the St. Rose cozy quilting mystery series. I've had friends create quilts for new babies, or to offer comfort to someone going through a difficult time.
There was also the AIDS Memorial Quilt with squares commemorating those who had died of the disease. The largest folk art project in the world, it weighed 54 tons in 2010. (The history of the quilt is quite interesting.)
But what inspired today's blog was being invited to the Quilt Expo 2015 show by a friend who is a member of the Baltimore Heritage Quilters Guild. Held in a sprawling gymnasium at Goucher College, it was a feast for the eyes and senses. The lovely quilt above was done as a sign at the entrance.
I won't say much more beyond mentioning that there are traditional quilts and art quilts. The latter tend to be small and are more like tapestries designed to be hung on the wall. The quilt is the left was called "Back Door to the Castle"and was created by Rebecca Ludwig, the featured Contemporary Quilter.
The quilts are irresistibly tactile–you just want to touch and feel the textures. But the guild is very serious about visitors not touching the quilts because oil in fingers can mar them. There were lots of signs warning not to touch, and to ask a white gloved volunteer if one wanted to see the details of construction. My favorite sign said "Touching will be monitored by aircraft," which inspired the Mayhem Consultant to scan the high ceiling for drones. I had to shove my hands in my coat pockets to keep from touching. <G>
Here are just a few of the amazing quilts on display. The one below is a traditional Baltimore Album Quilt made up of squares with different images. I believe it was done by the featured Traditional Quilter, Clara Murphy. 
I thought of the one above as "The Octopus's Garden." (Unfortunately, I didn't get the names of most of the creators.)
I loved these cranes. (I think they're cranes.) The African inspired quilt below was even more stunning in person than the pictures, with the bird on the right accented with shining metallic gold.
I must have really liked the birds! Here are ravens:
I also like the whimsy of this one of the sewing machine. (As with shows of all sorts, there were also vendors selling fabrics and threads and other materials and tools.) On the right is one I think of as "Tree at Sunset."
Here's a more abstract design.
This is just a small sampling of the beautiful works on display. Are you a quilter? Or an aspiring quilter? Or an admirer of quilts? If you've had special quilts in your life, please tell us about them!
Mary Jo, who thinks her much worn childhood quilt deserves to be dug out of its closet.
I love quilts. The amount of time put into making them boggles my mind. I made 2 bed quilts, of the simple variety, about 25 years ago and they are still on my beds. But, that did it for me.
But I love looking at quilts and admiring the artistry that goes into designing them. With todays fancy sewing machines, quilts are more intricate.
Like you, Mary Jo, I have a romantic image of pioneer women, using scraps of material and socializing at a bee. I think the bee captures my heart.
I love quilts. The amount of time put into making them boggles my mind. I made 2 bed quilts, of the simple variety, about 25 years ago and they are still on my beds. But, that did it for me.
But I love looking at quilts and admiring the artistry that goes into designing them. With todays fancy sewing machines, quilts are more intricate.
Like you, Mary Jo, I have a romantic image of pioneer women, using scraps of material and socializing at a bee. I think the bee captures my heart.
I love quilts. The amount of time put into making them boggles my mind. I made 2 bed quilts, of the simple variety, about 25 years ago and they are still on my beds. But, that did it for me.
But I love looking at quilts and admiring the artistry that goes into designing them. With todays fancy sewing machines, quilts are more intricate.
Like you, Mary Jo, I have a romantic image of pioneer women, using scraps of material and socializing at a bee. I think the bee captures my heart.
I love quilts. The amount of time put into making them boggles my mind. I made 2 bed quilts, of the simple variety, about 25 years ago and they are still on my beds. But, that did it for me.
But I love looking at quilts and admiring the artistry that goes into designing them. With todays fancy sewing machines, quilts are more intricate.
Like you, Mary Jo, I have a romantic image of pioneer women, using scraps of material and socializing at a bee. I think the bee captures my heart.
I love quilts. The amount of time put into making them boggles my mind. I made 2 bed quilts, of the simple variety, about 25 years ago and they are still on my beds. But, that did it for me.
But I love looking at quilts and admiring the artistry that goes into designing them. With todays fancy sewing machines, quilts are more intricate.
Like you, Mary Jo, I have a romantic image of pioneer women, using scraps of material and socializing at a bee. I think the bee captures my heart.
I have never tried to make a quilt. Too difficult for me.
I had a quilt made by by great aunt Tanta Minnie who made costumes for the Circus. The quilt was made of pieces of satin and velvet, cotton, and other materials left over from circus costumes. My daughter took the quilt when she left home. I have heard of a quilt made of a child’s clothes from birth to about age sixteen which the mother gave to her daughter when she left home. Haven’t see many which seem to be for looks only.
I have never tried to make a quilt. Too difficult for me.
I had a quilt made by by great aunt Tanta Minnie who made costumes for the Circus. The quilt was made of pieces of satin and velvet, cotton, and other materials left over from circus costumes. My daughter took the quilt when she left home. I have heard of a quilt made of a child’s clothes from birth to about age sixteen which the mother gave to her daughter when she left home. Haven’t see many which seem to be for looks only.
I have never tried to make a quilt. Too difficult for me.
I had a quilt made by by great aunt Tanta Minnie who made costumes for the Circus. The quilt was made of pieces of satin and velvet, cotton, and other materials left over from circus costumes. My daughter took the quilt when she left home. I have heard of a quilt made of a child’s clothes from birth to about age sixteen which the mother gave to her daughter when she left home. Haven’t see many which seem to be for looks only.
I have never tried to make a quilt. Too difficult for me.
I had a quilt made by by great aunt Tanta Minnie who made costumes for the Circus. The quilt was made of pieces of satin and velvet, cotton, and other materials left over from circus costumes. My daughter took the quilt when she left home. I have heard of a quilt made of a child’s clothes from birth to about age sixteen which the mother gave to her daughter when she left home. Haven’t see many which seem to be for looks only.
I have never tried to make a quilt. Too difficult for me.
I had a quilt made by by great aunt Tanta Minnie who made costumes for the Circus. The quilt was made of pieces of satin and velvet, cotton, and other materials left over from circus costumes. My daughter took the quilt when she left home. I have heard of a quilt made of a child’s clothes from birth to about age sixteen which the mother gave to her daughter when she left home. Haven’t see many which seem to be for looks only.
Thanks for showing us these beautiful quilts! I am a huge fan of quilting. I made a few baby quilts when I was much younger, although I used a sewing machine, no hand quilting. And I have gone to many wonderful quilt exhibits, including one at the Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Folk Art Museum in Williamsburg, VA, at the Newark Museum in NJ, which has a great folk art collection, and a memorable exhibit in NYC of the famous quilters of Gee’s Bend: http://www.auburn.edu/academic/other/geesbend/explore/catalog/slideshow/
I even saw some quilts at the Underground Railroad Museum in Ashtabula, OH, although there is much controversy over whether they were really used as a secret code to help slaves escape north.
Thanks for showing us these beautiful quilts! I am a huge fan of quilting. I made a few baby quilts when I was much younger, although I used a sewing machine, no hand quilting. And I have gone to many wonderful quilt exhibits, including one at the Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Folk Art Museum in Williamsburg, VA, at the Newark Museum in NJ, which has a great folk art collection, and a memorable exhibit in NYC of the famous quilters of Gee’s Bend: http://www.auburn.edu/academic/other/geesbend/explore/catalog/slideshow/
I even saw some quilts at the Underground Railroad Museum in Ashtabula, OH, although there is much controversy over whether they were really used as a secret code to help slaves escape north.
Thanks for showing us these beautiful quilts! I am a huge fan of quilting. I made a few baby quilts when I was much younger, although I used a sewing machine, no hand quilting. And I have gone to many wonderful quilt exhibits, including one at the Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Folk Art Museum in Williamsburg, VA, at the Newark Museum in NJ, which has a great folk art collection, and a memorable exhibit in NYC of the famous quilters of Gee’s Bend: http://www.auburn.edu/academic/other/geesbend/explore/catalog/slideshow/
I even saw some quilts at the Underground Railroad Museum in Ashtabula, OH, although there is much controversy over whether they were really used as a secret code to help slaves escape north.
Thanks for showing us these beautiful quilts! I am a huge fan of quilting. I made a few baby quilts when I was much younger, although I used a sewing machine, no hand quilting. And I have gone to many wonderful quilt exhibits, including one at the Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Folk Art Museum in Williamsburg, VA, at the Newark Museum in NJ, which has a great folk art collection, and a memorable exhibit in NYC of the famous quilters of Gee’s Bend: http://www.auburn.edu/academic/other/geesbend/explore/catalog/slideshow/
I even saw some quilts at the Underground Railroad Museum in Ashtabula, OH, although there is much controversy over whether they were really used as a secret code to help slaves escape north.
Thanks for showing us these beautiful quilts! I am a huge fan of quilting. I made a few baby quilts when I was much younger, although I used a sewing machine, no hand quilting. And I have gone to many wonderful quilt exhibits, including one at the Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Folk Art Museum in Williamsburg, VA, at the Newark Museum in NJ, which has a great folk art collection, and a memorable exhibit in NYC of the famous quilters of Gee’s Bend: http://www.auburn.edu/academic/other/geesbend/explore/catalog/slideshow/
I even saw some quilts at the Underground Railroad Museum in Ashtabula, OH, although there is much controversy over whether they were really used as a secret code to help slaves escape north.
I thank you for these pictures, they are lovely. I do not have the talent to make a quilt but certainly admire those who do have that talent. When I worked for FEMA, we were set up in a church in East Texas during a disaster and in one of the large rooms of the church there were a group of women who were working together doing quilting. Some of the quilts I was fortunate enough to see were absolutely lovely. Women are so creative – whether writing books for us or creating quilts for us – or just generally making the world a better place.
I thank you for these pictures, they are lovely. I do not have the talent to make a quilt but certainly admire those who do have that talent. When I worked for FEMA, we were set up in a church in East Texas during a disaster and in one of the large rooms of the church there were a group of women who were working together doing quilting. Some of the quilts I was fortunate enough to see were absolutely lovely. Women are so creative – whether writing books for us or creating quilts for us – or just generally making the world a better place.
I thank you for these pictures, they are lovely. I do not have the talent to make a quilt but certainly admire those who do have that talent. When I worked for FEMA, we were set up in a church in East Texas during a disaster and in one of the large rooms of the church there were a group of women who were working together doing quilting. Some of the quilts I was fortunate enough to see were absolutely lovely. Women are so creative – whether writing books for us or creating quilts for us – or just generally making the world a better place.
I thank you for these pictures, they are lovely. I do not have the talent to make a quilt but certainly admire those who do have that talent. When I worked for FEMA, we were set up in a church in East Texas during a disaster and in one of the large rooms of the church there were a group of women who were working together doing quilting. Some of the quilts I was fortunate enough to see were absolutely lovely. Women are so creative – whether writing books for us or creating quilts for us – or just generally making the world a better place.
I thank you for these pictures, they are lovely. I do not have the talent to make a quilt but certainly admire those who do have that talent. When I worked for FEMA, we were set up in a church in East Texas during a disaster and in one of the large rooms of the church there were a group of women who were working together doing quilting. Some of the quilts I was fortunate enough to see were absolutely lovely. Women are so creative – whether writing books for us or creating quilts for us – or just generally making the world a better place.
Alison–you’re so right about the quilting bee. Our frontier ancestors worked so hard. The idea of getting together with other women to talk, gossip, share knowledge, and create something lovely and useful is rather magical.
Now we can chat with other women on the internet ww like. *G*
Alison–you’re so right about the quilting bee. Our frontier ancestors worked so hard. The idea of getting together with other women to talk, gossip, share knowledge, and create something lovely and useful is rather magical.
Now we can chat with other women on the internet ww like. *G*
Alison–you’re so right about the quilting bee. Our frontier ancestors worked so hard. The idea of getting together with other women to talk, gossip, share knowledge, and create something lovely and useful is rather magical.
Now we can chat with other women on the internet ww like. *G*
Alison–you’re so right about the quilting bee. Our frontier ancestors worked so hard. The idea of getting together with other women to talk, gossip, share knowledge, and create something lovely and useful is rather magical.
Now we can chat with other women on the internet ww like. *G*
Alison–you’re so right about the quilting bee. Our frontier ancestors worked so hard. The idea of getting together with other women to talk, gossip, share knowledge, and create something lovely and useful is rather magical.
Now we can chat with other women on the internet ww like. *G*
Nancy–
The quilt your aunt made sounds amazing. Given that your daughter took it when she left home, it now qualifies as a genuine heirloom. I hope it passed on further. I hadn’t heard of the child’s clothing quilt, but it sound like a lovely idea. And a quilt that could become an heirloom.
Nancy–
The quilt your aunt made sounds amazing. Given that your daughter took it when she left home, it now qualifies as a genuine heirloom. I hope it passed on further. I hadn’t heard of the child’s clothing quilt, but it sound like a lovely idea. And a quilt that could become an heirloom.
Nancy–
The quilt your aunt made sounds amazing. Given that your daughter took it when she left home, it now qualifies as a genuine heirloom. I hope it passed on further. I hadn’t heard of the child’s clothing quilt, but it sound like a lovely idea. And a quilt that could become an heirloom.
Nancy–
The quilt your aunt made sounds amazing. Given that your daughter took it when she left home, it now qualifies as a genuine heirloom. I hope it passed on further. I hadn’t heard of the child’s clothing quilt, but it sound like a lovely idea. And a quilt that could become an heirloom.
Nancy–
The quilt your aunt made sounds amazing. Given that your daughter took it when she left home, it now qualifies as a genuine heirloom. I hope it passed on further. I hadn’t heard of the child’s clothing quilt, but it sound like a lovely idea. And a quilt that could become an heirloom.
Karin, those exhibitions sound amazing. I’d not heard of the quilters of Gee’s Bend.
When I was doing some research for this blog, I came across the stories of quilts used in the Underground Railway. Fascinating, and probably impossible to prove one way or the other. Secret odes are like that!
Karin, those exhibitions sound amazing. I’d not heard of the quilters of Gee’s Bend.
When I was doing some research for this blog, I came across the stories of quilts used in the Underground Railway. Fascinating, and probably impossible to prove one way or the other. Secret odes are like that!
Karin, those exhibitions sound amazing. I’d not heard of the quilters of Gee’s Bend.
When I was doing some research for this blog, I came across the stories of quilts used in the Underground Railway. Fascinating, and probably impossible to prove one way or the other. Secret odes are like that!
Karin, those exhibitions sound amazing. I’d not heard of the quilters of Gee’s Bend.
When I was doing some research for this blog, I came across the stories of quilts used in the Underground Railway. Fascinating, and probably impossible to prove one way or the other. Secret odes are like that!
Karin, those exhibitions sound amazing. I’d not heard of the quilters of Gee’s Bend.
When I was doing some research for this blog, I came across the stories of quilts used in the Underground Railway. Fascinating, and probably impossible to prove one way or the other. Secret odes are like that!
Annette–
I love the idea that when taking refuge from disaster, these women were making something lovely and useful. You’re right about women’s creativity–there are so many ways to express it, and they make the world richer.
Annette–
I love the idea that when taking refuge from disaster, these women were making something lovely and useful. You’re right about women’s creativity–there are so many ways to express it, and they make the world richer.
Annette–
I love the idea that when taking refuge from disaster, these women were making something lovely and useful. You’re right about women’s creativity–there are so many ways to express it, and they make the world richer.
Annette–
I love the idea that when taking refuge from disaster, these women were making something lovely and useful. You’re right about women’s creativity–there are so many ways to express it, and they make the world richer.
Annette–
I love the idea that when taking refuge from disaster, these women were making something lovely and useful. You’re right about women’s creativity–there are so many ways to express it, and they make the world richer.
If you ever get out to the Midwest, stop at the Quilt Museum in Paducah, KY.
If you ever get out to the Midwest, stop at the Quilt Museum in Paducah, KY.
If you ever get out to the Midwest, stop at the Quilt Museum in Paducah, KY.
If you ever get out to the Midwest, stop at the Quilt Museum in Paducah, KY.
If you ever get out to the Midwest, stop at the Quilt Museum in Paducah, KY.
I have a quilt that my grandmother and other ladies pieced together in the 1930’s. I am not sure what the purpose of the quilt was, or why she kept it all her years, but on each square the ladies had embroidered their names. Many of them were familiar from our churches, and almost all of them were still their maiden names. In the middle they had embroidered the name of their church and the ladies missionary society. It’s not the prettiest quilt in the world and not in good enough shape to use anymore but there is something very special about having a piece of my grandmother’s girlhood.
I have a quilt that my grandmother and other ladies pieced together in the 1930’s. I am not sure what the purpose of the quilt was, or why she kept it all her years, but on each square the ladies had embroidered their names. Many of them were familiar from our churches, and almost all of them were still their maiden names. In the middle they had embroidered the name of their church and the ladies missionary society. It’s not the prettiest quilt in the world and not in good enough shape to use anymore but there is something very special about having a piece of my grandmother’s girlhood.
I have a quilt that my grandmother and other ladies pieced together in the 1930’s. I am not sure what the purpose of the quilt was, or why she kept it all her years, but on each square the ladies had embroidered their names. Many of them were familiar from our churches, and almost all of them were still their maiden names. In the middle they had embroidered the name of their church and the ladies missionary society. It’s not the prettiest quilt in the world and not in good enough shape to use anymore but there is something very special about having a piece of my grandmother’s girlhood.
I have a quilt that my grandmother and other ladies pieced together in the 1930’s. I am not sure what the purpose of the quilt was, or why she kept it all her years, but on each square the ladies had embroidered their names. Many of them were familiar from our churches, and almost all of them were still their maiden names. In the middle they had embroidered the name of their church and the ladies missionary society. It’s not the prettiest quilt in the world and not in good enough shape to use anymore but there is something very special about having a piece of my grandmother’s girlhood.
I have a quilt that my grandmother and other ladies pieced together in the 1930’s. I am not sure what the purpose of the quilt was, or why she kept it all her years, but on each square the ladies had embroidered their names. Many of them were familiar from our churches, and almost all of them were still their maiden names. In the middle they had embroidered the name of their church and the ladies missionary society. It’s not the prettiest quilt in the world and not in good enough shape to use anymore but there is something very special about having a piece of my grandmother’s girlhood.
My mother had a crazy quilt her mother had made. I remember as a child I didn’t like that all the pieces of fabric, such as velvet and satin didn’t match. When I asked my mom why the pieces didn’t match she told me that nothing is wasted, all scraps of fabric are put to good use. Our family used that quilt until it fell apart.
My mother had a crazy quilt her mother had made. I remember as a child I didn’t like that all the pieces of fabric, such as velvet and satin didn’t match. When I asked my mom why the pieces didn’t match she told me that nothing is wasted, all scraps of fabric are put to good use. Our family used that quilt until it fell apart.
My mother had a crazy quilt her mother had made. I remember as a child I didn’t like that all the pieces of fabric, such as velvet and satin didn’t match. When I asked my mom why the pieces didn’t match she told me that nothing is wasted, all scraps of fabric are put to good use. Our family used that quilt until it fell apart.
My mother had a crazy quilt her mother had made. I remember as a child I didn’t like that all the pieces of fabric, such as velvet and satin didn’t match. When I asked my mom why the pieces didn’t match she told me that nothing is wasted, all scraps of fabric are put to good use. Our family used that quilt until it fell apart.
My mother had a crazy quilt her mother had made. I remember as a child I didn’t like that all the pieces of fabric, such as velvet and satin didn’t match. When I asked my mom why the pieces didn’t match she told me that nothing is wasted, all scraps of fabric are put to good use. Our family used that quilt until it fell apart.
I always tell people they should think of them as a different kind of art show. Few quilts at shows resemble what people think of as traditional quilts.
I always tell people they should think of them as a different kind of art show. Few quilts at shows resemble what people think of as traditional quilts.
I always tell people they should think of them as a different kind of art show. Few quilts at shows resemble what people think of as traditional quilts.
I always tell people they should think of them as a different kind of art show. Few quilts at shows resemble what people think of as traditional quilts.
I always tell people they should think of them as a different kind of art show. Few quilts at shows resemble what people think of as traditional quilts.
Thanks for the mention, Mary Jo. I love quilting, much more so than cooking. You spend hours cooking and the meal is gone in a blink. You spend the same amount of time quilting and you have a beautiful treasure to pass along to generations of family.
Jana, the quilt you describe might have been made for your grandmother by her church friends when she got married, or if she moved away. Both occasions often brought signed quilt blocks from friends.
Annette Mahon
Thanks for the mention, Mary Jo. I love quilting, much more so than cooking. You spend hours cooking and the meal is gone in a blink. You spend the same amount of time quilting and you have a beautiful treasure to pass along to generations of family.
Jana, the quilt you describe might have been made for your grandmother by her church friends when she got married, or if she moved away. Both occasions often brought signed quilt blocks from friends.
Annette Mahon
Thanks for the mention, Mary Jo. I love quilting, much more so than cooking. You spend hours cooking and the meal is gone in a blink. You spend the same amount of time quilting and you have a beautiful treasure to pass along to generations of family.
Jana, the quilt you describe might have been made for your grandmother by her church friends when she got married, or if she moved away. Both occasions often brought signed quilt blocks from friends.
Annette Mahon
Thanks for the mention, Mary Jo. I love quilting, much more so than cooking. You spend hours cooking and the meal is gone in a blink. You spend the same amount of time quilting and you have a beautiful treasure to pass along to generations of family.
Jana, the quilt you describe might have been made for your grandmother by her church friends when she got married, or if she moved away. Both occasions often brought signed quilt blocks from friends.
Annette Mahon
Thanks for the mention, Mary Jo. I love quilting, much more so than cooking. You spend hours cooking and the meal is gone in a blink. You spend the same amount of time quilting and you have a beautiful treasure to pass along to generations of family.
Jana, the quilt you describe might have been made for your grandmother by her church friends when she got married, or if she moved away. Both occasions often brought signed quilt blocks from friends.
Annette Mahon
I have tried to make a patchwork quilt (the most common form of quilt-making); my skill does not rise to quilt block I can live with. I do adore quilts made by others and i frequently visit quilt shows.
For general information, patchwork is what makes the blocks (or sometimes applique); quilting is actually the decorative stitching applied when the quilt top is mated to the batting and the backing. The purpose of quilting is to hold all the layers together. The design of the quilting stitches, and at the puffy effects of some quilting designs make the utilitarian quilting a decorative part of the completed quilt.
As I said above, I do not have the skill to make patchwork. I DO quilt (but not with the skill of the dedicated quilter). I make strong utilitarian bags by quilting together top, batting, and backing. They carry our Garmin, serve as project bags for my stitchers projects, and similar purchases. And they have all worn very well indeed.
I am not sure of this, but I believe that quilting is much older than patchwork and the quilts we know of today. Men of arms wore quilted clothing beneath their armor to protect their bodies from the steel.
I have tried to make a patchwork quilt (the most common form of quilt-making); my skill does not rise to quilt block I can live with. I do adore quilts made by others and i frequently visit quilt shows.
For general information, patchwork is what makes the blocks (or sometimes applique); quilting is actually the decorative stitching applied when the quilt top is mated to the batting and the backing. The purpose of quilting is to hold all the layers together. The design of the quilting stitches, and at the puffy effects of some quilting designs make the utilitarian quilting a decorative part of the completed quilt.
As I said above, I do not have the skill to make patchwork. I DO quilt (but not with the skill of the dedicated quilter). I make strong utilitarian bags by quilting together top, batting, and backing. They carry our Garmin, serve as project bags for my stitchers projects, and similar purchases. And they have all worn very well indeed.
I am not sure of this, but I believe that quilting is much older than patchwork and the quilts we know of today. Men of arms wore quilted clothing beneath their armor to protect their bodies from the steel.
I have tried to make a patchwork quilt (the most common form of quilt-making); my skill does not rise to quilt block I can live with. I do adore quilts made by others and i frequently visit quilt shows.
For general information, patchwork is what makes the blocks (or sometimes applique); quilting is actually the decorative stitching applied when the quilt top is mated to the batting and the backing. The purpose of quilting is to hold all the layers together. The design of the quilting stitches, and at the puffy effects of some quilting designs make the utilitarian quilting a decorative part of the completed quilt.
As I said above, I do not have the skill to make patchwork. I DO quilt (but not with the skill of the dedicated quilter). I make strong utilitarian bags by quilting together top, batting, and backing. They carry our Garmin, serve as project bags for my stitchers projects, and similar purchases. And they have all worn very well indeed.
I am not sure of this, but I believe that quilting is much older than patchwork and the quilts we know of today. Men of arms wore quilted clothing beneath their armor to protect their bodies from the steel.
I have tried to make a patchwork quilt (the most common form of quilt-making); my skill does not rise to quilt block I can live with. I do adore quilts made by others and i frequently visit quilt shows.
For general information, patchwork is what makes the blocks (or sometimes applique); quilting is actually the decorative stitching applied when the quilt top is mated to the batting and the backing. The purpose of quilting is to hold all the layers together. The design of the quilting stitches, and at the puffy effects of some quilting designs make the utilitarian quilting a decorative part of the completed quilt.
As I said above, I do not have the skill to make patchwork. I DO quilt (but not with the skill of the dedicated quilter). I make strong utilitarian bags by quilting together top, batting, and backing. They carry our Garmin, serve as project bags for my stitchers projects, and similar purchases. And they have all worn very well indeed.
I am not sure of this, but I believe that quilting is much older than patchwork and the quilts we know of today. Men of arms wore quilted clothing beneath their armor to protect their bodies from the steel.
I have tried to make a patchwork quilt (the most common form of quilt-making); my skill does not rise to quilt block I can live with. I do adore quilts made by others and i frequently visit quilt shows.
For general information, patchwork is what makes the blocks (or sometimes applique); quilting is actually the decorative stitching applied when the quilt top is mated to the batting and the backing. The purpose of quilting is to hold all the layers together. The design of the quilting stitches, and at the puffy effects of some quilting designs make the utilitarian quilting a decorative part of the completed quilt.
As I said above, I do not have the skill to make patchwork. I DO quilt (but not with the skill of the dedicated quilter). I make strong utilitarian bags by quilting together top, batting, and backing. They carry our Garmin, serve as project bags for my stitchers projects, and similar purchases. And they have all worn very well indeed.
I am not sure of this, but I believe that quilting is much older than patchwork and the quilts we know of today. Men of arms wore quilted clothing beneath their armor to protect their bodies from the steel.
I am in the process of hand sewing a king-sized quilt whose pattern has the innocuous name if Corn and Beans. Consisting of right-angle triangles of three different sizes, it’s a lot of work. You may read about it here: http://marjoriegilbert.blogspot.com/2015/02/corn-and-beans-quilting-adventure.html. While time-consuming, I find the hand sewing relaxing… A good way to end the day…
I am in the process of hand sewing a king-sized quilt whose pattern has the innocuous name if Corn and Beans. Consisting of right-angle triangles of three different sizes, it’s a lot of work. You may read about it here: http://marjoriegilbert.blogspot.com/2015/02/corn-and-beans-quilting-adventure.html. While time-consuming, I find the hand sewing relaxing… A good way to end the day…
I am in the process of hand sewing a king-sized quilt whose pattern has the innocuous name if Corn and Beans. Consisting of right-angle triangles of three different sizes, it’s a lot of work. You may read about it here: http://marjoriegilbert.blogspot.com/2015/02/corn-and-beans-quilting-adventure.html. While time-consuming, I find the hand sewing relaxing… A good way to end the day…
I am in the process of hand sewing a king-sized quilt whose pattern has the innocuous name if Corn and Beans. Consisting of right-angle triangles of three different sizes, it’s a lot of work. You may read about it here: http://marjoriegilbert.blogspot.com/2015/02/corn-and-beans-quilting-adventure.html. While time-consuming, I find the hand sewing relaxing… A good way to end the day…
I am in the process of hand sewing a king-sized quilt whose pattern has the innocuous name if Corn and Beans. Consisting of right-angle triangles of three different sizes, it’s a lot of work. You may read about it here: http://marjoriegilbert.blogspot.com/2015/02/corn-and-beans-quilting-adventure.html. While time-consuming, I find the hand sewing relaxing… A good way to end the day…
Wow! I love quilts and quilting (though I haven’t done it in years) and the ones you show are amazing! Thank you for sharing.
Wow! I love quilts and quilting (though I haven’t done it in years) and the ones you show are amazing! Thank you for sharing.
Wow! I love quilts and quilting (though I haven’t done it in years) and the ones you show are amazing! Thank you for sharing.
Wow! I love quilts and quilting (though I haven’t done it in years) and the ones you show are amazing! Thank you for sharing.
Wow! I love quilts and quilting (though I haven’t done it in years) and the ones you show are amazing! Thank you for sharing.
I’ve met a couple of antique crazy quilts. One large one was sold for $400 and that was at a discount from employee to manager. The elderly lady next door had a small one on her wall. She explained it to me, and I had hoped to purchase it when she went into a nursing home, but they did not have a sale, just packed up everything and took it with her. I once made a crocheted coverlet that was designed to look like a quilt!
I’ve met a couple of antique crazy quilts. One large one was sold for $400 and that was at a discount from employee to manager. The elderly lady next door had a small one on her wall. She explained it to me, and I had hoped to purchase it when she went into a nursing home, but they did not have a sale, just packed up everything and took it with her. I once made a crocheted coverlet that was designed to look like a quilt!
I’ve met a couple of antique crazy quilts. One large one was sold for $400 and that was at a discount from employee to manager. The elderly lady next door had a small one on her wall. She explained it to me, and I had hoped to purchase it when she went into a nursing home, but they did not have a sale, just packed up everything and took it with her. I once made a crocheted coverlet that was designed to look like a quilt!
I’ve met a couple of antique crazy quilts. One large one was sold for $400 and that was at a discount from employee to manager. The elderly lady next door had a small one on her wall. She explained it to me, and I had hoped to purchase it when she went into a nursing home, but they did not have a sale, just packed up everything and took it with her. I once made a crocheted coverlet that was designed to look like a quilt!
I’ve met a couple of antique crazy quilts. One large one was sold for $400 and that was at a discount from employee to manager. The elderly lady next door had a small one on her wall. She explained it to me, and I had hoped to purchase it when she went into a nursing home, but they did not have a sale, just packed up everything and took it with her. I once made a crocheted coverlet that was designed to look like a quilt!
Kate, that sounds lovely! Not sure when I’ll be in that area, though. (Word Wench Pat Rice used to live near Paducah, though.)
Kate, that sounds lovely! Not sure when I’ll be in that area, though. (Word Wench Pat Rice used to live near Paducah, though.)
Kate, that sounds lovely! Not sure when I’ll be in that area, though. (Word Wench Pat Rice used to live near Paducah, though.)
Kate, that sounds lovely! Not sure when I’ll be in that area, though. (Word Wench Pat Rice used to live near Paducah, though.)
Kate, that sounds lovely! Not sure when I’ll be in that area, though. (Word Wench Pat Rice used to live near Paducah, though.)
What a fine piece of history, Jana! As another commenter suggested, perhaps it was a quilt for one of the girls who was planning to get arried.
What a fine piece of history, Jana! As another commenter suggested, perhaps it was a quilt for one of the girls who was planning to get arried.
What a fine piece of history, Jana! As another commenter suggested, perhaps it was a quilt for one of the girls who was planning to get arried.
What a fine piece of history, Jana! As another commenter suggested, perhaps it was a quilt for one of the girls who was planning to get arried.
What a fine piece of history, Jana! As another commenter suggested, perhaps it was a quilt for one of the girls who was planning to get arried.
Jackie, that’s a very traditional frugality, and it’s how I was raised as well. Everything that cane by useful is used. A crazy quilt it a great way to utilize all thos bits and pieces of fabric. With bits of food, it’s soup. *G*
Jackie, that’s a very traditional frugality, and it’s how I was raised as well. Everything that cane by useful is used. A crazy quilt it a great way to utilize all thos bits and pieces of fabric. With bits of food, it’s soup. *G*
Jackie, that’s a very traditional frugality, and it’s how I was raised as well. Everything that cane by useful is used. A crazy quilt it a great way to utilize all thos bits and pieces of fabric. With bits of food, it’s soup. *G*
Jackie, that’s a very traditional frugality, and it’s how I was raised as well. Everything that cane by useful is used. A crazy quilt it a great way to utilize all thos bits and pieces of fabric. With bits of food, it’s soup. *G*
Jackie, that’s a very traditional frugality, and it’s how I was raised as well. Everything that cane by useful is used. A crazy quilt it a great way to utilize all thos bits and pieces of fabric. With bits of food, it’s soup. *G*
A quilted Garmin bag–perfect! Quilted material is very strong and long lasting. I’ll bet all those quilted fabric Vera Bradly bags last really well. And their pretty. The quilted gambesons for the men at arms must have made their lives a LOT more comfortable.
A quilted Garmin bag–perfect! Quilted material is very strong and long lasting. I’ll bet all those quilted fabric Vera Bradly bags last really well. And their pretty. The quilted gambesons for the men at arms must have made their lives a LOT more comfortable.
A quilted Garmin bag–perfect! Quilted material is very strong and long lasting. I’ll bet all those quilted fabric Vera Bradly bags last really well. And their pretty. The quilted gambesons for the men at arms must have made their lives a LOT more comfortable.
A quilted Garmin bag–perfect! Quilted material is very strong and long lasting. I’ll bet all those quilted fabric Vera Bradly bags last really well. And their pretty. The quilted gambesons for the men at arms must have made their lives a LOT more comfortable.
A quilted Garmin bag–perfect! Quilted material is very strong and long lasting. I’ll bet all those quilted fabric Vera Bradly bags last really well. And their pretty. The quilted gambesons for the men at arms must have made their lives a LOT more comfortable.
That’s going to be a lovely quilt when done, Marjorie, but SO MANY PIECES!!!!! A better way to relax than watching most television shows, though.
That’s going to be a lovely quilt when done, Marjorie, but SO MANY PIECES!!!!! A better way to relax than watching most television shows, though.
That’s going to be a lovely quilt when done, Marjorie, but SO MANY PIECES!!!!! A better way to relax than watching most television shows, though.
That’s going to be a lovely quilt when done, Marjorie, but SO MANY PIECES!!!!! A better way to relax than watching most television shows, though.
That’s going to be a lovely quilt when done, Marjorie, but SO MANY PIECES!!!!! A better way to relax than watching most television shows, though.
Laura, maybe next year you can go to the show. The work is just stunning.
Laura, maybe next year you can go to the show. The work is just stunning.
Laura, maybe next year you can go to the show. The work is just stunning.
Laura, maybe next year you can go to the show. The work is just stunning.
Laura, maybe next year you can go to the show. The work is just stunning.
Annette, that’s a good point about quilts lasting so much longer than a meal! I love the quilts you made that you use for your book covers. They’re so distinctive and lovely.
Annette, that’s a good point about quilts lasting so much longer than a meal! I love the quilts you made that you use for your book covers. They’re so distinctive and lovely.
Annette, that’s a good point about quilts lasting so much longer than a meal! I love the quilts you made that you use for your book covers. They’re so distinctive and lovely.
Annette, that’s a good point about quilts lasting so much longer than a meal! I love the quilts you made that you use for your book covers. They’re so distinctive and lovely.
Annette, that’s a good point about quilts lasting so much longer than a meal! I love the quilts you made that you use for your book covers. They’re so distinctive and lovely.
Laurie, most were very much art pieces, but beautiful is beautiful. I’ve always admired the fabric arts, while having no patience for creating them myself!
Laurie, most were very much art pieces, but beautiful is beautiful. I’ve always admired the fabric arts, while having no patience for creating them myself!
Laurie, most were very much art pieces, but beautiful is beautiful. I’ve always admired the fabric arts, while having no patience for creating them myself!
Laurie, most were very much art pieces, but beautiful is beautiful. I’ve always admired the fabric arts, while having no patience for creating them myself!
Laurie, most were very much art pieces, but beautiful is beautiful. I’ve always admired the fabric arts, while having no patience for creating them myself!
Wonderful post, Mary Jo! I am not a quilter (or good at any sort of sewing, save to put a button back on a shirt or pair of pant!) But have always admired the artistry of quilts. These modern designs are so creative! But I think my favorites are the traditional geometric patterns that have always appealed to my graphic design sense. The way way the quilters played with texture, tone and color was amazing!. A number of famous modern painters have said quilts influenced their way of seeing.
Wonderful post, Mary Jo! I am not a quilter (or good at any sort of sewing, save to put a button back on a shirt or pair of pant!) But have always admired the artistry of quilts. These modern designs are so creative! But I think my favorites are the traditional geometric patterns that have always appealed to my graphic design sense. The way way the quilters played with texture, tone and color was amazing!. A number of famous modern painters have said quilts influenced their way of seeing.
Wonderful post, Mary Jo! I am not a quilter (or good at any sort of sewing, save to put a button back on a shirt or pair of pant!) But have always admired the artistry of quilts. These modern designs are so creative! But I think my favorites are the traditional geometric patterns that have always appealed to my graphic design sense. The way way the quilters played with texture, tone and color was amazing!. A number of famous modern painters have said quilts influenced their way of seeing.
Wonderful post, Mary Jo! I am not a quilter (or good at any sort of sewing, save to put a button back on a shirt or pair of pant!) But have always admired the artistry of quilts. These modern designs are so creative! But I think my favorites are the traditional geometric patterns that have always appealed to my graphic design sense. The way way the quilters played with texture, tone and color was amazing!. A number of famous modern painters have said quilts influenced their way of seeing.
Wonderful post, Mary Jo! I am not a quilter (or good at any sort of sewing, save to put a button back on a shirt or pair of pant!) But have always admired the artistry of quilts. These modern designs are so creative! But I think my favorites are the traditional geometric patterns that have always appealed to my graphic design sense. The way way the quilters played with texture, tone and color was amazing!. A number of famous modern painters have said quilts influenced their way of seeing.
Thank you so much for sharing! These are really beautiful.
My grandmother quilted with her sisters & their friends & neighbors in the 20s & 30s in rural Oklahoma. They all had a large wooden quilt rack that was attached to their ceiling with a pulley type system. They would go house to house & all sit & quilt and gossip. My mother would tell the story of one lady that joined them, but whose stitching work was not up to their standards. After she left, the homeowner would undo all this woman’s stitches. I thought it was nice they always included her. She never knew.
My mother used the quilts my grandmother made us until they wore out. It never occurred to her that her mother would die in her early 50s & there would be no more of her quilts. My great-aunt gave me one of their quilts that they had made when I graduated college (they were in the late 70s then). Just this past year, my last great aunt passed away and I got a quilt she made. They are priceless to me, all hand stitched. The women in my family looked down on sewn quilts, although I think that must be the norm now. 🙂
Thank you so much for sharing! These are really beautiful.
My grandmother quilted with her sisters & their friends & neighbors in the 20s & 30s in rural Oklahoma. They all had a large wooden quilt rack that was attached to their ceiling with a pulley type system. They would go house to house & all sit & quilt and gossip. My mother would tell the story of one lady that joined them, but whose stitching work was not up to their standards. After she left, the homeowner would undo all this woman’s stitches. I thought it was nice they always included her. She never knew.
My mother used the quilts my grandmother made us until they wore out. It never occurred to her that her mother would die in her early 50s & there would be no more of her quilts. My great-aunt gave me one of their quilts that they had made when I graduated college (they were in the late 70s then). Just this past year, my last great aunt passed away and I got a quilt she made. They are priceless to me, all hand stitched. The women in my family looked down on sewn quilts, although I think that must be the norm now. 🙂
Thank you so much for sharing! These are really beautiful.
My grandmother quilted with her sisters & their friends & neighbors in the 20s & 30s in rural Oklahoma. They all had a large wooden quilt rack that was attached to their ceiling with a pulley type system. They would go house to house & all sit & quilt and gossip. My mother would tell the story of one lady that joined them, but whose stitching work was not up to their standards. After she left, the homeowner would undo all this woman’s stitches. I thought it was nice they always included her. She never knew.
My mother used the quilts my grandmother made us until they wore out. It never occurred to her that her mother would die in her early 50s & there would be no more of her quilts. My great-aunt gave me one of their quilts that they had made when I graduated college (they were in the late 70s then). Just this past year, my last great aunt passed away and I got a quilt she made. They are priceless to me, all hand stitched. The women in my family looked down on sewn quilts, although I think that must be the norm now. 🙂
Thank you so much for sharing! These are really beautiful.
My grandmother quilted with her sisters & their friends & neighbors in the 20s & 30s in rural Oklahoma. They all had a large wooden quilt rack that was attached to their ceiling with a pulley type system. They would go house to house & all sit & quilt and gossip. My mother would tell the story of one lady that joined them, but whose stitching work was not up to their standards. After she left, the homeowner would undo all this woman’s stitches. I thought it was nice they always included her. She never knew.
My mother used the quilts my grandmother made us until they wore out. It never occurred to her that her mother would die in her early 50s & there would be no more of her quilts. My great-aunt gave me one of their quilts that they had made when I graduated college (they were in the late 70s then). Just this past year, my last great aunt passed away and I got a quilt she made. They are priceless to me, all hand stitched. The women in my family looked down on sewn quilts, although I think that must be the norm now. 🙂
Thank you so much for sharing! These are really beautiful.
My grandmother quilted with her sisters & their friends & neighbors in the 20s & 30s in rural Oklahoma. They all had a large wooden quilt rack that was attached to their ceiling with a pulley type system. They would go house to house & all sit & quilt and gossip. My mother would tell the story of one lady that joined them, but whose stitching work was not up to their standards. After she left, the homeowner would undo all this woman’s stitches. I thought it was nice they always included her. She never knew.
My mother used the quilts my grandmother made us until they wore out. It never occurred to her that her mother would die in her early 50s & there would be no more of her quilts. My great-aunt gave me one of their quilts that they had made when I graduated college (they were in the late 70s then). Just this past year, my last great aunt passed away and I got a quilt she made. They are priceless to me, all hand stitched. The women in my family looked down on sewn quilts, although I think that must be the norm now. 🙂
Cara/Andrea–the traditional quilts are the ones we snuggle into against cold nights. The art quilts we hang on the wall and admire. They both have their place!
Cara/Andrea–the traditional quilts are the ones we snuggle into against cold nights. The art quilts we hang on the wall and admire. They both have their place!
Cara/Andrea–the traditional quilts are the ones we snuggle into against cold nights. The art quilts we hang on the wall and admire. They both have their place!
Cara/Andrea–the traditional quilts are the ones we snuggle into against cold nights. The art quilts we hang on the wall and admire. They both have their place!
Cara/Andrea–the traditional quilts are the ones we snuggle into against cold nights. The art quilts we hang on the wall and admire. They both have their place!
Mimi–
I’ve never heard of quilting frames being hung up by the ceiling and lowered for use! It makes great sense, though. What a wonderful legacy of quilts your family has. And indeed, it was nice that they didn’t exclude the woman who wasn’t up to their standards. *G*
Mimi–
I’ve never heard of quilting frames being hung up by the ceiling and lowered for use! It makes great sense, though. What a wonderful legacy of quilts your family has. And indeed, it was nice that they didn’t exclude the woman who wasn’t up to their standards. *G*
Mimi–
I’ve never heard of quilting frames being hung up by the ceiling and lowered for use! It makes great sense, though. What a wonderful legacy of quilts your family has. And indeed, it was nice that they didn’t exclude the woman who wasn’t up to their standards. *G*
Mimi–
I’ve never heard of quilting frames being hung up by the ceiling and lowered for use! It makes great sense, though. What a wonderful legacy of quilts your family has. And indeed, it was nice that they didn’t exclude the woman who wasn’t up to their standards. *G*
Mimi–
I’ve never heard of quilting frames being hung up by the ceiling and lowered for use! It makes great sense, though. What a wonderful legacy of quilts your family has. And indeed, it was nice that they didn’t exclude the woman who wasn’t up to their standards. *G*
Seems like quilting was a kind of tradition in my family–but it passed me by! My mother, grandmother and great-aunt all made beautiful quilts and I remember the quilting frame set up in the living room. Not only the ladies worked on the hand quilting–I seem to recall my great-uncle doing his part, too. In the current generation, my sister has made too many baby quilts to count–she had a lot of babies herself and now makes them for others. I made an effort many years ago, but it was just too much for me.
Seems like quilting was a kind of tradition in my family–but it passed me by! My mother, grandmother and great-aunt all made beautiful quilts and I remember the quilting frame set up in the living room. Not only the ladies worked on the hand quilting–I seem to recall my great-uncle doing his part, too. In the current generation, my sister has made too many baby quilts to count–she had a lot of babies herself and now makes them for others. I made an effort many years ago, but it was just too much for me.
Seems like quilting was a kind of tradition in my family–but it passed me by! My mother, grandmother and great-aunt all made beautiful quilts and I remember the quilting frame set up in the living room. Not only the ladies worked on the hand quilting–I seem to recall my great-uncle doing his part, too. In the current generation, my sister has made too many baby quilts to count–she had a lot of babies herself and now makes them for others. I made an effort many years ago, but it was just too much for me.
Seems like quilting was a kind of tradition in my family–but it passed me by! My mother, grandmother and great-aunt all made beautiful quilts and I remember the quilting frame set up in the living room. Not only the ladies worked on the hand quilting–I seem to recall my great-uncle doing his part, too. In the current generation, my sister has made too many baby quilts to count–she had a lot of babies herself and now makes them for others. I made an effort many years ago, but it was just too much for me.
Seems like quilting was a kind of tradition in my family–but it passed me by! My mother, grandmother and great-aunt all made beautiful quilts and I remember the quilting frame set up in the living room. Not only the ladies worked on the hand quilting–I seem to recall my great-uncle doing his part, too. In the current generation, my sister has made too many baby quilts to count–she had a lot of babies herself and now makes them for others. I made an effort many years ago, but it was just too much for me.
Elaine–
It’s nice that your sister got the quilting gene even if you didn’t! I’ve never even tried my hand at quilting–I’m too impatient for hand crafts. My heroines tend not to be good at them, either. *G*
Elaine–
It’s nice that your sister got the quilting gene even if you didn’t! I’ve never even tried my hand at quilting–I’m too impatient for hand crafts. My heroines tend not to be good at them, either. *G*
Elaine–
It’s nice that your sister got the quilting gene even if you didn’t! I’ve never even tried my hand at quilting–I’m too impatient for hand crafts. My heroines tend not to be good at them, either. *G*
Elaine–
It’s nice that your sister got the quilting gene even if you didn’t! I’ve never even tried my hand at quilting–I’m too impatient for hand crafts. My heroines tend not to be good at them, either. *G*
Elaine–
It’s nice that your sister got the quilting gene even if you didn’t! I’ve never even tried my hand at quilting–I’m too impatient for hand crafts. My heroines tend not to be good at them, either. *G*