DECEMBER 17, 2016
If yesterday’s quilt was an example of visual simplicity, today’s is an example of visual abundance, and is considered a true Baltimore album quilt. Fine and skilled needlewomen worked on this quilt. The appliqué is done with white thread that is barely visible! Many of the fabrics were extremely expensive at the time, and most examples of Baltimore Album Quilts show little sign of wear or use, leading historians to posit that the were intended as extravagant gifts or showpieces.
I am blown away by the amount of reverse appliqué. In the vine border the small leaves have small slits of red peaking through. Second row down and second block in, the basket/vase is composed of unbelievably thin strips. So many layers, so much to look at. I have fallen into a state of wonder looking at it. The undulating vine border resolves so beautifully and consistently around the corners and the stepped red triangles balance beautifully to the squares in the sashing (aren’t the “arrow squares” at the edges of the borders a neat element?!) and the whole composition. Bound with a thin green binding, this quilt invites a cup of tea and a long study. You will find plenty of close up pictures on the Museum’s website to inspire more awe!
If you could possibly pick a favourite block, which one would it be?
DECEMBER 16, 2016
To know me is to know I have a particular fondness for tulips (there is a chance that there might be another tulip example later on!).
The quilter of this masterpiece deftly worked balance and scale with complexity and simplicity, as they integrated the tulip motifs into this design. The sweet buds work to add counterweight to the outer border (which is divine by the way). Her perfect resolution of the corners of all the borders is a testament to her patience and skill. Those squares on point sitting beside the inner border between the tulips add an elegant addition to the composition. And oh … the colour combination with that hint of cheddar, sigh … one more quilt for the “quilts I would love to make” list.
What elements about this quilt make your heart sing?
DECEMBER 15, 2016
“Flower Basket”, maker unknown, attributed to Upstate New York, c. 1850. 73″ x 74″. Seen at A-1 Auction.
When I think of flower pot/urn/basket quilts, I typically think of them being set in a traditional four block layout. When I saw this delightful quilt I was immediately smitten with it. I love the exuberant two block layout, expertly balanced, and ripe with details. Look closely at the tiny central flowers in the bottom basket and you will see exquisite spikey details on the leaves. And the stems all wind their way into the basket, some of them just making it! Each border is individualistic with quirky spacing resolving the ends. I think this quilt made it’s maker very happy.
What resonates in this quilt with you?
DECEMBER 14, 2016
Organizing my quilting books this summer I reacquainted myself with my copy of Quilts, Their Story and How to Make Them, by Marie D. Webster. My grandmother picked it up for me at a garage sale when I was in my early 20’s. Having already been quilting for a number of years at that point, this was my first “quilt history” book and I devoured it the weekend I received it! Oh how those quilts spoke to me. Picking up the book this summer, I noticed a bookmark, tattered on the top edge from many years of being in place while the book was moved from home to home. Opening it at that spot, I sighed and my heart still leapt when I saw this quilt and I thought to myself “… yes, this year will be flowers.”
I hope you will join me everyday from now until the 25th for a celebration of “flower” quilts. Enjoy!
Her dynamic arrangement draws me in, my eyes dancing from the flowers to the leaves and the delightful secondary patterns that are formed. The delicate floral border is anchored by the narrow double purple outer borders. It is absolutely divine in it’s “three” colour simplicity. Thank you so much Marie! I love it!
And thank you for joining me again this year. It is so great to have you along on this celebration. Be sure to share my blog with your friends and invite them to join us too!
Cheers
Mary Elizabeth
MARCH 20, 2016
Okay … you are going to have to wait a second, because I get my platform here to say the most enormous thank you for the incredible response and comments and kind, kind words you all shared with me. I am totally. blown. away!
I was trying to respond to each comment personally, but when they started flowing in during the last two days and reached over 700, I just couldn’t respond to them all, but please know that I read each and every one!
So now, drumroll please ….
The lucky winners are:
I will be in touch ladies.
And to everyone, thank you again so very, very much for your support!
Happy Stitching
Mary Elizabeth
