--- title: "December 1996" date: 1996-12-01 author: "QuiltAdmin" featured_image: "https://quilthistory.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/princess-feather-block.webp" categories: - name: "Quilt History List Archive" url: "/category/quilt-history-list-archive.md" --- # December 1996 These restored messages come from the Quilt History List, an online forum where quilt historians, collectors, researchers, appraisers, and enthusiasts discussed antique quilts and related textiles. The archive dates from 1996 through approximately 2016 and is being restored gradually. Sign up in the form at the bottom of the page if you want to know when a new page is added. Original spelling, opinions, formatting, and inactive links may remain unchanged. Date: Tue, 3 Dec 1996 23:00:21 -0500 | From: Debbie Roberts < QuiltAppraiser \[at\] wow \[dot\] com > My name is Debbie Roberts, and I’ve loved quilts for as long as I can remember. However, my main interest is focused on antique and ‘old’ quilts. I have a small antique business that I operate out of my home, that includes the sale of quilts. I am also an amature quilt historian, and love anything having to do with quilt history. I am an American Quilter’s Society certified quilt appraiser, as well as an instructor on quilt history, dating, and documentation. I would like to know more about curating. I have a web page at http://quilt.com/appraiser, if you would like to check it out, I would love a comment. Also, I will give a recriprocal link if you would like. As far as the rest of my life goes, I am extremely involved at my children’s school and I spend about 20 hours a week as a volunteer there. I have a daughter, 12 , in 6th grade and a son, 13 in 8th grade. Needless to say I am a busy mom. My DH is an airline pilot, but the only traveling I do seems to be for quilt related activity, no loss there, I love it! Oh yes, I am also mom to one 7 year old Lasha Apsa named ‘Hairy’ and a great big 109# Golden Retriever named BABY. I am anxious to learn from all of you what you know about the heritage of American Quilts. Thanks Kris, for getting this going. Debbie – Deborah Roberts QuiltAppraiser \[at\] wow \[dot\] com – my e mail will soon change, hopefully by next week Date: Wed, 4 Dec 1996 09:43:01 -0500 | From: megm \[at\] MIT \[dot\] EDU (Meg Manderson) Hi Debbie, Kris and anyone else out there! My name is Meg Manderson. I’m a non-trad verging towards art quilter, with a strong interest in the history of the art/craft. My DH says I took up quilting to justify my fabric collection, but I tell him that is a totally separate, tho sometimes overlapping, hobby! I am currently beginning work on a Master’s thesis on the communications aspects of quilting – friendship, memory, mourning, political quilts – that sort of thing. I am very interested in what I suppose you would call the social history of quilting. For example, did you know that Carrie Nation was supported by the WCTU through the making and selling of “Temperance” quilts after her husband refused to support her? I recently joined the American Quilt Study Group because I am interested in their take on the place of quilts in our history and the controversies about who made them and why. Personally, I am the wife of a dear man who is a computer/network nerd by day and a bluegrass mandolinist by night, the proud mother of a 30 year old son and surrogate mother to 5 (!) cats. In addition to obessing about quilts, I design and make many of my own clothes, garden, read anything I can get my hands on and do a minimum of housework! Oh yes, and in my “spare time” 😉 I’m Director of Marketing Projects (part of Admissions) for the MIT Sloan School of Management which is fairly interesting work “requiring” some travel at this time of year – which I always try to make include trips to local museums and quilt shops! And the Masters is in Communications Management and \*may\* be finished before I retire! Looking forward to some broader discussions here than are the purvue of some of the lists which focus on the making of quilts. (Which I enjoy verymuch as well!) Thanks, Kris, for your efforts. Meg megm \[at\] mit \[dot\] edu Date: Wed, 4 Dec 1996 21:55:39 -0500 | From: AJSNGS \[at\] aol \[dot\] com Hi Everyone! I’m Nancy Sentipal and I just joined the Quilting Heritage Listserv. I am married and we have two children. Andrew is 11, and Kara is 7. I live in central Virginia in a suburban area, but I’m definitely a country person at heart. I’m originally from Michigan, but have lived in Virginia for 18 years. I am married to an avid antiquer who has slowly recruited me to go antiquing with him. Now he can’t get ME out of the antique stores, and it used to be the other way around! I’ve always liked quilts but it’s only been in the past few years that I have really fallen in love with them. I’m probably unique for the fact that although I’m a quilt enthusiast, I don’t quilt! I don’t even sew! One of the things I’ve vowed to do in 1997 is take a handquilting course for beginners. I have the feeling I’ll be hooked. When (not if) I learn to quilt, I want to do it the “old fashioned” way–by hand. So don’t look for any queen sized quilts in this century! I am a preschool teacher and love it! I work for a wonderful friend, and work with great people who like to laugh and all enjoy being teachers. My job is part-time which allows me time with my kids (and their endless activities) and allows me the summers off. I also love to read…I consider this one of my vices. Some people smoke, some people drink, I read silly romances. It’s a great way to de-stress! I also love to go to flea markets, work in my yard, and cook. My husband and I like to go to Strasburg, PA at least once a year, and have visited several Amish families who sell quilts. We currently only have one, a beautiful Lone Star wallhanging, but one day would like to have several more of these beautiful quilts. I also love old quilts. There is such history behind them. I am intrigued by who made them, where they’ve been, and that sort of thing. I am a novice when it comes to collecting quilts so I have endless questions about all aspects of quilting. I am looking forward to “meeting” other quilt enthusiasts who can share their interests and knowledge with me. Thanks! Nancy Sentipal AJSNGS \[at\] aol \[dot\] com Date: Wed, 4 Dec 1996 22:23:34 -0500 I’d like to hear what anyone in the know about cleaning old quilts has to say. I’ve heard there is a special paste you can buy, I’ve also heard some people say that you can try washing a fairly sturdy quilt in the washing machine on gentle with a non-detergent soap. What process do you think is best? Oh, I’ve also heard that various museums use a process of soaking their antique quilts in a bathtub (using a clean sheet under it to lift it out). Your ideas are welcome! Thanks, Nancy (AJSNGS \[at\] aol \[dot\] com ) Date: Thu, 5 Dec 1996 06:28:24 -0500 | From: AJSNGS \[at\] aol \[dot\] com Kris was asking me which quilting book I thought was good for beginners. First of all, most of the books I found were NOT for beginners–rank beginners anyway–even if they said EASY, for beginners, etc. I was online the other night and found a source for quilting books. I found a book that sounds like it REALLY is for beginners. It’s called “How To Make A Quilt; 25 Easy Lessons for Beginners”. It is written by Bonnie Leman and Louise Townsend, and published by Leman Publications which also publishes “Quilters Newsletter Magazine”. The chapters were titled “picking the pattern for your first quilt”, “how to choose fabric”, “what to do with your fabric”, and so on. It is specific about what quilting supplies to buy, how to prepare the fabric, and also talks about hand and machine quilting. It sounds like it walks a real beginner like me right through that first quilt. My copy will come next week and I’ll let you all know how I like it. In the meantime, does anyone else have comments about books they used as beginners? I’d sure like the info! Thanks, and have a great day! Nancy (AJSNGS \[at\] aol \[dot\] com ) Date: Thu, 5 Dec 1996 06:13:03 -0500 (EST) | From: jane stapel Hi, my name is Jane Clark Stapel from Pittsburgh, Pa and also, Floyd, Va. I lecture on quilt pattern names and the program includes a slide presentation of antique and new quilts from the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia. I am also the founder of The Feedsack Club with a membership of 660+ who buy/sell/trade/collect/ exhibit/lecture/and do research on feedsacks. Kris is a member of the club and you will probably meet more as this new exciting venture grows. I hope to post info on the history of feedsacks and tell you of the importance of their place in our textile history..Millions of families would have even less that what they did have if it wasn’t for feedsacks..they clothed the American farmers and their families. I am already interested in your subject, Debbie, and hope you’ll be sharing info on documentation..And Meg? mourning quilts and political quilts will be fascinating..our club produces a newsletter and we will soon be printing an article on mounring quilts..so it will be great to add even more to that subject..I too thank you, Kris..this is terrific..one of our members is in Australia and I know Bev will want to be part of this.. Jane Date: Thu, 5 Dec 1996 06:13:06 -0500 (EST) | From: jane stapel < baglady \[at\] nauticom \[dot\] net > Meg, I forgot to add to your post about the WCTU..they used their official colors of blue and white,along with the pattern, THE DRUNKARDS’ PATH for making quilts for fund raising for their cause. Debbie, I am interested in knowing what is required to be an appraiser? And do you travel to do this? I would like to suggest we let each other know where we are located, also. Jane Date: Thu, 5 Dec 1996 08:10:42 -0500 | From: AJSNGS \[at\] aol \[dot\] com Hi Jane, I was particularly interested to hear about your lectures on quilts from the Blue Ridge Mountains. Being in Virginia, that area is of particular interest to me. Where do you lecture? Anywhere in Virginia? Also, I have a friend who quilts and she is particularly interested in feedsacks. Could you send me the address for her to get information on your club? I think she might be very interested. Thanks, Nancy (AJSNGS \[at\] aol \[dot\] com ) Date: Wed, 04 Dec 1996 14:15:32 -0800 | From: “James M. Welch” < hawk \[at\] csionline \[dot\] com > Hi, My name is Debbie Welch and I own a quilting shop in Bayville, NJ. I have just become interested in antique quilts in the past year or so. I have 3 in my collection now, big collection!, two are finished from the 30s and one is a top from the same. I have customers coming in with antique tops they want someone to finish or want to know how to clean or have questions that I really don’t know the answers to so I am hoping to glean more information from here. I went to a flea market for the first time this past weekend with the express purpose of looking for quilts. I have decided that most dealers have no idea of what they have and most ruin what they do have trying to fix it! One dealer put a back on an antique crazy quilt so it would be “finished”. I just shook my head. I also saw a grandmothers flower garden from the 30s it looked like that had been appliqued to a huge piece of royal blue polyester. They wanted $35 and I should have bought it just to rescue the poor thing! Looking forward to the list! Debbie at QPs in NJ Date: Thu, 05 Dec 1996 00:48:44 -0800 | From: “James M. Welch” < hawk \[at\] csionline \[dot\] com > We have the Leman beginners book in the shop but the one we use in our classses is put out by Leisure Arts and for the life of me I can’t think of what the name is right now. We looked at the Leman one and felt it wasn’t easy enough for a rank beginner to understand on their own, looked at Quilts, Quilts, Quilts and loved it but felt it was too pricey for someone to purchase not sure if they were really going to get into quilting whole hog so we went with the Leisure Arts one that retails for $9.95. It is written for hand piecers, which is how we do our beginners class, has full sized templates and takes them from buying fabrics to putting on binding. I think it is called Beginning Quiltmaking. I will check at the shop and post tomorrow. Debbie at Quilting Possibilities in NJ Date: Thu, 5 Dec 96 09:31:28 -0500 | From: Gretchen.L.Cornnell \[at\] admin \[dot\] gettysburg \[dot\] edu Hi everyone! I have an antique red and white princess star quilt that has what appears to be some rust stains on or around the old fold lines. I faintly remember someone from another quilt group suggesting Fells Naptha in the bar form to remove this, I also faintly remember someone saying make a paste out of Biz detergent. Are these suggestions correct or are there any other “sure remedies” out there? Any suggestions would be welcome. Also, I’m very much interested in learning how to date quilts and other textiles, are there any good books available on this subject? I’m picking bits and pieces of knowledge up here and there about this subject but I want to learn more NOW. The afore mentioned red and white princess star has been guessed to be around late 1890s to 1920 (the guessing has been done by 2 other quilters and myself) but I would like to feel comfortable with this guess, right now I’m not sure. All you knowledgable antique quilt people out there – I want to learn what you know and don’t know where to start.. help 🙂 TIA ! Gretchen gcornnel \[at\] admin \[dot\] gettysburg \[dot\] edu Date: Thu, 5 Dec 1996 07:12:13 -0800 (PST) | From: Michele Weise < michele \[at\] peppertreestudios \[dot\] com > Hi, I’m Michele Weise in So. Calif and love old quilts–particularly the 19th century ones with simple designs and interesting fabrics. I’m an artist who mainly paints dyes on silk and then quilts the pictures I’ve designed. My main work is doing commissions for private & corp. spaces–just finished a 10’x4’quilted mural which contains images of old pick up trucks, made into a very old quilt pattern of simple triangles and staggared block arrangement–it looks really modern & its a really old pattern. I have three teenage boys and the third one is an exchange student from Japan. My husband is a video editor & audience switcher and works on tv shows–lately mostly live production. When we get a break which isnt too often we like to watch him work on the set–shows like”Moisha & Everybody Loves Raymond.” I have just started doing some quilt shows in my area as a vendor, selling miniature quilts I’ve made from vintage fabrics & cutter quilts. I also custom quilt old blocks & frame them. I consider them collectible pieces of American history. I work one day a week at a state mental hospital doing art therapy and for the last month, we have been making a quilt. It will be fun when the clients get to see all the squares put together. I hope they will be able to remember which squares they made. I look forward to this list…thanks a million Kris. I want to learn about the old fabrics (how they were printed and the dye processes used). bye for now Date: Thu, 5 Dec 1996 11:39:55 -0500 | From: SadieRose \[at\] aol \[dot\] com I am so pleased that this list has been started!! My name is Karan Flanscha, from Cedar Falls, Iowa (with 6″ of new snow in the last 2 days). I have been teaching quilting for 16+ years, probably quilting for around 25 years now. I was one of the Regional Co-ordinators for the Iowa Quilts Research Project in 1988. I wrote an article on IQRP for Ladies Circle Patchwork Quilts magazine, which appeared in the April 1996 issue. I have been interested in old quilts, old fabrics and dating both, for as long as I can remember. I was really thrilled when IQRP sponsored a weekend retreat with Barbara Brackman, as a training session for the Regional Co-ordinators. I think Barbara’s book, “Clues in the Calico” is the best resource for learning about quilt dating. Her book, “Encyclopedia of Pieced Quilt Patterns” contains over 3500 drawings, with names and references as to when and where they appeared in print. We used this book as our source for pattern names for the IQRP. This book is now available on a computer disk, called “Block Base”!! If you are interested in more information on it, let me know. (I am also a Rep for the Electric Quilt Company). Another source on dating quilts is a pocket size book by Helen Kelley, called “Dating Quilts- from 1600 to the Present”. This is intended to be a workbook, so you can add your own notes to the pages. It is small (about 4″ x 5″) and has a spiral binding, published by C & T Publishing. I also belong to the Quilt Restoration Society. Their newsletter contains excellent articles and information for quilt history buffs, even if you don’t intend to repair or restore a quilt. You can get more information on QRS at: ph 518-325-4502 or Fax 518-325-6625 or e-mail at qrs \[at\] taconic \[dot\] net (e-mail address is from several months ago, so hope it is current). Dues are $25 per year, for US & Canadian residents, $35 for overseas. I subscribe to a newsletter called “Quiltiques” published by Marianne Schweers, who also has a mail order fabric business called “Vintage & Vogue”. For more information, you can call 508-534-6542 or Fax 508-840-4013 (no e-mail at present). My current areas of interest include Amish quilts and quilters, and Baltimore Album quilts. I was in Baltimore last March, and one of my highlights was seeing 4 authentic Baltimore Album quilts. One was at the DAR Museum, in Washington, D.C., which has a fabulous, but almost unknown, quilt collection. Also got to spend a day in Lancaster County, PA, which was fabulous. I am also a “FeatherWeight Fanatic”, if any of you are sewing machine collectors, and don’t know about the FWFs e-mail list, let me know. It is great!! In addition to my quilt interests, I have a great DH of 21 years, two sons ages 16 and almost 18, and a Siberian Husky “daughter”, Casey Jo. I also have a daylily garden and am on an e-mail Round Robin for daylily enthusiasts! What did we do before e-mail?? Looking forward to hearing from other quilt history lovers! Karan Flanscha, from snowy Iowa!! (Would like to suggest that you include your location in your signature line, this is done on several lists I am on) Date: Thu, 5 Dec 1996 12:47:30 -0500 | From: AJSNGS \[at\] aol \[dot\] com Debbie, Thank you for the info. on beginner books. I hope the book I ordered will work out, but if it doesn’t, I’ll think about getting the one from Leisure Arts. I’m in the process of finding a good quilting class for beginners here where I live and hope to start that sometime next year. Obviously a book can only do so much–a real live teacher answering questions is so much better! Date: Thu, 5 Dec 1996 14:07:06 -0500 | From: QRestore \[at\] aol \[dot\] com Dear Gretchen; One of the best books you buy is “Clues in the Calico” (A Guide To Identifing And Dating Antique Quilts) by author Barbara Brackman. This book is used at many colleges throughout the country. Have a bookstore, such as Barnes & Noble, order it for you as it is out of print. It’s well worth the $39.95 cost. There are many others out there but you’ll find this one highly recommended. Victoria Montgomery, Quilt Restorer QRestore \[at\] aol \[dot\] com Date: Thu, 05 Dec 1996 14:15:39 | From: josiem \[at\] tekstar \[dot\] com As a new member of this listserv, I have been asked for a bio. I am a retired person, who has been doing patchwork and quilting since the early ’80’s. My main interest in this area was wildly contemporary “art” pieces, had little time for the old-style quilt. That is, until the fairly recent (to me, anyway!) marketing of the 1800’s reproduction fabrics. My cousin had been working on our family genealogy and found that many of our female ancestors were “dressmakers” and I began to look at these repro fabrics as choices these long departed women might have made for “their” clothing or quilttops. And I just fell in love with the fabrics (many of them are quite funky!). I joined an 1800s repro block swap on Quilt Bee, done by Sara Maxwell and now, I am in way over my head.! It is my plan to read more about quilts of this era with a mind to reproducing them, in a limited way. So I guess I am here, mostly to lurk and learn from the rest of you. The era I am most interested in is from around 1850 to 1900. If anyone shares this interest with me, I would love to hear from you. All best wishes, Jo in Cold, Snowy Minnesota Date: Thu, 05 Dec 1996 15:13:23 -0600 | From: R D ! I have been quilting for about 15 years. I’ve done a little bit of every kind of quilting – hand, machine, applique, trapunto, etc. I have taught basic quilting classes in the past. Every year I try to learn some new technique or aspect. This year I learned how to do silk ribbon embroidery, and I’m trying to better my machine quilting. — BTW, I have lots of UFO’s. Someday in the future, women, just like you all, will fondle my blocks and make them into something. I make treasures for the next generation!! — (VBG) I have been online with various groups for about 4 years now. I started out with AOL quilters – did lots of block exchanges, round robins and such. We had some Illinois quilters come to Wisconsin for a day. I taught paper piecing, and then we hit the Milwaukee quilt stores. A very nice time — wouldn’t that be fun to do with our new group? We could hit different antique stores, museums and other places of interest. I don’t even know you all yet, but I’ll help you spend your money and we’ll have fun doing it! 🙂 Anyway, some of the groups that I belong to are: Wisconsin Quilters, Southport Quilters Guild, American Quilters Society, Quilt Restoration Society and The Feedsack Club. I go to the AQS show in Paducah every other year. Online I belong to: QuiltBee, Interquilt, FeatherWeight Fanatics ( I have 2 ) and the Bernina Digest. I’ve been collecting antique fabrics, blocks and quilts for about 5 or 6 years now. That’s how I met Kris. I wish I would have started sooner. I do have a wonderful stash. I would like to learn and do more with quilt restoration. I have had DeQuervain’s disease in my thumb and wrist on and off for the last couple of years. It has definately slowed me down. It is like a tendonitis and can be very painful at times. I, too, highly recommend the book Clues in the Calico by Barbara Brackman for dating fabric. She was teaching classes on dating fabrics and quilt restoration at a quilt shop in Seattle called In The Beginning. (No affiliation) I ordered my book through them, and she autographed it. (Signed things are more valuable). I like the book Quilts, Quilts, Quilts for beginning quilters. I feel it is well written, and is a good basic reference book for most quilting techniques. I’ve been married for 16 years. We have an adopted son, Michael, who just turned 2. (SOB) We also have 2 hairy cats that like quilts (they were even written up in a quilt magazine a couple of years ago! Someday, I hope to make it in a quilt magazine 😛 ) I worked a few years at Ma Bell, and then I taught preschool for several years (Hi Nancy!) Now I am a stay at home mom for a few years. (This does cut into my budget though for old or new fabrics, quilts, trips, etc. 🙁 One other thing — as you can see from this long posting, I spend way too much time on the computer. I should be sewing more! Nice to meet you all! Donna Don’t ya love children’s naptime!!!???!!! Date: Thu, 5 Dec 1996 17:11:36 -0500 | From: QRestore \[at\] aol \[dot\] com My name is Victoria Montgomery from Boise, Idaho. I own my own business, called Quilt Restoration. I’ve been been a quilter for 27 years prior to restoring quilts, with a large collection of vintage fabrics. I receive many requests to do hand pieceing, applique’ and hand quilting as well as restoration work. I’m fond of 17th and 18th cenutry textiles, quilts and designs. I’m a member of American Quilt Society, Quilt Resoration Society and an active Board Member of my local quilt guild. I receive and study many publications from leading Textiles Conservation experts across the country. I’m a firm believer in researching every available resource prior to working on any restoration project. There is a clear distinction between conservation and restoration of textiles. Best described by England’s leading experts at the Textile Conservation Center, Karen Finch and Greta Putnam: “Conservation requires that everything that is original on an object be retained, and nothing added. Restoration, on the other hand, implies a degree of repair so that the piece not only looks as nearly as it did originally but it may even be made strong enough for further use.” There is a great controversy among the experts regarding conservation and restoration. Not all quilts can be saved, and not all quilts in need of repair are of museum quality, therefore museum quidelines need not be followed by its owners. Although this type of work can be very detailed and labor intensive, I find it extremely rewarding. I’ve received many requests, recently, to restore Victorian silks (Crazy Quilts, Log Cabin, etc.). (?) I wonder, is this regional or is there a renewed interest in these quilts? I’d be interested in other restorers comments on this issue. I’m a mother of two sons, 22 and 19 and a daughter 13. My husband and I have been married for 25 years. I have a wonderful English garden with bird houses, feeders, fountains and arches filled with antique roses and climbing vines of various sorts. This is my favorite place to be when hand quilting. I feel truly fortunate to spend every day emersed in quilts and textiles, and couldn’t be happier! Thank you Kris for the opportunity to network with other quilt enthusiasts. Victoria Montgomery Quilt Restoration Boise, ID QRestore @aol.com Date: Thu, 5 Dec 1996 17:20:17 -0500 | From: AJSNGS \[at\] aol \[dot\] com Okay all you quilting experts…and you ARE experts compared to me! Can any of you suggest an easy quilt pattern that would be a good “first” quilt? I’d appreciate any and all suggestions! Thanks, Nancy (the rank beginner) Date: Thu, 5 Dec 1996 18:57:11 -0500 | From: QRestore \[at\] aol \[dot\] com In regards to your question about what quilt design would be easy for beginners. I would encourage you to challenge yourself to try several different block designs, making one block each. Which ones were you successful with and had fun piecing? Many quilters may agree that the basic nine patch design is an easy design to begin with. Besides being classic, there are dozens of ways to piece a nine patch, on the diagonal, on point, straight, with or without alternating solid blocks etc. Personally I feel you shoud try what appeals to you and learn as much as you can by reading, taking a class or maybe joining a quilt quild in you area. Most quilds regularly have workshops that are quite affordable and the relationships you develop there with others will be life long. One of my favorite books to give as a gift to friends and acquaintances interested in learning to quilt is “Quilter’s Complete Guide” by Marianne Fons and Liz Porter. It’s a large beautiful book filled with lots of colored photos and clear, visual instructions. I recommend the hard backed book which is a spiral bound copy and can be used over and over as a resource for making serveral block designs, choosing batting, binding techniques and much more. Don’t be afraid to try more difficult and challenging quilt designs, and don’t be afraid to fail. The most important thing is to enjoy the process. Best of luck to you. V ictoria Montgomery QRestore \[at\] aol \[dot\] com Date: Thu, 5 Dec 1996 18:59:37 -0500 | From: SadieRose \[at\] aol \[dot\] com ng in the 19th century. I would make 6″ blocks, which would require squares cut 2.5″. Or, you could rotary cut and strip piece, there are lots of good books to teach those methods. Nine Patch is a fun block, because it can be set so many interesting ways. And colors can be anything you want….blue and white, antique reproduction prints, Amish….etc. Liz Porter does a great class and/or lecture called ‘The Power of the Nine Patch’ . I have a book called “Nine Patch Wonders” by Blanche Young and Helen Young Frost, pub.by First Star @1991. Don’t know if it is still available, but I really like it. Another book is “Nifty Ninepatches” by Carolann M. Palmer, pub by That Patchwork Place, @ 1992. A good beginner’s book, or just all around good reference book, IMHO, is “The Quilter’s Complete Guide” by Marianne Fons and Liz Porter. This is available in hard cover and paperback now….pb is a little easier on the wallet. For those of you interested in reproduction fabrics, the Vintage & Vogue mail order has had complete collections of the Smithsonian and now the new Shelburne Museum collections, as well as other repros. You can get fat 1/8’s up to yard pieces, one of EVERY print in the collection, and also documentation about each print in the line. I do my best to support my local quilt shops, but I love to be able to get the entire collection like this. Most local shops pick and choose the bolts they think will sell best in their area, and can’t afford to order in whole collections. So, I have “treated myself” to fat 1/4s of all of the Smithsonians, etc. then have purchased yardage for borders and backing from the bolts available locally. V & V has a toll free number, which I didn’t remember to give in my previous post: 1-888-My-Attic (I don’t have any affiliation with V & V, just a happy customer). Must turn this computer off and get some quilting done. I am half done quilting the “All American Eagle” quilt, from Mimi Dietrich’s book “Quilts from the Smithsonian”, for a Christmas gift. Love that book, and also the sequel, “Quilts- An American Legacy”. If you don’t have these, you might want to add them to your list!! (Have to admit, Mimi is a friend of mine, and I have a block in one of the quilts in the Q-AAL book). Happy Stitching to all, Karan from snowy Iowa, nice cold night to stay in and quilt Date: Fri, 6 Dec 96 00:35:00 | From: hooley \[at\] genie \[dot\] com Hi – My name is Cathy Hooley, I live in upstate NY. I’ve been quilting for about 6-7 years. I’ve recently become interested in antique quilts, primarily from the ones I’ve seen while searching in books & magazines for quilt ideas. I love the subtle colors & intricate handwork. Unfortunately for me I only have one antique quilt that needs some restoration work. I’m anxious to get started on it – just need some fabric. It was appraised or dated I should say as being made during the 1880’s. Some of the fabric has totally disintegrated, mostly browns & one or two purples & burgandy’s. How hard is it to find fabric from that era? The restoration itself doesn’t seem too bad since I can (I think) use an applique technique to replace the worn squares. I’m interested in learning more about quilt restoration, dating material & appraising antique quilts – so this sounds like the right place. Thanks Kris for organizing this site. Look forward many interesting discussions. Cathy Date: Thu, 5 Dec 1996 19:56:37 -0500 | From: SadieRose \[at\] aol \[dot\] com Great minds think alike, I guess!! 🙂 I sent my message to Nancy, and received Victoria’s at the same time. We had some similar suggestions. One thing I did not say, which I should have, is that I encourage beginners to start with a smaller project than a bed size quilt. I’m sure some would disagree with me, but my suggestion is to start with a doll, wall or baby quilt, or maybe “throw” quilt size. This way, you can try all the techniques on a project that won’t take as long to complete. If you decide after doing a smaller project or two, that you enjoy say, machine piecing and hand quilting, then you can move on to a bed size quilt. I have taught many new quilters, who took a beginner’s class at a shop that started them on sampler blocks for a bed size quilt, then never taught them how to put the blocks together or quilt the top. These ladies came to me with a ton of guilt…they had spent so much money and time on this pile of blocks, and still had little to show for it. They only knew how to make more blocks. The DH was making them miserable wanting to know when they would finish the quilt, etc. None of this was fun for them!! So, start with something smaller….try lots of different techniques, until you know which ones you enjoy. (this could mean making a variety of blocks, and putting them together in a sampler, but on a smaller scale) Then, make some informed choices when you start a large project. There are aspects of quiltmaking that are tedious for all of us, but overall, we want to enjoy what we are doing!! I think that many quilters enjoy the history and “connection” with the past that quilting can provide. Many also agree, that it is easier to start a new project, than to complete an “old” one! Especially if it is large, and drags on because you aren’t enjoying it. Get those little silver needles flying!! Happy Quilting!! Karan (again) Date: Thu, 5 Dec 1996 20:06:30 -0500 (EST) | From: jane stapel For Nancy..My first thought is a 9 patch. In colonial days, little girls did not go to school. Only boys received an education. Little girls were taught to sew a fine seam..Mother’s scrap bags held large pieces and small ones..Mother kept the bigger pieces for herself and the littl girl used what was left..and because they were small pieces and the only ones left..she had to be very exact..not only did she learn to sew a very fine seam, but it was also a lesson in arithmetic, and color combination..this was an easy pattern and would be mostlyu likely a utility quilt..(from one of my lectures HOW QUILT PATTERNS WERE NAMED)..Jane Date: Thu, 5 Dec 1996 20:20:45 -0500 (EST) | From: jane stapel Excellent idea, Sadie Rose..a sampler class would allow several different and \*uncomplicated patterns for an experience in different techniques..you will learn what you Like and do not like, Nancy..and if it is too small for your liking, \*border\* it like crazy..good suggestion, Sadie Rose..sometime it would be fun to find out HOW we picked our code names..when we have our first retreat!! Jane Date: Fri, 6 Dec 1996 06:40:34 -0500 | From: AJSNGS \[at\] aol \[dot\] com Jane, where in Virginia do you lecture about Blue Ridge Mountain quilts? I’d love to come to one of your lectures. Thanks, Nancy Date: Fri, 6 Dec 1996 07:04:27 -0500 | From: AJSNGS \[at\] aol \[dot\] com g quilts. It is available from The Kirk Collection and their # is 1-800-398-2542. It costs $39.95. Also, is this book, “Quilt Restoration: A Practical Guide” by Camille Cognac a good book? It sounded like it might be for people who have never restored a quilt. Victoria, I thought you might be able to answer this one! Thanks! Nancy Date: Fri, 6 Dec 1996 07:50:21 -0500 (EST) | From: jane stapel I am originally from Pittsburgh and sitting there now. We moved to VA 20 yrs ago, still have our farm there, but because I travel extensivly lecturing to guilds/historical societies/etc..I need a larger airport to work out of. My lectures are abut quilt how quilt patterns were name. Some is factual/some is folklore. One story is teh Turkey Track. It was know before that as Wandering Foot, but did you know that BEFORE that it was a mourning quilt, always done in black and white, and was called TENTS OF KEDAR. Because it was a mourning quilt, it peeked my interest from Meg when she m,entioned HER interest in mourning quilts (a reason this forum is going to be so great!!)anyway, I hope to share more info on my programs with you as we move along. You asked about the Feedsack Club (of which Kris is a member along with 660+ others) so you can tell your friend to contact us and we will be msot happy to welcome her. For info on joining, check my web site at http://www.his.com/~queenb/feedsack.html> let me know if you have any problem accessing it. Teh Feedsack Club is a hobby for my publisher, Anna Eelman, and myself. We take nothing from the club. We are an informational group who buys/sells/trades/collects/exhibits/researches feedsacks and their history..I’d like to mention also that if in restoration you need feedsacks..they are available..Most of my lectures are for guilds, womens’s groups, museums, historical societies, educational systems, etc..we are always looking for ways to let people know we exist. We have a convention each April in Lancaster, Pa at the same time as QHC..where are you in VA? If close enough, come and see us..we have many members thru out the country and not all can get to Pa for one reason or another, so next year we will GO TO THEM..We will be in MI., Tn, Dillsburg, Pa, and MAYBE CA..if not in ’97 for CA. definetly in ’98. I am so excited about Kris’s forum because there will be so much info that my membership wioll be able to read about in our newsletter. And this will be a good time to ask..if any of you post material of interest, do you prefer I email you or ask on the forum, if I have your permission to print it, giving FULL credit as to who and wher it came from? Or can I print it giving FULL credit as to who and where, without requesting permission..and YOU, the source, will receive THAT issue of our switches ‘n swatches..thank you for asking, nancy..if it is acceptable, I can always post where I will be..incase I am in your back yard. And I inturn will be hapy to know where any of YOU will be..since I pay my own airfare..I can go just about ANYWHERE..Jane Date: Fri, 6 Dec 1996 08:22:57 -0500 | From: AJSNGS \[at\] aol \[dot\] com am married to a man who LOVES the Pennsylvania Railroad and collects their memorabilia. He will drop everything to go to the Pittsburg area, and any other place that was on the PRR. We usually go through Pittsburg at least once a year, and love to antique in that area. Also, we go to Lancaster, PA at least once a year, although next year we are going in October–not April. You can e-mail me directly at AJSNGS \[at\] aol \[dot\] com anytime, especially if you are going to be lecturing anywhere in Virginia. Thanks again! Date: Fri, 6 Dec 1996 08:37:48 -0500 (EST) | From: aardvark \[at\] ime \[dot\] net (A.A. Harkavy) ledgable about antique quilts. Have done a lot of reading on quilt history and am particularly interested in the history of quilted bed covers and garments as it pertains to all cultures in which such items are found. Personal data: Married to a man who understands about the fabric collection and never complains. We share our home with two dogs — Isaac, a 2-year-old Irish wolfhound who weighs about 200 pounds; and Boswell, a six-month-old briard. Kids are 24 (daughter, doing grad work at Purdue), and 25 (son, economist who does statistical modeling and forecasting of Pacific rim economies). Addy Harkavy Date: Fri, 6 Dec 1996 09:06:56 -0500 (EST) | From: jane stapel Date: Fri, 06 Dec 1996 08:41:48 -0500 | From: “Perry C. Trimble” ously in Atlanta, previously in Tampa, previously in Seoul, Korea, previously in Washington, DC, previously in London, England, previously in Long Beach, previously I wasn’t married to a navy guy and lived in St. Louis! I’m 47, we’ve been married 23 years and have a set of twin boys, now 18, who are absolutely dynamite kids. I have absolutely no expertise in any of the topics here so I will probably never contribute anything worthwhile, but I had to write to tell you how fascinating I’ve found the various discussions, particularly with regards to the origination of quilt pattern names. I love the old patterns and while everyone else I know is doing new and modern variations of old themes, I just keep choosing the straight old stuff (currently working on Rolling Stone and Wind Blown Square tops – in unbleached muslin and plaids, no less!). So, many thanks to Kris for starting the list, and many thanks to all of you for my further willing education in a field that I love. Marilyn trimblep \[at\] indy \[dot\] net — Date: Fri, 6 Dec 1996 07:28:49 | From: janbrummond \[at\] juno \[dot\] com to quilts was at about 5, when my mother was helping my sister make a Sunbonnet Sue block. The block was to be made, and $$ put under the skirt. Not sure which fasinated me the most, the block or the $$. In the mid 70’s I began collecting quilt books and started a scrap quilt using a pinwheel block, and decided all the piecing should be hand sewn. I completed about 20 blocks before they went into a box, and concentrated on rasing my two girls, now 19 & 20. I did hand quilt a top my grandmother had made during this time. Took me 10 years, but is now one of my prized possessions. Maybe I can even get back to my pinwheel project. I love all aspects of quilting, and want to learn more on history, etc. I have been buying quilt tops at antique stores and collectors fairs, but have no idea on how old they are. I’m also interested in learning more about feedsacks. Am excited to be in the group Date: Fri, 6 Dec 1996 09:18:11 -0500 (EST) | From: jane stapel exhibit for your guild/quilt show, etc..as long as you take the responsibility of the items, and their safe return, it is free except for postage and insurance. Jane Date: Fri, 6 Dec 1996 09:39:08 -0500 | From: QRestore \[at\] aol \[dot\] com n. Camille suggests you take her book to the printer and have them cut the binding and have them hole punched it, this allows you to use it as a reference book. Victoria Date: Fri, 6 Dec 1996 09:55:58 -0500 | From: QuiltFixer \[at\] aol \[dot\] com e quilts, quilt my own, collect antique tops, vintage fabric, quilts, blocks, current fabric, the list is endless! I am a happy Grandma who is married to a nice man named Charles. I live with two cats whose names are Millie the Cat and Minnie the “little bit”. Millie and Minnie run the house. I live in No. Calif. in a town called Scotts Valley. I belong to a quilt guild, a small quilt group, a needlework guild, an on-line guild and am a member of the Quilt Restoration Society. I am also a member and volunteer of the American Quilt Museum. I do volunteer work on the museum’s collection. I am constantly striving to increase my knowledge of vintage quilts and to learn new and better ways to restore them. I hope I may share some of my knowledge and, in turn, learn from the members. I have always found the people involved with quilts make the most wonderful and loyal friends and I look forward to expanding my circle of friends here. QuiltFixer \[at\] aol \[dot\] com Date: Fri, 6 Dec 1996 09:19:51 -0600 From: “Carol R. Walton” carol \[at\] lim \[dot\] com > Hello from Austin, Texas where today’s temperature is supposed to hover in the mid-seventies. (READ:Just a little snow envy, Addy) I’ve been quilting for about seven years. I’m a lurker by nature and will probably remain so unless I have something unique to contribute. I have been married for over 23 years and have two wonderful children, a daughter 7, and a son 3. I’m employed as a software engineer at a financial database company. I joined this group after recently developing an interest in old quilts. Like many of you, I have seen many quilts and tops in antique shops and have wondered about their age and history. I took a class from a member of the Boxes Under The Bed committee (Kathleen McCrady) on dating quilts and fabrics and came away with just enough knowledge to encourage me to learn more. When I went to the International Quilt Festival in Houston this year, I was impressed with the huge number of old quilts and tops that were for sale. I bought a red and green four block Princess Feather quilt top that is in excellent condition except for some water stains. It’s estimated to have been made in the 1870’s. I am going to seek Kathleen’s professional advice about preserving this heirloom and what steps I need to take so that I can display it in my home. I’m interested in suggestions for good books on restoration and dating of quilts. Carol Walton carol \[at\] lim \[dot\] com Date: Fri, 6 Dec 1996 10:05:03 -0600 (CST) | From: Cynthia A Wall 3 years ago when my Dad delivered a framed painting to me (he drove from Colorado), and the painting was wrapped in a KING Size Cathedral Windows quilt. My great aunt had made this quilt back in the 30’s. When I tried to return the quilt, he said, “ah, just keep it. I know you’re getting into quilting, and I thought that you’d like something from the family.” I about died! 8> The quilt meant more then the painting (and I had been coveting the painting since I was 13; am now 33). Well, now I want to hang in on the wall, but need to wash it first. Any and all suggestions are welcome. I haven’t washed it yet because I am afraid to. It is in good condition (no frays or loose windows – that I can tell). All feed sacks, and I think a charm quilt. It is heavy! Originally, I was going to put it on the bed, but the weight would crush me! Besides, Robinson & Caruso (cats) are not the type of “quilt-conesseures” that I want on an antique quilt. They think that each and every project is their’s to use. Anyway, more about me. I’m single (but looking for that perfect guy), and work at Auburn University in the Sportsmedicine department. My primary responsibilities include gymnastics, swimming, diving, soccer, and softball. I am also on IQ, and FW Fanatics. Just stumbled across Francis the FW at an Estate Sale this summer. I love her. She sews better then anything else I’ve ever used. I used to want a Bernina, but no longer. I can do just fine with Francis. My interest are quilts, triathalons, and pets. I have Rob & Caruso (tiger cats) and Shooter (8 mos black lab). The kids/pets run the house. I just do what they want (in my next life, I want to come back as a pet in my family) My Mom and I have regularly scheduled SEWING WARS! I go up to her lake house, and we sew our brains out. She won this year’s war because she has already finished, wrapped, and mailed ALL of her presents (yes, she’s terrible). I will probably lurk most of the time. But I’ll always be watching and learning from ya’ll. Bye for now, Cindy \*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\* Date: Fri, 6 Dec 1996 11:36:07 -0500 | From: QRestore \[at\] aol \[dot\] com Dear Gretchen; Without actually seeing or examining your quilt makes it difficult for anyone to tack down a precise time period. I’m unclear whether the quilt design is a Princess Feathered Star as you described. Is it a Feathered Star or a Princess Feather design? The two are entirely different. The Princess Feather design is an applique’ which can be a central medallion or a block repeat. Flowers or stars appear in the center space and on the ends of the arms. Barbara Brackman’s book descrbes; “The name may refer to the feathers that symbolize the Prince of Wales; women presented to the Prince at the English court were to wear plumes in their hair.” It is one applique’ design that maintained its popularity into the twentieth century, pastel versions were produced after 1900. Range: 1800-present. The Feathered Star design is a variation of the basic eight-pointed star design, and is one of many complex patchwork designs developed in the second quarter of the nineteenth century. Barabara Brackman’s book records; “Of twelve examples in the database, the earliest is 1838. Range: 1830-present. Borders on many of the Princess Feather designed quilts were applique’d designs such as swags, stars, feathers and some were made of motifs cut from chintz, etc. Others may have a simple border strip, single or double and yet others have plain white wide borders. Feathered Star designed quilts often have pieced sawtooth borders, some with applique’d designs (seen on earlier quilts). You described what was left of the border as badly worn and hanging by threads. Are you able to determine by looking at the threads what if any color or design may have been there? Depending on the books available to you, try visiting the library and researching the design you have, then you’ll know what to do with the border. Matching fabrics with the same color value (assuming there is some fading) will be an important step in restoring your quilt. The American Quilter’s Society (AQS) membership fee is $18.00 (1 yr) anyone interesed can become a member. You also receive six American Quilter’s Magazines during the year. The AQS has recently gone on-line. You can contact them at: AQSquilt \[at\] apex \[dot\] net or visit their web site at: http://www.AQSquilt.com. (You can inquire about membership, book catalogs and the AQS Quilt Show) The Quilt Restoration Society membership is $25, anyone interested can become a member. You can join by contacting either the Kirk Collection at (800)398-2542 and they will send you the registration forms and forward onto QRS or you can contact Kris by e-mail (QRS \[at\] albany \[dot\] net) and she can give you the QRS address in Albany, New York (they do not have an 800 #). Hope this helps and doesn’t confuse you more. Sorry I didn’t respond sooner, had previous commitments. Reagards, 🙂 Victoria Montgomery QRestore \[at\] aol \[dot\] com Date: Fri, 6 Dec 1996 12:16:45 -0500 (EST) | From: Quilting Heritage ListServ QRS \[at\] mail \[dot\] albany \[dot\] net >From the list mom. I \*love\* all the activity on the list! I haven’t had a chance to take a deep breath yet. For those of you being overwhelmed by the mail, I suggest you unsubscribe from the list, then resubscribe to the digest. If you have Eudora Pro, I suggest that you create a mailbox just for us and use Tools to create a filter sending all notes to that mailbox. You can subdivide that folder into “bios”, “cleaning quilts”, “book reviews” and so on if you like. Either way you will be able to read your mail at your leisure, rather than having it fill up your mailbox. Now back to reading the mail…. Kris Date: Fri, 6 Dec 1996 14:47:23 -0500 | From: JQuilt \[at\] aol \[dot\] com ing/art background. and I have just recently become very interested in creating reproductions of quilts from the 1850s to the turn of the century. Any info you can share with me will be greatly appreciated. TIA Jean jquilt \[at\] aol \[dot\] com Date: Fri, 6 Dec 1996 15:15:51 -0500 | From: AJSNGS \[at\] aol \[dot\] com Cindy and Carol – now I know what I’m called…I’m a lurker! I KNOW I have nothing to add as far as knowledge of quilts (antique or new) but I have a ton of questions. So, about the only thing you’ll see from me are questions. And thanks in advance for all the wonderful answers. It’s nice to “know” so many knowledgable quilters. Nancy Date: Fri, 6 Dec 1996 12:16:12 -0800 (PST) | From: Monika Jones is married with a 21 mo old son. (we’re lucky, she lives here in town and I can see my grandson a lot.) Son (25) is single and lives on his own. I love quilts and everything about it. Been quilting for about 6 years and have given up other hobbies I had. My son made the remark one day, that he was lucky I did’nt quilt when he was younger, because he would have been a neglected child. Well he’ll never find out 🙂 I’m drawn to old quilts and I try to give the quilts I make, that “antique look”. We are so lucky now, with all the reproduction fabrics available to us. A few years ago it was hard to find fabrics like that. I like the 1800’s fabric and right now I’m in my “brown phase. I have several quilts in the works. Trying to finish a “Red and Green” applique quilt, quilting on another applique (repro of a 1880s four block quilt). Also have a few pieced tops ready to go. Longer days are needed!!! I bought several 1930s quilts and some tops. My last acquisition is a 1800s top, judging by the fabric. It seems this group is off to a good start. Is see friendly “faces” from other quilt lists. Looking forward to some interesting discussions. Thanks Kris for starting the list Date: Fri, 6 Dec 1996 13:00:28 -0800 (PST) | From: Monika Jones th repros of that era. Also Harriet Hargraves, Jenny Byer, Marsha McClosky, Roberta Horton and a line called Indo-us Sales inc, all have fabrics that fall into the catagory. I’m sure there are lots more. Patchworks In MT puts out fabric swatches from the 1800s. I have ordered from them. They have a homepage. http://www.alpinet.net/~ptchwrks/ Also study the fabric in the old quilts in books. So when you go to quilt stores you can recognize “the look”. Have fun. Happy Quilting Monika from the Rogue Valley in Oregon monikaj \[at\] cdsnet \[dot\] net Date: Fri, 6 Dec 1996 17:25:02 -0500 | From: SadieRose \[at\] aol \[dot\] com Patchworks, in Amsterdam, Montana is a great source of reproduction fabrics. Margo has a web site: http://www.alpinet.net/~ptchwrks/ She also has an e-mail address: ptchwrks \[at\] alpinet \[dot\] net I belong to the Pride of the Patchworks, which brings twelve 6″ squares of new repro fabrics via snail mail, every other month. There is documentation as to fabric maker, price (if you want to order more), and historic info. I like the 6″ size, big enough to “do something with” at some time in the future! Margo is always looking for new, authentic repro. fabrics, and was doing it way before the current interest in these started. She has “Indigos from the Past” which are made from the actual copper plates used in the 1890’s to 1915 era. She also carries a product to set the color on these indigo prints! Sample sets are available from different eras from 1775- to the 1930’s to 50’s. these are $10 to $12.50, and include 30 to 50 3″ samples. It is very helpful to get a “feel” for fabric colors and prints from these eras, to have the sample groupings. There are also Collections of 1/2 yd. cuts from the various eras. Fabrics are mostly in the $5 to $7.50 price range. She also supplies fabrics for Costumers and Dressmakers, who need authentic period fabrics. I love the new catalog, printed with the gorgeous Indigo prints on the covers! Many shops carry some of the repro fabrics, but Margo has created a unique resource for those of us interested in new versions of old fabrics. Well, don’t want to tell you everything…just tempt you to find out more for yourself! (Again, just a happy customer!) SadieRose: When I signed on AOL, I was trying to find a “quilty” screen name, but about everything I thought of was already taken. I belong to a small quilt group we called SADIE Quilters, then had to come up with a definition of that. It became “Sick And Demented In Everything” (some of us do have unusual senses of humor) OR “Stitch And Devour Inveterate Eaters” (because we have breakfast when we get together). There is also a beautiful old applique block called Sadie’s Choice Rose. It appeared in Quilter’s Newsletter Magazine, issue #183, June 1986, pgs 18 & 19. I am planning to use this blocks as one of my teaching patterns for a new class I am teaching, called “Twenty First Century Applique”. Oops, I am getting off subject. Anyway, when I typed in Sadie for a screen name, it was already taken, then I typed SadieRose and that was it. Once you hit on a name, AOL grabs it and there you are!! Guess I am luckier than a friend, who’s screen name is the make and year of her DH’s antique auto!! I am really enjoying this new list!! Karan, from cold and sunny Iowa Date: Fri, 6 Dec 1996 21:01:35 -0500 (EST) | From: jane stapel baglady \[at\] nauticom \[dot\] net in regards to Monika’s post about 1800’s repro’s.. feedsacks too are being reproduced..prints and colors are nice..texture isn’t the same in feel..but they will go nicely for those who can’t find enough of the orignal’s or need the colors..I think they are selling for about $6.50 a yd..tells us \*feedsacks are hot!!!\* Jane Date: Fri, 6 Dec 1996 21:12:37 -0500 (EST) | From: jane stapel e quilt.I really would like to have a picture of it, Cindy, for our albums..jane Date: Fri, 6 Dec 1996 22:13:09 -0500 | From: mgoodman \[at\] albany \[dot\] net (Mary Beth Goodman) I’m Mary Beth Goodman of Brainard, NY. I know Kris from various quilt shows and local quilty stuff…. I’m a long time quilter who is ga-ga over old quilts. Love to spend hours looking at them. Love to learn more about the fabrics etc, although I am not an expert by any means, just an interested student. At the moment, I am doing a quilt based on a pattern I saw in a certain quilt dealer’s booth earlier in the fall….. I am also, by way of introduction, coordinator of NYQuilts! – a new quilt show in Troy, NY. Some of you within travelling distance may be interested in knowing that we’ll be having Camille Dalphond Cognac teaching and lecturing both days of our 1997 show. So for now, I’ll be reading with interest and hoping to learn more about historical quilts etc. Mary Beth Goodman, Coordinator NYQuilts! Date: Fri, 6 Dec 1996 23:01:53 -0700 (MST) | From: gardner \[at\] kewlaid \[dot\] highfiber \[dot\] com llege years, I bought my first ,a 30’s yo-yo, at an upstate NY farm auction, inherited a couple after that, and just recently started buying tops and quilts at garage and estate sales(I was really looking for a FW). I tried to get my Mom interested in making quilts but haven’t had any success. But she just sent me three tops that she found in Vermont. I need to start cleaning, repairing and finishing these goodies. I’m interested in hearing the stories of your quilts. Has anyone heard of placing a quilt in the freezer for a day to get rid of dust mites?? Julie Gardner Albuquerque,NM Date: Sat, 7 Dec 96 13:00:00 | From: hooley \[at\] genie \[dot\] com f the fabric has deteriorated – completely gone. It’s strange though that it’s all the same fabric – squares of the same fabric have deteriorated, while others are fine. There are also some striped fabrics where one of the stripes is gone, while the rest of the fabric is fine. The colors that have deteriorated are browns and I think from what I can salvage, some maroons or burgandies. Could someone shed some light on this for me? I’m going to repair the quilt – luckily they’re small squares & I think I can replace pieces without it being noticeable. This is probably a stupid question, but is it better to use 1880 vintage fabric if I can find it, or new repro fabric. I’ve seen some colors that would blend in with the old fabrics. Thanks in advance for the info. Cathy – in upstate NY Date: Sat, 7 Dec 1996 08:46:07 -0500 | From: AJSNGS \[at\] aol \[dot\] com Hi, Last week-end I was browsing in an antique mall and came across a small quilt that I liked. It’s small, 38″ X 38″ but in beautiful vibrant colors–purple, royal blue, navy, burgundy (all solid fabrics), and I picked it up and bought it for next to nothing. I thought it was a project that some lady made and then decided she wasn’t that crazy about since the quilting at first glance didn’t appear to be that well done. Last night I started looking at it again, however, and I realized that there is alot of ornate quilting around the border, as well as the quilting through the middle. The binding is fairly narrow and done in navy blue. The border is about 4-5″ wide and done in royal blue. Each corner is a purple block with an 8 point star quilted on it. The body of the quilt is comprised of small blocks about 1 1/2″ wide that are pieced together to form sort of a checkered pattern. Sorry, I’m just not very good at describing these things. The whole quilt is backed in a solid vivid purple. It looks like Amish quilts I’ve seen before, but what really got me wondering was on the back of the quilt, the name “Daniel J. Zook 1985” is written in some sort of indelible ink. You can’t find a more Amish name than Zook! So now I’m wondering if this is a crib quilt from an Amish family? The quilting is not the best, but as a whole the quilt seems to be quite well made, and I’m 99% sure it is ALL handmade. Well I’d love your opinions on this. I’m sure some of you know Amish quilts alot better than I do. Thanks for your help. Nancy Date: Sat, 07 Dec 1996 09:33:55 -0500 | From: Kathy DeSchuit \[at\] ix \[dot\] netcom \[dot\] com I thought I would introduce myself and give a little information about me. I have been quilting since 1988 and ever since taking up quilting I have been interested in the history of it. The patterns, the fabrics, the women who made them. I love to read the historical type of quilting books telling the stories of quilts and the quilters who made them. I have several in my collection. I will probaly not be able to contribute much because I have not done any research just reading into the subject nor have I taken any classes in this area but who knows. I am 39, married for over 21 years and have two children. A daughter who is a freshman in college and a son, who is a freshman in high school. I will soon start a new job in a new field and am looking forward to it. I will be working in Desktop Operations as a Senior Systems Representative. I am working towards becoming certified as a Microsoft Systems Engineer. I am not a computer guru but a wannabe. I belong to a large Quilt Guild and am very active in it, having been president, newsletter editor, quilt show facilitator, membership chair along with a bunch of other activities that don’t have a title. I enjoy the companionship of fellow quilters and also belong to a smaller group called the Northwood Naggers. I run a bus trip every year to Quilters Heritage Celebration in Lancaster, PA and will be attending the show on Thursday and hope some of us can meet there. A friend in quilting, — Kathy in NH DeSchuit \[at\] ix \[dot\] netcom \[dot\] com Date: Sat, 7 Dec 1996 11:13:47 -0500 | From: SadieRose \[at\] aol \[dot\] com a wall quilt or baby quilt. The pieces they make for sale are often planned to appeal to the English (non-Amish) buyers. I would contact the shop where you purchased the quilt, and ask them for information. The pattern sounds like “Sunshine and Shadows”, which is similar to the “Trip Around the World” quilts, made of squares pieced in repeating rows of colors. The quilting designs you mention sound typical of Amish quilting motifs. There are quite a few excellent books on the Amish and Amish quilts. You might want to check with your public library – “try before you buy”. There are 3 books on Amish quilts that have been published this year: Rodale’s “The Classic American Quilt Collection- AMISH” contains a dozen Amish inspired quilt projects, some of the quilts were made by the Amish, and some are made by “English” quilters in the Amish style. (My “Chinese Coins Variation” quilt is one of the quilts in this book). Gorgeous color photos and detailed instructions, hard cover, $19.95. Roberta Horton’s book “An Amish Adventure” has been re-published. Since the first version was printed in 1983, over 90,000 copies have been sold. This new book is almost identical to the first, some different photos and a tiny bit more information. The big improvement is that the new version is “perfect bound”, which should hold up much better than my well worn first edition! No patterns, but basic instructions for rotary cutting and machine piecing (the Amish machine piece on treadle machines). Paperback, $19.95. Amish Kinder Komforts by Bettina Havig, presents Amish baby and children’s quilts from the collection of Sara Miller of Kalona, Iowa. I have been visiting Sara’s shop since 1982, and it is not to be missed if you are traveling through Iowa….not too far off I-80. These quilts are all made by the Amish. Paperback (AQS) $14.95 Amish quilters vary in their interest and technical ability in quilting, just as we non-Amish do. I have seen some fabulous Amish made quilts, and some with huge stitches, with the quilting designs marked in red ball point pen (the maker thought it would wash out…it didn’t). Nancy, hope your new acquisition will start you off on a new area of quilting to explore. Even if you don’t choose to make an Amish inspired quilt yourself, I think it is fun to learn all I can about different types of quilts and quilters! Enjoy the journey!! Karan (still cold and sunny in Iowa) Date: Sat, 07 Dec 1996 10:33:33 -0600 | From: “D.Elliott” e of the first quilt I came into posession of…my husband visited his mother, who send home with him a box of frozen veggies from her freezer in a box, and ….you guessed it, the veggies were wrapped up in a fine old quilt. When I called to question her about it, she said, “That old thing!!! It was right ready to be thrown away”….. Needless to say after our long talk she gave me the finest selection of old family quilts … she never thought anyone would care about them. They are hanging all about my house. And every day I thank my husband’s long gone ancestors for the lovely rememberances. Another story …. my husband’s great, great grandfathers sister commissioned a quilt to be made for his use, and to be handed on through the family to the first born son. The quilt made it throught several generations…. and going through the estate of another elderly aunt, we found this fine old quilt. No one knew the story, until another elderly relative arrived and said “That’s Grandpa Sebe’s quilt. I wondered what happened to it….” Seems like one little old aunt decided it was too valuable to be passed through the family so she saved it aside. The quilt missed my husband, his father and grandfather, who never knew of it’s existance…. It is finally in the hands of my son and we hope it will continue to pass throught the family as it was originally intended to!! I need to figure out a way to keep that story with the quilt …. If only all those fine old quilts could tell us their story!! Best regards ……………..Dot Elliott Date: Sat, 07 Dec 1996 12:33:34 -0500 | From: Kathy DeSchuit \[at\] ix \[dot\] netcom \[dot\] com Dot, You mentioned you need to try to think of a way to keep the story with the quilt. You could type up the story and then print it on muslin and applique the story to the back of the quilt or you could embroider the story on a piece of aida cloth and attach that to the back of the quilt. A friend in quilting, — Kathy in NH DeSchuit \[at\] ix \[dot\] netcom \[dot\] com D.Elliott wrote: > > I was much amused by the young lady whose father brought her a painting > wrapped up in an old Cathedral Windows Quilt. Reminds me of the first quilt > I came into > posession of…my husband visited his mother, who send home with him a box > of frozen veggies from her freezer in a box, and ….you guessed it, the > veggies were wrapped up in a fine old quilt. When I called to question her > about it, she said, “That old thing!!! It was right ready to be thrown > away”….. > > Needless to say after our long talk she gave me the finest selection of old > family quilts … she never thought anyone would care about them. They are > hanging all about my house. And every day I thank my husband’s long gone > ancestors for the lovely rememberances. > > Another story …. my husband’s great, great grandfathers sister > commissioned a quilt to be made for his use, and to be handed on through the > family to the first born son. The quilt made it throught several > generations…. and going through the estate of another elderly aunt, we > found this fine old quilt. No one knew the story, until another elderly > relative arrived and said “That’s Grandpa Sebe’s quilt. I wondered what > happened to it….” Seems like one little old aunt decided it was too > valuable to be passed through the family so she saved it aside. The quilt > missed my husband, his father and grandfather, who never knew of it’s > existance…. It is finally in the hands of my son and we hope it will > continue to pass throught the family as it was originally intended to!! I > need to figure out a way to keep that story with the quilt …. > > If only all those fine old quilts could tell us their story!! > > Best regards ……………..Dot Elliott Date: Sat, 7 Dec 1996 16:43:14 -0500 (EST) | From: jane stapel feedsack envelopes, stitches it to the back of her quilt and then writes a story/history about the quilt and slips it into the envelope..I thought that was pretty neat too. jane Date: Sat, 7 Dec 1996 17:46:42 -0500 | From: Debbie Roberts QuiltAppraiser \[at\] wow \[dot\] com Cathy, The reason for the deterioration is the mordants that were used in the brown dyes at that time were harsh on fabric. One will find that many browns in quilts from that time have caused drop out areas in the fabric. The same thing happens with some of the black dyes that were used. The restoration would depend upon what you want to do with the quilt. If it is something that is a family piece, that you want to preserve,then a reproduction fabric from the same time period would probably work nicely. If you really want authenticity, then send a small cutting of the fabric that is left to the KIRK collection and they may be able to match it with one of many vintage fabrics that they have. I also know of another vintage fabric dealer who may also be able to help you, her prices are reasonable, and she has great fabrics. If you are interested in contacting her, e-mail me privately and I will send you her telephone number. She does not have e-mail, and I don’t feel right about giving a telephone number out over a public forum. They type and quality of restoration will affect the overall value of your quilt, and you may want to check beforehand to see if the quilt warrants restoration, and how restoration will change the value. This is really a fun group. Debbie – QuiltAppraiser \[at\] wow \[dot\] com Date: Sat, 7 Dec 1996 21:14:01 -0500 | From: Debbie Roberts QuiltAppraiser \[at\] wow \[dot\] com > Nancy, I forgot to add with the last post, that the name and date on your quilt are significant, and the Amish have made many, many, small wall quilts that fit your description. It is a way that visitors could afford to buy an ‘Amish Quilt’ during the Amish Quilt boom of the 1980’s in the Lancaster Area. It would be fun to find out what area your quilt originated from. But that would be my guess from your description. I travel to that area usually about every 2 years, and have seen wall quilts that match your description, in various gift and ‘quilt’ establishments. It is probably quite striking. Speaking of forgetting a thought in the middle of a post…do any of the rest of you have children that wait until you are corresponding on the computer to ask you for help, or have an important question? It used to only be when I was on the telephone, now it’s while I sit here in front of this screen. Actually, now my dog even gets into the act. Whenever I sit down here, he’s right next to me with paw in my lap asking for attention. …….Maybe I’m spending too much time at the keyboard….. Bye for now, Debbie Roberts Date: Sat, 7 Dec 1996 22:02:21 -0500 | From: AJSNGS \[at\] aol \[dot\] com Hi, What is a mourning print? What is shirting? And does indigo refer to a color of fabric or a type? Isn’t indigo a color? I know these must seem like such BASIC questions, but I’ve heard these things mentioned time and again and don’t know specifically what they are! Thanks, Novice Nancy Date: Sat, 7 Dec 1996 22:49:28 -0500 | From: Debbie Roberts QuiltAppraiser \[at\] wow \[dot\] com Dear Nancy, NO question is every dumb, except the one that isn’t asked. A mourning print is also known as a ‘shaker gray’ print. These prints are small figured gray and black prints on white or gray grounds or white on black grounds.Held away from the viewer, they appear gray. These prints were called ‘mourning prints’ because in the late 1800’s ( when they were popular) widows would wear dresses in these fabrics to show that they were still in mourning, but it was past the time of mourning they were in when they were expected to wear all black. Shirting prints (I have heard) got their name because back in the late 1800s when very young boys wore dresses, it was not vogue to call them “dress prints”, men (boys) wore shirts, thus shirting prints. I don’t know for sure of the accuracy of that story, but it sounds good. A shirting print is a very small scale stripe or design of florals, sprigs or geometrics, with very little detailing. They were mostly black printed on white, but there are also shirting prints in gray,indigo light and medium blues. Indigo is just what you thought, indigo blue. A color that has been popular throughout the centuries. This blue has been appealing to quiltmakers and dressmakers throughout the centuries because if is a fast color, although not always a dark blue. Dyers worked on a number of different blue vats, depending on the shade of blue they wanted. It was very popular in quiltmaking in the 1700s and 1800s. Earlier it was use in toiles from France, and wax relief prints for whole cloth quilts, and later in patchwork styles, was popular as a blue and white small scale print and also in blue and white patchwork quilts. Barbara Brackman’s book (as mentioned) is a great reference for these types of questions. Another great resource is Roderick Kiracofe’s, “The American Quilt, A History of Cloth and Comfort, 1750-1950”. Used in combination, both books provide great detail to textile and quilt history. Debbie Roberts – changing e-mail to QuiltLine \[at\] aol \[dot\] com Date: Sat, 7 Dec 1996 23:07:15 -0500 | From: AJSNGS \[at\] aol \[dot\] com I hear them mentioned. As this happens, I’ll know where to look for my answers! I take it you are not using AOL at this moment right? Hopefully you won’t have as many problems getting on as I have recently. The access # is always busy! Good luck! Thanks again, Nancy Date: Sun, 8 Dec 1996 06:58:16 -0500 (EST) | From: jane stapel Nancy, I am so pleased you asked aobut mourning fabrics, indigos, and shirting..yes, they are basic questions but to me basics means beginning and that is what this forum is all about..so good for you..plus it gives ME a chance to contribute..I feel that I ‘take’ all the time, and now I can ‘give’.This is one of the stories from my lecture that is a favorite..The TURKEY TRACK is also known as ‘WANDERING FOOT’ but DID you know that before that, it was known as TENTS OF KEDAR, named after the nomadic tribes that chased around the desert in their white sheets so many years agoo (some still do)TENTS OF KEDAR was a mourning quilt and made in solid black and solid white because prints had not yet been made..when prints DID COME ABOUT, they then used black, white, and a black&white print..and it was used to cover the casket of a family member and ONLY a family member could rest under it..it was much like a blanket of flowers or a flag as wse use today..if you were too poor to afford one, then a family member would lend you their’s..well, people back then were very superstitious and apparently a hubby/father deserted his family and it was thought it was because he had slept UNDER this quilt (it was probably because of the bad stitches)so the beganto think that if a man slept under this quilt/pattern he would ‘WANDER’ off..and if a young lady slept under it..she was SURE to come to no good..hence the name WANDERING FOOT was attached to it..well, along came a VERY wise quilter who used yellow and red..and that broke the superstition. Another way patterns got their name..change the colors, the design a wee bit, or location where it was made.and you change the name of the pattern..there was an wonderful article in PIECEWORK magazind ’94 and I have the permission of GAIL ANDREWS TRECHSEL to reprint it in my newsletter and also an article by CAROL WILLIAMS GEBEL who I met thru the AMERICAN QUILT STUDY GROUP..I would enjoy sharing the article if you would like to have a copy of it..or info from them here on forum..for anyone who does not know of the AQSG, it is organization of quilters/historians who are involved in indepth research of the subjects we who are here on this forum have..BLESS THEM!! they do the hard part and we do the best part..READ IT!! Now, I feel MUCH better that I can contribute..Jane Date: Sun, 8 Dec 1996 07:34:47 -0500 | From: AJSNGS \[at\] aol \[dot\] com Jane, Good Morning! Thanks so much for your wonderful in depth background stories on various aspects of quilts! I find them really interesting. Any articles you find particularly interesting and can steer me towards, I’ll be glad to read. So let me know if you need a “real” address… Have a good day! I’m sure you will see some more BASIC questions from me from time to time. Oh, before I forget. Does the American Quilt Society (or a similar organization) have a list of all local quilt guilds? I looked in the phone book in this area but found nothing. I don’t really know where to start. Northern Virginia has a number of quilt stores (which may have info. on quilt guilds in No. Virginia) but those are 60-70 miles away and I want to find one closer to home. Thanks. Nancy Date: Sun, 8 Dec 1996 07:44:57 -0500 (EST) | From: jane stapel You are more than welcome, Nancy..where are you in VA? No, AQSG does not have a list of guilds other than the ones who are members of the group, but I am a member of the VA CONSORTIUM of QUILTERS and they take in all the guilds in VA..just let me know where you are. Alot of the members on this forum state where they are from..I’m sure it is optional..I am from Pittsburgh and also Floyd, Va..you can write me at 25 S. Starr AVe #16, Pgh. Pa. 15202..jane..and Debbie, I enjoyed your infor for Nancy at the questions she asked..is teh dyeing principal for indigos rather intricate? There has to be something special because they are rather expensive..Jane Date: Sun, 8 Dec 1996 08:30:41 -0500 | From: AJSNGS \[at\] aol \[dot\] com Hi Jane (again), I’m in Fredericksburg, Virginia. Any articles you have can be sent to 2 Rosemont Ct. Fredericksburg, VA 22405. Please let me know if you find a local guild for Fredericksburg. Thanks! Nancy Date: Sun, 8 Dec 1996 10:36:38 -0500 | From: ektupper \[at\] garden \[dot\] net (EK Tupperw) >Kathy in NH wrote: > >I have been quilting since 1988 and ever since taking up quilting I have >been interested in the history of it. The patterns, the fabrics, the >women who made them. I love to read the historical type of quilting >books telling the stories of quilts and the quilters who made them. I >have several in my collection. I will probaly not be able to contribute >much because I have not done any research just reading into the subject >nor have I taken any classes in this area but who knows. > I am also interested in the history behind quilts and reading books with stories of quilts and quilters. I’m sure others would also be interest in a list of books and their authors that you have read. I would love too look for them and would greatly enjoy reading them. Betty in NJ ektupper \[at\] garden \[dot\] net Date: Sun, 08 Dec 1996 10:49:02 -0600 From: “S. Scruggs” To: qhl \[at\] cuenet \[dot\] com Subject: Re: QHL: How Glad I am to See this List Make a Debut! Message-ID: <32AAF17E.7E5D \[at\] 2access \[dot\] com> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=us-ascii Content-Transfer-Encoding: 7bit I look forward to the many historically significant postings to be made to this list. I have been a quilter for about 7 years now and was a designer/sewer/knitter for many years prior. In recent years magazines such as Piecework and now this list are adding the historical features missing when one simply knows how to construct blocks and quilt designs. Plus I feel that as I make art quilts, I am setting the stage for more history to be written. Hopefully we will all write down stories of our own that indicate the effects of history upon our own quiltmaking progress. Sharon — Jim & Sharon Scruggs sharon \[at\] 2access \[dot\] com Date: Sun, 8 Dec 1996 10:00:44 -0700 | From: “Mary E Scott” I will definately second the motion!!! I have some old quilt tops that were made by my grandmother. In fact on my webb page there is a picture of a quilt that was pieced by my Great Grandmother & Grandmother, quilted by my Mother, and left for me to bind. I am going to just turn the edges and leave a part of it for my daughter to finish. That way there will be 5 different generations of Ashley’s that have worked on it. Needless to say this is a very Special quilt to me. I took this quilt to the Quilters Ranch in Phoenix, AZ in November and some of the ladies dated the materials in the top as being out of the late 1800’s. I never had any idea that this quilt was that old. I knew it was from at least the 20’s or 30’s (early) because my GGM was still alive then. I also have some quilt tops that are not finished. One of my biggest problems is finding material to finish them with. I have one in particular that I am looking for a yellow material to go with it. I was at one time going to make some more starts (6 points) to go with the ones that I have. I have now decided that if I can find some soft yellow (Cub Scout yellow) I will just finish it out to what ever size I can make out of what is there. One of the problems with today’s material is that it is of a much better quality than what was available at the time that these tops were made. Does any one know of a place that old material can be bought? I would like to know it you do. Well I have rambled on too long. So happy that this list is beginning. Mary Scott mscott28 \[at\] cybertrails \[dot\] com http://inficad.com/~lightsp/suitee/index.html Date: Sun, 8 Dec 1996 12:20:21 -0500 | From: QuiltFixer \[at\] aol \[dot\] com Here are two ways to keep that lovely story with the quilt. Write out the story on fabric with a permanent marker and sew to the back of the quilt or make a little pocket for the back and place the story inside. If you do it on fabric, it will stay even if the quilt gets wet at some time in the future. I prefer sewing it on. That way, it can’t get lost Date: Sun, 8 Dec 1996 12:20:32 -0500 | From: QuiltFixer \[at\] aol \[dot\] com How about two cats crying so sadly outside the glass door to the computer/quilting room? Mercy, mercy, please you guys. I need some time not petting and talking to you! 🙂 Toni QuiltFixer \[at\] aol \[dot\] com Date: Sun, 08 Dec 1996 12:26:02 -0500 | From: Kathy EK Tupperw wrote: I am also interested in the history behind quilts and reading books with stories of quilts and quilters. I’m sure others would also be interest in a list of books and their authors that you have read. I would love too look for them and would greatly enjoy reading them. > > Betty in NJ > ektupper \[at\] garden \[dot\] net Betty, Here are four of the titles I could locate quickly. “A People and Their Quilts”, by John Rice Irwin published in 1984 and the first book with history of quilts and the women that made them that I read. “Treasures in the Trunk”, by Mary Bywater Cross published in 1993 the stories of women and their quilts who traveled the Oregon Trail. “The Quilters, Women and Domestic Art” by Patricia Cooper and Norma Bradley Allen Stories as family members remember them about quilts and the woman who made them. “A Patchwork of Pieces, An Anthology of Early Quilt Stories 1845-1940” compiled by Cuesta Ray benberry and Carol Pinney Crabb published in 1993 by AQS. Individual stories about quilters and their quilts. A friend in quilting, — Kathy in NH DeSchuit \[at\] ix \[dot\] netcom \[dot\] com Date: Sun, 08 Dec 1996 12:30:34 -0500 | From: Kathy If you can’t locate any type of book you are looking for I have found a web site that I can usually order any type of book from and their prices are usually discounted. Here is the place: http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/subst/index2.html I am not affiliated in any way with this company, just thought I would share this information with you. — Kathy in NH DeSchuit \[at\] ix \[dot\] netcom \[dot\] com Date: Sun, 8 Dec 1996 12:40:48 -0500 | From: SadieRose \[at\] aol \[dot\] com Here are a few of my favorite books with stories of quilts and quilters, lots more to add to this later! Karan (from Iowa where the wind is whistling!) “Dear Jane- The 225 Patterns from the 1863 Jane A. Stickle Quilt” by Brenda Manges Papadakis is one of my favorite new books from 1996. This book contains patterns for all of the 4 1/2″ blocks in a wonderful sampler quilt made by Jane A. Stickle, completed in 1863. Brenda became intrigued with this quilt, and working from a photograph, started making little blocks. She soon became obsessed with the quilt, and even traveled from her home in Tennessee to the Bennington Museum in Vermont, which is now the home of Jane’s quilt. She eventually drafted patterns for all the blocks, and for the border “ice cream cone” triangles, which were also elaborately pieced blocks. Brenda taught classes with theses blocks, and the subsequent quilt projects have been dubbed “Baby Janes”. The book is filled with Brenda’s “letters” to Jane, following her steps as she discovers more about the quilt and Jane herself. Pub. by Quilt House Publishing, 1996. ISBN # 1-881588-15-7 “Remember Me When This You See- Women and Their Friendship Quilts” by Linda Otto Lippsett pub by The Quilt Digest Press 1985 ISBN # 0-913327-03-4 (pbk). Linda researched the family histories based on 8 antique signature quilts. These are poignant stories, illustrated with gorgeous color photos of the quilts, and b&w photos of the makers & family members. Strips away any rosy pictures you might have about living in the “good old days”. Families were torn apart by death, which happened without warning to young and old…as well as moving west as the country expanded. Quilts were often the only tangible connection with loved ones. Linda did further research on the story of Ellen Spaulding Reed, who’s story is begun in “Remember Me”, and published a sequel, “Pieced From Ellen’s Dress” pub by Halstead & Meadows Publishing 1991 ISBN # 0-9629399-0-0 This second book was based on 12 years of research, and was made possible by the wonderful discovery of a box of letters from the 1850’s- the letters written between Ellen and her family back East. (These 2 books are older and are probably out of print, but worth tracking down!) Because of the signatures on these quilts, the stories were able to be traced. One of the most frustrating things in our state research project, was how many quilts we saw with no indication of who had made them, where, or when. I am encouraging every quilter to document her own work, sign and date your quilts!! Also, to document and sign any old quilts, epecially those who’s “story” you know!! Mary Ellen Hopkins, of Crazy Ladies & Friends quilt shop, told a “joke” about looking down from Heaven, and watching your heirs give credit to the grandma on the “other side” of the family for the quilt you had made!! If your name and other info is on the quilt, this won’t happen!! If you are interested in writing on quilts, either on the front or for the back, there are several excellent books by Susan McKelvey. Her newest book, “The Signature Quilt” was co-written with Pepper Cory. It is a very interesting book, actually 3 books in one. The first section is on the history of signature quilts. Part 2 includes techniques such as how to do Inking, stenciling or rubber stamping on blocks, and tips for making signature quilts in a group situation. Book 3 is a pattern book of quilt designs suitable for signatures….not all of these are traditional blocks, and they show some very contemporary sets and colorations. The book is filled with excellent color photos of antique quilts and new quilts. It was pub. in 1995 by Quilt House Publishing, ISBN # 1-881588-14-9 Date: Sun, 8 Dec 1996 12:41:04 -0500 | From: SadieRose \[at\] aol \[dot\] com Here is a little more information on Mourning: “Mourning dress and fashion went hand in hand. The signals of mourning were definged to a large degree by both color and texture. Black was the predominant color, worn by young women or to indicate grief for children. The addition of white to the costume also marked certain stages of mourning. Fashion magazines presented the latest styles, including accessories from black-edged handkerchiefs to parasols. “For men, the etiquette of mourning was less severe, sometimes requiring only bands on hats; the width of the bands indicated the closeness of the relative or the length of time in mourning. Even if it was a man’s relative who had passed on, his wife was the one who had to separate herself from society for the appropriate period of time. A widow’s mourning was the longest- more than two years, made up of one year of deep mourning followed by stages of “slighting the mourning” and “half mourning”. (Half mourning colors were gray, lavender, mauve and violet). All of the widow’s dress and activities were regimented within the stictures of mourning codes, from the jewelry she could wear to the exact size of the black borders on her stationery. The mourning period for a child’s or parent’s death was one year; for a sister or brother, six months. Lesser time periods were specified for more distant relatives.” The previous 2 paragraphs are quoted from “On Women & Friendship- A Collection of Victorian Keepsakes and Traditions” by Starr Ann Ockenga. If you subscribe to VICTORIA magazine, you may recognize her name, as she is a frequent contributor. The photography also reminds me of VICTORIA, exquisitely done. This is a fascinating book, documenting the importance that women in the 1800’s placed on their friendships with one another, and the tokens of these friendships which still exist today: autograph albums, needlework tools & stitched items such as samplers and quilts, to daquerreotypes & photographs. There is also a section on the “Hidden Languages” where flowers, colors, and everyday items carried a hidden meaning, whereby Victorian suitors could sneak messages by the chaperones. The book is full of quotes of poetry and prose. This book is hard cover, published by Stewart, Tabori & Chang, 1993 ISBN # 1-55670-242-6 One of those “worth the investment”. TTFN…..Karan Date: Sun, 8 Dec 1996 15:04:26 -0500 (EST) | From: jane stapel Your local guild is Virginia Star Quilt Guild at P O Box 41103, Fredericksburg, 22405. contact is Janice Fletcher at 10811 Ann Davis Dr..540 898 1824. they meet the 3rd Wed at 7pm at Harrison Rd Community Center..I lectured for that guild, a great group of quilters and they can tell you of other guilds/quilt bees in their area..quiltbees are great for experience..my home in VA is wayy down in VA, almost in to NC. You are in a great area for EVERYTHING Date: Sun, 8 Dec 1996 15:23:22 -0500 | From: CTislander \[at\] aol \[dot\] com Another book with good color photos of old quilts is called “Ho for California!: Pioneer Women and Their Quilts” by Jean Ray Laury and the California Heritage Quilt Project, E.P. Dutton, New York, copyright 1990 by the California Heritage Quilt Project, $22.50, paperback, ISBN 0-525-48533-3. There are 140 color plates and many black and white photographs of the women who made the quilts. Many of the quilts were made in the eastern U.S. and transported to California. I loved the family stories. The oldest quilts are from the mid 1800. The quilts came by covered wagon and ship in the early days. The newest quilts are from the 1940s. In the introduction by Gloria Ricci Lothrop: “In the belief that ‘men make history; women simply are history,’ the contributions, in fact the very presence of women, have until recently been overlooked. Equally neglected has been the entire field of social history that could have surveyed the fragmentary evidence relating to these anonymous and unheralded trailblazers.” Christine T. in the California Delta Date: Sun, 8 Dec 1996 15:20:41 -0500 (EST) | From: jane stapel Betty, I too prefer the history on quilts and their makers..I bought quilt books and magazines just like everyone else. Then one day I realized all I was doing was buying the same pattern, put together in a different way, and in a different color..so I started with history books..I find that the state quilt search books are a great source. Naturally, I am always looking for feedsack quilts as well and luckily they always seem to pop up.I’m sure that you have now asked, lots of titles will be forth coming. If anyone has in interest in feedsacks, then one of my members wrote the bible on them, and I’ll be happy to share the info. I am about to get into the OHIO quilts published by Rutledge..GEAT BOOK!! JANE of Pa/Va Date: Sun, 08 Dec 1996 16:01:46 -0500 | From: “Perry C. Trimble” Hi, everyone! I just wanted to add my voice to Kathy’s in recommending \*The Quilters: Women and Domestic Art” by Patricia Coooper and Norma Bradley Buferd. This is the only such volume I own (but it will have many siblings very soon, thanks to this list), and I bought it many, many years ago at the Smithsonian Institution – they were having a book sale! At any rate, I have never felt so connected to other women before in such a way. This is a wonderful accounting of the women in Texas and New Mexico – the “sod busters” – and their personal and community accounts. I really recommend this book, especially if you want to be bitten by the quilt history bug – REALLY HARD! Marilyn in Indy trimblep \[at\] indy \[dot\] net OLD QUILTERS NEVER DIE – THEY JUST GO TO PIECES Date: Sun, 8 Dec 1996 16:00:48 -0500 | From: AJSNGS \[at\] aol \[dot\] com Jane, thanks for the local quilters guild information. I appreciate it! Nancy Date: Sun, 8 Dec 1996 16:13:43 -0500 | From: Debbie Roberts The Texas Research Project books (2) are great. They go into great detail regarding the quilter, and give very vivid descriptions of the photo quilts themselves. These books were great tools for studying for the appraiser certificaton test. Debbie Roberts – changing e-mail to QuiltList \[at\] aol \[dot\] com Date: Sun, 8 Dec 1996 16:06:05 -0500 (EST) | From: jane stapel Wow! Sadie Rose..that’s a great beginning for books..can’t wait to see what others post..great subject and so glad Betty in NJ asked..so glad EVERYONE who has asked has done so..it’s wonderful we don;’t feel intimidated..I think it is because we all got in on the ground floor..it has always given ME more confidence..ever when I do find out there are so many much more advanced than me..I jsut figure we all walked thru the door at the same time..by the way, SadieRose, I have a healing quilt and one of the patterns in the sampler is Sadie Rose’s Choice..Jane Date: Sun, 8 Dec 1996 16:40:02 -0500 | From: Debbie Roberts Nancy, Regarding AOL, the access # it used for my area was also always busy, so in the sign up mode, I looked for alternate access numbers, of which there were 20-30 available for my area in So.California. I changed the access number and have not had a problem. YET?????? Debbie Date: Sun, 8 Dec 1996 16:38:26 -0500 (EST) | From: jane stapel I tried to access the web site for Gwen Marson and up came, you can’t without a frames-capable browser..anyother way I can reach you on the web? Jane Date: Sun, 8 Dec 1996 15:17:32 -0700 | From: “Mary E Scott” Hi all: I am Mary Scott and I live in a small town in North-east Arizona. It is called Taylor, I have been quilting for only about 2 years but I love to do it anyhow. I am learning. I enjoy making pieced traditional quilts. I have involved myself in a Folk Art swap that I think is going to almost be a college education. I am looking forward to doing it. I also enjoy applique. I have about 5 applique quilts in the dream factory.. I hope to get a couple of them done this year. I am a stay at home MOM. Now it is Grandma. I have 3 grown children that all live somewhere else except tTaylor. I have 6 grandsons and no granddaughters. I hoped for a long time but I think that my kids have decided to stop having kids – at least for now. I really can’t think of much to say. You can check out my Web page and it will tell you a little more about JJ and I. Thanks for your time. I think that I am really going to enjoy this group. I love antiques. I’m one of them so I must love them. Mary Scott mscott28 \[at\] cybertrails \[dot\] com http://inficad.com/~lightsp/suitee/index.html Date: Sun, 08 Dec 1996 22:57:36 -0800 | From: “Arlene G. Goldberg” The books of Linda Otto Lipsett, including Pieced from Ellen’s Quilt, are available form Halstead & Meadows Publishing. Their web page is http://home.earthlink.net/~halsteadpub/ No affil. Arlene arlenegg \[at\] icanect \[dot\] net Date: Mon, 9 Dec 1996 06:06:29 +0000 | From: Susan Nixon Here is my understanding of the indigo cost. The dye process is extensive, but it is the dye itself that costs so much. Indigo comes from a plant and it takes a \*large\* number of the plants to produce a small amount of dye. There is a weed which grows here in Arizona which can be used as a substitute for indigo – it actually is a variety of the original plant, apparently. However, it also takes a \*large\* amount of this plant to make a small amount of dye. Susan in Sunny Phoenix, Arizona, USA \_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_/ | | \\\_\_ / | | \\ \\\_/| / \\ |\\\_/ | @ @ | Wishin’ I could just sit around on | | the cowch for a few days! \\ / | ^^ | \\ \_\_ / \\/ Date: Mon, 9 Dec 1996 09:45:46 +0000 | From: “Kathleen Duvall” Content-type: text/plain; charset=US-ASCII Content-transfer-encoding: 7BIT Kris, thanks so much for organizing this list! I know some folks here from other lists and am glad to be a part of this. By way of brief introduction, I make and sell “timeworn” type dolls and other fabric crafts fulltime at shows and at a craft mall. DH is a parttime antique dealer and keeps his eye out for old quilts for me. I use the somewhat raggedy ones for table covers for display, the really raggedy ones for cutter quilts, and others I collect. I also buy old quilt blocks when I run across them. Saturday DH came home from garage sales with three beautiful old quilts in perfect condition — for $10 each!! I’m not very skilled at dating quilts, and I guessed these are from the 20’s and 30’s, but I’m not sure. I wish I could hold them up to the computer and you could tell me! One is a bowtie made out of assorted fabrics with white sashing between the blocks. I’m guessing this was made in the 30’s because of the colors and fabric — one fabric is a white with flowers in turquoise and orange and yellow (the colors of the Fiesta dinnerware DH collects). There is a blue with white paisley. Several striped fabrics in reds and blues. Another quilt is roughly pieced — no particular block used. Looks like a real utility quilt. The fabrics are the “bubble gum pink”, stripes, plaids and a variety of prints that could be house dress fabrics or feedsacks? Small florals in pinks, reds, purple and green. One large print is a white background with blue, yellow, and pink circles. The backing is a grey fabric. VERY large quilting stitches. The third quilt is made up of three rows of four patch strips put together with sashing in between to make up large blocks. The fabric includes some of that “indigo” (I believe) — the navy blue with tiny white flowers. There are plaids, stripes, small prints, and a small amount of “deco” looking design fabric. Kris suggested maybe you all could help me date these? Sorry this first post is so long! The quilt I use on my bed is what I think of as an orphan quilt — a Grandmother’s Flower Garden that is totally made out of 60’s polyester fabric! DH brought it home from a garage sale one day and I thought, “Who could love this?” A quilt made when quilting was too old fashioned and there weren’t quilt shops everywhere full of beautiful cottons. This quilt washes like a dream, though, and I do recognize fabric I used to have in some pant suits!! I feel that by using it I’m honoring the woman who spent so much time making it. Again, sorry so long! And glad to be here. Kathleen Duvall in Florida nanwkshp \[at\] lc \[dot\] gulfnet \[dot\] com Date: Mon, 9 Dec 96 15:27:15 | From: “JoAnne ” I am trying to reproduce the piecing, if not the fabrics of the Jane A. Stickle quilt in the Dear Jane book……….I have lots of fabric collected that I think accurately reflects the time period……..but I need lots more!! Close inspection of the wonderful photos included in the book show more geometrics than I can find……….anyway, in general I am a newbie to this time period………am looking forward so very much to this list…..learning more and more and finding the sources I need………glad to meet you all!!! JoAnne jbstan \[at\] msn \[dot\] com Date: Mon, 9 Dec 1996 09:50:17 -0600 | From: “Lang” Hello, my name is Eula, I live in Kansas and am new to this list. I Love quilting, do machine piecing and hand-quilting. I am a stay-at-home mom with 4, not-so-small-anymore kids–20, 17, 14 and 12. I enjoy hearing stories of how different patterns got their names, I like to go to estate auctions and have managed to latch onto some late 1800’s blocks (shirting prints) at one and some 30’s prints at another. I am already enjoying the postings here and look forward to learning more. Eula Date: Mon, 09 Dec 1996 07:20:07 -0800 | From: Kathy Patterson aking quilts when I was growing up. Unfortunately I wasn’t interested in making quilts when I was younger. I have been making quilts now for about 3 years. I am still learning all of the different tricks. My husband and I both grew up on farms and we have a small farm with a few animals. Our children are now both in middle school and I have extra time so I am able to devote more time to the quilts. I am very interested in the history of the different quilts. Thank you to all of you experienced quilters who have taken the time to learn about the history of quilts and to pass it on to the rest of us. Kathy from wet, wet Washington (the state) Date: Mon, 9 Dec 1996 12:59:33 -0500 | From: SadieRose \[at\] aol \[dot\] com I purchased fat 1/4s of the “Madders” collection from Vintage & Vogue, to use for my ‘Baby Jane’ blocks. This line of fabric is by P & B Textiles, came out this spring. Here is the description of the line from the “Quiltique” newsletter: “34 fabrics, 8 distinctive motifs, drawn from the companies extensive collection of antique fabrics, blocks, etc. Madder, a plant, was used to perfection in the 17th, 18th, and 19th centuries by first the Indian and Middle Easterners, and subsequently, the Europeans. Used in conjunction with mordants, the coloring material in the madder plant gave a rich range of colors: including black, brown, crimson, purple, lilac, and pink. Accents of blue and green outlined floral motifs. “Madders” from P & B Textiles, recreates authentic motifs in four distinct palettes. The first is deep, dark and very brown. The second features lighter shades of browns (towards goldish), purples and lilacs. The third group accents blues and tans, the fourth accents the black, pink, cocoa, and green shades”. Quoted from the Feb. 1996 issue of Quiltiques newsletter, by Marianne Schweers. I called Marianne to see if she still had the “Madders” available, and she said yes. So, if you want to treat yourself (only you and Santa know how truly good you have been this year ) this might be a good reproduction line to add to your fabric collection. I think the scale and designs in this line are especially good for the 4 1/2″ size of the ‘Baby Jane’ blocks. There are also several stripes in the collection. The colors are well described above, except that there is also a nice sort of smoky or grayed aqua, which is one of my favorites. Yum!! This is my ‘after Christmas’ project, can’t wait to get started!! Happy Monday, Karan from Iowa Date: Mon, 9 Dec 1996 06:06:29 +0000 | From: Susan Nixon Here is my understanding of the indigo cost. The dye process is extensive, but it is the dye itself that costs so much. Indigo comes from a plant and it takes a \*large\* number of the plants to produce a small amount of dye. There is a weed which grows here in Arizona which can be used as a substitute for indigo – it actually is a variety of the original plant, apparently. However, it also takes a \*large\* amount of this plant to make a small amount of dye. Susan in Sunny Phoenix, Arizona, USA Date: Mon, 9 Dec 1996 09:45:46 +0000 | From: “Kathleen Duvall” < nanwkshp \[at\] lc \[dot\] gulfnet \[dot\] com > Kris, thanks so much for organizing this list! I know some folks here from other lists and am glad to be a part of this. By way of brief introduction, I make and sell “timeworn” type dolls and other fabric crafts fulltime at shows and at a craft mall. DH is a parttime antique dealer and keeps his eye out for old quilts for me. I use the somewhat raggedy ones for table covers for display, the really raggedy ones for cutter quilts, and others I collect. I also buy old quilt blocks when I run across them. Saturday DH came home from garage sales with three beautiful old quilts in perfect condition — for $10 each!! I’m not very skilled at dating quilts, and I guessed these are from the 20’s and 30’s, but I’m not sure. I wish I could hold them up to the computer and you could tell me! One is a bowtie made out of assorted fabrics with white sashing between the blocks. I’m guessing this was made in the 30’s because of the colors and fabric — one fabric is a white with flowers in turquoise and orange and yellow (the colors of the Fiesta dinnerware DH collects). There is a blue with white paisley. Several striped fabrics in reds and blues. Another quilt is roughly pieced — no particular block used. Looks like a real utility quilt. The fabrics are the “bubble gum pink”, stripes, plaids and a variety of prints that could be house dress fabrics or feedsacks? Small florals in pinks, reds, purple and green. One large print is a white background with blue, yellow, and pink circles. The backing is a grey fabric. VERY large quilting stitches. The third quilt is made up of three rows of four patch strips put together with sashing in between to make up large blocks. The fabric includes some of that “indigo” (I believe) — the navy blue with tiny white flowers. There are plaids, stripes, small prints, and a small amount of “deco” looking design fabric. Kris suggested maybe you all could help me date these? Sorry this first post is so long! The quilt I use on my bed is what I think of as an orphan quilt — a Grandmother’s Flower Garden that is totally made out of 60’s polyester fabric! DH brought it home from a garage sale one day and I thought, “Who could love this?” A quilt made when quilting was too old fashioned and there weren’t quilt shops everywhere full of beautiful cottons. This quilt washes like a dream, though, and I do recognize fabric I used to have in some pant suits!! I feel that by using it I’m honoring the woman who spent so much time making it. Again, sorry so long! And glad to be here. Kathleen Duvall in Florida nanwkshp \[at\] lc \[dot\] gulfnet \[dot\] com Date: Tue, 10 Dec 1996 11:33:56 -0500 | From: JQuilt \[at\] aol \[dot\] com I am looking for a book, about the history of quilts…..Particularly during the post-civil war period 1865-1900. I read one very interesting book titled “Stitched from the Soul” about the sewing/quilting done in the slave quarters, of many plantations… I would love to hear about any books that anyone out there can recommend. TIA Jean jquilt \[at\] aol \[dot\] com Date: Wed, 11 Dec 96 00:19:00 | From: hooley \[at\] genie \[dot\] com I have a question about the batting used in antique quilts. The one I have is so soft, and thin it doesn’t even seem as though there was any batting used, but some of the fabric is gone, so I see it. I’d like to know what batting is available today that replicates the antique batting. I’ve used Mountain Mist Blue Ribbon cotton, but it’s stiff, I’ve used Thermore, but it’s too light & ripples. I’m considering flannel or wool? Any suggestions would be appreciated. Thanks. Cathy in upstate NY Date: Tue, 10 Dec 1996 22:07:59 -0500 | From: QRestore \[at\] aol \[dot\] com Cathy; You may want to try Hobbs, Heirloom Cotton Batting, it resembles the thin cotton batts of old quilts our grandmothers had. It wears well, quilts well and is quite soft. I use it for most of my handmade quilts. Victoria Montgomery QRestore \[at\] aol \[dot\] com Date: Tue, 10 Dec 1996 22:23:59 -0500 (EST) | From: aardvark \[at\] ime \[dot\] net (A.A. Harkavy) Cathy asked about batting for antique quilts: >I’d like to know what batting is available today that replicates >the antique batting. I am not a polyester fan for a variety of reasons, which I won’t use bandwidth to go into here and now. > I’ve used Mountain Mist Blue Ribbon cotton, but >it’s stiff, This is true. > I’ve used Thermore, but it’s too light & ripples. And it is polyester and I think it should not go into antique quilts. > I’m >considering flannel or wool? Any suggestions would be appreciated. 1. Hobbs 100% wool is a nice batt, but I probably would not use it in an antique. It performs more like poly than like cotton, and though it may eventually “felt” as did the old wool batts, it has been resinated (resin coated) to prevent exactly this. I have not been impressed with other wool batts because a.) some contain lanolin and b.) others are difficult to hand quilt. 2. Of the cotton batts, Quilter’s Cotton Request (lightest weight) and Select (next to lightest) are good for hand quilting. Both have what I’d call a “believable” antique feel after a few washings, particularly if closely quilted. Both are available in many sizes in natural and in white. 3. My previous favorite was Hobbs 100% cotton organic. Several quilters have reported problems to Hobbs (seeds, oil stains), and Hobbs has not been as responsive to these problems as one might like. The problems all appear to have occurred (according to Hobbs) as a result of a substandard shipment of 500 pounds of cotton. To be on the safe side, though, I would recommend the Quilter’s Cotton. 4. Fairfield Soft Touch is another all-cotton batt that can be hand quilted. I find it more difficult to hand quilt than QUilter’s Cotton Request weight (white or natural). It seems comparable to Quilter’s Cotton Select weight, bleached (not natural). Quilts made from this batt are slightly less supple than those made from Hobbs 100% cotton organic or QUilter’s Cotton request weight; they do soften up over time, as would any product made from 100% cotton. Remember, the bleaching process makes the cotton a bit tougher and somewhat more difficult to hand quilt than natural. Hope this helps. –Addy aardvark \[at\] ime \[dot\] net Date: Wed, 11 Dec 1996 07:03:09 -0500 | From: AJSNGS \[at\] aol \[dot\] com Victoria, I read your post to Cathy about the Heirloom Batting. I’m so glad that I read that because it sounds like something I would like to use too. You answered a question that I wasn’t even asking YET, but would be sure to in the near future! Thanks for this good information. Nancy AJSNGS \[at\] aol \[dot\] com Date: 11 Dec 96 08:37:55 | From: Rabbit Goody < 75444.1037 \[at\] CompuServe \[dot\] COM > The swap sounds good. We at Thistle Hill reproduce document checks and stripes in cotton for the period 1725 – 1870. You can get our samples by writing or calling us We would be glad to be involved. We also offer many other historic reproductions things such as dimities both cap and upholstery weights, dommet flannels, jean, linsey-woolsey etc. our full sample pack is $5. you can email us at 75444.1037CompuServ.com our new web page should be up and running in about 30 days. We are strictly a weving mill reproducing historic textiles at the present time we dont do any printing but who knows. We also supply worsted and cotton twill tapes and clothing fabrics to reenactors. We do the majority of our own research Rabbit Goody has been involved in textile technology and textile history resesearch in the museum field for a long time. I would be glad to answer questions about fabric dating and identification Date: Wed, 11 Dec 1996 10:02:59 -0800 | From: dancheryl \[at\] delphi \[dot\] com (Daniel N. McWilliams) rator @ 1796-1820 French Colonial Louisiana plantation for several yrs. It was the perfect “job”; had time to learn about historic quilt collections; as well as establish special grant programs that enhanced the public’s awareness of the quilts they had. Book of interest to me: “The American Quilt: a history of cloth and comfort, 1750-1950” by Roderick Kiracofe with Mary Elizabeth Johnson. It is rather expensive book, but might be found in your local library. am interested in the author of “Stitched from the Soul”. Thanks, Cheryl dancheryl \[at\] delphi \[dot\] com Date: Wed, 11 Dec 1996 14:31:00 -0500 | From: QRestore \[at\] aol \[dot\] com ac’s book “Quilt Restoration A Practical Guide” states “If ten collectors were asked how to clean quilts, ten different answers could be expected.” She also points out “The most dangerous aspect of cleaning any quilt is what it may do to dye rot. Some quilt fabrics were produced by using iron as a mordant to set the dye colors”. . . “In my experience, dye rot is made worse by laundering.” . . . “Not cleaning a quilt is the least stressful method for the quilt.” “One must first determine whether the fabric(s) are color fast by rubbing a dry white cloth over the fabric. If it remains white, then dampen the white cloth in cold water and rub the fabric again. If the cloth remains white, repeat the process with warm water; and finally repeat the process with the soap product to be used. Even though these steps will help, fabric colors may still run once immersed in water and agitated.” Quilt Cleaning Debate: Bathtub vs Machine (Portions described in Camille Dalophond Cognac’s book Quilt Restoration A Practical Guide) Bathtub: Lower a quilt into a tub of tepid water lined with a clean, white sheet (edges hanging over the tub). Soak, with several changes of water, drain for several hours so the quilt’s weight presses the excess water out. Machine: Primary use of the machine is to spin the excess water out, and not let excess water stay in the fabric for any length of time. Washing quilts in a bathtub causes the weight of all the water to put a strain on the stitching and makes it very difficult to get excess water out of the quilt. “If any bleeding is likely to occur this will surely aid the process.” Jinney Beyer (The Keepsake Quilter) Many report washing quilts in the machine on a gentle cycle, with minimal agitation and no adverse affect. Others use the bathtub to wash the quilt and take it to a washing machine tospin the excess water out. Some recommend, once a quilt washed in thebathtub has drained, roll it up in the sheet used as a liner. This helps lessen the strain put on the stitches while moving. Drying: Most all agree never use the dryer to dry a quilt. Lay the damp quilt out flat on top of sheets (flannel is good). Never hang a wet quilt, it will cause distortion. Use large fans to help speed the drying, reversing the quilt and drying the back. Make sure the quilt is thoroughly dry (it can take several days) before storing. Storing: Roll your quilts don’t fold them. Folding over time causes damage. Never store quilts in a plastic bag unless your shipping it somewhere (it will cause mildew). Quilts can be stored, wrapped in natural, unbleached, untreated (no sizing, etc) cotton muslin once it has been protected with acid free paper between the layers to prevent dye migration. Cotton allows the quilt to breathe. Three major considerations for all quilts; Keep Away From: Heat, Light, and Moisture. Let’s hear from you members out there about this topic. This is just a fraction of many issues regarding the cleaning of quilts. Victoria Montgomery QRestore \[at\] aol \[dot\] com Date: Wed, 11 Dec 1996 14:28:40 -0600 (CST) | From: celmore \[at\] ksu \[dot\] edu I have been lurking on this listserv because I haven’t had time to read or respond to any messages but now need help. Debbie Roberts called me and left her e-mail address but I could not understand the part before aol.com. Debbie, send me the address again. Carol Elmore Date: Wed, 11 Dec 1996 15:28:26 -0500 | From: AJSNGS \[at\] aol \[dot\] com I think one thing that has to be considered in whether or not you clean a quilt is whether or not you would use it–for anything–if it isn’t cleaned. I saw a pretty, old quilt at a flea market this summer. Price was pretty low and you could see that it was pretty. But it was the filthiest thing you ever saw! A quilt like that might have great history behind it but there is no way I’d consider using it for anything–to display, cut up, bed cover, etc. unless it was washed. I didn’t buy it. But next time…I just might! Just a beginners point of view! Nancy in Virginia (raining again) AJSNGS \[at\] aol \[dot\] com Date: Thu, 12 Dec 1996 06:50:39 +0800 | From: balfourk \[at\] echidna \[dot\] id \[dot\] au (Kath Balfour) More greetings from sunny Western Australia, Fremantle, to be exact. Picture this, as you warm your little tootsies, meditating by the fire in the lands of ice & snow — 85 degrees, balmy sea breeze, blue-blue Indian Ocean, xmas shoppers in shorts, t-shirts & thongs…jingle bells blasting away on department store muzak… I’m Kath Balfour, and I am fascinated by antique textiles and processes. But the social history of the women who made and used threads and fabrics are the main attraction for me, and I’m thrilled to find like-minded afficianados (sp?) here on QHL. Kris D, please stand up and take a big bow for making it all happen. Amazing how the chorus has swelled (thought you were a just a lone little voice in the wilderness???) It’s sheer delight being able to absorb the information and insight shared in just the few days the list has been running! I’m interested in finding out more about Victoria Magazine. I couldn’t locate it on www. Sounds worth subscribing to. Can anyone provide more information? OK, Kris, I read the rules, so here is my Once Upon a Time: As a little girl back in the 14th c I grew up in Allentown PE. I Must’ve been smitten by wanderlust in the 50s when my brave mother struck out on her own with me for the greener pastures (mountains & forests) of Spokane WA. The 60s I can’t quite remember (but I don’t think I inhaled…). Attended EWSC in Cheney WA, majoring in art ed. Spent several years travelling in Mexico and Central America, England, the middle east and India. I bought a lot of textiles because they were easy to carry and the quest enabled me to meet the local women. In the late 70s, after many adventures and an empty bank acct, I found myself employed as the art teacher in a tiny tech school in Kalgoorlie, a gold-mining town in the middle of Western Australia. Met my DH out there when art met science! I also met my best friend and business partner Lyn Dale there. Opened a ceramics studio at an old gold mine and taught myself the potters craft, mainly out of books. Moved to Fremantle, and earned a living as a studio potter for 15 years until one day I ‘reinvented myself’ and enrolled in law school. That was my first half century. Now I’ve graduated & am working as an ‘articled clerk’ (read apprentice) specialising in family law. The transition has been a real shock to my system. As an artist, my hands & my brain worked in tandem. In law school my hands were switched off & it was a struggle to keep my brain from just sliding into neutral without that tactile stimulation. I was always chided for being so ‘practical’ in my approach to problem solving! On a trip home to the USA I came across a fascinating quilt top in a tiny antique shop in Yazoo City Mississippi. It consisted of large GFG hexagons of printed calico appliqued onto a sheet of muslin dyed green. In chasing up info about the fabrics, the stains & the fading green dye, the world of antique quilts began to unfold for me… Tucked inside the quilt top was a simple newsy little letter written from a father to his grown-up daughter on xmas eve 1932. No drama, just a little note. But what a thrill for me to feel somehow connected to these people and wonder who and what and why and when. I bought a lot of quilts on that trip and have been buying them ever since. These days I operate a small business as a sideline (saneline) with my dearest friend, Lyn Dale. We import and sell old American quilts here in Australia. It has been suggested by a certain DH that we are actually quilt-addictos who support our own habit by buying for others. I guess he’s noticed we don’t make any money, but every inch of space is covered with quilts! Happy holidays one & all! Kath Balfour Yesteryear Quilts 37 Gibson St Hilton WA 6163 AUSTRALIA phone +619-335-6401; fax +619-336-4230 e-mail: balfourk \[at\] echidna \[dot\] id \[dot\] au Date: Wed, 11 Dec 1996 17:56:01 -0500 | From: “Jeri E. Smith” I have been wondering something about the cleaning of quilts. Do you all think that the same thing applies to new and old quilts? I have always washed my new pieced quilts (applique may be another story) in the washing machine using a gentle cycle and some detergent. And ohmygosh, yes I have put them in the dryer to fluff them up a bit – I do not totally dry them in there though. I love the way they turn out that way – a little puffy. But I would not dream of putting an antique quilt (anything older than say 20 years) in a washing machine – I would be too afraid that the fabric would come apart — but I would also be afraid to wash it in the tub for fear of the stitches popping from the weight of the water. What a dilema! Oh my – this is going to be interesting! Jeri in Pa smitte \[at\] voicenet \[dot\] com Date: Wed, 11 Dec 96 16:59 | From: Mornes Hi everyone, I just signed up to be on this list. I’m very interested in quilts used during the time of the Civil War, expecially used in conjunction with the Underground Railroad. I have on my Christmas list “Stitched from the Soul” and can’t wait. I caught the tail-end of Eleanor Burns’ program on PBS today, and she was talking about the Harriet Tubman star. I’m sorry to have missed her show today. At the end of the program I read from the credits that she used the book: A Separate Battle, Women … Civil War. I cant remember the ending of the title exactly. I checked and our library has it and I’m going right away tomorrow to check it out. I’ve been purchasing quarter-yard pieces of reproduction fabrics. I someday want to do a blue and white temperance quilt possibly in the lady-of-the-lake pattern. One of my favorites. I saw one in an exhibit last summer and fell in love. How long has this list been around? I’m sort of interested in the FQ exchange. What are the rules? I don’t pre-wash though. Will this be a problem? I wouldn’t want mine washed. Leslie in Lakeland MN Date: Wed, 11 Dec 1996 15:59:43 -0700 | From: “Mary E Scott” I have a questionon the cleaning quilts theme. I often have my quilts dry-cleaned. I have not doen anything with my old quilts because most of them are tops. I plan on finishing the tops into a quilt before doing anything else to them. My question is: Will it hurt or harm the fabric of these old quilts to be dry-cleaned? I will be using cotton batts (Quilter’s Cotton) along with new muslin for the backs. I really am curious now. TIA Mary Scott mscott28 \[at\] cybertrails \[dot\] com http://inficad.com/~lightsp/suitee/index.html Date: Wed, 11 Dec 1996 19:07:27 -0500 | From: SadieRose \[at\] aol \[dot\] com Greetings from cold Iowa. Before we take off to go Christmas tree shopping…. I would like to hear about museums that have quilt collections. This can be a local historical society, college musuem, art institute, etc. But, please, someplace you have visited, not just heard about. I would like to start a list of “vacation destinations” with quilt related exhibits to view, preferrably with historical content. Please give the name and location of the museum, what type of collection they have: quilts, blocks, books, etc. If the quilt related items are on display frequently….or if you can make an appt. to view certain items. Any quilt shops nearby?? Anything else pertinent you want to include. Also, if you know of a show that features antique quilts, I would like to read about it here!! Many local shows have a special area featuring antique quilts, along with the ‘new’ ones. Hope this will give some of our new members, who haven’t posted yet…a topic that they can jump in on!! TTYL…..Karan Date: Wed, 11 Dec 1996 19:09:33 -0600 | From: Rose Marie Mize The book Stitched from the Soul was used in a history class at Illinois State University. I bought one. The work these women have done is simply incrediable. One day at work we were talking about wishing and someone asked me what I would wish for. I said if this was purely a selfish wish it would be to have one of my quilts hanging in the Smithsonian. How is that for high hopes. Kindest regards, Rose Marie, where the Christmas cactus is just beginning to bloom Date: Wed, 11 Dec 1996 20:41:21 -0500 (EST) | From: Quilting Heritage ListServ Well, it is probably blasphemy, but I have do admit I wash quilts in the washing machine. Or, at least, I use the machine as a giant tub. I fill the washer, swish the soap (everyone take a deep breath – I often use Tide with bleach alternative) then put the quilt in and let it soak. I don’t let the machine agitate – I do that by hand – but I will let it spin the water out. I hang them over my upstairs bannister, with a towel protecting them from the wood. And, yes, before you ask, I have damaged quilts slightly doing this. That’s why I won’t wash anyone else’s quilts, just my own. My friend Shelley (waves to Shelley!) sold me a green and red applique quilt (civil war era?) with a lot of gorgeous quilting and some absolutely awful staining. It was in a garage – I am really not sure what the stains are. I have soaked it twice, once in Tide and once in a special concoction Camille Cognac gave me. Both times I have drained coffee colored water from the machine. I am afraid to soak it any more, I think the green may be starting to fade. The red is \*very\* deteriorated, but I expected to replace that anyway. Has anyone done anything with spot cleaning stains of unknown origin? Becky Herdle mentions using denture cleaner in her book, and I did do that once on a different quilt, but it made the stain whiter than the rest of the quilt! This is \*such\* a beautiful quilt, I am really looking forward to working on it. In my spare time, of course. Kris Date: Wed, 11 Dec 1996 22:10:46 -0500 | From: “Jeri E. Smith” This book – Stitched from the Soul – sounds wonderful – could someone please list the authors name. Thanks, Jeri in Pa smitte \[at\] voicenet \[dot\] com Date: Wed, 11 Dec 1996 20:31:21 -0700 | From: ayjones \[at\] tacoma \[dot\] nwrain \[dot\] net (Yvonne Jones) I am so happy with this new list, it is just the kind of thing that I’v wanted but could not find. I feel on the other lists if I said for example “I think that cotton batting should be used in an antique quilt top”, others do not agree or understand the value of keeping the tops intergrity. Right at the moment I have many things going like my daughter is quite ill, plus family demands & then there is Christmas ect. I will try to be active on the list and hope that many others are too just to make it very interesting. My name is Yvonne, and I do collect antique quilts. I also have as many books as possible about Antique quilts and I just love reading them. I love quilting myself, and anyone that knows me will tell you that I love Red and Green floral applique quilts from about the 1850’s, and I love quilts with LOTS of beautiful hand quilting.More from me later! Yvonne Gig Harbor, Wa. QUILT-R Date: Wed, 11 Dec 1996 22:21:23 -0500 | From: QRestore \[at\] aol \[dot\] com Dear Jeri; Stitched From The Soul is authored by Gladys-Marier Fry, PH.D. and sells for $18.98 – the ISBN# is: 0-525-48535-X It is wonderful! Victoria Montgomery QRestore @aol.com Date: Wed, 11 Dec 1996 22:23:06 -0500 | From: QRestore \[at\] aol \[dot\] com I believe I mispelled the author’s name, I’ll try again: Gladys-Marie Fry, Ph.D. Sorry, Victoria 🙂 Date: Wed, 11 Dec 1996 22:27:57 -0500 | From: QuiltLine \[at\] aol \[dot\] com To Jean -jquilt \[at\] aol \[dot\] com Regarding the 1800s repros. A friend and extremely knowledgable quilter, Sharon Newman has just (in November) come out with a new fabric line of c1850-70 prints, through MODA/United Notions. It is wonderful, comes in several color waves, and every fabric has a coordinate of about 6 other fabrics. Sharon spent a lot of time researching the fabrics and colors, and did use actual 1800’s fabrics for the printing of this line. Sharon also has a book on replicating the look of antique quilts, “Treasures of Yesteryear” (there are 2 volumes) published by That Patchwork Place. The repro swap sounds great – count me in. To Nancy – AJSNGS \[at\] aol \[dot\] com – yes 2 adolescents! I need prayer. Debbie Date: Wed, 11 Dec 1996 21:49:59 | From: jadavis \[at\] juno \[dot\] com (Julie A Davis) Hello out there! I have an old quilt — 1920’s I’m guessing and I washed it once with great success. I used liquid Woolite and filled the washer tub up and agitated the soap to really mix it up — then I carefully pushed the quilt down into the water and I used my bare arm (yes, I was up to my arm-pit!) and sloshed it around a little bit — then I let it soak about ten minutes. I let the washer (on gentle cycle) spin out the water — but not wring the quilt — then let it re-fill and sloshed it again to rinse and spun the water out. I did not let the machine spin hard and I did not let it wring the quilt! I then gently took it out of the machine and put it on a table covered with fat towels. I rolled the quilt (which was pretty wet) along with the towels fairly firmly. I had an unfinished room in my basement at the time and it was OK that the water squeezed out onto the floor (it wasn’t alot — I’m just saying this so you won’t do it the dining room!) I then unrolled it and lifted it off of the wet towels — I then layered the table again with more towels and repeated the process. By this time it was about as dry as it would have been if it had spun out in the machine. I then used 4 of those wooden drying racks (I had to bum a couple from my Mom and a friend — I only had one of my own) — spaced them slightly and put more towels on the corners of the racks so they wouldn’t poke a lump in the quilt (I’ve had that happen to sweaters before!) and gently laid the quilt across the racks making sure that there wasn’t an area where it was stretching/sagging . Then, when it was about 95% dry I put it in the dryer on low heat/fluff for just a couple of minutes to soften it up. It really looked clean and fresh and it didn’t damage it at all! Sorry this is so long — but it was a long process to wash the quilt. Someone tonight asked about dry cleaning — cottons really shouldn’t be dry cleaned — the dry cleaning fluid leaves a grey tinge. Julie Davis jadavis \[at\] juno \[dot\] com Date: Thu, 12 Dec 1996 00:18:50 -0500 | From: SadieRose \[at\] aol \[dot\] com Greetings, Kath, Here in Iowa it is cold (currently 34 degrees) with freezing rain predicted over night. YUCK!! Don’t know if I would like Christmas at the beach…but I might like to try it!! 🙂 I was the one who mentioned VICTORIA magazine in one of my posts…just got the January issue today, haven’t had time to even peak inside. I don’t want to mislead you…this is not a quilting only type magazine. Actually, it has very little about quilts. The photography is exquisite, here is the advertising on the subscription card: Endearing fashions, a touch of lace, old fashioned delights, the charm of yesteryear. In the fine print (good thing I am near-sighted!!) it says $19.97 per year, USA, and $ 35.97 for Canada and all other countries. Twelve issues per year. I really love this magazine….they have a “writer in residence” and have wonderful short essays written by readers. It is just a ‘time out’ of my hectic everyday life…and a look at a calm, refined life I hope to achieve (someday- maybe when my teenagers are grown!!) The December issue is always fabulous…and it is still out at the grocery store. If you want, I will get one and snail mail to you. A single issue is $3.00 (US). If you want to, I would love an Australian quilting magazine in exchange. A local shop gets the “Australian Patchwork & Quilting” and I have several issues of it…just got the new Applique Special which is wonderful. Fun to see a different perspective on quilting! Well, let me know….must run. #2 son needs the computer to type up a paper for school. TTYL…..Karan Flanscha Date: Thu, 12 Dec 1996 04:51:55 -0500 | From: quiltmag \[at\] mindspring \[dot\] com (Jean Ann) EEEEEK! do not dryclean old quilts. Have you ever visited the cleaning area of a dry cleaning establishment? Dry clean is NOT a correct description of what happens there. Everything, and I mean everything is through into a very big commercial washing machine. Instead of water, CHEMICALS are used to clean everything in there from your precious old quilt to someone’s bathroom rug! All in one very big commercial machine with the chemicals. I am surprised your old tops have survived this treatment./> Date: Thu, 12 Dec 1996 06:02:35 +0000 | From: Billie Corgan booth in Oklahoma. I began quilting to learn more about the quilts for resale and now my quilting passion has overtaken the antique search. My method to clean old quilts is all outside in good weather. At an auction I bought for $2.00 the old double wash tubs on a stand. Fill both sides with lukewarm water and soak, drain, and gently lift quilt from side to side, occasionally use just a little liquid soap. I often use a little Calgon. I repeat this until the water runs clear not that foul smelling yellow gunk. I gently squeeze out excess water while the quilt is still in the tub. To dry I lay sheets over two picnic tables, the mesh kind, carefully lifting the quilt on to the table so not to pull stitches while its wet. Then I cover the quilt with another sheet to prevent sun damage and bird droppings. This summer I bought one quilt out of a group that must have been in that musty basement for sixty years. You could smell them ten feet away. Should have bought more to resale, that quilt is now hanging in my living room. I was just too scared that they would not clean up. When I buy old quilt tops, I try to quilt first if I can, the quilting holds the blocks together. I have had more trouble washing old quilt tops than completed quilts Date: Thu, 12 Dec 1996 20:09:43 +0800 | From: balfourk \[at\] echidna \[dot\] id \[dot\] au (Kath Balfour) lean them and take the smell out, but the batting puffs up and they look much more attractive. Any piecing that looks fragile is covered with a bit of muslin tacked onto it then removed when the quilt is dry. I don’t know whether we were crazy or courageous, but we couldn’t bear to touch a grubby quilt, let alone sell it. My partner in crime here, Lyn, has a large Sanyo top loading automatic that does not have an agitator, the tub rotates back & forth. First she sprays the stains, spots or marks with an ordinary pre-wash laundry spray, then she soaks the quilt in warm water for about 24 hours in a diaper soaking product. She may repeat this two or three times, depending on how dirty to water is, and how stressful it is on the quilt. Very occasionally, she will use laundry detergent. After the spin cycle, she drapes the quilt over one a gently warm oil-filled electric radiator, turning the quilt now and again until it’s dry. The quilts dry overnight. She never hangs a damp quilt on the line or puts it in the dryer unless its very nearly dry just to finish it off. Sometimes colours do run, seams do open, material does disappear but the improvement is usually worth it. I once tried doing this in my agitator washer and ruined a quilt! It was pieced in a voile-like fabric and the stress of twisting and pulling tore some of the pieces to shreds. Definately now a hanger!!! I wash old quilt tops if they need it, and I do this in my agitator machine just using laundry detergent. I fill the tub to the max, use cold water, soak overnight, and finish on the lingerie cycle. I hang them with clothes pins on the line with two cut edges together (not folded over the line!) and tug them straight. Usually I iron them, too. No, we absolutely don’t wash any quilt or top that has satins, velvets, wools, etc, or looks as though it may fall to pieces, or anything that is foundation pieced (because of the weight). We get a quilt dry cleaned if it is really musty or grubby and we can’t risk washing it. Camille Cognac’s book is filled with common sense and we have referred to it quite a lot. We like the comment she made reminding the restorer to take a realistic look at the quilt and determine whether it is a Dior original or a Sears housedress! Sometimes we’ve paid Dior prices for that Sears housedress, however… Now I’ll jut tiptoe back in to finish addressing those Christmas cards before I’m observed hunched over this blasted machine! Kath Balfour Yesteryear Quilts 37 Gibson St Hilton WA 6163 AUSTRALIA phone +619-335-6401; fax +619-336-4230 e-mail: balfourk \[at\] echidna \[dot\] id \[dot\] au Date: Thu, 12 Dec 1996 08:29:29 -0500 | From: QRestore \[at\] aol \[dot\] com Dear Kris; In reference to your red & green quilt (that sounds wonderful) and the stains. First I have a couple of questions. Do the stains appear in the red or green fabric or are they in the white area? Also, do they appear to be in the area where the quilt may have been folded? You may have already tried many of the suggestions I could think of. There are many remedies others may also suggest. Many quilts folded and stored for years will have brown stains that often look like furniture polish or rust but are actually caused by dye migration. Changes in temperatures (cold and heat) can cause this to happen and most stains caused by dye migration cannot be removed because the dye has permanently stained adjoining fabrics. You can do more damage trying to remove dye migration. I f one suspects rust or blood, which can look like dye migration, there are a couple of ways to check that. There is a poison, called Whink Rust Stain Remover, that will remove rust in minutes but must be handled with gloves and rinsed thoroughly, many times. Blood stains can be removed using a product called New Again (in the women’s hygiene section of the supermarket). A method described in Camille Dalphond Cognac’s book “Quilt Restoration A Practical Guide” says “to use a Q-tip applicator to dab a small amount of New Again onto the blood stain and rub gently with the cotton applicator to loosen the blood. Rinse by applying a wet face cloth over the treated spot which is resting on an absorbent bath towel.” You may have already tried this also, to spot clean an area, try isolating it by draping it over a cooking pot and pouring warm water over the area to be rinsed, then patting the area dry with towels. This way your not having to treat the whole quilt. When all else has failed, sometimes just living with and accepting the stain as part of the quilt’s charm is quite acceptable. I know many quilt collectors and enthusiasts who don’t mind a quilt with stains (it may have a interesting story behind them) and feel if the quilt is clean and does not have an offensive odor, they can live with that. As Camille in her book often points out, its your decision, “who owns the quilt?” Not sure if this provides any helpful information that you haven’t already tried, maybe someone else out there will benefit. Victoria Montgomery Date: Thu, 12 Dec 1996 09:14:44 -0500 | From: “Perry C. Trimble” Rose Marie, Could you possibly send the ISBN for Stitched From the Soul so others of us have a better chance of finding it? Many thanks. Marilyn in INdy Old Quilters Never Die – They Just Go To Pieces Date: Thu, 12 Dec 1996 10:21:37 -0500 | From: QuiltFixer \[at\] aol \[dot\] com In a message dated 96-12-12 06:15:12 EST, you write: << I have had more trouble washing old quilt tops than completed quilts. >> I agree with this. Take the time to carefully go over the seams, especially if they are hand sewn. Be very careful to lift the whole top from what ever you are washing it in in a way that does not strain the seams. Toni Baumgard QuiltFixer \[at\] aol \[dot\] com Date: Thu, 12 Dec 1996 10:21:36 -0500 | From: QuiltFixer \[at\] aol \[dot\] com I do alot of quilt washing for my customers and I have to decide how to do on the basis of each quilt. I go from practically washing by hand to machine washing. I base it on the condition of the quilt and how likely it is to run or fall apart. I recently complete a 1930’s quilt that a dog had used as a bed and had chewed a couple of holes in the middle and all the sides. It is a fan quilt and I knew I would have to cut off the edges and repair all the rips and holes. The quilt was so filthy that the first order was washing. With my customers permission I washed this quilt 3 times in Tide with Bleach. I washed it in the gentle cycle and only let it agitate for about 2 minutes. I rinsed and rinsed. Then spun out the excess water and dryed folded with towels on top of the dryer. This quilt was a “basket case” and it survived this ordeal and was pretty clean afterwards. At least it did not smell anymore! You might well ask why even bother to try to do something with it. The owner’s mother had made it and then given it to her grandson. Needless to say this boy did not take care of it. The owner really wanted it for a memory of her mother. I have another quilt that is comming up that has stains on it and I am going to soak it in BIZ to see if I can remove. They appear to be water stains and those are very hard to get out. I will try the lemon and salt as a last resort if this does not work. Anyone else with some ideas? Ton Baumgard QuiltFixer \[at\] aol \[dot\] com >From No. Calif. at Spring Lakes, where we will soon need an ark! Date: Thu, 12 Dec 1996 10:44:34 -0500 | From: SarahOz \[at\] aol \[dot\] com Hi all! I’m just now taking the time to post. First, my name is Rose Gray –even though my email address says it’s sarah. Long story but I’ve had this address a long time and it would be a real pain to change it now. I live in Tempe Az (Phoenix) and it is warm and lovely here. But, I miss the snowy, cold holiday weather in Ohio. I’m having a hard time adjusting to wearing shorts and sandals when I’m christmas shopping. And, it’s real interesting that I’m not risking my life to get that extra special gift while driving on icy roads… I love antique quilts, sewing items, linens…you name it. I’m so glad this list was formed, since I’m in the process of writing a book and making a quilt to go with the book that is placed in the 1860’s. The book & quilt are going to go much more slowly come Monday, since I’m going to begin working at the Quilted Apple in Phoenix full time. And, I’m the newsletter editor for the Arizona Quilter’s Guild (1200 members statewide) and is published monthly. I’m also trying to figure out where I’m going to actually squeeze some time in to quilt…UGH!! I became interested in that time period, 1860’s, when I came across an antique quilting book at an antique shop back in Ohio. Now, the book has taken on a life of it’s own and I’ve found out so much information that I never even dreamed of finding. Seems that once you look for one piece of information you stumble across another and that leads you off in another direction. Thanks again, Kris, for beginning this list and I look forward to chatting with all of you! Rose Gray Tempe AZ (85 degrees, sunny and they’re trucking in a ton of snow this weekend for a christmas festival….too funny!) Date: Thu, 12 Dec 1996 11:40:15 -0500 | From: SadieRose \[at\] aol \[dot\] com Here are a couple of additional titles of books about quilt history: KANSAS QUILTS & QUILTERS by Barbara Brackman, Jennie Chinn, Gayle Davis, Sara Farley, Nancy Hornback and Terry Thompson pub by the University of Kansas Press 1993 ISBN # 0-7006-0585-1 paperback This book is based on the Kansas Quilt Project and while some of the information is very pertinent to Kansan quilters….most applies to quilters everywhere. The Kansas Quilt Project has documented over 13,000 quilts, and information from the huge database they have created has been translated into interesting articles on topics from how scarce fabric was in Kansas in the 1850′ and 60’s- which meant little if no quiltmaking, as there was not sufficient fabric available for clothing…to African-American quilts and quilters. One of the things I like the best about this book, is that it does not put a “politically correct – 1990’s slant” on women’s history. Women’s diaries are quoted….but not re-interpreted. There is an excellent chapter (4) on “Fabric and Conversation Prints” written by Terry Thompson and Barbara Brackman. Also a chapter featuring 2 famous Kansan applique artists: Rose Kretsinger and Charlotte Jane Whitehill, with some color photographs of their exquisite quilts. The book is illustrated throughout with b&w and color photos of quilts and quilters. It ends with a chapter on quilt guilds of today, and an Appendix with information from the Kansas Quilt Project database. An excellent book to add to your collection, or just borrow from the library to enjoy. GATHERINGS: America’s Quilt Heritage, text by Kathlyn F. Sullivan, based on an exhibit currated by Paul D. Pilgrim and Gerald R. Roy, published by the American Quilter’s Society 1995 ISBN # 0-89145-860-3 $34.95 pbk This book, and the exhibit is was based on, was a “gathering” of quilts and information from the quilt documentation projects undertaken in many states, starting in the late 1970’s, and continuing today. There are photos of quilts and quiltmakers which were “discovered” during the quilt documentation days. I was especially pleased that one of the 2 quilts chosen from the Iowa Quilts Research Project in 1988, was one that I had documented. It was a case where we really wished the “quilt could talk”. The quilt was laid out on several tables, pushed together. It was what I would call “Cherry Basket” but in Barbara Brackman’s “Encyclopedia of Pieced Quilt Patterns” it was #665.2 “Basket Design”. The basket triangles were turkey red, the base and handle were dark green. The background was off white. The baskets were set together with narrow sashing strips of a dark tan, with corner squares of off-white. Four baskets, set on point, faced towards each other in the center (handles to the middle). Each row out continued this placement, so as you looked at the quilt, only the bottom quarter had quilts sitting “upright”. The 1/2 triangle blocks that filled out the edges had a simple wavy vine with a few simple, almost kite shaped leaves. The baskets were each “filled” with different fruits, flowers and leaves. Then, I started to notice that some blocks (7 out of 40) did not “hold” anything. Upon closer inspection, you could see that these blocks, too, originally were filled….there were holes from the stitches!! By this time, the quilt had created so much interest that a crowd gathered around it, exclaiming at it’s beauty, creativity and how good it’s condition was (the quilt was made circa 1850). Then, the lady who had brought the quilt to the documentation day stepped forward…explaining that she had brought the quilt in for a friend, and had a letter about the quilt. We were so glad that “this quilt could talk” as it was not signed or dated. The quilt’s maker, Eliza Hicks, died young, and her husband re-married. The second wife got so tired of the attention given to Eliza’s quilt, that she decided to take it apart, so she could use the muslin for a bedsheet!! Someone in the family stopped her, but not before she had removed the applique pieces from 7 of the basket blocks!! I bet Eliza would be pleased, that her quilt has been “re-discovered” and has now appeared in several quilt shows, the GATHERINGS book (p92), and also on the cover of the April 1996 Ladies Circle Patchwork Quilts magazine! (This quilt and several others were shown to illustrate an article I wrote on the Iowa Quilts Research Project). The second “Iowa” quilt shown in the GATHERINGS book (p 38), is a Schoolhouse Scrap Quilt, made by Hannah Stone in approximately 1900. This quilt was chosen as the “poster child” of the Iowa Quilts Research Project’s exhibit: “The Thread That Remains” in 1990. Many of us who worked during the IQRP chose to stitch our own version of this quilt (a single schoolhouse block, surrounded by rows of rectangular scrap pieces) as a momento of our participation in this project. The GATHERINGS book combines information from 59 different quilt projects, and there are tables at the end of the book, with information on each of these. Some are ongoing, some were for a limited time. It also tells whether the project published a book or catalog, and if the data gathered is available on computer. There are contact names and addresses for each. There is now an interest in combining this wealth of information in a central source. Terri Nyman, of Ladies Circle Patchwork Quilts magazine, has been featuring a different state research project in each issue of the magazine, so that interest would not dwindle in these efforts. So much about quilts and the women who made them have been recovered by these documentation projects. It also has given the public a higher opinion of the value of the quilts. One of the lady’s, who’s family quilts I had documented, told me later that her grandson took one of the old quilts out to lay on when he changed the oil in his car Hi All, I’m probably mostly a lurker but thought I should at least introduce myself. My name is Sue and I live in Charlotte, N.C. I have a husband and a 7-year-old daughter. I teach English to international students at the local university (no, not a university professor, just a lowly part-timer, but it suits me). I do quilt, though very slowly. Right now I’m working on a rather complicated applique which consists of several scenes of a close friend’s tree farm and flower gardens. Not exactly a reproduction antique quilt, but I am very interested in the history of quilts and, in truth, the history of all needlework done by women. (Yes, I get Piecework!) I am fascinated by the idea that women create beauty even in the most impoverished of circumstances. It is cross-cultural. I’m eager to read many of the books thus far mentioned for that reason. \[By the way, for those you who might not know, most public libraries can get almost any book in print (excluding rare and very valuable books) for free, through inter-library loan. Some libraries may charge a fee to cover postage costs. I used to be a librarian in a different life.\] About washing and stains–not sure what the stains are in Kris’s quilt, but there is a sort of rust colored stain caused by a mineral residue from soap or water from the last washing. I heard that soaking the stain with a Ph balanced soap such as Woolite will get rid of it. I tried this on an antique lace table cloth, and much to my amazement, it worked! However, I soaked the whole thing, not just a spot, so don’t know if an isolated soaked area would come out lighter than the rest of the fabric or not. Also, it took two days, and that long a soak surely didn’t help the tablecloth. Does anyone else have more detailed info on this? Sue, baking Christmas cookies in Charlotte Date: Thu, 12 Dec 1996 19:09:40 -0600 | From: Rose Marie Mize Stitched from the Soul, Slave Quilts from the Ante-Bellum South by Gladys-Marie Fry. PhD, Dutton Studio Books, ISBN 0-525-48535-X. This book is wonderful. The workwomanship in these quilts is breathtaking. How about page 23, she was 13 years old! Rose Marie Date: Thu, 12 Dec 1996 21:11:57 -0600 From: R D To: QHL \[at\] cue \[dot\] com Hi — This is an idea that I shared with another mail list. I think the idea would work the same, but with an antique quilt! > > Hi All, > With the talk that has been going on lately about quilt screen savers,> I’d like to pass on to you all an idea that just came to me. For a > Christmas present for my husband, I had a cute picture of our son put > onto a mousepad. It turned out really cute. I know he’ll love it for > his office. Wouldn’t it be neat to take a picture of your favorite > quilt and have it printed onto a mousepad? I also had a picture of the > three of us put onto a mug, and on the other side it says World’s Best > Dad. You could also make a mug up with your favorite quilt on it. This > would make a nice present for a fellow quilter or secret sister. World’s > Best Quilter????? > I had this done at a little speciality shop in a mall. I think > Walgreens might be able to do the mug. I’m not sure about the mouse > pad. > I like this idea. I might do a quick mug up for a girlfriend. She’d > like it for work. > It is really hard to watch ER and type at the same time! > Signing off — > Donna in Wisconsin > I’m going to post this on a couple of lists, so you might read it again Date: Fri, 13 Dec 1996 14:12:59 +0800 | From: Bev McGrath iend, Jean Stapel, who suggested I look it up. How glad I am to have found you. Also through this, I have been in contact with Kathy Balfour, who lives nearby in Fremantle, and we are going to meet for coffee next week. I have been quilting for about 5 years, and after making quilts for all the family, decided to add more depth to my knowledge, hence my interest in quilt history. Australian quilt history is quite different to American, so I hope to be able to contribute words of wisdom now and then. I am a committe member of the Western Australian Quilters’ Association Inc., which is a dynamic and interesting group to belong to. If anyone is coming to Perth at any time (and that is not as far fethched as it seems), please contact us, we will ensure you a warm and friendly welcome and make sure you do not have time to feel lonely, there is so much going on. Our address is PO Box 188, Subiaco, 6904, Western Australia, or you can contact me by email. Best wishes Bev McGrath in sunny Western Australia bevmcgra \[at\] iinet \[dot\] net \[dot\] au Bev McGrath in sunny Perth, Western Australia bevmcgra \[at\] iinet \[dot\] net \[dot\] au Date: Fri, 13 Dec 1996 06:26:06 -0500 | From: AJSNGS \[at\] aol \[dot\] com I would like to hear how some of you have displayed your quilts. Do you store them in a cabinet such as a pie safe, or hang them on the wall? I’ve seen quilts displayed that are gathered at the top and hung on walls. Are there some ideas that are decorative but not harmful to the quilts? Are there good ways to display quilts that are not pretty on all sides? I’d like some ideas. I love to have my quilts out where I can see them, but obviously they can’t all hang on the wall…. Thanks, Nancy in foggy raining Virginia Date: Fri, 13 Dec 1996 08:02:07 -0500 (EST) | From: Quilting Heritage ListServ Great minds think alike! I just ordered myself a quilters mousepad from http://www.FrontNet.com/~persona/quilting/design\_plus/mousepads.html There are three designs there, plus one they will cover with cloth you provide. Ususal disclaimers apply – I don’t know these people, in fact, I haven’t received my mousepad yet, so I can’t even recommend them. But if you want to take a $7.50 chance, here is where to go. Kris Date: Fri, 13 Dec 1996 08:44:09 -0500 From: quiltmag \[at\] mindspring \[dot\] com (Jean Ann) To: QHL \[at\] cue \[dot\] com Subject: QHL: making quilts from old blocks Message-Id: Content-Type: text/plain; charset=”us-ascii” One of the things I like to do is rescue old quilt blocks and make quilts out of them. They always seem so sad just stacked up in plastic baggies at the quilt show….they need to be a quilt. It is wonderful to be able to purchase reproduction fabrics so the old quilts can continue to look old. I recently bought two sets of blocks at the Quilt Festival in Houston. There were 20 Monkey Wrench blocks which were set using a blue sashing. I had a perfect piece of fabric in my stash that was about 10 years old for the border. It is a really neat little quilt. Now i have 13 very small fan blocks in fancy fabrics to become a Victorian Miniature. They are sewed over a muslin foundation. Does the QHC home page have a way we could send gifs or jpegs and have some of our restoration or salvage projects shown? I also collect long forgotten Nine Patch quilt tops, humble as they are, and finish them into quilts. Jean Ann Eitel America’s Favorite Quilter http://www.quiltmag.com Let’s Talk Quilting: dal.net IRC – /join #quilttalk http://www.quiltmag.com/QuiltTalk/ Date: Fri, 13 Dec 1996 09:00:41 | From: “Beth Allen” I have quilts displayed all through my house. I just counted the ones hanging on my walls and there are 13. Every time I think my walls are full I see a new space for more. I have a two story foyer where I hang a full size Baltimore Album quilt on one wall and two other lap size quilts on the other walls. I try to think about how the sun will hit a quilt before I hang it up and usually can prevent fading. But if I really want a quilt somewhere it goes there. These are quilts that I have made, not antique quilts that I would be much more careful about hanging. I do have several antique quilts and I have them hanging over a quilt rack or a chair away from sunlight. Beth Allen in rainy (again) Pa Date: Fri, 13 Dec 1996 09:20:06 -0500 | From: BBMorris \[at\] aol \[dot\] com Hi, I’m new to the group but joined just in time to read all of the debate over how to clean old quilts. A way that was suggested to me when I was going through the training for our state documentation program was to use a very gentle soap, such as Orvus, in the bathtub. The essential part of this was to use a sheet under the quilt so that you could lift it out without puting any strain on the quilt. The sheet would hold all of the weight. They also suggested pressing out as much water as possible by hand and then by covering it with large towels and pressing by hand again before lifting it out. I tried this and it worked well. I then spread it out on a clean sheet on my deck with another sheet on top to protect it from both the sun and the birds. I checked it frequentyl and turned it frequently. When it was dry to the touch, I put it in the dryer on gentle cycle with very low heat to be sure the heavy batting was dry and to fluff it up. A little about me. I am 58 and love quilts. I grew up in the mountains of SE Ky, near the TN and VA borders. There were lots of quilts in my family and I saw my aunts and great grandmother making them. I didn’t care anything about them until I married and moved out of the area. My MIL is from WV and never stopped quilting. From her I learned that it is a labor of love, not of necessity any more. I have been quilting now for just over 20 years and teaching quilting for various groups for about 16. I now run a retreat once a year for about 150. I am in process of making a quilt for each of my 9 grandchildren. Just need to finish the binding to be finished with the one for #3. Still have a lot to go. They are all picking out the patterns they want. I hope to instill in them my love of quilts and that, just maybe, their quilts will someday be a part of their families heritage. Sorry to be so long winded, but am very glad I found this group. Barbara in GA Date: Fri, 13 Dec 1996 09:27:42 -0500 | From: Laurajbr \[at\] aol \[dot\] com Hi all, I have a collection of red and green floral appliqued antique quilts from the mid 1800’s and I try to display as many as I can. I have one wall that will accommodate one of these large quilts, so I use that to rotate my favorites. I hand sew a sturdy muslin sleeve on the back of the quilt and use a strong brass curtain rod to hold up the quilt. There is no direct sunlight on this wall. I also fold one quilt over the stair railing; I have an oak quilt rack in my great room that holds four quilts; another in my bedroom that holds three; there is one on the guest room bed because it seldogets used; and the rest of the collection is folded and displayed in a cupboard in my quilting room. Laura in Tampa Date: 13 Dec 96 09:29:50 | From: Rabbit Goody <75444.1037 \[at\] CompuServe \[dot\] COM> remember that cotton is stronger wet if new and weaker when wet when oldThis is True of all cellulose fibers. Wool and silk are of course extremely weak when wet at any age. That is why we wash textiles fully supported on screening and tip the screen and never take a textile out of the water unsupported. There are good conservation manuals available but vacumming textiles is actually the best bet for all historic pieces wet cleaning is always risky. Unlike turkeys, they do not have pop up timers which tell us when they have had too much acid, ultraviolet etc. Ph meters are extremely helpful in analysising whether and what to do with the water in terms of ionization. Hope this is helpful Date: 13 Dec 96 09:29:57 | From: Rabbit Goody <75444.1037 \[at\] CompuServe \[dot\] COM> Cotton and linen are stronger when wet when NEW but weaker when wet when over 25 years old. You really run some risks washing cellulose. Wool and silk are of course extremely weak when wet at any age. That is why we wash textiles fully supported on screening and tip the screen and never take a textile out of the water unsupported. There are good conservation manuals available but vacumming textiles is actually the best bet for all historic pieces wet cleaning is always risky. Unlike turkeys, they do not have pop up timers which tell us when they have had too much acid, ultraviolet etc. Ph meters are extremely helpful in analysising whether and what to do with the water in terms of ionization. Hope this is helpful Date: 13 Dec 96 09:29:48 | From: Rabbit Goody <75444.1037 \[at\] CompuServe \[dot\] COM> remember that cotton is stronger wet if new and weaker when wet when oldThis is True of all cellulose fibers. Wool and silk are of course extremely weak when wet at any age. That is why we wash textiles fully supported on screening and tip the screen and never take a textile out of the water unsupported. There are good conservation manuals available but vacumming textiles is actually the best bet for all historic pieces wet cleaning is always risky. Unlike turkeys, they do not have pop up timers which tell us when they have had too much acid, ultraviolet etc. Ph meters are extremely helpful in analysising whether and what to do with the water in terms of ionization. Hope this is helpful Date: 13 Dec 96 09:29:54 | From: Rabbit Goody <75444.1037 \[at\] CompuServe \[dot\] COM> Cotton and linen are stronger when wet when NEW but weaker when wet when over 25 years old. You really run some risks washing celluloseTrue of all cellulose fibers. Wool and silk are of course extremely weak when wet at any age. That is why we wash textiles fully supported on screening and tip the screen and never take a textile out of the water unsupported. There are good conservation manuals available but vacumming textiles is actually the best bet for all historic pieces wet cleaning is always risky. Unlike turkeys, they do not have pop up timers which tell us when they have had too much acid, ultraviolet etc. Ph meters are extremely helpful in analysising whether and what to do with the water in terms of ionization. Hope this is helpful Date: 13 Dec 96 09:29:52 | From: Rabbit Goody < 75444.1037 \[at\] CompuServe \[dot\] COM > Cotton and linen are stronger when wet when NEW but weaker when wet when over 25 years old. You really run some risks washing celluloseTrue of all cellulose fibers. Wool and silk are of course extremely weak when wet at any age. That is why we wash textiles fully supported on screening and tip the screen and never take a textile out of the water unsupported. There are good conservation manuals available but vacumming textiles is actually the best bet for all historic pieces wet cleaning is always risky. Unlike turkeys, they do not have pop up timers which tell us when they have had too much acid, ultraviolet etc. Ph meters are extremely helpful in analysising whether and what to do with the water in terms of ionization. Hope this is helpful Date: 13 Dec 96 09:29:55 | From: Rabbit Goody <75444.1037 \[at\] CompuServe \[dot\] COM> Cotton and linen are stronger when wet when NEW but weaker when wet when over 25 years old. You really run some risks washing celluloseTrue of all cellulose fibers. Wool and silk are of course extremely weak when wet at any age. That is why we wash textiles fully supported on screening and tip the screen and never take a textile out of the water unsupported. There are good conservation manuals available but vacumming textiles is actually the best bet for all historic pieces wet cleaning is always risky. Unlike turkeys, they do not have pop up timers which tell us when they have had too much acid, ultraviolet etc. Ph meters are extremely helpful in analysising whether and what to do with the water in terms of ionization. Hope this is helpful Date: Fri, 13 Dec 1996 10:18:42 -0500 | From: Barb Garrett < bgarrett \[at\] fast \[dot\] net > It is so exciting to have a place to share about quilt history with people who will enjoy and understand the obsession. Last week I had the wonderful opportunity to attend a Quilt Workshop at the DAR Museum in Washington, DC. I highly recommend it to antique quilt lovers. This is what their flyer says – 1) View a selection of approximately 25 quilts and related textiles from the museum’s extensive collection. 2) Programs are held on the first Thursday of most months and begin at 10:30 am. 3) There is a $15.00 fee and reservations are required. Call museum at (202)879-3241. 4) DAR Museum located at 1776 D Steet NW, Washington, DC What we experienced — We sat around a large table with white gloves on and got close up and personal views of 25 quilts. The volunteer docent told us information about the quilts – often donated by the family of the maker – and we got to explore the quilting, applique, piecing, stuffed work – everything. All of the quilts we saw in our collection were made between 1830 and 1900. You don’t get to choose your quilts, but my guess is they are all wonderful. The hour and a half went much too quickly, and you are not allowed to take pictures anywhere in the museum – this was the only drawback to me because I find having a picture helps my mind recall the actual quilt. I think the docent said they have about 200 quilts in the museum collection, and the money from the workshops is used for textile preservation. We then went to 7 Period Rooms – rooms named for the states – which were set up as bedrooms and had quilts in them. My personal favorite was an applique from Texas with documentation that it was machine quilted in 1860 on the first sewing machine brought to the German Hill Country of Texas. The museum also had about 15 quilts on display, so a very full 2 hours. This was my first visit to the DAR, and I highly recommend the workshop for those who like old quilts and their histories. Barb in southeastern PA Date: Fri, 13 Dec 1996 10:00:29 | From: “MARY PERSYN” books (the bibliography is now up to 20 pages), but I have gotten interested in old quilts and would like to be able to buy all that I see. Since I can’t afford the quilts, I’ve been picking up tops, many of which just need someone to love them since they are in bad shape. Yesterday, I stopped at an antique store in Brookston, Indiana, and bought a string pieced lone star (just the star) done in 30s fabrics. It still has some of the pieces of newspaper on the back that the maker used to foundation piece it. I belong to the String-A-Long Quilt Guild in Valparaiso and so could not leave this string-pieced star behind. On the washing quilts thread, have you tried Orvis horse paste? It does a good job of cleaning the quilts and is very gentle. If you have a tack store in your area you can buy a gallon of it for little more than a small container of it costs you in a quilt store. A friend (Hi, Pat) and I split a gallon of it that we purchased at Troyers in Shipsewanna, IN. Looking forward to some interesting discussions, Mary Mary G. Persyn mpersyn \[at\] wesemann \[dot\] valpo \[dot\] edu Law Librarian (219) 465-7838 School of Law Library FAX: (219) 465-7917 Valparaiso University Valparaiso, IN 46383 Date: Fri, 13 Dec 1996 18:46:18 +0000 | From: “Kathleen Duvall” < nanwkshp \[at\] lc \[dot\] gulfnet \[dot\] com > Jean — can you explain what you mean by sewing old blocks over muslin? I bought a box of old quilt blocks at an acution that are probably from the 40’s. They’re a star pattern and if I sew them together, the points will be in the seam. Just today I came across a fantastic find! I bought yards and yards of 30’s and 40’s fabric in multi-yard lengths, uncut — just the thing to use to make the quilt blocks into a quilt, but I haven’t been able to figure out how to put the blocks together without the points being in the seam. Thanks in advance. Kathleen in Florida Date: Fri, 13 Dec 1996 19:34:18 -0500 (EST) | From: Quilting Heritage ListServ To answer Jean Ann’s question, yes, QHL has a home page and I would love to post pictures of any projects on it! I was going to wait until after Christmas and then post a request for suggestions as to how best to use our home page. I thought maybe an FAQ type section on our cleaning discussion? Maybe an FAQ on books, although we haven’t really discussed them very much yet. (By the way, I checked the latest AQS listing and they do not sell Stitched from the Soul. You \*can\* get it from http://www.amazon.com for $17.96, though.) Kris Date: Sat, 14 Dec 1996 17:18:02 +0800 | From: balfourk \[at\] echidna \[dot\] id \[dot\] au (Kath Balfour) Hi to Mary Persyn This 20 page bibliography of yours sounds interesting! I wonder if you have any ideas as a librarian about how we might go about compiling a bibliography just of quilt history books through this list and keeping it updated. Does anyone else on the list have experience doing this? Everyone seems interested in the books!. So much book info has just snowballed in the past couple of weeks I’m afraid it will soon be impossible to keep up with recommended titles. Are there any web sites that can accommodate such a biblio? Or anyone experienced & interested in setting one up? Just a thought. Kath Balfour Yesteryear Quilts 37 Gibson St Hilton WA 6163 AUSTRALIA phone +619-335-6401; fax +619-336-4230 e-mail: balfourk \[at\] echidna \[dot\] id \[dot\] au Date: Sat, 14 Dec 1996 08:39:24 -0500 | From: AJSNGS \[at\] aol \[dot\] com Hi, I’ve been learning alot in the past few days about what supplies a quilter “must” have. I’ve been given dozens of suggestions which are all very much appreciated, but it occured to me that women who quilted, say 50-100 years ago, didn’t have all these fancy gadgets. What did they use? I’d be interested to hear from some of you who know quite a bit about quilting years ago have to say. Also, what types of equipment do the Amish use? Do they use alot of the new supplies available to quilters? And do they still use treadle sewing machines at times, or is most of their work done strictly by hand? Thanks, Nancy AJSNGS \[at\] aol \[dot\] com Date: Sat, 14 Dec 1996 09:14:45 -0500 | From: JQuilt \[at\] aol \[dot\] com I really hesitated before I posted this message…because I would like to keep this list free from all of the craft and quilt subjects that are on the many, many quilting lists. So It will be a one time thing … Buy a cheapo/generic type mouse pad and look in your stash for a fabric that says something to you or about the person to whom you are sending the pad . Heat and bond the fabric and then cut it to the size of the pad….peel off the heat & bond paper and iron the fabric to the mouse pad…I have made several with convesational(novelty)prints. Jean jquilt \[at\] aol \[dot\] com Date: Sat, 14 Dec 1996 19:44:52 +0000 | From: “The Garretts” do they still use treadle sewing machines at times, or is most of their work done strictly by hand? My comments – I can only speak about the Amish ladies I have talked to in Lancaster County, PA, and this is an ongoing research effort of mine, but here is what I have learned. The Amish use all the different fabrics that we use – I have watched Old Order Amish ladies purchase Mumms, Gutchens, Hoffmans, etc. They use them in their business because they are popular and sell well. Their quilts have polyester batting, and they use both 100% cotton and cotton poly blends. One lady said sometimes the colors are better in the blends, and they don’t wrinkle so much, which customers – keep in mind these are not quilters – like. They use commercially produced patterns – one of the most popular are the series of applique books to make quilts that are published by Good Books in Intercourse, PA. I have never asked about rotary cutters, my guess is yes they do use them, but I will check when I go looking in shops again after Christmas. I did ask two different ladies about treadle sewing machines. They both said some of the older ladies still use treadles, but many use regular sewing machines run off compressed air, which is piped into their houses to run irons, refrigerators, washing machines, and sewing machines. What prompted this question was in one shop advertising only Amish made items, there were applique wall hangings with machine button hole stitch used to attach the appliques. I didn’t think a treadle could do that, so asked. The Amish have never hand pieced their quilts. Traditional Lancaster Amish quilts – those made between 1870 and 1940, are machine pieced and elaborately hand quilted. The bindings are attached by machine. Since the Amish did not start quilting until after the sewing machine was invented and widely distributed – 1850 to 1860 – there was no reason for them to piece by hand. The Germans brought a tradition of coverlet weaving to the new world, and learned to quilt from their English and French neighbors. If anyone has other questions, I will gladly add them to my list for when I visit the shops again – I live about an hour away. Also, if anyone lives in or near the Amish communities of Ohio or Indiana, I would enjoy knowing if these same statements are true there. Thanks. Barb in southeastern PA Date: Sat, 14 Dec 1996 18:33:40 +0000 | From: Bev Jordan >From: AJSNGS \[at\] aol \[dot\] com Nancy asked: >it occured to me that women who quilted, say 50-100 years >ago, didn’t have all these fancy gadgets. What did they use? One thing they used was tin quilt stencils with holes punched in them. My grandfather made a few simple ones for my grandmother. My aunt said her mother would use clean ashes patted through to mark her patterns. I always thought this must have been very hard. I don’t think she marked whole tops at one time! I’ve heard of people using cinnamon or graphite. It seems to me that cinnamon would have been very expensive to use as quilt marking. Most often, my mother drew her own designs on paper, and just like I often do, taped it to a large window and traced over it. My mother also used my dad’s blue painter’s chalk (my dad painted signs for a living) with my grandmother’s stencils. I believe that today if you buy “pounce” powder, that is what it is. =) If my mother were alive today, she would be 84, so we are still talking “old” here. =) Unfortunately, my mother died when I was nine and most of this information comes from an older sister or my aunt, not from learning at my mother’s knee. 8( I’ve also seen tin signature stencils used for quilts. I believe these were more common in areas where people had money to spend for extras. Young women would have some kind of signature and artwork done in tin. Then they inked over it on quilt blocks that were made for others, or traded with friends. I do know that my mother swore by “Wiss” scissors. I have a pair myself from the 70s – that’s 1970s! She also used thread from the J P Coats Company – 100% cotton on wooden spools, of course. =) I have a quilt they tied in the 30s with embroidery thread – 6 strands – probably DMC as that’s what Mama always used for her embroidery projects. Susan in Sunny Phoenix, Arizona, USA Date: Sun, 15 Dec 1996 07:48:22 -0500 From: quiltmag \[at\] mindspring \[dot\] com (Jean Ann) To: QHL \[at\] cuenet \[dot\] com Subject: QHL: old time quilting stuff Message-Id: Content-Type: text/plain; charset=”us-ascii” I have seen or been told that: They used a pencil with a string tied on and then a pin to hold it in the center of a paper to make a circle. there were no compass tools on the prairie. This was for big circles. small circles could be traced around plates, cans, anything round. The used brown butcher paper to make most of their patterns. They paper pieced over letters and old newspapers or \*domestic\* which is what they called muslin.. They cut templates from carboard boxes. None of this ever went to the curb side recyclers…they did their own recycling of everything. They carded their own cotton with a hand held carder which looks like a big doggie comb. They grew their own cotton or bought it bulk from a neighbor or the local cotton gin. They were sometimes able to get patterns from newspapers or ladies magazines or farm journals when available and affordable. They shared a lot. They never worried about copyright or if their neighbor was \*using\* or \*stealing\* their new quilt design. Back then, quilting was sharing. Sharing of materials, designs, and sharing of lives. Jean Ann Eitel America’s Favorite Quilter Date: Sun, 15 Dec 1996 09:45:13 -0500 | From: Kathy < DeSchuit \[at\] ix \[dot\] netcom \[dot\] com > Does anyone know if the DAR Museum has a web site? — Kathy in NH DeSchuit \[at\] ix \[dot\] netcom \[dot\] com Barb Garrett wrote: > > It is so exciting to have a place to share about quilt history with > people who will enjoy and understand the obsession. > Last week I had the wonderful opportunity to attend a Quilt Workshop at > the DAR Museum in Washington, DC. I highly recommend it to antique quilt > lovers. > This is what their flyer says – > 1) View a selection of approximately 25 quilts and related textiles > from the museum’s extensive collection. > 2) Programs are held on the first Thursday of most months and begin at > 10:30 am. > 3) There is a $15.00 fee and reservations are required. Call museum at > (202)879-3241. > 4) DAR Museum located at 1776 D Steet NW, Washington, DC > What we experienced — We sat around a large table with white gloves on > and got close up and personal views of 25 quilts. The volunteer docent told > us information about the quilts – often donated by the family of the maker – > and we got to explore the quilting, applique, piecing, stuffed work – > everything. All of the quilts we saw in our collection were made between > 1830 and 1900. You don’t get to choose your quilts, but my guess is they > are all wonderful. The hour and a half went much too quickly, and you are > not allowed to take pictures anywhere in the museum – this was the only > drawback to me because I find having a picture helps my mind recall the > actual quilt. I think the docent said they have about 200 quilts in the > museum collection, and the money from the workshops is used for textile > preservation. > We then went to 7 Period Rooms – rooms named for the states – which > were set up as bedrooms and had quilts in them. My personal favorite was an > applique from Texas with documentation that it was machine quilted in 1860 > on the first sewing machine brought to the German Hill Country of Texas. > The museum also had about 15 quilts on display, so a very full 2 hours. > This was my first visit to the DAR, and I highly recommend the workshop > for those who like old quilts and their histories. > > Barb in southeastern PA > Date: Sun, 15 Dec 1996 10:50:44 -0500 | From: ektupper \[at\] garden \[dot\] net (EK Tupperw) Kath Balfour wrote: > Everyone seems >interested in the books!. So much book info has just snowballed in the past >couple of weeks I’m afraid it will soon be impossible to keep up with >recommended titles. > >Are there any web sites that can accommodate such a biblio? Or anyone >experienced & interested in setting one up? > >Kath Balfour > I have a new web site at http://206.26.128.1/users/ektupper/ I am very interested in quilting history books and any stories regarding quilting. I am making a listing of them and I will be putting this on my web page soon and adding to it often. If anyone has any books they would like to add to the list, please let me know. Betty 🙂 Date: 15 Dec 96 10:53:24 EST From: Rabbit Goody <75444.1037 \[at\] CompuServe \[dot\] COM> To: “INTERNET:QHL \[at\] cue \[dot\] com” Subject: Re: QHL: old time quilting stuff Message-ID: <961215155323\_75444.1037\_FHQ29-1 \[at\] CompuServe \[dot\] COM> Some of your old time quilting stuff info was very enjoyable to read but some of the information needs a bit more documentation if you are going to make statements about textile productions. By the time we get to the 1840’s and 1850’s even in the most remote areas there isnt much evidence of some of the practises you mention like hand carding of cotton for bats if You have specific referrences that would be wonderful and I am sure they are out there but it is important that we done make generalizations based on romanitc notions that has been the problem with studying textiles over the last century. If and when we find ducomented instances we need to referrence them and foot note them so we can start to understand who was using hand cards and who was buying batting and what type of textile production was regional. We need to do it right so that our knowledge of how quilting fits into material culture of a people and a place gives us a better understanding of our lives today Date: Sun, 15 Dec 1996 11:02:25 | From: jadavis \[at\] juno \[dot\] com (Julie A Davis) To Barbara in GA….. Tell more about your retreat for 150……………!!!! Thanks, Julie Davis jadavis \[at\] juno \[dot\] com Date: Sun, 15 Dec 1996 12:52:08 -0500 | From: CTislander \[at\] aol \[dot\] com In response to Bev (quiltfix \[at\] directcon \[dot\] net) and Barb (bgarrett \[at\] fast \[dot\] net): Bev said she hopes to make an Amish-like wool quilt and wants to know what is used for batting and backing. I had this same idea of making a pre 1940s Amish-like quilt. I purchased white wool yardage and dyed it with natural dyes. I used madder, onion skins, mistletoe, and cochineal with alum mordant. The colors are beautiful. I machine pieced a small top in a brick pattern with black commercial wool yardage for one brick row and a wide border. The top is good looking, but I am stopped for the moment trying to decide on the proper backing, batting, and thread color for quilting. Roberta Horton says in \*An Amish Adventure\*, second edition, “Amish quilts are flat. To achive the same look today, use a cotton batt or a piece of flannel. Dark or black thread was used for the quilting stitches.” I worry that the dark thread will look garish where it crosses the light yellow-green of the mistletoe rectangles. Also, my quilting stitches are not perfect yet and every flaw will show up. (I could pretend I was a young Amish girl just learning the art.) It is hard to take the plunge. Christine T. in the California Delta CTislander \[at\] aol \[dot\] com Date: Sun, 15 Dec 1996 13:38:12 +0000 | From: “The Garretts” Content-type: text/plain; charset=US-ASCII Content-transfer-encoding: 7BIT Bev wrote – First I would like to thank you for your information about Amish quilts. One question I have is what do they use on the backs of the old quilts? I’ve seen some of the newer Amish quilts and of course looked at the back, but most of the old Amish quilts I’ve seen is usually in pictures or galleries and there’s not much opportunity to see what’s on the back. My comments – I too am frustrated that you can’t see the backs of traditional Amish quilts when viewed in galleries or books. I always assumed they were plain, but… I have had the privilege of seeing, and touching, two traditional quilts, made by the same lady in Narvon, Lancaster County, PA, circa 1920s. During a documentation day about 5 years ago, a man and his wife – in their 60s I would guess, brought in a mint condition, wool, center diamond Amish quilt. It had been made by his grandmother when he was either born or was a young child – it was something she did for all the grandchildren. This was a full sized quilt, not a crib quilt, and was probably intended as a quilt for use when the grandchild was an adult. The man was not Amish – which is why he could bring the quilt – and he had never used it because to him it was too beautiful to use – emerald green and rich purple. You could tell he and his wife treasured the quilt. We got a very big surprise when we flipped the quilt over to document the back – it was a floral print!! Think big mum type flowers in burgandy and grey. Not much contrast in the flowers – they don’t stand out from the background a great deal. Not calico, but more like a drapery or furnishing fabric. We all expected a solid back, because we had only seen pictures of fronts, never a back. The owner couldn’t understand why we were so excited to see the back – he had it because of family sentiment, and had never evaluated the quilt. He and his wife were very impressed with the documentation, and decided they should insist that his sister bring her quilt in, so they called her and waited for her to come. Sister’s quilt was made by the same grandmother with the same wool fabrics, but looked like Easter. It had been washed, and used, and hung out to dry, etc., so much, that the colors had faded to what I think of as Easter shades of green and light purple. Inside the border – which was raggedy – you could see the original color of the fabric, which matched the brother’s quilt. She hated the darkness of the quilt – and its memories, I think – and admitted that she had tried to wear out (destroy) the quilt so she could in clear conscience get rid of it. But she lamented – it wears like iron and won’t wear out. The backing on her quilt was apron gingham – what we called woven homespuns. It was a beige and light tan small plaid, maybe 1/4 to 3/8 inch check. A subdued color – but was that maybe from all the washing. He did verify that grandmother’s family was Old Order Amish. These are the only two backs of traditional Amish quilts I have seen. This fall I was visiting a shop owned by an older woman and got talking to her about traditional quilts, and asked her about the backs. She set up housekeeeping in the early 1940s and said they didn’t use and didn’t want the dark quilts. She said her mom tried to give her some of hers, but they used chenille bedspreads on their beds instead. Maybe that explains why it was so easy to sell the older quilts during the 40s, 50s and 60s – the younger generation wasn’t interested. She said she didn’t remember looking at the back of a traditional quilt, and had no idea what was on the back. If anyone else has been fortunate enough to have first had knowledge about the construction of Amish quilts from anywhere, please post to the list. This is the kind of information I am hoping to read about here. Thanks. Barb in southeastern PA (bgarrett \[at\] fast \[dot\] net) Date: Sun, 15 Dec 1996 11:15:04 -0800 | From: Chris Smith I’m new to this list, but not to quilting, so thought I’d put in my 2 cents worth. All this information about Amish quilts is fascinating. When I started quilting it was to make a quilt I had seen in a magazine – Amish Roman stripe. Of course did it the hard way by cutting all the stripes separately, etc. Have since learned easier methods. There is an Amish exhibition in Los Angeles that I hope, hope, hope to get to when we go down for Christmas. I’ve now made about 5 Amish quilts, some with no black, and have participated in several on-line block swaps. In fact, youngest daughter is getting a queen-sized Amish quilt for her bed made with pinwheel and bear-paw blocks from a swap. About the backs, I’m not Amish and haven’t seen the backs of the old ones so any information about them is appreciated. From what Barb Garrett said in another post, I guess I wasn’t too far off in backing one with a used flowered sheet. Wanted to get it done and didn’t have money for backing nor any on hand. Used what was available. Perhaps that’s what people did. Chris Smith (csmith \[at\] mail \[dot\] coos \[dot\] or \[dot\] us) Coquille, Oregon =\*=\*\*=\*=\*=\*\*=\*=\*=\*=\*=\*=\*=\*=\*=\*=\*=\*=\*\*= Date: Sun, 15 Dec 1996 11:15:02 -0800 | From: Chris Smith At 12:52 PM 12/15/96 -0500 Christine T. wrote: >I worry that the dark thread will look garish where it crosses the light >yellow-green of the mistletoe rectangles. Also, my quilting stitches are not >perfect yet and every flaw will show up. (I could pretend I was a young Amish >girl just learning the art.) It is hard to take the plunge. > I’ve made a number of Amish quilts and believe it or not, the black quilting does not look garish, no matter what color it crosses. Rather than stand out, the black actually kind of mutes everything and ties it all together, kind of like a shadow, but where the quilting DESIGN stands out, not the individual stitches. I haven’t made one in wool, but it seems like the shadow effect might be even more pronounced with the thicker fabric. I love quilting with black so much that it’s been hard branching our into other types of quilts where the quilting needs to be in lighter colors. However, am getting there. You might try stitching together some strips of your wool fabrics and do some practice quilting to see what it looks like. Your fabric colors sound really beautiful. Hope this helps a little, Chris Smith (csmith \[at\] mail \[dot\] coos \[dot\] or \[dot\] us) Coquille, Oregon =\*=\*\*=\*=\*=\*\*=\*=\*=\*=\*=\*=\*=\*=\*=\*=\*=\*=\*\*= Date: Sun, 15 Dec 1996 16:07:17 +0000 | From: Bev Jordan Christine, > > I worry that the dark thread will look garish where it crosses the light > yellow-green of the mistletoe rectangles. Also, my quilting stitches are not > perfect yet and every flaw will show up. Take the plunge. I made a quilt for my daughter for her high school graduation. I used Amish colors and black and put the blocks together in a fan shape. Finished one evening about 10 and went downstairs to where she was watching TV and tossed the blocks in her lap and said for her to put them in the lay-out she liked. In no time at all, she had them in the shape of an “S” which is the initial of her first name, Sonya. I learned a lot while making and finishing the quilt. First, when you put fan blocks in the shape of an “S”, you need to add 4″ sections on the two sides of the “S” to complete the piece. I then added a small border of squares of all the fabrics used and then a larger black border. There were fans in each corner. I used the Hobbs dark polyester batt, which I won’t use again because of bearding, but the bearding doesn’t show as much as when I’ve used lighter poly batts so this is good. I put on the back a mottled piece of fabric that picked up the colors from the front of the quilt. I wanted to do cables in the wide black borders and I had them continue into the corner blocks. I found the black thread showed very nicely on all the fabrics and really didn’t have much problem quilting on black with black thread. I just made sure I had strong light when I quilted. Because of the added 4″ pieces, I had to draft the top and side borders and did this full size using large sheets of butcher paper, covered both sides with clear contact paper and then cut my stencil with a double bladed x-acto knife. It was a lot of work but worth it. I entered the quilt in the California State Fair and won a third place ribbon so guess the quilt turned out okay. One of the comments was the use of the black which I had, because of not thinking, not paid any attention to grain so it looked like I had used more than one black in the quilt. One of the judges wrote that this is what the Amish do, use more than one black in their quilts. Does anyone know if this is true or not? Well, to make a long story short, go ahead and quilt your quilt in black and don’t worry about it. The quilting is really beautiful and shows beautifully on all the rich solid colors and against the black. Bev Date: Sun, 15 Dec 1996 21:56:14 -0500 | From: quiltmag \[at\] mindspring \[dot\] com (Jean Ann) I will look up the documentation after xmas…but I can tell you absolutely that there was hand carding of cotton for batts in the South well into the depression years. Jean Ann Eitel America’s Favorite Quilter http://www.quiltmag.com Let’s Talk Quilting: dal.net IRC – /join #quilttalk http://www.quiltmag.com/QuiltTalk/ Date: Sun, 15 Dec 1996 22:05:34 -0500 | From: quiltmag \[at\] mindspring \[dot\] com (Jean Ann) >Does anyone know if the DAR Museum has a web site? >– I have been to see the DAR Museum quilts and their state rooms too. Fortunately I was also able to go into the vault where they have over 250 exciting wonderful quilts. They do not have a web site yet but they are working on one. Go to this program if you can! Jean Ann Eitel America’s Favorite Quilter http://www.quiltmag.com