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Collection #1

I'm cleaning out my quilt collection this summer, and I thought I'd post some pics of what I'm keeping. This is a lap-size log cabin quilt, made mostly of silk, which probably dates back to the early 20th century. It may have been cut down from a slightly larger size. The backing and ruffle are completely intact; sadly the patchwork has deteriorated quite a bit.

The quilt was reverse-tied, so the little bits of household twine holding it together show on the back instead of the front. That is fairly uncommon, but I think it was done because the quilt was intended for display instead of practical use. The ruffle was likely sewn on with a treadle (foot-powered) sewing machine; that kind of stitching has a distinctive appearance.

I believe all the patchwork was pieced by hand, as you can clearly see the hand stitching everywhere the silk has worn away.

Although it's in poor shape, I'm keeping this one because it is unusual in so many ways, and (to me) still lovely.

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nightsmusic said…
Unique in so many ways! I'm glad you're keeping it. As an aside, I used to make most all of my clothes since it was so much cheaper for the material than buying ready made and we were poor. I used a treadle machine that I still have and it still works! Every once in awhile, I still sit down to that. It's so very calming in a strange sort of way.
July 3, 2021 at 4:53 AM
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