Lessons from an Old Patchwork Baby Quilt
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Isn’t this a great quilt? I purchased this at a yard sale. I tried to get the seller to keep it, but she said she no longer wanted it, even though it is very special to her. She did, however, tell me some information about the quilt, which is always good!
Origin Story:
The seller of the quilt, Carol, is a retired teacher, and the quilt was made by a legally blind woman, the grandmother of one of Carol’s students. The grandmother made it for Carol when Carol’s son was born, over 50 years ago. Carol never let her son use it, however, because she loved it so much. It was used as a decor in the nursery. Carol’s son didn’t have a strong connection to this quilt because he never used it and didn’t want it when he grew up and moved out. He never had children of his own, either, so Carol decided to sell it. I purchased it for $5.00.
Other Details About This Quilt
Size: 37” x 52”
Blocks: (234) 3” squares; 117 solid and 117 print
Machine Pieced & Hand Tied
Fabric: Blocks are 100% cotton; backing is a blend (I believe)
Batting: Polyester
Binding: Backing is pulled to the front
Lessons We Can Learn
Although there are many lessons we can learn as modern-day quilters from this quilt, here are a few I chose. Let me know if you can think of others.
Simple Patchwork: This baby quilt really makes me want to make one just like it It is a happy and wonderful quilt, yet so simple. The layout, the block, and the fabrics work together so well. I hope it inspires you, too!
Quilts Should Be Used: Okay—this isn’t always the most popular opinion, but wouldn’t this quilt have given so much joy if it would have been used? In my opinion, the quilt was (in a way) wasted. It was intended for the child. Although I understand the mother’s side of this—it was a precious gift and she didn’t want it ruined—it being used for decor probably didn’t honor the maker. Enough said.
Mixing Prints and Solids: With the rise of more and more solids being used in quilts, this is a perfect example as to how the solids and prints can work in harmony in a quilt.
Break the Patchwork into Smaller Bites: Although I am not positive, this quilt appears to be made up of 9 patches. When you look closely at it, you can see how it is seamed together. I just love that! Breaking it down into smaller units helps the overall look of this quilt.
White Ties: I just love that the maker chose to tie this one in white ties. It allows for the eye to get a break while matching the white backing. It does make me wonder, however. What would colorful ties look like on this, especially on the back? Either way, I love this and think we can learn a lot from the maker’s decision.
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