Here are some applique blocks I picked up off of eBay a couple of years ago. The seller figured they were turn of the century, but the fabric is definitely Civil War era. The applique needs to be repaired in a couple of places. The quiltmaker used white thread for the applique, typical of that period. Should I fix it? Also there are only eight blocks. I originally purchased four, and then some months later she had four more up on the auction block and I was able to get those also. Unfortunately, there was a ninth block which she gave away to someone. Shucks! Suggestions on what to do with these would be appreciated! I haven't looked at them in a while, but I think I remember the blocks are about 20x20 each.
Today was a good day with the tax man. :) In fact, I celebrated with a little stash enhancement at The Fabric Patch. Actually I was pretty good. Just some dots and stripes, a yard of purple (not my favorite color) that I needed for a swap, and "Baskets to Applique" by Kay Mackenzie. Oh, and one of those new Clover rotary cutter cases. All in all, just a tiny celebration!
Getting ready to draw a name for the 1st Weekend prize with my online group. I hope they all had a more productive day than I've had. I didn't sleep well last night worrying about taxes, so I've just been vegging today. It's finally stopped raining here, and the sun is shining. It's cool and nice.
I have a top on the table that I squared. I don't like doing that part of it. Just need to check the square once more before the final two borders go on. I want to finish this one up tonight.
Hugs today to Leora and her little cutie-pie daughter. Gracie's surgery went well and she's home and feeling pretty good. Jane showed me how to do string quilts today, so I might get started on one of those real soon. Thanks, Jane! Like I needed more "inspiration" - LOL. And I'm sure Judy's home by now so I can quit worrying! :)
8 comments:
Yep, Judy's home and exhausted. Thought I could get through the blog ring and see what everyone has been up to but I can't stay awake. Wish I could give you advice on your applique blocks but . . you know I know nothing about applique.
Judy L.
Those are beautiful classic applique blocks. I don't know anything about conservation or whether they should be used/repaired/left as-is. Maybe an appraisal at Road to Cal?
My only suggestion for 8 blocks is to add plain (quilting) squares - for 16 blocks, 4x4 layout are nice... Stick with the white thread for authenticity...
BTW for the quilting squares, I'd used the block pattern....
If you don't hand applique, there is a local (to me) place that has contacts with the Amish Community where they do hand quilting for hire... (Information is in the back of Elly Sienkiewicz's Baltimore Album books...)
I guess you should check with an expert about the applique blocks. I personally think you should take Calico's cats suggestion. I think it would look lovely.
What wonderful blocks! Lucky you to get them! I might be tempted to make two small 4-block quilts with them. 4-block quilts were typical of that period, though the blocks were much larger. You could do them with different sashings and borders to make them look different.
Vicky,
I'd stick with the white thread...especially if it's typical of the era. Also...what about setting them on point...2x4? Also like Amy's idea with the plain blocks.
Hugs
Laurie
My suggestion, like Amy's, would be plain alternating blocks that you could do some lovely quilting if you intend to use them in a quilt versus pull them out and look at them periodically.
BUT as Jeanne said, conservation/appraisal may be best left to the experts--the people that are certified to advise on that sort of thing.
They would probably faint dead away at the prospect of the little gems actually be used for something.
Still, you own them and ultimately it is y our choice.
Patti suggested what I was about to suggest...two classic four block wallhangings would be perfect...in fact, if you only need one, I'd be happy to take the other off your hand, she says with an evil grin :P
Post a Comment