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@wow.com -  my e mail will soon change, hopefully by next week.   ------------------------------    Date: Wed, 4 Dec 1996 09:43:01 -0500 From: megm@MIT.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@mit.edu 

  --------------------------------  Date: Wed, 4 Dec 1996 21:55:39 -0500 From: AJSNGS@aol.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@aol.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@aol.com)  

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Date: Thu, 5 Dec 1996 06:28:24 -0500 From: AJSNGS@aol.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@aol.com)  

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Date: Thu, 5 Dec 1996 06:13:03 -0500 (EST) From: jane stapel

 <baglady@nauticom.net>   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  

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Date: Thu, 5 Dec 1996 06:13:06 -0500 (EST) From: jane stapel <baglady@nauticom.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 

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Date: Thu, 5 Dec 1996 08:10:42 -0500 From: AJSNGS@aol.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@aol.com)  

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Date: Wed, 04 Dec 1996 14:15:32 -0800 From: "James M. Welch" <hawk@csionline.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  

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ate: Thu, 05 Dec 1996 00:48:44 -0800 From: "James M. Welch" <hawk@csionline.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  

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 Date: Thu, 5 Dec 96 09:31:28 -0500 From: Gretchen.L.Cornnell@admin.gettysburg.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@admin.gettysburg.edu 

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Date: Thu, 5 Dec 1996 07:12:13 -0800 (PST) From: Michele Weise <michele@peppertreestudios.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@aol.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 yes">  qrs@taconic.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@aol.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@aol.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@aol.com  

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Date: Thu, 05 Dec 1996 14:15:39 PST From: josiem@tekstar.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 

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Date: Thu, 05 Dec 1996 15:13:23 -0600 From: R D <holmr@execpc.com> To: QHL@cue.com   

Hi all!  I'm Donna Holmen from Kenosha, Wisconsin (on Lake Michigan between Milwaukee and Chicago).  I turned 40 this year - GASP!   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  :P  )   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!!!???!!!  

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Date: Thu, 5 Dec 1996 17:11:36 -0500 From: QRestore@aol.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 

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Date: Thu, 5 Dec 1996 17:20:17 -0500 From: AJSNGS@aol.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)   

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Date: Thu, 5 Dec 1996 18:57:11 -0500 From: QRestore@aol.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@aol.com 

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Date: Thu, 5 Dec 1996 18:59:37 -0500 From: SadieRose@aol.com To: QHL@cue.com   Nancy,     I would recommend the classic Nine Patch as a good beginner block.  It was a very common block to teach young girls piecing 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  

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Date: Fri,  6 Dec 96 00:35:00 GMT From: hooley@genie.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@aol.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 <baglady@nauticom.net>   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 21:58:41 -0500 From: AJSNGS@aol.com To: QHL@cue.com

Thank you, thank you! for all of the wonderful suggestions for beginners!  All of your information was so interesting and very informative.  I'll be sure to take it all into consideration when the first quilt is begun.  I'm sure I'll be picking your brains for good ideas again soon!   Nancy  

 ------------------------------   

Date: Thu, 5 Dec 1996 23:22:41 -0500 From: AJSNGS@aol.com To: QHL@cue.com   

Debby--Hi, thanks for the info. on the Leisure Arts book.  Please let me know the name and stuf

f.  I didn't see that book around town here.  Do you mail out books?  Thanks, Nancy   ------------------------------   

Date: Fri, 6 Dec 1996 06:40:34 -0500 From: AJSNGS@aol.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@aol.com To: QHL@cue.com   Good Morning,   In one of the notices posted, someone mentioned the book "Clues In The Calico" as being a wonderful book on dating 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 <baglady@nauticom.net> To: QHL@cuenet.com  

 In reply to you, Nancy, my legal home is Floyd, Va. about 45 miles south of Roanoke and about 45 miles north of Mt Airy, NC.  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@aol.com To: QHL@cue.com   

Jane, thanks for your answer!  I think you and I have a good chance of meeting up in person!  I live in Fredericksburg, VA, but I 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@aol.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@ime.net (A.A. Harkavy) To: QHL@cue.com   

Good morning from Maine, where it's about to snow.   I've been quilting since the 70's and am fascinated by but not terribly knowledgable 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 <baglady@nauticom.net> To: QHL@cuenet.com     I am happy to see Addy here.  Addy, your posts on other digests have been informative so another addition for sources.  Welcome, Jane  

 ------------------------------   

Date: Fri, 06 Dec 1996 08:41:48 -0500 From: "Perry C. Trimble" <trimblep@indy.net> To: QHL@cuenet.com  

   Hi!  I guess I'd better introduce myself.  My name is Marilyn Trimble and I live in Indianapolis, previously in Phoenix, previously 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@indy.net

 --   ------------------------------  

 Date: Fri, 6 Dec 1996 07:28:49 PST From: janbrummond@juno.com To: QHL@cuenet.com     Hi all.. I'm Jan Brummond from Denver, CO, and have loved quilts for as long as I can remember.  I believe my first exposure 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 <baglady@nauticom.net> To: QHL@cuenet.com     

In reply to Julie about the exhibits of the Feedsack Club..as a member of the club, you can request items for setting up an 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@aol.com To: QHL@cue.com     

Nancy;        Camille's book is very good, there will be a new one, called "Quilt & Textile Restoration" coming out soon, not sure when.  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 09:53:07 -0500 From: ektupper@garden.net (EK Tupperw)   -

-----------------------------   

Date: Fri, 6 Dec 1996 09:55:58 -0500 From: QuiltFixer@aol.com To: QHL@cuenet.com   May I introduce myself?  My name is Toni Baumgard and I am so happy to be a charter member of this group!  I repair and restore 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@aol.com       Date: Fri, 6 Dec 1996 09:19:51 -0600 From: "Carol R. Walton" carol@lim.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@lim.com  

 ------------------------------

Date: Fri, 6 Dec 1996 10:05:03 -0600 (CST)
From: Cynthia A Wall <wallcyn@mail.auburn.edu>
To: "Fellow Antique Quilter's" <QHL@cue.com>
Subject: QHL: Bio
 
Hi All,
 
I'm Cindy Wall from Auburn, Alabama.  I too know very little about old
quilts except that I like them.  This passion started 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@aol.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@apex.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@albany.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@aol.com.
 
------------------------------
 
Date: Fri, 6 Dec 1996 12:16:45 -0500 (EST)
From: Quilting Heritage ListServ QRS@mail.albany.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@aol.com
To: QHL@cue.comHi
I would love to know more about the fabric repros of the 1800s..
I too am a retired person who came to quilting through a sewing/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@aol.com
 
------------------------------
 
Date: Fri, 6 Dec 1996 15:15:51 -0500
From: AJSNGS@aol.com
To: QHL@cue.com
Subject: Re: QHL: Bio
Message-ID: <961206151550_2050461028@emout02.mail.aol.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 <monikaj@cdsnet.net>
To: QHL@cuenet.com
 
Hello everyone,
 
 I am Monika Jones ( 48 yrs old) from Grants Pass Oregon, where I live with
my husband and two cats. Daughter 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 <monikaj@cdsnet.net>
To: QHL@cuenet.com
Hello,
      Jean wanted to know about the 1800s repro lines. The Smithonian fabric
and the new Shelburne Museum collection are both 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@cdsnet.net
 
------------------------------
 
Date: Fri, 6 Dec 1996 17:25:02 -0500
From: SadieRose@aol.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@alpinet.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@nauticom.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 <baglady@nauticom.net>
To: QHL@cuenet.com
 
 
You said the *magic* word, Cindy..*feedsack*  you mention you are looking
for Mr Right..I'll give you my 33 yr old son for the 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@albany.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@kewlaid.highfiber.com
To: QHL@cue.com
 
 
 Hello all!
        I'm Julie Gardner. I've loved antique quilts for years and in the
last few
years have become a quilter.
        During my college 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 GMT
From: hooley@genie.com
To: qhl@cuenet.com
 
 
Hi - I have a question about the fabric in an old quilt that I have.
It's estimated to have been made in the 1880's - some of 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@aol.com
To: QHL@cue.com
Subject: QHL: Is it Amish?
Message-ID: <961207084606_1919312561@emout18.mail.aol.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@ix.netcom.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@ix.netcom.com
 
------------------------------
 
Date: Sat, 7 Dec 1996 11:13:47 -0500
From: SadieRose@aol.com
To: QHL@cue.com
 
 
Nancy,
    Sounds like your quilt Could Be an Amish quilt.  Many Amish now make
quilts for sale, and it could have been intended as 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" <elliott@wt.net>
To: QHL@cue.com
 
 
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, 07 Dec 1996 12:33:34 -0500
From: Kathy DeSchuit@ix.netcom.com
 
Content-Transfer-Encoding: 7bit
 
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@ix.netcom.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 <baglady@nauticom.net>
To: QHL@cuenet.com
 
 
Oh, Kathy, I'm glad you mentioned putting a 'reminder' on the back of the
quilt..it reminded me that one of my members makes 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@wow.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@wow.com
 
------------------------------
 
 
Date: Sat, 7 Dec 1996 21:14:01 -0500
From: Debbie Roberts QuiltAppraiser@wow.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@aol.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@wow.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@aol.com
 
 
------------------------------
 
Date: Sat, 7 Dec 1996 23:07:15 -0500
From: AJSNGS@aol.com
To: QHL@cue.com
 
 
Debbie,
 
You are a wealth of information!  Thank you!  Slowly all of these books and
resources are becoming more familiar to me as 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

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