CRQSG January 2008 Meeting Minutes

Our January 5th study group meeting had a small attendance (9 regular attendees, 1 new attendee and 2 stopping in from the library), but much discussion.

Our discussion theme was center medallions. We had examples that ranged from the early 1800s to the 1940's that included embroidery, crewel work, English paper piecing, applique and regular piecework. The examples were quilts, summer spreads and unfinished quilt tops supplemented with photos in reference books and fabrics. Specific examples: a frame quilt with a center panel of crewel work, a whitework quilt with a piped binding, a whitework spread with a wide variety of embroidery stitches and homemade fringe, and a summer spread with an appliqued basket of flowers with stitches so well done they appeared machine sewn. To add to the discussion, we had two lovely center medallion reproduction quilts.

To tie all this together, we had a wonderful assortment of newly available reproduction fabrics to admire. Of particular interest, was an early quilt top that contained fabric that could be matched to the pheasant garden fabric with the blue ground of Treasures of the York County Heritage Trust line. These are truly moments we jump up and down for - to have the original and the reproduction right before our eyes and fingertips.

New books to watch for in 2008:

"Crazy Quilts: History-Techniques-Embroidery Motifs" by Cindy Brick

"Wisconsin Quilts: History in the Stitches" by Ellen Kort (This appears to be a follow up to their previous book entitled "Wisconsin Quilts: Stories in the Stitches" by the same author.)

"Childhood Treasures: Quilts by and for Children" by Merikay Waldvogel

"Making History-Quilts & Fabric from 1890-1970..." by Barbara Brackman

Our next meeting will be March 22. Our discussion topic will be strippy quilts.

Until then, please keep us current on other events, exhibits, books, fabrics or special finds. We'd also love to hear about your latest quilting project. It helps to keep us inspired!