Antique Quilts

Janet of Quiltsalott and Kathie of Inspired by Antique Quilts have recently blogged about starting a red and green Baltimore style appliqué quilt called Mary Mannakee and they have invited others to accompany them. I am so tempted to join them in their journey simply because of the history and beauty of this quilt but I know that my appliqué skills are no where near the skill level needed and I doubt that I’d be able to keep up. But we’ll see.

I just ♥ antique quilts. At last count, I have about 25 that I’ve had the good fortune to find in my travels over time. I also feel blessed to have been afforded the opportunity to give them a temporary home until such time that they’re passed on to someone else after I’m gone.

After red and white quilts, red and green quilts are my next favorites. The two that I have are in relatively good condition, given their approximate age which I’ve been told is over 100 years.

Some of the red squares on this quilt are a little worn but it certainly does not detract from its simplistic beauty.

The hand quilting is intricate and absolutely gorgeous. Can you make out the tulip inside the feather wreath?

This is another of my red and green quilts. As with most older quilts, they were created out of necessity rather than for their beauty. This quilt is in exceptional condition but is somewhat faded from age and use.

The hand quilting is beautiful as well.

This red and white bow tie quilt is another one of my favorites. The red color has faded only slightly over the years and apart from that, it too is in great condition.

The hand quilting is simple but beautiful.

Another red and white beauty… and hand quilted in the Baptist fan pattern.

I have many others neatly folded in my quilt cupboard and I try to air them out and refold them as often as possible. I feel their original purpose was functionality and they definitely get lots of gentle use in my home. I switch them out on my beds at least once a month and try to coordinate the colors and patterns with the season or holiday.

It is really difficult for me to pass up an antique quilt. However, since I’ve started to make my own quilts, I have become a bit more selective with my purchases. That being said, if I had to make a choice between ‘old’ or new, without even batting an eyelash, my choice would be old and loved.

What about you? What would your choice be?

Happy stitching!

Kaaren ♥