This piece really embodies what a patchwork quilt should be...the re-use of any old fabrics that were to hand. Here you'll find them all; checked fabric, plain fabric, fur, cord, cotton, satin, tweed, small florals, large florals, paisley, crimpeline, dress fabrics, furnishing fabrics and so on!
There are classic 1950's designs along with some obviously 1960s fabrics too.
It's actually more in the style of a bed topper or eiderdown as it sits nicely atop a double bed and has some weight sandwiched in the middle of it...probably a blanket. It would also fit a single bed quite well with some spare to drape over the sides.
Whoever made this was no professional needlewoman! Although the patches are sewn together quite neatly, there are some large, black stitches around the edge. This could have been a darning excercise many years later.
There are a couple of places where the seams between patches have come undone, one tear and several small holes. All easy enough to mend or leave as is if you're into the 'shabby chic' look! Many of them are not immediately noticable as they are lost in the overall busy look of the quilt. There are also a few marks here and there. I have given this a gentle wash and nothing is any worse than before it was laundered so it will stand up to a few more years of wear yet.
I think this is one for the 'shabby chic' lovers out there...I can certainly see it thrown across a chair or folded over a bedstead. It's a quilt you won't have to be too 'precious' about. A fascinating piece just because of all the interesting fabrics!
c1960's.
133cm x 160cm approx.
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