Motifs like this are typical of the 1940s-50s when they adorned household linens such as tea towels, tablecloths, and napkins. I added calicos, polka dots, and gingham checks for vintage charm and bordered the quilt with a whimsical retro-style daisy print from American Jane.
The top was finished years ago but got set aside when I gave up doing handwork. That was that, or so I thought until I pulled it out this spring for a confab with my friend, Ruth. Not only did she deem it worth finishing, she even offered to do it herself! How could I refuse?
As you can see, she's quite an accomplished needlewoman! Ruth suggested using perle cotton for the quilting which was something new to me. I like the subtle luster it adds to the design.
What started as a means of preserving a bit stitchery ended up capturing the essence of summer itself. I couldn't be happier with the result. Thank you to Vicki Haninger for her inspiration and to Ruth, of course, for seeing the project to fruition.
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15” x 17”
2019
