A few days ago, I was going through my vintage quilts, refolding some of them and photographing others for an upcoming lecture. Digital cameras weren’t available when I started collecting vintage quilts over 20 years ago, so now I’m trying to make a digital record of all those quilts. Although, it’s a time-consuming process, it’s also a labor of love.
My philosophy when purchasing vintage quilts has always been that I’m willing to overlook minor condition issues, if the price is within my budget. Occasionally, I come across a quilt that is in truly poor condition, but I feel compelled to buy it anyway … as is the case with this Feathered Star quilt.
After all … it’s a FEATHERED STAR quilt! Some quilter, probably in the late 1900s, spent many hours making this beauty. So, I couldn’t just walk away from this quilt, I had to rescue it from a horrible fate.
In some blocks, the fabric is badly worn with the batting showing through and the “blue” fabric may have once been green. The quilt is stained and a bit grungy … a good cleaning might help. However, given the condition, I decided to leave well enough alone.
It’s because of the condition that I had to rescue this quilt. This quilt may be old, and it’s certainly seen better days, but that doesn’t mean it should be cut up and made into pillows or something else. It shouldn’t be used as a dog bed or a moving blanket. It was stitched with love and holds the memories of the maker … whoever she may be.
Chocolate Caramel Stars by Nancy Mahoney
Besides, with a bit of creative folding, I can display this fabulous vintage quilt on a rack or chair, along with my own feathered star quilts.
Until next time … Happy Quilting! ~Nancy
