I love to quilt! And sometimes Mr QuiltinAnnie helps with the design; figuring out the angles and measurements! This letterbox series will highlight a traditional quilt block or pattern beginning with the letter of the stamp found inside the cache. You will need to supply your own stamp pad.
Friendship Quilt
From 1840 to 1875, friendship quilts were made in staggering numbers by a broad cross section of American women. A friendship quilt was usually made of several blocks from the same pattern. These blocks could be quickly made from fabric scraps; and, while most 19th century signatures were written with indelible ink, in the 20th century they were often embroidered. These blocks could be made by one person at home, or they would be made with everyone donating a square. The top would already have been pieced and the layers put together on a frame. Everything would be ready for the women to add their fine writing or stitching. Social time with family and neighbors was a highlight in a woman's life. What could be more fun than gathering together to quilt? Perhaps the most popular reason to make an Album quilt was because a family member or friend was moving away from the area. The recipients were presented with a finished quilt, or perhaps a quilt top or a set of signature blocks, to take with them, made by their friends or family, as a remembrance of loved ones at home. Friendship quilts were a way of connecting with friends and family. In the case of pioneer women these signed quilts were especially precious as they brought sweet memories of dear ones they might never see again.