Pre-1840 Bedcoverings From the American Quilt Study Group
Most people don't realize that quilts made before 1840 were far different from the typical quilt made today. These early American quilters did not piece quilts from scraps and worn out clothes as popular myth tells us. Instead the quilting methods included beautiful quilting on a solid cloth called whole-cloth quilting, the applique of motifs cut from fabric on a solid cloth called "broderie perse" and quilts made with a central motif with multiple borders around it called medallion quilts.. Mosaic quilts made by sewing together hexagons and other basic shapes were also made in this early time period. Over time quilt makers began to piece some of the borders in medallion style quilts and gradually more and more quilts were made completely of pieced or appliqued blocks.
Every other year the American Quilt Study Group sponsors a reproduction quilt challenge for members. The finished quilts are then exhibited at their annual seminar. The year the challenge is to make a quilt typical of the years before 1840. They call it a study as a quiltmaker learns so much about history when he or she makes a reproduction quilt. Such a study also helps all of us learn when we view these wonderful quilts.
The "Better Homes and Garden" site has posted several of these study quilts so that we can enjoy seeing them online. Go to American Quilt Study Group: History Uncovered to enjoy viewing these quilts. You will be able to see quilts that were made during the transition to block style quilts as you view this slide show.