1. New York Beauty
1880s, unknown maker, Texas
The New York Beauty is a style first seen in the 1850s, and officially named New York Beauty in the 1930s. The quartered spiked circles, reminiscent of the crown of the Statue of Liberty, show off the quilter's advanced skill. These days, foundation paper piecing makes this style a bit more accessible.
2. Ocean Waves
from Denyse Schmidt's book Modern Quilts, Traditional Inspiration
The ocean waves block first appeared under that name in the Kansas City Star in 1928, but was likely made many times before. Constructed from numerous half-square triangles, it's an accessible quilt for the beginner quilter.
3. Spinning Triangles
Antique, c 1875-1900, maker unknown
I love a quilt that tricks the eye. Hard triangles become soft circles in this classic quilt design. On close examination, you can see that the triangles are actually tall isosceles triangles, not equilateral triangles. Another pattern where modern paper piecing makes a complex design possible for today's less patient quilters.
4. Burgoyne Surrounded
Martha Page, 1852, Collection of the Met Museum
Said to represent the surrender of an American Revolution general to the British army, this classic quilt pattern may also be inspired by a common weaving pattern for coverlets. It's like an Irish chain with a bit more pizzazz!
5. Trip Around the World
Made by ME!
I love a good Trip Around the World! Smart quilters have even come up with ways to make these blocks from strips sewn into tubes. I pieced mine together by hand, and then quilted it by hand. It's my heirloom.
2 comments
I’m actually working on Ocean Waves quilt right now.
I love a classic pattern! Spinning Triangles is one my mom makes often. I love the illusion. My favorite quilt is a Log Cabin classic made by my great grandmother with scraps dating back to the 1910’s when her children were born. You can see the love in the hand stitching. It is such a special family heirloom. So I can tell you for sure, your Trip Around the World will be equally as special to your family.