Quilting and Patchwork

Collecting Quilt Blocks

by Mary Emma Allen on August 31st, 2006

Quilters generally are fascinated with collecting quilts, old and new, and of various sizes.  It seems like a treasure when we find quilts in the family made by relatives years ago.  Or perhaps we’ll discover old quilts in thrift shops and antique shops, online and at shows.

However, single quilt blocks and groups of blocks make fascinating collecting, too.  Also, these will be easier on your budget if you’re purchasing.

Quilt blocks can have borders added and finished as a quilt.  However, they can be utilized in other ways.  They’re ideal for hangings or placed in picture frames. 

I found some old quilt blocks when moving my mom from her home to mine.  They probably belonged to her mother or older relatives.  My daughter framed several of these for the gals in our family.  We’re still pondering about the others and how to finish them.

I’ve also purchased quilt blocks.  Some of sophisitcated ladies with colorful hats, made quite a few years ago, were available at a vendor’s booth at a quilt show.  I’m thinking of placing borders around them and hanging in picture frames.

So, when you’re looking for quilts, consider unfinished ones or simply the blocks to add to your collection.

This book, The Standard Book of Quilt Making and Collecting by Margureite Ickis is a great one for identifying your quilt blocks and discovering ideas on how to finish them.

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