When I began quilting during our country’s Bicentennial years (1975-76), there were only a few companies offering fabrics focused especially for quiltmakers and fabric artists.  I’m amazed now, when I visit quilt shops, web sites, online stores, and read magazine, to see such a variety of quilting fabrics.
Some of them center around a theme, era, event, region or country.  Others simply are fabrics that strike the manufacturer or designer’s fancy.  Also, quilt artists, once they become well-known, often design fabrics for a manufacturer. You’ll also find fabrics designed by quilter/authors, such as Jennifer Chiaverini (www.elmcreek.net ), who writes the Elm Creek Quilters novels. She designs …read more

I first learned of the famous Sears, Roebuck Quilt Competition in Jennifer Chiaverini’s Elm Creek novels about quiltmakers.  Since then, I’ve come across references frequently.  Or perhaps since I know know about the contest, my attention is alerted.
This very popular contest in 1933 had a $1,000 prize with an additional $200 if the quilt had a Century of Progress theme.  (The quilt competition was conducted in honor of the Chicago Century of Progress Fairor Exposition.)
In additon to the monetary prize, the winning quilt held the honor of being given to First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt.
Sears placed a small, 2 x 3-inch …read more

I find fabrics…the history of them, the eras they date, and events they depict…fascinating and like to collect them.  Some of the older fabrics take me back to my childhood and making my first quilt with my grandmother.  Others simply are interesting because of the history connected with them and earlier eras.
Also, looking at the progression of fabric designs and what can be accomplished with modern technology of design and production versus that of pioneer days and handspun and dyed fabrics inspires a study in itself.
A number of books have been written to help you learn about fabrics, their history, …read more

For those desiring to learn more about America’s quilting heritage, the history of patterns, and fabrics, check into books researched and written by Barbara Brackman.  Since our quilting history and patchwork heritage fascinate me, I enjoy learning from Barbara’s books. 
Barbara also has done much research into the quilters and quilting of the Civil War era, along with other pioneer eras.
Below are just a few of her many books and topics.