American Quilt Study Group: History Uncovered

American Patchwork & Quilting magazine, October 2006

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Quilters interested in history have an exciting opportunity to explore the stories contained in quilts at an American Quilt Study Group (AQSG) seminar in Farmington, Connecticut, this fall. While the annual AQSG gathering is known for the research papers that get presented, there are other ways at the seminar to get involved in the historical look at quilts, namely quilt studies. With these studies there is no contest, no judging, and no prize, just quiltmakers wanting to learn more about quilts and sharing their knowledge and love of history with others.

This year's study is of pre-1840 bedcoverings. Seven quilters have reproduced such bedcoverings in an effort to better understand how early quiltmakers approached the craft -- what fabrics they used, their chosen construction type, and their preferred quilting styles. Some participants have duplicated a small portion of a large piece or reduced the scale in order to stay within the 200-inch limitation for the total length of all sides.

These quilts will be presented, along with a featured speaker, live and silent auctions, tours, and show-and-tell, at the 26th annual AQSG seminar October 6-8. This is the fourth study presented during an AQSG seminar. Earlier studies examined chintz, crib, and two-color quilts.

Quilters with even a passing interest in history are welcome to attend and participate in the discussions, view the exhibits, shop at the vendor booths, and take part in the steady stream of informative activities.

Among others, seminar participants will see the following quilts. For more quilts, additional seminar information, and registration details, visit www.h-net.org/~aqsg.