America's Favorite Quilts Author:Leslie Linsley Quilting has been part of America's way of life since our country was first settled. Patterns and gossip were exhanged during quilting bees while the history of our American culture was stitched into those early quilts. — With the renewed interest in American folk art the homespun quilt has taken on a new importance in our contemporary world.... more » Today those patchwork quilts, mostly done between 1750 and 1850, are among the most prized because of the wonderful designs.
Leslie Linsley, well-known for her innovative and creative contributions in the craft field, presents a collection of twenty-six quilts representing American's favorite patterns. Here we find the Log Cabin, one of the most popular designs ever used; Rolling Stone; Drunkards' Path; Star of Bethlehem; Lone Star; Turkey Tracks; Railroad Crossing; Delectable Mountains: Le Moyne Star, and all its variations. American women developed, pieced, and appliquéd these patterns which are still cherished, copied, revised, and faithfully reproduced today.
The book includes explicit step-by-step directions for duplicating these early quilts, along with full-size patterns for making templates; aids to piecing diagrams; background and border quilt patterns; lists of materials needed; information on making adjustments for different bed sizes, as well as large photographs of each quilt. Also given are instructions on how to quilt-as-you-go and tips on laundering, storing, and preserving these future heirlooms. Ms. Linsley says, "If you're planning to make only one quilt, you should choose a traditionally American design. By recreating the originally conceived patterns we keep them alive, thus ensuring their place in an American tradition."« less