Pat Cummings: The Quilter's Muse

Beautiful Japanese Scene Captured on Cloth

2012-02-21T09:16:00.000-08:00


View of Mt. Fuji - a hand embroidered scene - photo by James Cummings

A friend sent this textile to me for further study. The scene features the sacred Mt. Fuji in the background and a Japanese pagoda embellished with fine stitches. It is hand painted and hand embroidered. It appears to have been in a frame at one time, as there are remnants of brown paper still clinging to the back of the piece. The edge are unfinished and if you look very closely at the photo, there is a bit of unraveling on the bottom edge as a result of being handled.

I have never seen anything like this. The colors are rich in hue and the images evoke a sense of serenity and harmony with Nature. I like it very much! Perhaps someone out there in the world can provide more information as to the provenance of this unusual and lovely 11" x 17" textile.

Patricia Cummings
pat@quiltersmuse.com

Today's Topic: Weeds

2012-02-18T05:20:00.000-08:00

Over breakfast this morning, I brought up the subject of weeds. The discussion began with Common Purslane or (Portulaca olearacea), that grows abundantly in our own garden, although uninvited. This is considered a gourmet addition to salads in France. The plant is high in Vitamin C and Omega 3- fatty acids. In tearing out these weeds instead of eating them, we could be missing a bet! The plant is low trailing vine that has discreet yellow flowers when it blooms unlike the more familiar floral Portulaca sold for its wonderful blossoms. Also known as "Moss Rose," Portulaca was a favorite flower during Victorian times and is often re-created in Redwork-embroidered motifs.

Common Dandelion: Friend or Foe?

Another garden or lawn plant that many consider a weed is the common dandelion. I remember a neighbor visiting us on the farm and asking if it would be okay to harvest dandelion greens that grew in great numbers in the yard. The key to eating dandelion greens is to collect them before its cheerful yellow blooms, an early harbinger of Spring, appear. After flowering, the greens acquire a bitter taste. James Cummings tells me that the French name for Dandelion translates loosely to "Pee-the-bed." Therefore, it is not surprising that ingestion of the plant has a diuretic effect.

Evening Primrose grows like a weed in our yard, as well. It is not until late summer that its lovely yellow blossoms show up. Goldfinches are particularly attracted to the plant (or any other yellow flowers, it seems, as I have often seen these birds on forsythia bushes!). Finches like to eat the seeds of Evening Primrose. Did you know that an extract from this plant is used to make dietary supplements (in capsule form) recommended for breast health?

Phlox grow with abandon on the edge of the "gulley,"
a haven for small animals, bees and butterflies

Plants as Habitat

As for us, we don't become overly-excited about getting rid of weeds. Sometimes what may look like a weed will later bloom as a wildflower. In late summer, we always have a crop of "Indian Paintbrush" growing in our backyard where the grass is sparse and thin, in front of where the old carriage house used to stand. We let some areas of our yard grow wild, with only the least bit of intervention, creating great habitat for animal life, butterflies, hummingbirds and the like. It is always fun to draw Nature into the yard and to have a variety of botanical species, even those that others would call "weeds."

Canterbury Bell Flower blooms in our backyard among the tall grass
photo by James Cummings

Natural Remedies

As a society, we are becoming so far removed from an awareness of natural remedies, most people do not realize that many plants do possess medicinal properties. Foxglove has long been known to be a valuable source of the heart medicine, digitalis. Some "leggy" plants such as Mullen or Purple Cone Flower may look like weeds. It takes a skilled gardener to identify them by stems or leaves alone, before they reveal their true identity by blooming.


Purple Cone Flower may look like a weed, until it blooms in late summer

Fiddlehead Ferns, harvested while the fern plant just emerges, is another delicacy here in northern New England. Aficionados fry the fern heads in a batter and eat them. I have never tried them but supposedly, they are very tasty and probably nutritious.

Ecological niches are part of the rhythm of the earth. Consider the fact that all of the many species on earth, man is only one of them! Slowly, but surely, humankind tries to determine who our companions will be and the sad result is the total eradication of many species and the endangerment of others such as wolves, the Bengal Tiger and rain forest birds. We need to be more environmentally-aware and more forgiving of other living things, including weeds! After all, the seeds of some weeds are a source of food for foraging birds.

Everything on earth has a purpose! The more we try to proactively change the environment, the worse problems we encounter! We could take a lesson from our forebears who let nothing go to waste. They were certainly onto something great when they learned how to make maple syrup from the sap of Maple Trees. In other cases, it is the root of a plant that is the most edible part. Since childhood, I have enjoyed Botany as a study! There is a lot to learn and appreciate! That said, I think I'm ready for Spring! Let weed season begin!

Patricia Cummings
Quilter's Muse Publications - this is a link to our main website

Friendship Quilt Remains an Unsolved Mystery

2012-02-12T07:07:00.000-08:00

In a recent article for The Quilter magazine, I wrote about an embroidered, appliquéd, heavily-embellished, vintage Friendship Quilt that I first spotted draped over a rocking chair in a NH shop. No one has come forward to shed any light on who might have made the quilt (its blocks were contributed by many people). I followed a lead to Canada but can not unequivocally prove the origin without the confirmation of the family and they will not affirm the facts I found nor provide any other information. We seem to be at a dead end.


One of the quilt blocks seen on a Friendship Quilt found in NH

The quilt block above has generated a ton of personal e-mails to me. The bird featured is a "Kiwi." I had never heard of this kind of bird before, not knowing much about New Zealand nor the fact that the people there so identifying with the bird that it has become a part of their national identity. Residents refer to themselves as the "Kiwi People." The cloud in the block also has significance that went far beyond my knowledge. Readers tell me that New Zealand is known as the "Land of the Long White Cloud."

With an international audience looking over my shoulder for anything I write, it is really great to hear from so many people who are willing to help educate me even further! Clearly, this block represents New Zealand, not Australia, as I had initially thought!

We still do not have a clue as to the name of the person to whom this quilt was given. One can see the love and care with which the blocks were made and assembled in 1982 for the recipient's birthday. She seems to have been an older woman. Kind memories and tributes are embroidered onto the blocks. Perhaps additional information will show up someday. In the meantime, I had the quilt conserved at the University of Rhode Island and it is in a lot better condition than when it was collected. It is a charming quilt and one I really enjoyed documenting and sharing with the public.

To be sure not to miss any of my articles in The Quilter magazine's "Pieces of the Past" quilt history column, think about a subscription! Back issues are available at their website.

Best wishes for a sun-smiley day!

Patricia Cummings in Concord, NH where the temperature has risen from 9 degrees to 13 degrees in the last three hours
Quilter's Muse Publications

Folk Songs Sometimes Say it All

2012-02-11T21:17:00.000-08:00

When I'm on my journey, don't you weep after me
When I'm on my journey, don't you weep after me.
When I'm on my journey, don't you weep after me.
I don't want you to weep after me.

The words above are from a folk song and express the desire that there be no weeping after the songster's demise. That is not possible. In this life, we may mean little to the world but we matter a great deal to the people who love us, share our personal journey and will miss us when we are gone. We can never know how important we are to anyone else. It is one of those situations that is beyond our own understanding.

In a sense, death can be a time of celebration as we look back to the accomplishments of any individual. All of us have strong points as well as weaknesses that cause us to fall short of the mark, either in our own opinion or that of others. Most of us do the best we can, in spite of our circumstances.

It is always a dangerous thing to compare oneself to others, as stated in the "Desiderata." There will always be those who are more attractive, who have more money, or have had other advantages in life. One should never wish to trade places with anyone else. The smiling face you see may have endured a lot of hardships and the smile may be plastered on to hide some deeper sorrow, regret or pain. More of us than you realize are over-comers!

In a sense, weeping for someone after they have departed this life is not productive although it is a necessary part of the grieving process. It is only when we can transcend our own sense of loss that we can concentrate on the gifts that someone else has given us, emotionally and materially.

It is a stark realization that life ends. In our own state of being, we cannot imagine "not" being in the world; leaving behind everything and everyone we have ever known, ever loved, and all of our possessions finding new owners or being thrown away by those who do not value the same material things we cared about a great deal.

As I continue to age and aches and pains increase on a daily basis, all I can say is that I am happy that I won't have to live forever. When even walking, at times, is a big challenge due to the arthritis in my feet, and climbing stairs results in pain due to arthritis in my back, I can honestly say that I am looking forward to a time of no pain. I don't expect anyone to "weep after me." I hope they don't. This weary world needs all the energy available to try to reverse the path of destruction it is currently engaged in.

My thoughts tonight center on the beautiful and talented Whitney Houston, a beloved performer and actress, taken from us too soon today at the age of 48. She could not have known how much she meant to us all. I hope that she is being welcomed into the arms of a loving heavenly Father and that we can take comfort in and savor the gifts she has left behind.

Patricia Cummings
Quilter's Muse Publications

Old Fisherman of the Sea

2012-02-11T09:41:00.000-08:00

While shopping in a store that carried craft items in 1984, I spotted a project that I thought I would like to try to make. The kit called for quilting some layers that would become the face of a pillow cover. I liked the Old Man of the Sea design because I planned to give the small finished pillow to my mother. Her large country living room had a large table lamp that featured a fisherman wearing a yellow jacket and she had added to the wall an art print with the same kind of motif, a meaningful one here in New England, home to sea captains and those who earn their living by fishing and transporting goods via the waves.


First quilt project of Patricia Cummings in 1984 - completed with quilting done with "stab stitching"

When I was cleaning out my mother's house, I found this item. The stitches are huge and clunky compared to the fine hand quilting I am now able to do after years of practice! Yet, the kit served as an introduction and I really enjoyed making this pillow! Since it is 28 years ago since I made this pillow, I do not recall the name of the kit manufacturer. If anyone knows, please contact me and I'll post that information.

"They that go down to the sea in ships (1823-1923)"
Postcard collected by Patricia Cummings

This week I was reminded once again of this design when I spotted a postcard in an antiques store. Previously, I did not know of the statue in Gloucester, Massachusetts dedicated to the fishermen who departed from that town since 1823 to risk their lives in an often dangerous line of employment.

In New Hampshire, we have the best of both worlds: the sea and the mountains and a whole lot in between in our relatively small state. The ocean is certainly a big tourist attraction, especially for this state as well as Maine and Massachusetts. At any rate, seeing the postcard made me smile, remembering trips to the seacoast with my parents when they were still with us, especially Bailey's Island in Maine, and the one trip we made to Gloucester.

Have a happy day!

Patricia Cummings
pat@quiltersmuse.com

Thoughts about Rayon

2012-02-10T05:35:00.000-08:00

The following information about rayon was posted in Bob Purcell's newsletter and is reprinted here with his permission. Visit his website: http://www.superiorthreads.com

EDUCATION: All About RayonWhy doesn’t Superior sell rayon thread? Occasionally we are asked why we do not have any rayon thread. After all, rayon is the most commonly used thread in the embroidery industry, is relatively inexpensive, and has a beautiful sheen. The answer is because rayon is weak and usually not colorfast. It is not the recommended quality fiber for quilting or embroidery.

What is rayon?Unlike cotton thread, which is made from a natural source, and unlike polyester, which is made from man-made polymers, rayon (commonly referred to as viscose rayon) is a mixture of nature and manufacturing. The textbook definition of rayon is "a manufactured fiber composed of regenerated cellulose."

The major source of cellulose required in the creation of rayon is wood pulp, which is produced from timber. After the bark has been removed, the wood is chipped into very smallpieces, boiled under pressure, chemically treated, washed, and then dried. The final product is a hybrid material called viscose rayon.

Colorfastness A few years ago I angered a competitor when I made the statement that rayon usually is not colorfast. They responded that their rayon thread was indeed colorfast because it does not fade in cold water. It is important to make sure you understand what is meant by a company’s claim of colorfastness. The definition is obviously not the same for everyone. To most, colorfastness is the ability to be washed and worn without the color fading or running. Does washing include bleach or brightening agents? Test it before you use it.

Where is rayon made? Rayon is no longer made in the U.S. In 2004, the last of the U.S. rayon production facilities were closed due to EPA regulations. Current rayon producing countries include China, India, andsome European countries.

If not rayon, then what? Because we cannot take the chance of our thread fading, running or bleeding, we do not use, sell, or recommend rayon thread. The better choice is trilobal polyester. Trilobal poly has the same high sheen as rayon or silk, but is stronger and colorfast. It costs more than rayon, but the quality and peace of mind are well worth it. Our trilobal polyester threads include Highlights,Nature Colors, Living Colors, Rainbows (variegated), and Art Studio Colors.

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Most of the pillow covers from WWII are made of Rayon.
Many examples are included in the new book, Sweetheart & Mother Pillows 1917-1945
by Patricia Cummings (Schiffer Publishing Ltd., 2011)

Comments from Patricia Cummings
Many thanks to Bob Purcell for posting this information. I can't tell you how many times I have been asked why the type of (rayon) pillow covers, produced during World War II in great quantity, are no longer being made in the United States.

My personal theory was that we have become more environmentally-aware and the clear-cutting of timber, which erodes the top soil and allows it to wash away, has been deemed an objectionable practice. Cutting down all the trees from one area creates a loss of key organic nutrients in the soil that would be needed to sustain reforestation and creates an ugly landscape. If President Franklin D. Roosevelt did nothing else, he increased awareness of the importance of trees and natural beauty via the work of his "Tree Army" (the Civilian Conservation Corps).

Proper care for military collectible pillow covers, no matter what fibers/fabrics they feature, is presented in a chapter of my book.

As Bob points out the production of rayon involves chemicals. Other countries have less stringent environmental policies than the United States. I appreciate hearing all of Bob's thoughts on this matter. I like that he pointed out that words such as "colorfast" can have a different meaning to the manufacturer, so it is best to check to find out what is really meant.

I can think of no one in the industry who does more to promote education about threads than Bob Purcell. He gives lectures at major quilt shows and his monthly newsletters are always informative and fun.

Patricia Cummings
Quilter's Muse Publications

Unusual Quilt Block - Have you seen this before?

2012-02-09T16:51:00.000-08:00

This is a close-up photo that shows the block design of this appliqué quilt made in Milo, Maine. This appears to have been made in the 1940s. Personally, I have never seen this design before. If anyone is familiar with this pattern, we would love to hear from you. Comment below or write to pat@quiltersmuse.com

Patricia Cummings

"Fish-y" Business - Can You Identify this Image?

2012-02-07T17:07:00.000-08:00

Fish-y character on old Redwork Quilt

An article that will be featured in the next issue of The Quilter magazine should prove to be fun for many folks who remember some of the comic strip characters. We had good luck in tentatively or positively identifying many of the designs but a few escaped us, including this fish in a tuxedo. Does he look familiar to anyone?

There are some designs borrowed from fairy tales as well. Perhaps this one falls into that category. Care to take a guess? We are stumped!

Patricia Cummings

The Quilter magazine columnist: "Pieces of the Past" (since 1999)

Espirit Collection of Amish Quilts to be Exhibited

2012-02-07T12:44:00.000-08:00

Very exciting news from Julie Silber today! The collection of 82 Amish Quilts that she curated for the Espirit Company will again be shown all together in Lancaster, Pennsylvania this Spring! I am attaching the press release so that you can read all about this great event!

Espirit Collection Exhibit Press Release

The file will take a little while to load. Scroll vertically to see the whole portion of both pages.

Hope to see some of you in Lancaster!

Patricia Cummings

Quilt Care Book Available Online

2012-02-05T07:15:00.000-08:00

Good Morning!

Earlier today, I decided to post online the entire contents of the book I wrote about quilt care. Initially, it was a printed book in 2005. When the very expensive printer with its very costly inks failed to perform well, we realized that we needed to present the information in another manner. We were one of the first to convert a quilt-related document into an "e-book," long before there were Kindle devices or Nooks, etc.

Our e-books can be read on any computer that has Adobe Reader installed so that the pdf format can be accessed. The link to the book is posted on the home page of our website: Quilter's Muse Publications and Virtual Museum.

To download Adobe Reader, a free software program, go to http://www.adobe.com

We hope that you enjoy reading through the pages of the book. Of course, my latest book published by Schiffer Publications in a printed format, features much more detailed care information specifically geared toward the sweetheart and mother pillows discussed in the book.

There were some updates made to the 2005 edition in the year 2009, when the book was first published in e-book form. The only change I have made currently is to expand on the list of published articles I have written for The Quilter magazine (82 to date). I felt that this was important information to add to point folks in the right direction to find lots of research information that has been published in my "Pieces of the Past" quilt history column that I've written since 1999.

Free for you to read does not mean free for you to copy without attribution or permission or freedom to produce copies of my book to sell yourself. I post this information with a generous heart in the anticipation that others will appreciate the information and use it for their own personal advantage in the care of textiles and quilts in their care. It is with sincere gratitude that I continue to thank everyone who contributed photos or information to this publication. Recently, a friend told me that my book on quilt care is unparalleled. As always, I relish the support of my true friends.

On the Super Bowl Sunday, my book may provide a little bit of entertainment for those who don't wish to watch the game on TV.

P.S. The e-book continues to be available to purchase on a CD-ROM disc for those who wish to add it to their collection. Inquire at: pat@quiltersmuse.com

Best Wishes,

Patricia Cummings

Masterpiece Hexagon Quilts Shared in Tokyo

2012-02-04T04:51:00.000-08:00

News from Laura Fisher

Laura Fisher at
FISHER HERITAGE
305 East 61st Street
5th floor
New York, NY 10065

212/838-2596
www.laurafisherquilts.com
fisherheritage@yahoo.com
find her on Facebook: Laura Fisher Quilts

THERE’S A HEX ON AT THE TOKYO QUILT FESTIVAL

HEXAGONS QUILTS FROM FISHER HERITAGE CHOSEN FOR JAPAN EXHIBIT

Some incredible quilts pieced with thousands of hexagonsfrom the inventory of Laura Fisher’s FISHER HERITAGE in NYC were recently displayed at the exhibition: 'Hexagon, Eternal Piece' at the Tokyo InternationalGreat Quilt Festival that ended January 28, 2012.

The exhibit featured a display of antique American quilts and also newquilts by Japanese artists that incorporate the hexagon shape. Fisherprovided classic masterworks like a complex Grandmother’s Flower Garden SixPoint Star variation, Mosaic and Honeycomb designs, and some unique exampleslike a Spider’s Web and Diamond Mosaic.

Hexagons are the most difficult geometric shape to cut andpiece, because four of their six sides are cut on the bias rather than beingstraight grain. Any irregularity in the cut size, or if a side stretches insewing, multiplies over the development of the quilt surface to end up in askewed shape quilt top. Fisher finds hexagon-based quiltscompelling because they take so many steps to piece and to join; their makerswork more like sculptors to create design.

The earliest examples of hexagon quilts date from the late 1700s inEngland, and were wildly popular throughoutthe 19^th century in the US too, despite being hard and timeconsuming to make. To accurately size and piece thehexagon shape, a special technique for construction was used called template orpaper piecing, in which the shape was achieved by first basting the fabric atopa hexagon shape paper, then whip stitching the units together, sometimesremoving the templates to finish a quilt. Examples have been found with theoriginal paper templates left in the top to add body to the finished quilt.

Examples can be found containing many thousands of pieces joined withno apparent internal geometric design. If the print on each fabric was cut outidentically and placed to create design, this is termed ‘fussy cut’ piecing.The 1930s colonial revival era in the U.S. gave rise to the ubiquitousGrandmother’s Flower Garden quilt in which hexagons were grouped first in aseries of 7, the center hexagon often yellow to represent pollen and variousprints sewn around it to portray a flower, then the groups sometimes joinedwith a solid color ‘garden path’. The hexagon sizehas been seen as small as ½” or 1”, producing some awesome multitudinous piecedquilts.

Chosen from Fisher are a Blocks Mosaic, Grandmother’sFlower Garden Baskets variation, Double Hexagons, Diamond Mosaic, Spider’s Web,Hexagon Bars and Friendship Stars. Stateside in her NYC gallery now are othersincluding Challis Honeycomb, Hexagon Field of Diamonds, Amish Grandmother’sGarden, Expanded Seven Sisters, and an extraordinary cattywampus EnglishHexagon Rosettes.

The quilts were featured at the Fabric, Needles, and,Thread Exhibition section at the Tokyo Dome (1-3-61 Koraku, Bunkyo-ku,Tokyo). Organizers: ExecutiveCommittee for the Tokyo International Great Quilt Festival (NHK; YomiuriShimbun; the Tokyo International Great Quilt Festival Organizing Committee);Curator Shelly Zegart. Planning and Operation: NHK Art, Inc.; Tokyo DomeCorporation.

Many thanks to Laura Fisher for sharing the images of these special quilts! As a quilter who has made hexagon quilts, I appreciate the work that went into making these examples. The technique is not difficult at all, if one knows how to do it... like anything else! To read more about hexagon quilts, check out the file that is in place on my website.

"How to Make a Hexagon Quilt"

Patricia Cummings

Quilter's Muse Publications

2/4/2012

The Acadian Village of Van Buren, Maine

2012-01-27T06:17:00.000-08:00

In December 2011, while visiting with Alderic O. "Dick" Violette (and his wife), Dick told us about the Acadian Village located in northern Maine as well as his part in helping to fund this important heritage site that is associated with his own French-Canadian family history. With his donation, a new building (the Violette Industrial Building) was created to house and protect the refurbished old grist mill that his ancestor, Francois Violette, from Quebec constructed in Van Buren, Maine in 1791.

Grist mills and saw mills were some of the first businesses established in any new town in New England inasmuch as people needed cornmeal and flour, and lumber was required to build houses, churches and buildings. http://www.quiltersmuse.com/telephone-museum.htm

Today, a whole village museum exists at the Van Buren site which is located very close to the US border with Canada. A few enticing photos are shared on the Acadian Village website but the whole "story" is purposely not given away. This looks like a great summertime destination and one that we will keep in mind!

Dick Violette is mentioned in my latest book Sweetheart & Mother Pillows 1917-1945. He served as a squad leader in the Civilian Conservation Corps and was a member of the U.S. Army during World War II. Coming home from war, he went to work for a local telephone company and worked his way up the ranks, later becoming the company's owner. He has written a 642 page hardcover book: Merrimack County Telephone Company: The First 100 Years. In addition, he has established a must-see local museum in Warner, NH called the NH Telephone Museum, a charming and educational museum that is well worth visiting!

In this life, some people make a difference! Dick Violette is one of those special individuals! To read a photo essay about our visit to the NH Telephone Museum, visit this website link.

Patricia (and James) Cummings

Friendship Quilt Celebrates Tuck's Gift!

2012-01-26T17:37:00.000-08:00

Close-up of the quilt block on the left side of the quilt shown below made by Alice Noyes. Photos courtesy of Alice Noyes

Edward Tuck (1842-1938), a wealthy and philanthropic man, was very generous to the people of the state of New Hampshire. Among his other charitable acts, he funded the magnificent granite building that is home to the New Hampshire Historical Society, a treasure of a building that is a repository for important books and documents and is a place where meetings are held and exhibits are displayed.. Historical New Hampshire, Fall 2011 (Volume 65, No. 2) celebrates his life and his generosity in a lengthy article by Franklin Brooks.

In commemoration of "Tuck's Gift," NHHS' museum store employee, Alice Noyes, a quilter, decided to make a special gift for her boss, Joan E. Desmarais, the Assistant Executive Director. This week, Alice sent me some photos of a wall quilt that features a center photo transfer of the entrance of the Tuck Library, flanked by two Dresden Plate quilt blocks which museum store co-workers signed.


Alice Noyes took this photo at home. She writes that the hanger she used was too small. Therefore, the lovely little quilt is not shown to full advantage but one can readily see that much love went into its creation and THAT is what counts!


The back of the quilt features a label that lists all of the individuals who participated in signing the quilt.


Dresden Quilt block that is situated on the right side of the quilt.

This quilt is clearly a wonderful tribute to a much admired fellow-worker and friend of the women who signed the blocks. What a nice idea and isn't it just like a quilter to think of doing something meaningful and thoughtful to save "history" and the good feelings of camaraderie in the workplace!

Thanks so much, Alice, for sharing these photos. I am sure that Joan will treasure this quilt for many years to come!

Patricia Cummings

Redwork is Fun!

2012-01-25T12:48:00.000-08:00

As many of you know, I have done Redwork embroidery for many years. This style was most popular in Victorian times and prized for its simplicity and clean lines. Yesterday, I decided to re-create a design from a set of patterns I offer for sale that are replications of designs found on an old Bluework coverlet. Bluework is done just like Redwork and utilizes the same stitches but uses blue perle coton or embroidery floss instead of red.

For the project shown here, I wanted to try Finca perle coton No. 12 made by Presencia and a fine needle from the Colonial Needle Company (White Plains, NY) that bears the name "Mary Arden of England.". I found it easiest to use the next to the largest needle in the needle packet, sold as a unit of 10 needles. It was the easiest to thread using the perle coton of that weight (Style #C/1906 - T.1015) in a pretty deep red color. I did not have to fold the thread and try to wiggle it through the needle opening. Instead, I just cut the end of the thread at a slight slant and it slide nicely into the needle.

By the way, some people write the name of the thread as "pearl cotton," an Americanized version of the name of thread originally produced in France. Here is a photo of my little quilt block. I love its graceful curvilinear lines!


Redwork embroidery design from my personal pattern collection

This design is part of a collection of 72 varied and lovely designs that include birds, animals, flowers and children. From time to time, on eBay, I offer the CD disc (that will play on any computer that has Adobe Reader downloaded). That is a free software program that enables any computer to "read" pdf files such as the ones that are present on the disc. To see a photo of the entire Bluework coverlet with the designs featured on the CD, for the next few days, you can view my offer that has the following number on eBay.

eBay auction # 200704759832

Happy Embroidering!

Patricia Cummings, author of three books about Redwork Embroidery and their history
To learn more about my books, visit Quilter's Muse Publications

Cheers!

This Old House

2012-01-24T19:28:00.000-08:00

Today was a very exciting day because I learned a little more about the family that first occupied our 1821 home. The first owner of our house, Abel J. Baker, Jr. married Nancy Bradley on 3 November 1817. I had never known the first name of Mrs. Baker, the first woman to live in my present home. She was the mother of one son, Nathaniel, born in 1818. I have been trying to find out the year she died. Records indicate that Abel Baker moved from this house in the West Village of Concord to the downtown area after Nancy died.

From a history of Concord written by Amsden: a view of our house when the street was still "dirt" and Elm trees were present. The Amsden book is available in its entirety on the Concord Public Library's website (NH)

Luckily, there are some great history books that detail the lives of some of the former residents of Concord. The anecdotes can be pretty interesting! According to Grace Amsden, the house once sat on a 1/2 acre plot of land. A small photo of our house is published in her three volume book, A Capital for New Hampshire, along with a photo of the mill that was in place on the north adjoining property. The mill is now long gone but interest in its particulars are being explored by the city of Concord who brought the property in 2010 and tore down the buildings that had been part of the West Concord landscape for many a day.

I have been trying to put together a coherent time line that details people and places but I often run into roadblocks. I found the wedding date (1817) for Abel and Nancy Baker on a genealogical website. I am sure that I have much more reading and study to do. I have been updating a file on our main website, with new information learned about our house, the people who lived here, their relatives, the mills and the nineteenth century when this area of Concord was once a busy little haven of activity with people walking to the mills to work, stagecoaches, a railroad track that delivered grist to be milled, horses and buggies, children working in the mills, talk of girls leaving the area to go work in the mills of Lowell, and people we hear about in history books... such as Franklin Pierce... riding a horse downtown in full uniform, having served in the Mexican-American War with honor.

What these folks took as the status quo is to us "quaint." They never envisioned a day when there would be such widespread travel, technology and communication, They never could foresee that America would put a man on the moon, that so many would die in wars in the next century, or that we would so heavily trade internationally.

Times certainly do change! In our limited views of today, we are in the same boat of not being able to accurately and completing envision what is to come in this century or beyond. Looking at history helps any of us to achieve a broader viewpoint and wider perspective and that is why the topic of History can never become outdated. Even when we try to ignore History, it is an integral part of how we think and how we define ourselves.

I hope to learn more. I am on a personal quest to find out as much as I can about the former inhabitants of our house, if only from the public records that are available. It's a beautiful study and one that I am enjoying. I can how people can become addicted to researching their own family's history. I have left that task up to my son and he has been doing a terrific amount of work in discovering our ancestors. "The torch is passed," in that regard, while I spend time researching the lives of historic figures and women who made the antique quilts that are still around today.

To learn more about the history I've uncovered so far, visit:
http://www.quiltersmuse.com/this-old-house.html

Patricia Cummings
Quilter's Muse Publications

Bundling

2012-01-22T05:20:00.000-08:00

Bundling is an age old means of courting by lying together fully clothed and with the full consent of the adults in a home. While only touching was allowed, somehow a number of young ladies found themselves expecting a new addition to the world! Some things never change!

I was surprised to read yet another reference to this practice in a book: Gilded: How Newport Became America's Richest Resort by Deborah Davis (John Wiley & Sons, Inc., 2009). This mention is of note because it was found in a most unlikely place. The book refers to a specific gentleman who hoped to bundle with two attractive sisters. When they protested that he already had a wife, he admitted to being married, but only a "little, little bit!"

The custom is quaint and is fully described in a research article I wrote for publication that has been extended and is currently available on my website: "Bundling: A Courtship Ritual with Ancient Roots"

Patricia Cummings
Quilter's Muse Publications

2012-01-21T04:20:00.000-08:00


Overall Sam (Sunbonnet Sue's boyfriend) - 20th century

This coverlet, probably intended for a baby's crib, has the landmark pastel colors of the twentieth century. The pieces of cloth are appliquéd and edges feature the buttonhole stitch (many people mistakenly call this the blanket stitch, a true statement only if it is securing the edges of a blanket!!

The figures are not congruent, as you can see, not was uniform placement on the blocks a priority with the maker of this item, a true scrap bag affair! In the figure at the upper right, one can see most readily that the green patch, under the yellow overalls shows through. Either she needed to use a darker color for the overalls or could have trimmed the "shirt" so that it had a tinier seam allowance.

At any rate, looks like she had fun making this (yes, I am assuming it was a woman who made this - just shoot me!). This item is kind of appealing in all of its wonkiness. I wonder if "she" used pink sashings and borders just in case, an anticipated newcomer to the family was actually a girl, thereby covering all bases. How I wish there had been written information or a story to go along with this purchased vintage item. Alas, we are left to speculate on the circumstances of its making. I'm charmed.

Patricia Cummings

"Just Quilting" - A New Crossword Puzzle for You!

2012-01-18T04:46:00.000-08:00

This morning I prepared a new crossword puzzle called "Just Quilting."

Clues Page

Solution Page

Get a cup of your favorite beverage, print the pages and enjoy!

Patricia Cummings

Hawaiian Quilt Masterpieces

2012-01-15T05:13:00.000-08:00

Hawaiian quilts require an amazing amount of work! If you have any doubt of that or are unfamiliar with quilts of this type of quilting, then the book Hawaiian Quilt Masterpieces by Robert Shaw (Universe, 2009) is just the reference book you need! This oversize book features full page views of many historic traditional Hawaiian quilts and descriptions of them. Some variations may come as a surprise!

One of the most fascinating quilts featured is the "Queen Lili'uokalani's Crazy Quilt." In 1894, two years after the Hawaiian monarchy had been overthrown, the queen was arrested and imprisoned in her own former castle where she worked on a Crazy Quilt. The story has a happy ending which I will leave to you to discover. It is a bit of a surprise that the style of Crazy Quilting reached Hawaii! For inspiration, be sure to check out Bob's book (no affiliation).

My Few Experiences with Hawaiian Quilting

I was first introduced to Hawaiian quiltmaking via a day-long workshop with Faye Labanaris more than
20 years ago. I prefer to make wall quilts and miniatures because they require less turn around time. This quilted Bird of Paradise pillow was made from a kit given to me by my son and his wife after their visit to the islands. This pillow has minimal hand-quilting lines.


Pillow made from "Bird of Paradise" kit from Hawaii

The quilt block designs for this miniature quilt with 4" blocks was found in a copy of Miniature Quilts magazine. I loved making this quilt! Photo by James Cummings

Hawaiian quilts reflect the beauty of the plants found in that environment such as Anthurium, Breadfruit and Roses. Symmetry and repeat of design elements are typical features of Hawaiian appliquéd quilts. Oftentimes, designs are repeated in the borders.

With today's methods, we create design motifs by folding and cutting paper. Many Hawaiian quilts are heavily quilted using an "echo" quilting design that features lines of stitches spaced at close intervals. With an emphasis on labor-intensive needle-turned appliqué and heavy hand quilting, Hawaiian quilts represent a great deal of work on the part of the quilter!

Hawaiians traditionally believed that the spirit of the quiltmaker went "into" the quilt. After the quilter's death, in order for her spirit to be released, the quilt had to be burned. Many quilts were lost due to this notion. The Hawaiian quilt documentation has sought to record existing examples of Hawaiian quilts.The quilts are prized for their beauty as well as the skill needed to make them and are just another reason why quilters love to visit Hawaii!

Patricia Cummings

Indigo: An Age-Old Fabric Never Out of Vogue

2012-01-08T01:37:00.000-08:00

Browsing through eBay, I spotted a "boro," an antique Japanese-made textile described by the seller as a "futon cover." It is pieced with Indigo-dyed fabrics and features some large stitches rendered in white thread to hold layers together. This type of stitching is called Sashiko, said with emphasis on the first syllable "Sa."

Sashiko stitches have been used in Japan in rural areas to mend clothing and other textiles to make them last longer. The style has developed into a more elaborate and highly-stylized manner of stitching using known and established (named) patterns of stitches that have a strong geometrical component. There are a number of books on that subject. The style is gaining momentum today due to myself and other professional who have taught the technique of "Sashiko" or who have written about it.


Sashiko is a needle technique included in this miniature quilt by Pat Cummings which includes batik fabrics

In the miniature quilt shown here, I embellished solid squares of Indigo fabric with Sashiko embroidery in various established Japanese designs. Indigo is a natural dye that has been used extensively in Africa, Japan and other locations for centuries to impart various values of the color blue to fabric. Here is a link to a website file I wrote about Indigo.

http://www.quiltersmuse.com/the_color_indigo_and_its_history.htm

The art of dyeing cloth is a fascinating subject about which many books have been written. Many of today's quilters dye their own fabrics at home. If doing so, it is wise to take the proper health precautions when handling any chemical substances, especially those that can cause damage if inhaled. Proper masking and glove use is recommended.

Hope you have enjoyed this brief glimpse of Sashiko and Indigo cloth.

Patricia Cummings

Brief Biography

2012-01-07T13:31:00.000-08:00

This is a photo and a piece of writing that I shared with a new group I was invited to join online for creative people who to engage in all sorts of creative ventures. I thought that some of my readers might enjoy reading what I wrote so here's what I said:

Hello!

My name is "Pat." I am a recovering perfectionist. I even have taken
the liberty of writing my own obituary so it will be done correctly! Not that I
am ill or planning to go "anywhere" soon. I am having way too much fun for that
interruption. Nonetheless, I try to live a decent life, eating my veggies and neither
kicking dogs nor insisting that little old ladies cross the street IF
they don't want to do so!

Besides perfectionism, one of my other addictions is textiles of all kinds,
especially antique quilts, embroidered goods and printed cloth. I study and
research fabric items of all kinds and have just had my 8th book published as
well as the 82nd article on quilt history that I prepared for The Quilter
magazine. The name of my latest book is Sweetheart & Mother Pillows 1917-1945
[and Shane purchased one of the first copies! Thank you, sweetie!]

I love to laugh, sing and play guitar, and spend time with my family including
my two grandchildren, Patrick and Hannah, 5 & 2 1/2 years old respectively. I'm
interested in my Irish and Austrian ancestors from County Kilkenny and Vienna.

I enjoy studying all periods of quilt history and last summer was very happy
to give a one-time presentation about Civil War quilts with my husband, James
Cummings, who does all the photography for my many projects. We dressed in
period costume. I am currently preparing slide lecture presentations about the
history of Crazy Quilting; and Military Pillows from World War I & II.

This life has been one of both teeth-gnashing pain and anguish and utter joy
and jubiliation. There's been a little rain but more than sufficient sunshine to
make the roots of creativity blossom into full blown flowers. I am thankful for
all that I have and all that I have learned on my journey.

I have a teaching degree in Spanish from the University of NH. I was fortunate
enough to be able to spend some time in Pamplona, Spain, studying Art &
Architecture and German (in Spanish) at the University of Navarra. I was able to travel
throughout Spain to view art in 1972 on Christmas break.

My training in languages has come in handy and I enjoy interacting with folks
who live in Spanish-speaking countries, and am blessed with a lot of friends who
speak languages I don't know. The Internet is a wonderful point of connection
and something I engage with daily.

My creative activities include knitting, crocheting, quilting, doll making,
writing poetry, designing quilts, embroidery of all kinds, baking, home
decorating, and, in the past, oil painting.

[So glad that Shane started this list! I'm looking forward to getting to know
you all better.] There is a wealth of information on my website and blogs,
collectively offered under the aegis of my registered NH business name:
Quilter's Muse Publications.

Pat Cummings in a photo taken maybe three years ago on a "bad hair" day!

Enjoy the day!
Patricia Lynne (Grace) Cummings
Concord, NH

"Any holder but a slaveholder" Potholders

2012-01-04T13:05:00.000-08:00

In 2011, I added a file to my website that listed known examples of potholders made to sell at abolitionist fairs. To read that article, please click on this title: "Any holder but a slaveholder" or type in:
http://www.quiltersmuse.com/abolitionist-potholder.htm

Today, I received this photo and letter from someone who found that article in a Google search.

Hi, Pat. I'm so glad to have found your nifty little article on the "Any holder but a slave holder" potholders. I bought one (for a quarter!) at a yard sale in Port Jefferson New York (Long Island) about five years ago. I might have missed it completely except at first glance it seemed to have my first name, Amy, on it. It really captured my imagination but for a long time I couldn't learn anything about it. "Abolitionist Potholder" still seems like a funny Google search to do! After a while I pieced together that it was an item made for anti-slavery fundraising efforts. I did learn that the Smithsonian museum has one--I saw a reference on an acquisitions list some years ago but don't know if it's on display.

I showed the piece to some friends who were visiting over the holidays, and got inspired to try to research it again--I hadn't tried in a couple of years. In that time your article and a few other references have come online. This link http://www.scribd.com/doc/48055075/Any-holder-but-a-Slave-holder-potholder-1882-circa in your article says circa 1882 but wouldn't it have to be from before or during the Civil War?

My response: It would seem that most of these were made long before the date of 1882. I suppose anything is possible. The file link you provide shows just the photo but has no provenance information.

Picture of my potholder below. Don't worry, I didn't actually pin through the piece, just around it against a bulletin board to get a good picture. I suspect you may have heard from other "pot holder holders" like me since your article appeared?

with appreciation and best wishes for a happy new year,

Amy Halsted
Wading River, New York

Dear Amy,

Thanks for sharing the image of your antique potholder. I would say it is a bargain to find one of these @$.25 cents! You now own a wonderful piece of history! Nice to hear from you. Thanks!

Patricia Cummings
Quilter's Muse Publications

Inspiring Words

2012-01-02T17:56:00.000-08:00

May you have warm words
on a cold evening,
a full moon on a dark night
and a smooth road
all the way to your door.

an Irish blessing

Celtic wall quilt by Patricia Cummings made some years ago

The following words are from Ralph Waldo Emerson, New England poet

Teach me your mood
O patient stars!
Who climb each
night the ancient sky
Leaving on space no
Shadow or scars
No trace of age,
no fear to die.

There words are inscribed on a gravestone for Lincoln Morse Furber and Eloise Peterson Furber in a cemetery in Deerfield, NH. Mr. Furber was a friend of my Dad. Every time I visit the cemetery, it is comforting to see that my parents' final resting place is surrounded by those of their friends in life.

Patricia Cummings

Appraisals: Points to Consider

2012-01-01T21:24:00.000-08:00

My name seems to pop up online whenever someone is searching for more information about quilts or other textiles in their possession. I am contacted often by people who have inherited quilts or other goods made of cloth that have been passed down through a family member. After having watched the Antiques Roadshow on television, some folks have stars in their eyes and are looking to turn their heirlooms into big cash. Basically, they want me to confirm that the item is valuable to someone else and then, the question becomes a matter of what price they should ask on eBay or elsewhere.

Frequently, one photo (or more) is sent with the request for more information. Even if I were an appraiser, which I choose not to be and have no aspirations of becoming, it would be unethical to give appraisals based on seeing just a photo.

Things Unseen in a Photo
An antique or vintage textile must be viewed in person to ascertain the extent of damage it has incurred, and to be blunt about this, to experience how bad it may smell! Has the textile been sprayed by a male cat in the house? Has it been stored in mothballs? Does it have a musty odor, or has it been spritzed with perfume in an attempt to mask some other smell? Is it damp or does it show clear signs of organic growth (fungi, i.e. mold)? Are there tears or are there holes that indicate that a mouse took up residence in the quilt at one time, or worse, is still in it? Is there evidence of insects like silverfish, cockroaches or moth larvae? Has any insect or animal chewed on the textile? Was the item well-constructed in the first place? Are the fabrics brittle? These ideas are just a few of the many considerations that have to be taken into account. Unfortunately, even the best Internet photo cannot serve up the answers to these questions.

Why is an Appraisal Needed?
Then again, why is the appraisal being sought? Is an insurance value needed? Will the item be sold? Will it be given to a museum? These are some of the things that professional appraisers look at when determining a "value." Then again, there are factors beyond the item in question. What is the current market for similar items? Are there comparable items that have sold recently at a know price? Or is the item rare or even one-of-a-kind?

Appraisers
Like any other professional, those who have undergone extensive training over a period of years to become certified as appraisers of quilts and textiles deserve to be paid for their professional services. In assigning a value to your quilt, an appraiser puts his/her reputation on the line and has to be able to defend the assignment of value in a COURT of LAW. Don't be surprised! It happens. There are disputes and settlements needed for a variety of circumstances, not the least of which is divorce. Who gets the dog? Who gets the quilt?

"Freddy the Freeloader"
In these times of fiscal austerity, many people seem to be trying to get around paying for services. If the news is any indication, thievery and burglary are at an all-time high in my own (usually low crime) state of New Hampshire. When a man, standing in line at Burger King, has a pair of expensive sunglasses ripped right off of his forehead by a robber, one knows times are rough. We try to help each other whenever possible. Having stated that, please do not join the "Something for Nothing Club." One "Freddy the Freeloader" was enough! If you seek a professional appraisal, go to the right party and be willing to pay a professional fee!

As For Me...
I do not have any grand desire to make pronouncements on the value of the property of others. I AM interested in the study of old quilts and textiles and am willing to research ones that intrigue me or present a mystery that can possibly be solved. I know about many museums and their policies when it comes to collecting items, and sometimes I can recommend the best place to donate certain items. However, I am always more interested in the scholarship involved with the study of textiles than I am with the monetary value of same. I will leave that field to those who wish to pursue that kind of work. It doesn't suit nor fit my creative temperament.

PAAQT
For those of you who have an old or new American quilt and mainly just want to know its market value, please contact one of the professional certified appraisers who belong to PAAQT. Google the letters of the acronym and you will find contact listings for someone in every state of the Union. Other appraisers who deal with general goods also offer services but if you have a quilt, it is important to seek someone who specializes in their valuation. Best of luck with your search! Many thanks to all of the appraisers who make it their business to be of assistance to those who need appraisals that are legitimate and trustworthy.

Appraisals
Appraisals are important for documentation purposes, proof of value to insurance companies or for credit on income taxes if the textile is part of a charitable donation. If the party who owns the quilt knows nothing about it, historically, the qualified appraiser will carefully explain its time period, the fabrics used, and his/her reasons for assigning a date that it could have been made, if no actual date is known by the present owner.
There is a lot to consider, as you can see!

Cheers!

Patricia Cummings

New Article re: Sweetheart & Mother Pillows

2011-12-30T16:17:00.000-08:00

My favorite "Mother" pillow

For those who have never heard about Sweetheart & Mother Pillows, I decided to write a brief article about them on my main website:

I have focused a lot of study on these special textiles for quite a while now. Whenever I see one that I have never set eyes on before, I am always tempted to buy it. What I have learned is that there were literally thousands of different designs created for them.

Why did this manufacturing trend die out? The pillows I have seen from the Vietnam Era were hand embroidered in Vietnam, not factory-produced.

I am not certain but it is my personal theory that there is a correlation between environmental awareness and the wish to conserve trees rather than cutting them down to produce some of the components in the rayon of which later pillow covers were made.

Enjoy the article!

Patricia Cummings
Quilter's Muse Publications

Embroidered Textile Elevates the Ordinary

2011-12-27T04:41:00.000-08:00


Antique embroidered roll basket liner. photo by James Cummings

This morning I am thinking about the many times that women have spent time embroidering ordinary household items to make them special and to brighten everyday activities. The photo you see here is a textile meant to place in a basket to keep rolls warm.

I found this in an antiques store and couldn't leave it behind. The intricacy of this dainty design is captivating! The finished scalloped edges reflect the maker's artistic sensibility and imparts to the piece an ultra-feminine touch.

Some buys are for the soul alone. This object is one I acquired not to "use" but to appreciate. We do not have to use up and wear out every textile that ever passes through our hands. I am happy that some textiles have been so "valued" by others that they have survived for a long time in pristine condition. This is one example.

Patricia Cummings

Winter Delight

2011-12-25T16:14:00.000-08:00


Woodpecker feeding on suet - photo by James Cummings

One of the delights of winter is catching a glimpse of the few birds that are brave enough to weather New England cold. They are winter warriors, for sure, as they continue to find seeds on spent flower blooms and perhaps insect grubs embedded in tree bark. This photo was taken on Christmas Day. Jim set up his camera on a tripod and I alerted him when I saw this fellow come to feed. The bird was so distracted while feeding, he never noticed that his photo was being taken.

The Steadfast Quality of Nature
There is something comforting in the coming and going of the seasons. The earth is steadfast in its attempts at self-renewal. Animals and birds know what they must do to survive. In this climate, they either opt to while away the time sleeping until Spring, or else they are going about their business of gathering the merest rudiments of sustenance.

The palette of nature has quickly changed its hues, as you can readily see by looking out this window with me. The bright greens of spring and the lush deeper greens of summer were replaced by intermittent hues of orange and yellow in autumn, but now, the landscape is cast in a grey, black and white monochrome.

Human Madness/Human Kindness Overflowing
Meanwhile, the world seems to have gone mad. In another frenzy of holiday shopping, mad whirl of parties, and shallow sham of extravagant gift giving, many people seem to have lost the true spirit of Christmas. It does not live at the shopping mall. Luckily, so far this year, I have not heard of anyone being trampled to death getting in the door of any department store!

In contrast, one man in New Hampshire, Dana Nordberg, gave a family a very special gift - a hand carved gravestone with the image of a sweet little girl, Celina Cass, who was murdered here recently. In a heartbreaking twist of events, still under investigation, the child was abducted at night and found days later wrapped in a blanket and hidden near a river that flows through Groveton, the small town where she lived. The donor of the grave monument is a true artist and a most generous soul! His generosity is extraordinary!

Life goes on. Our feeble efforts to make jolly soon pale in this life full of roadblocks and travails. We never have to look far to see those who are suffering. On this Christmas day, I set aside some time to just be still and think about life deeply, again trying to fathom why I am still here and in what direction the road signs are pointing. Change is always in the wind.

Keep a Winning Attitude
Tonight, I am thinking of the words of Michael Bublé's song: "It's a new dawn, it's a new day, it's a new life...for me...and I'm feeling good!" It's a conscious choice!

Be well.

Patricia Cummings

An original Christmas Poem and a handmade Nativity

2011-12-23T12:23:00.000-08:00

Nativity scene crocheted by Patricia Cummings circa late 1970s
from a design seen in a magazine

Please click on any photo to see a larger view! Then, click on the "X" to return to this page.

A Christmas Poem
©2007. Patricia Cummings, Concord, NH

‘Twas the night before Christmas and all through the manse,
the urchins awaited a man of expanse.
The stockings were hung with diligent care,
in hopes that the Gentleman soon would be there.

Stevie was sleeping alone in his bed,
while Jackie laid, bug-eyed, hearing the tread
of reindeer and Santa, near the chimney they strode,
Santa's sack laden with gifts to unload.

The mayhem on the roof was clearly proof certain.
Now at the window, Jackie drew back the curtain.

Alas, the old man made a quick get-away,
leaving Jackie to wonder, to hope and to pray.
Did Santa leave presents or a black lump of coal?
To check this situation could result in a scold.

For Mother and Father snoozed peacefully now.
To disturb their slumber could result in a row.
But he crept down the stairs, with nary a sound,
And, indeed, there were presents, strewn all around.

In the morning, at breakfast, we heard the yearly yarn,
to complement the story of the wee, lowly bairn.

Born in a manger, no room at the inn,
Come to save sinners from God-awful sin,
Redeemer and Savior, Emmanuel, too,
The Christmas tradition, ever old, ever new.

This poem is inspired by the antics of my oldest brother, Jack Grace (1943-1996), who loved presents and did, indeed, report hearing Santa on the roof, each year.

Anything is possible when we BELIEVE, and whether you call him St. Nicholas, Kris Kringle, or Santa Claus, “he” is the embodiment of the Christmas spirit. Please save a cookie or two for him, will you? And, while you’re at it, please set aside a carrot or an apple for each of the reindeer!

Blessings to you in this season when anything is possible. Peace, prosperity, and good health to you in the coming year!

Patricia and James Cummings
Quilter’s Muse Publications

Our Holiday Photo

2011-12-22T11:18:00.000-08:00

Patricia and James Cummings in their 1821 historic home, dressed in Civil War attire, standing in a "den," created from scratch by Jim on his last vacation last autumn. Merry Christmas to you and yours/ Happy Holidays to all!

This photo shows a partial view of our new reading den. It is a space to keep a few treasured items such as the Sampler that my late mother embroidered that says "Let every rising hour bring/ some useful lesson on the wing." The piece of embroidery on a stand is done in Needlepoint and is actually a firescreen, a traditional piece of furniture that would be placed in front of the fireplace to deflect the heat from the face of someone sitting nearby. I found it in an antiques store for a very reasonable amount and the stitching is just wonderful as is the scene, so reminiscent of French toile fabric designs.

We had purchased Civil War attire in conjunction with a presentation we gave last summer at the New London Historical Society in NH in which we discussed the Civil War quilts that are held in various museums nationwide. One of the Civil War reproduction quilts that I made can be seen hanging on the wall behind the tree. I inscribed all of the blocks, as did Carrie Fairbanks of Brandon, VT, the original maker of a similar quilt that she donated to the U.S. Sanitary Commission to distribute to "any" soldier. The quilt is now part of the collection of the Vermont Historical Society who acquired it from a museum in Pennsylvania. It is one of the only six known extant Civil War quilts that were donated to the U.S. Sanitary Commission. Of the hundreds of thousands of other quilts given to that agency for distribution to Union soldiers, only these survive.

Carrie married Luke Fairbanks, one of six brothers who all fought on the Union side in the Civil War. They wed in 1862 on Christmas Day while he was home recuperating from a gunshot wound to the forearm sustained when he was shot while holding a gun over his head while wading across a river during the Peninsula Campaign. He took medical leave. According to one of their grandsons, Luke did not return to his regiment until the following April and when questioned, he reported that he had been taken as a "prisoner of war." More likely, he was a prisoner of love. This is just one of the amusing stories I learned while intently studying Civil War history and reading 31 books in their entirety before presenting the lecture! I am still reading! There were thousands of books published on this subject, with more added this past year alone, the Sesquicentennial (150th) anniversary of the beginning of the American Civil War in 1861.

Jim has just finished creating this into a usable space. While it is only 150 square feet, the room is large enough for the purpose for which it is intended, a little "vacation" spot to listen to music, do some needlework or read.

Unfortunately, the "cinnabar red" microsuede loveseat that we ordered in October is not going to be here by Christmas. At the moment, at the other end of the room, we have some very comfortable wicker chairs that my mother gave me to use in my dorm room at the university 40 years ago. Jim painted them white a while back and I bought new cushions, but when the new furniture arrives, they will be relegated once again to the "summer porch."

We have shelves on one wall and full spectrum grow lights hovering over them within a frame that Jim added over the top shelf. The houseplants are taking full advantage of the extra light this time of year and are blooming prolifically! We love this old house and its historical significance. History is ever-evolving and we, too, are creating our own personal histories daily. Our TODAY will be the next generations' PAST.

We are certainly enjoying the holidays this year, especially because of our new room and our new book that is just beginning distribution.

Cheers!

Patricia Cummings

My Twenty Year Quilt Project - Now Finished

2011-12-21T11:41:00.000-08:00

Inspired by a photo on the cover of the now defunct Miniature Quilts magazine, formerly published by Chitra Publications (now out of business), I cut out all the pieces for a Double Wedding Ring quilt miniature in 1991. Some of you may remember Robert Frost's words in the poem "The Road Not Taken": "as way leads on to way..." Well, folks, I put this project aside and basically forgot about it. While rummaging through various piles of fabric in my sewing room, I discovered it at the beginning of December and began the arduous task of hand piecing all of those convex and concave edges that you see.

An antique china head doll is taking a short rest on my new Double Wedding Ring mini that was only 20 years in the making.

The design is a bit unusual in that it has "extensions" along all four edges, but four completely "rounded" corners. This was a challenge to make but very fun! (The pillowcase I made is decorated with a miniature version of the first little Redwork bear I embroidered when I was five years old. I am really enjoying my second childhood. You should try it!)

I was happy to have a large table where I could lay the pieces where they would wait for me, undisturbed, until I could get around to sewing them all together. With the many parts, it was truly like piecing a jigsaw puzzle. I also had to quickly figure out the best manner in which to "press" the pieces, easier done while any quilt is in progress, particularly this one as I wanted all the pieces to lay flat when the quilt was finished. This is no small achievement when a quilt with circular pieces is involved.

Every day, I would work several hours a day or more. I finally succeeded in finishing the piecing. The next decision was how to quilt it. Due to the fact that I had chosen tone-on-tone fabrics (the white fabric with printed flowers) for the centers of the "rings," I machine quilted it on my home sewing machine. I have done plenty of straight line machine quilting before, but as I work primarily by hand, this was the first time I had ever attempted to "stitch in the ditch" when circles are present. The quilting went along well using just regular sewing weight Coats & Clark sewing thread, the only thread I had on hand in a color suitable for the quilt. I did not use any special walking foot and even left the regular foot I always use, in place.

The quilt which measures 20 1/2" x 20 1/2" is not perfect by any means. If I made another one, I am sure it would be a superior effort. However, the operative word here is "DONE." A dreamed of project finished....albeit twenty years later. So, for those of you who despair over your piles of UFOs (unfinished objects), do not despair. If you live long enough, you may get the urge to visit former inspirations. I am so happy to now have this cute little completed quilt!

Patricia Cummings

Reflections on the Season - An Essay

2011-12-21T08:44:00.000-08:00

Due to the fact that Christmas is the holiday I personally celebrate, I will address the follow issue in those terms. No offense meant to others who celebrate other religious holidays, even though what I am going to share could be applied in a universal manner.

The months and days leading up to Christmas are often ones in which we are bombarded daily with ads and images of happy people and what is needed, materially-speaking, to achieve the same status. If we are to believe what is presented, then we would all be unhappy if for example, we were not given a brand new Lexus car with a big bow on top. That is not usually how things work!

On Facebook, I have noticed a number of my friends mentioning how depressed they are feeling, even suggesting that the thought that life is not worth it. For those whose personal situations are less than ideal and for many others who will have empty places around their kitchen tables this year and who truly miss their loved ones, it is not unexpected to feel a sense of loss and a longing for times past. These kinds of feelings worsen when compared to all of the supposed "happiness" that is being enjoyed by everyone else, if we are to believe the scenes portrayed on television.

Just as humans can't be totally happy at any time, let alone rise to the occasion for special holidays, it is clear that depression can be made worse by the high expectations we are told we should have, not only of ourselves, but of others.

For years, I suffered from feeling estranged from most of my family members. I understand. Everyone has their own husband, kids and grandchildren, etc. That is perfectly okay. Really it is! I have decided to be reliant on NO ONE for my personal state of happiness and you know what? That attitude really works in actually making me feel more joyful, more peaceful, and yes, more happy!

Here is a list of things anyone can do to improve their mindset:

1) No matter how crummy you feel, take a walk! Get some fresh air! Exercise will clear your brain of cobwebs and improve your general physical health, making you more able to cope with your own feelings. You will even begin to think more clearly!

2) Do something creative! Fashion a new ornament! Bake cookies! Make a quilt! Paint a picture! Do some scrapbooking! Do anything that makes your heart sing and refocuses your dreary thoughts.

3) Engage your mind in learning something new by reading about a subject you've never explored, learning a foreign language, or even revisiting a topic in which you were previously interested.

4) Make plans for the future! What do you hope to accomplish "next year?" Never leave HOPE by the wayside.

5) Rather than wondering what others will do for you, be the first to make a phone call, send an invitation or otherwise engage with people you know or would like to know better. Extend the hand of friendship!

6) Never forget to rely on yourself instead of running to a doctor to "fix" your depression. Pills are chemicals and any chemical that you take is bound to cause some other adverse affect you didn't count on. Drugs are never a long term answer.

7) Trust yourself and cling to the hope that tomorrow could be a better day and work hard to see that it is!

8) From food preparations to gift-giving, keep things simple! Repeat after me: "Keep Things Simple!"

This is my 8 step outline for happiness, today and every day. As one book author said, "Don't sweat the small stuff (and it is all "small stuff.")" We are blessed with the gift of life. Make the most of it! You are here for a reason. Suffering is part of life. Some of us seem to suffer more than others, but try not to compare yourself to anyone else. That practice is not fair to yourself or to them!

Happiness is an equal opportunity employer. Make the decision today to smile more, even if you envision doing that through clenched teeth! Soon, your smile will be genuine. Please feel "better! Enjoy the season!

Patricia Cummings

Kit Quilts

2011-12-20T19:04:00.000-08:00

Kit quilts in which the fabrics are pre-selected by the vendor and the directions are provided are a quick and easy way to make a quilt. The idea is very appealing to many quiltmakers. It is an ingenious way to sell fabric as well as a quilt pattern.

Quilt kits have been marketed at least as far back in history as the second decade of the 20th century, if not earlier. Marie Webster who wrote the first book dedicated to the study of old quilts also had quilt kits for sale.

Quilt constructed by me, made from a kit I purchased from Connecting Threads, a quilt vendor.

I have made very few quilts from kits, usually preferring to choose my own fabrics, but the quilt shown above was very appealing with its pre-printed block used in the center. I made this one for my mother to hang in her nursing room home. I hoped that it would remind her of good memories of her own childhood. She seemed to really like the quilt. For me, it was fun to assemble. All the design work and planning had already been accomplished!

This is the other quilt I can remember making from a kit which I purchased at a quilt shop in Vermont. I just loved the pre-printed Log Cabin quilt blocks as well as the puppy/kitty blocks that reminded me of designs from the 1930s. I made this quilt for my granddaughter.

Quilt kits have their place and have probably resulted in many more quilts being made than would have been otherwise. A few individuals in the quilt history world are known for their interest in and study of old quilt kits, determining their provenance, the company who manufactured them, etc. Rosie Werner is perhaps the leading expert on this topic in the country and she has provided information that was published by the American Quilt Study Group.

Whether you enjoy kits, blocks of the month, or designing quilts yourself, have fun with your quilting! You are engaging in an ever-changing and developing activity that is not just for "old ladies" any more and is beginning to interest a much younger demographic, many of whom are joining the "Modern Quilt" movement using brightly colored, large print fabric, supposedly intended to complement the New Age city apartments in which many folks now dwell.

Happy Quilting!

Patricia Cummings

Deer Quilt

2011-12-18T18:02:00.000-08:00

One of the most favorite quilts I ever made was inspired by a quilt I saw in either a book or magazine that was designed by quilt teacher, Marti Michell. Eventually, I gave it to my brother-in-law who is very fond of the outdoors, hunting and fishing. Meanwhile, the quilt was photographed in a corner of my studio and appeared in a magazine article in 1994, just a one-page feature with various shots of the room that I refer to as my quilting studio. (The term "studio" is not used for any kind of snob effect. Rather, it is descriptive. An artist works in a studio and I am an artist and have been since I was a child. The word show intent to create something artful!).

I was so happy when that article was published, even though I was distressed that the caption did not give credit to the designer even though I had made it clear that I did not come up with the idea for that quilt. I ALWAYS try to give credit where credit is due, although in my quilt world wanderings, I have found others who are unwilling to do the same and some who are even willing to steal, whenever possible, but only in a few instances related to me but of which I am keenly aware. I can't waste time worry about that, however. A rolling stone gathers no moss!

At the very least, both of my brothers were still alive when that first holiday issue was published that featured the quilt shown here and they were proud as punch. Steve died the same year, in December, and his older brother, Jack, who was only 18 months his senior, passed on in 1996. They had no idea of the journey I had embarked upon nor did they have any knowledge of the success I would have in writing books and countless articles, poetry, short stories and journalistic reports.

Looking back, as we tend to do especially during the holidays when we remember those who are no longer here, I take a great deal of satisfaction that my brothers were able to glimpse a small part of my creativity, as neither of them had much awareness of the "new" quilting hobby I had taken up in 1984. It is always nice to think that someone, somewhere is proud of one's accomplishments. The 1994 article was a milestone but it would not be until five years later that I would write my first quilt history article for a major magazine. The rest is "history," as they say.

Here's to the Open Road. We never know how far it may lead any of us!

Safe traveling!

Patricia Cummings

Wonderful Civil War blog by Barbara Brackman

2011-12-18T09:16:00.000-08:00

This year, quilt historian Barbara Brackman, has been blogging about traditional quilt blocks that she has assigned new meanings based on actual events of the Civil War. She associates the blocks with certain people, songs, battles, etc. Having acquired all of her previous book titles, I am so happy to hear that a new book by her is in the works!

http://civilwarquilts.blogspot.com/2011/12/51-new-york.html

I particularly liked her post today about the bazaars that sold goods crafted or made by women during the Civil War to raise funds in support of soldiers. The most interesting part of the post (to me) is the embroidered silk pillow at the bottom. She provides no provenance but mentions that it is historically significant. This is the first I have heard of any extant pillow covers associated with the American Civil War. With any luck, more about it will be revealed in her upcoming book!

Barbara's work always has been a bright spot for all of us who love quilt history. The consummate researcher, she is always learning more and always willing to revisit topics and make corrections as needed, just as I do.

Quilt history has really only been an official point of study since Marie Webster's book written in 1926. Interest in the subject has grown exponentially in the last 20 years, due in great part to the work of Barbara Brackman, as well as Sally Garoutte in California who founded the American Quilt Study Group. We wish Barbara the best as well as many more years of engagement with a topic that so many of us have come to love.

Patricia Cummings
member of the American Quilt Study Group

New Christmas Holiday Crossword Puzzle

2011-12-17T18:53:00.000-08:00

For those of you who like crossword puzzles, I have just created a new one, just for you!

The clues can be found here:

http://www.quiltersmuse.com/pdfs/Christmas-Holiday-Puzzle-clues.pdf

The answers are here:

http://www.quiltersmuse.com/pdfs/Christmas-Holiday-Puzzle-answers.pdf

Pour yourself a hot cup of tea and grab a Christmas cookie! Enjoy!

Patricia Cummings

Random Thoughts on a Saturday Morning

2011-12-17T05:15:00.000-08:00

Good morning!

Regurgitated news flash: The New England Quilt Museum has announced that in honor of their 25th anniversary next year, admission will be free on the 25th of the month. Of course, members are always admitted free. Check out their website: http://www.nequiltmuseum.org

Latest In-Print Article

As part of my continuing self-education about the Civil War, I have researched and written about Clara Barton, battlefield nurse and founder of the American Red Cross. An article about this subject is "at the printer" and will appear in The Quilter magazine (with copies being mailed at the end of this month).

More Research Needed

In other news, a student intern at the Susan B. Anthony Birthplace Museum, a site highlighted in one of my articles, is doing research on the mill that was run by Susan's father in Adams, MA. Contrary to what I had been told by a volunteer at the museum, namely, that the mill manufactured cloth, the current researcher believes that they may have only produced cotton thread. Research continues on this elusive subject. Read an article about Susan B. Anthony on my website "Quilter's Muse Publications."

Misrepresentation on eBay, etc.

Online dealers continue to misrepresent time periods associated with the various pillow covers they are selling and they most often misidentify fibers and fabrics used in their construction. One very irritating dealer customarily lists all of his pillow covers as World War II and misnames their fiber content. When I tried to share information with him, just so he would know since he seems to offer these for sale on a regular basis, he thought I was trying to sell him a book.

I am in the business of information-sharing. Whether the dealer buys my book, Sweetheart and Mother Pillows 1917-1945 is immaterial. It is important to me to try to correct the record and help folks like him to understand these military textiles. No need to share false information with the public when the truth is available. "You can lead a horse to water...[...]."

Invitation to Share on Talk Radio

By the way, I have been invited by Pat Sloan, radio broadcaster for American Patchwork and Quilting Radio to join her on her show on February 20 @ 4 p.m. to talk about my latest book. Sounds like fun. I'll be announcing details as we get closer to the date. So pleased at this opportunity.

Friends Report Having Received Book Orders

This is the first week of distribution by amazon of my new book. Friends who ordered it by when it was first offered at a pre-release price have begun receiving their copies. The official release date set by Schiffer Publishing is December 28, 2011. There is still three days left to order from amazon with super shipping to ensure delivery by Christmas.

The book is receiving a terrific response, sight unseen, and is already listed by many online sellers and will be stocked in all of the major bookstores of the United States and independent bookstores around the world. Discounts are available to museum shops and any other retailer. Contact the company directly for detailsby calling (610) 593-1777. Their hours are 8:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. (EST). Thanks for your interest!

Personal Updates

When I was a child, my family always attended services at St. Joseph's Cathedral in Manchester, NH. The church was always a sight to behold at Christmas time with an altar full of poinsettias and a large manger scene. I am sure many updates have been done to the interior of the church. A few weeks ago, the Catholic church announced that there are major changes to the Mass, the most significant modifications since Vatican II in the 1960s when the liturgy changed from Latin to English and the church members became respondents rather than people who just observed the service being said in Latin. A new Bishop of Manchester has just been appointed. I hope to attend one of their Christmas offerings.

Today is our wedding anniversary. We have been paddling the same canoe for decades now and still prefer the company of each other to that of anyone else on the planet. Nice to have a "soul-mate" who is supportive in every way. It has been fun growing old together. As for becoming old, I would advise it, considering the alternative! I wish happiness for others in their own close relationships. Love can never be overrated!

Here's wishing you a happy day! I will be wrapping gifts, baking, doing laundry, and if I'm not too exhausted after that, quilting!

Cheers,

Pat

Crazy Quilts

2011-12-16T18:35:00.000-08:00

Ever since I've known about Crazy Quilts, I find them to be very appealing and fun to make. Lately, in light of the fact that I've just been asked to give another lecture on the subject in a couple of months, I have been watching the ads of eBay. All I can say is that the prices seem "crazy."

Half the time, the quilts are not even well made. The embroidery looks like a crap shoot and the backing is described as "soiled." Hmmm.... what fool is so eager to add a stained quilt to their collection? Especially one that has an undetermined stain. Did the cat spray it? Yuck.

I can't "make" an antique quilt and I suppose the idea of "old" is what is selling these quilts. In their day, they were a dime a dozen. Every household had at least one, if not various crazy quilted accessories to boot.

The topic is a fun one. I have always enjoyed teaching crazy quilting and making them myself. I am looking forward to this talk. I'd tell you where it will be given but the space there is small and can only accommodate about 45 people or so and I am sure members of the organization would like to be able to attend. Not sure if outside guests are even invited. More to learn to be sure.

In the meantime, I am happy to think about revisiting all of the information I have personally collected about Crazy Quilts over the years.

When we first lived in this old house, the daughter of the man and wife who formerly lived here for at least three quarters of the 20th century told me that there had been some old loose embroidered quilt blocks with velvet and fancy dressmaking fabrics. They were stored upstairs. Not knowing what to do with them, the family figured that no one would want those old things and threw them out. I was dismayed. Would have loved to have seen them!

I imagine a lot of things that would be of value to a collector are discarded by the unknowing and the uncaring. If you care about your own items, please write down a history of them and why they are meaningful and should be saved. Perhaps they will have a better chance of not being tossed out like yesterday's newspaper.

Crazy quilts - just one of my very favorite topics related to quilts and their history. This should be fun!

Patricia Cummings

Trouble with Crazy Quilts is they don't look like much until they are viewed close-up, provided they have interesting fabrics, commemorative ribbons or fancy embroidery.

New Blog Site to Discuss Quilts and More

2011-12-16T12:35:00.000-08:00

Hello!

I have decided to set up this Google blog to discuss quilts, old and new, and my personal journey as a quilter and writer. For your enjoyment, I hope to share many photos of quilts and other textiles here. Information about various happenings in the quilt world will be posted from time to time.

I love needlearts, especially Crazy Quilts, Appliquéd Quilts, Vintage and Antique Quilts and the process of hand embroidery and hand quilting. I enjoy music of all kinds, good books, culture, fine arts, foreign language study and architecture. My writings often highlight New England and all that it has to offer as well as what it is like to live the life of a creative person. On any given day, I can choose what I would like to create or which new research "thread" I would like to pursue.

I have served in many capacities in the quilt world: as a quilt teacher, a quilt judge, a "certified master craftsman in quilting," a credential earned after fulfilling all of the requirements set forth by the Embroiderer's Guild of America. My work has been published in foreign and domestic publications, and I have given many programs. I've served in leadership positions in guilds. I have offered advice and served as a consultant for other researchers, college students and collectors. I am happy to be a resource!

Since 2002, my husband, Jim, and I have posted a ton of free information on our Quilter's Muse Publications' online files. There are articles related to quilts, history, embroidery, vintage cooking, free quilt patterns and outline stitch embroidery designs from vintage sources, folk music files, photos of New Hampshire and New England and news of regional museums. We have shared examples of our own creativity and we have also documented some of the quilt shows of the region by offering show reviews.

In addition, I have written books about quilt care, display and conservation; Redwork embroidery; the life and times of my own father, John E. Grace, a major figure in the credit union movement of the 20th century. In 2008, I wrote a 355 page biography of Ellen Emeline Hardy Webster (1867-1950) that outlines her work as a quilt historian and lecturer in the 1930s. The official release date for my latest book, set by the publisher, Schiffer Publishing, Ltd., is December 28, 2011. The name of the book is Sweetheart and Mother Pillows 1917-1945, currently available online worldwide. "Google" the title to read the names of the many venues where it is available.

I am not new to blogging. My former wordpress blog has more than 1700 entries and will remain in place for a time. It can still be viewed via the link that is placed to it on the home page of my main website: http://www.quiltersmuse.com This blog, like that one, will be eclectic, informative and fun for those who love quilts and their history, American culture, political thought, and the natural world - all strong interests of mine.

I welcome you and encourage you to "follow" this blog. Thanks for reading this long note! I hope you will return to "visit" again.

Best wishes,

Patricia Cummings