Need advise on 1930's quilt top

[Geneva C.]

I have a redwork quilt top that was done by my great grandmother, I'm guessing 1930's. It's in very good condition, with only a few small age spots on it and a little soiled on the pie shape edge pieces. I am considering completing it using quilting methods from that time period, but want advise from seasoned quilters, before doing anything to it. I have a lot of sewing experience, (both machine and detailed handwork), but have never done quilting. That being said I'm finally ready for the challenge. Any advise, comments would be greatly appreciated.

[Alex A.]

I envision cross hatch grid - anyone else???

[Rita C.]

Hi Vicki, are you going to hand or machine quilt it? If you are hand quilting it then you should use a mixed batting which will be easier on your hands. And whether you are hand or machine quilting it you will need to baste it well with pins, stitching or 505 basting spray. Once you have it well basted then you will want to SID (stitch in the ditch) around each block to stabilize them after which you can do any kind of quilting you desire. I agree with Alex that cross-hatching would probably be very appropriate. I would love to see a photo of it?

BTW I believe that Retro Clean is really good for cleaning up old linens and quilts. I have not used it, (can't get it in Ireland) but it might be just the job to clean up those age spots on your great grandmother's quilt. Here's a link to their website:

http://retroclean.com/retroclean/

[Rita C.]

I only have this picture available this evening I can take more tomorrow. I would hand quilt it. Thank you!

[Alex A.]

holy cow - wonderful! cross hatch and then something else in the border!!! LOVE the ice cream cone scallops for the border!!!

[Catherine S.]

Vickie, it is a beautiful quilt. I love the red work and I love the border. I am going to be working on a 1930's reproduction fabric quilt sometime this year. I think the ice cream cones would look wonderful in the reproduction fabrics. I would go along with Alex. Cross hatching to the redwork area. I am not sure about the border, but I would put some small design in each cone. Maybe a vine to connect them.

[Lois B.]

What an amazing quilt! I want to see more pictures if you post them, as well as, pictures and news of the progress you are making with your project. There are lots of experts reading this and they will offer great support and advice along the way, should you ask for it.

[Lois B.]

Thanks to all of you for your kind words, advise and comments! Your interest is giving me the boost I need to complete the quilt. Lois, what a great idea to post progress. I think it would be very helpful to keep me on track. I'll take some detailed pictures later today. Thanks again!