Blocks from 79 different people and 6 different countries.
I have US, Canada, England, Australia, Belgium and The Netherlands.
A block from "The Queen of the Blanket Circus" herself, Brenda Papadakis (yes, the one who wrote the Dear Jane book!)
There are blocks with rhinestones, blocks with state stamps, personal references, one that was completely hand stitched, one with a tiny button stitched on, and even one talented and aspiring 11 year old quilter!
There are still a few people I will be emailing who did not participate in the swap, but who have indicated they would be willing to swap one-on-one for a few blocks, so the numbers may go up a little bit.
I find it really interesting how history has come full circle in a way. Signature blocks were popular in the 1800's as people moved westward. Friends and family who knew they may never get to see their loved ones again, and would have only limited postal contact would put together quilts with their names and sentiments written or embroidered on as a way to remember those left behind. Now, in the digital age, the same method is being used to bind those with a common interest who may have never met, and who may never get to meet. I wonder what those first makers of siggie quilts would say if they could see what goes on now?
Wow! This will be great fun to put together. I hope you'll post a pic of the finished project. :)
ReplyDeleteThat's awesome. To think of so many different people having their work incorporated together is cool.
ReplyDeleteThose first makers of siggie quilts would be thrilled to see the siggie quilt continue to bring people together. In a different way, of course, but the spirit lives on and that is fantastic!
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