Oak Leaf
Made by Mary Kimball
Clarendon Vt.
1860-1880
My sources identify this block as a Princess Feather. Whatever name it is given, it is a remarkable work of art. The stitching is done with white thread at 14-15 stitches (not counting gaps) stitches to the inch.
She used a tiny whip stitch that is very hard to see. The fabric is finer than the cottons we use today and the thread looks finer than what we use today. This may account for the finer stitching. The seam allowance is turned under at a scant 3/8 of an inch or less in some places. And, yes, she did make tiny cuts in the inside curves to turn a very, very smooth curve. Where the 8 stems all come together in the center, she pieced the points together before appliqueing the whole thing to the ground. There are no ripples, no pleats, no tucks. This was done by a truly gifted needlewoman. I can only aspire to such needlework.
Blessings,
Chris
Chris, Thanks for sharing this historical work of art and the detailed information about the block construction. Lovely! I love the princess feather! This is my first visit to your blog and it is great! ~ Wanda
ReplyDeleteThankyou. I have yet to figure out what to do with it, other than bring it out and show it off once in a while.
ReplyDeleteChris
How interesting to hear about how this block was made and the use of fine fabrics and thread. When I first saw the photo I wondered how the centre was constructed - thanks so much for sharing this work of art.
ReplyDelete