Isabella Bird Travels to Korea in the 1890s
Isabella Bird was an Englishwoman, born in 1831, who travelled to remote regions and wrote about her travels. Many years ago, I read her book A Lady’s Life in the Rocky Mountains, about… Continue reading
Category Archive: Historic Textiles
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Korean Clothing from the 1600s
In following my new-found interest in hanbok (traditional Korean clothing), I have come across so many interesting resources that it would take me years to absorb them. From the wonderful website We Wear… Continue reading
Came for the Costumes, Stayed for the Character Arcs
Last year one of my honorary grandkids recommended the movie KPop Demon Hunters, so I watched it and liked it, especially the beautiful songs. The Netflix algorithm then suggested some other Korean TV… Continue reading
Guest Post: Coverlet Magic
Today I am so honored to share a beautiful essay from Annie Brannon. Annie contacted me for information about an antique coverlet she had bought — I am no expert, but I know… Continue reading
Coverlets in the American Civil War
A kind reader, Benecio Machado, made me aware of Civil War photographs that clearly show handwoven coverlets. He was asking what books I would recommend for learning about the coverlets of that era.… Continue reading
How to Read a Coverlet
A reader, Carol Ruth, sent me pictures of an overshot coverlet that she inherited from her mother, and asked what I could tell her about it. Her pictures revealed a lot, and she… Continue reading
ScrapHappy April 2023 — A Mending Story
Years ago, a fellow quilter and blogger, Paula B, was downsizing and asked me if I would like to have some of the things she had collected. Of course I said yes, and… Continue reading
Celebrating Public Domain Day
Every year at this time, I am eager to explore the works that are entering the public domain each year. For a list of 75 highlights of this year’s works, you can read… Continue reading
Locked Down in History — Unraveling “The Queen’s Embroiderer”
I came across a book excerpt that described a French embroiderer in the court of Louis XIV – his techniques, materials, and customers¹. I quickly bought the book, The Queen’s Embroiderer by Joan… Continue reading
Wrapping up 2019
Looking back at my resolutions from last year, I accomplished about half. I am happy with that. Big Projects I finished repairing our friend Chuck’s quilt, not much more than a year after… Continue reading