Patchwork Patterns, Ruby McKim

When I first heard about
quilting and decided to give it a try
there were very few resources available.

I remember seeing patterns printed in the newspaper,
but they looked so old fashioned.

I started my first quilt in 1973
after I saw my friend's sister was making a quilt
and she was a hippie, nothing old fashioned about that!

I jumped right in.

Here is the story of my first quilt.

After sewing a gazillion rectangles together

I figured there must be something more interesting than that.

I received a copy of this book in 1974.

It was the beginning of an exciting journey.

I never knew that squares and triangles could create so

many different patterns.

It was a treasure trove of ideas.

Everyone got pillows for Christmas

so I could experiment with all of these patterns.

Do you notice how different this book looks from the books

and patterns we purchase today?

Simple single patterns,

the pattern pieces didn't include seam allowance,

no finished ideas,

and no color photos.

 Ruby McKim did include value placement ideas

with the simple black and white drawings.

This was actually a wonderful way to start

creating quilts and designs.

There were no preconceived ideas of what

was possible.

It was totally up to my imagination and creativity.

It's very easy today 

to make quilts

only the way a pattern shows

and with only those fabrics.

I admit I've lost some of my creativity.

 But look what's also in the pamphlets

I'm giving away.

"Something New, Ready Cut Quilts"

 Quilts kits for those who wanted it just that way.

Don't you love the prices in 1931.

Quilt kits are still big business for a quilt shop.

There are a lot of quilters, myself included at times,

 who want it just that way

even today.

 ****

Don't forget to leave a comment

on Monday's post.

 I'll be drawing on Saturday for

the winner of these

original Ruby McKim booklets.

 They could be yours,
to spark your creativity.

 Until Next Time-