I’ve decided that I want the quilts in this project to have different patterns and, where possible, different techniques and materials that are in some way representative of the women that they are commemorating. I knew that I wanted one of the quilts to be a Signature Quilt.

A number of patterns lend themselves to signature quiltmaking, the main prerequisite is a plain white block in the center upon which the quiltmaker can sign their name in ink, embroidery or cross-stitch. Occasionally well wishes or quotes were added as well.[1]

The block that I have chosen is a variation of the Chimney Sweep. I’ll be adapting the pattern from the book on signature quilts that I have since there isn’t one in the block pattern book I have. I’ll need to adjust the sizes down a bit since this is for a 10” square and I need 8” squares for this project. Good thing I like geometry

Full Pattern here (this is a great site by the way if you are a quilter)

When I was at my mother’s house for Christmas I had her write the names of my great-grandmother Grace’s ten children on the center blocks (I planned ahead for once!). Next thing I start in on is the printmaking. I’ve heard from my mother that Grace always wore dresses and when she cooked she always wore aprons made from sacks made from flowery sack-cloth. So I am going to try my hand at printing some flowers. We’ll see how it goes. And I hear from my cousin Joanne that Grace was known for crocheting doilies, I may attempt a crocheted border around this one, I’ll see how it looks when it is assembled.

Thanks to my family for helping with input for the project.

[1] The Signature Quilt Traditions, Techniques and The Signature Block Collection.Pepper Cory, Susan McKelvey. 1995. Quilt House Publishing