Crazy Quilts: History - Techniques - Embroidery Motifs - Softcover

A celebration of the Crazy quilt, this book by a distinguished quilting teacher, appraiser, and restorer traces the bewitching history of these quilts from their earliest origins to the present day. Cindy Brick follows the Crazy quilt’s development from colonial times through the Civil War, the Victorian era, and the emergence of modern Crazies. She also decodes the meaning of the curious images stitched into these quilts, from flowers to fans and farm animals. Along with this history, the book includes a detailed how-to section on planning, piecing, and embroidering or embellishing a Crazy quilt, plus an appendix of vintage embroidery patterns. Her exquisitely illustrated book is as delightful to page through as it is instructive to read.

The Crazy quilt skyrocketed to fame in the Victorian age and quickly became a national obsession. Embroidered on every seam (and more), made up of luxurious fabrics and intriguing images, it was the epitome of elegance.

Crazy Quilts inspires us to join the obsession, with author Cindy Brick as our guide. Tracing the Crazy’s rise in popularity through influences from the Civil War, the Centennial Exhibition, Japanese design, and periodicals like Godey’s Lady’s Book and Peterson’s Magazine, Brick uncovers the quirky history of this uncommon quilt style from its beginnings to the present day. In addition, she sheds light on the mysteries surrounding the Crazy, such as how it originated, how it got its name, and the meanings behind the flowers and fans embroidered into these lavish quilts.

Also included are instructions on how to make your own Crazy quilt, featuring a variety of methods for hand or machine piecing that anyone—from beginner to expert—can do. Beyond the basics of planning and constructing the quilt, the author gives expert advice on embroidering and embellishing the finished top using buttons, beads, or the antique embroidery motifs provided.