Butterfly quilts are among some of the prettiest quilts made. They seem to have been a particular favourite of the quilt makers of the depression. These blocks appear to have been stitched during this time. When I purchased them they were stitched together in three sets of four. The squares were hemmed, so perhaps the needlewoman intended to use them for d’oyleys. They are in very good condition, nicely appliquéd and finished with a black straight stitch to emphasise the design.

I took the blocks apart and cut them to a standard 11 inch block. I loved the colours in the butterflies, which are so typical of the era. I decided to brighten them up a little with some pretty french floral fabric and a blue and white polka dot.

The butterfly and nine patch blocks worked up to quite a nice size so I decided to add a nice wide cream border to allow for lots of hand quilting. I can finish the quilt with a scallop edged binding in the blue polka dot. I found a lovely bright pink vintage fabric which I was lucky enough to have good yardage of for the backing.

With Spring just around the corner here in Melbourne, Australia I will be looking out for lots more butterflies.

Happy needle working today!
Janette –