Vintage Flower Pot Garden Appliqué Quilt

Vintage Flower Pot Garden Appliqué Quilt

A charming example of mid-century applique, this Vintage Dutch Roses Quilt features fifteen cheerful potted flower baskets arranged across a soft ivory background and framed by a delightful pink floral border. The pattern closely resembles Dutch Roses, a design published by noted quilt designer Nancy Cabot in the Chicago Tribune in 1935. Each basket is filled with colorful blooms created from a variety of period fabrics, giving the quilt the bright, optimistic character that made floral applique quilts so popular during the Depression and post-war years. Take note also, of the clever use of two different background fabrics, off white and a cream color, used to create diamond like shapes that draw the eye to the roses. 

Machine quilted throughout with flowing meander motifs, this quilt has a lovely texture and an inviting softness. The border and binding fabric appear consistent with feedsack textiles of the era, and the fabrics, construction methods, and overall design suggest a likely production date between 1935 and 1950, with the 1940s being the most probable period of construction. Whether displayed as a piece of textile history or enjoyed as part of a vintage-inspired home, this quilt is a wonderful reminder of the creativity and resourcefulness of American quiltmakers. 

This quilt has not been laundered by Janj Threads. Due to the presence of red and pink fabrics, we believe there is a risk of dye transfer or bleeding if washed. For this reason, we have chosen to leave the quilt in its current condition and allow the next caretaker to determine the best preservation method.