patchwork hexagons

Dear Annie,

A visit to the local auction rooms has become a regular routine since we moved here. I look forward to it - I love searching out treasures amongst the piles of dusty furniture and boxes of oddments. We usually leave a paper bid and have to wait to see if it has been successful. This month, however, my auction-loving Father-in-law was visiting, and was happy to bid on my behalf.

I could not have been more delighted when he walked through the kitchen door at the end of the day with this patchwork hexagon coverlet (and change from a twenty pound note). There was a pale blue valance attached around three sides of it, which I swiftly removed. It completely slipped my mind to take a picture for you as a 'before' shot, but take my word for it, it was hideous! Freed from their flouncy frame, the hexagons were really able to shine. I think, judging from the fabrics used (lots of barkcloth and dress fabrics), it probably dates back to about the 1950s.

The patchwork has been pieced by hand - every single hexagon has been hand sewn into place. It really has been a labour of love, and I'm sure that for whoever made it, many of the fabrics must have had particular memories or significance.


Having removed the valance, I am in two minds as to what to do next. I could simply slipstitch the patchwork to the (plain white) backing along its edges, or alternatively, I could make some binding (perhaps using the pale blue cotton of the valance). What do you think?

A new home, a new lease of life and a new owner to appreciate it. Hello, little vintage patchwork beauty. Hello.

Love from,

Laura