Flower Garden Quilt - 1930 - Ruby Short McKim

This pattern was published in newspapers across America, like Marion Ind Chronicle newspaper in 1929.

Nothing makes a more lovely and colorful quilt than flowers. Each of these is simplified in design so that it will be easy to work in outline stitch or appliqué. 

There are 25 blocks, a quilting pattern and a section of old-fashioned picket fence in this series and you will want every one of them. They are exact size to transfer through carbon paper to 9-inch squares of material and then embroider in the naturalistic colors of the flowers, using the simple well-known stitches such as outline, lazy-daisy, buttonhole and French knot.

Sample text. Block 13, The Daisy

   Daisies in some variety or other grow in every state, and North Carolina has chosen them for their most honored flower. The famous daisy chain of Vassar has become and American classic; inspiration of song, slang, a girl's name, fortune telling, and what not! Whether viewing a great field or only a hardy clump in the garden, the eye for beauty acknowledges their charm.

   White daisies with deep yellow and orange French knot centers may be used on a tint background, or if you are embroidering your quilt blocks on white, use very light blue for white, or deep yellow daisies with brown centers.

• The Lilac 
• Daffodils
• The Tulip
• The Iris
• The Nasturtium
• The Poppy
• Canterbury Bells
• The Rose
• Valley Lilies
• Carnations
• Chinese Lantern Pods
• Bleeding Hearts
• The Daisy
• Sweet Peas
• Tiger Lily
• Cosmos
• The Water Lily
• The Hollyhock
• The Geranium
• Delphinium
• The Trumpet Vine
• The Petunia
• Zenia
• The Chrysanthemum
• The Pansy

You can choose redwork or bluework and make  your quilt as simple or elaborate as you wish. The pattern is also suitable for coloring, painting, appliqué work, embroidery or a combination.

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Any of the designs can be used separately for pillow tops, runners, tablecloths and other pieces for your home or for gifts. 

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When you are ready to make a square, print it out and trace the design directly onto your fabric, using the method which suits your style best.  Per original patterns of the day: Fold the pattern to determine the center and "Slip a piece of carbon paper underneath - the sticky side facing the material - and trace the pattern carefully with a very well pointed pencil"

Today you can also use an inexpensive transfer pen available in sewing and craft stores. To aid in tracing you can use a quilting light box, or well-lit window as women of previous generations did.