Patchwork cot coverlet

This small patchwork coverlet is probably a cot cover and has been made by piecing without paper templates. The design has a frame layout, where concentric borders frame a central panel. Squares, strips and triangles have been used to create several different borders including examples of the patterns ‘tree everlasting’ or ‘flying geese’ and saw tooth. These surround a central block featuring an eight pointed star. The solid red and paisley fabrics are probably dyed using ‘Turkey Red’; a complex dyeing process that used madder to create a vibrant and colour fast shade of red that was incredibly popular. The coverlet is lined with a fine, white cotton calico.

• Category: Domestic and Furnishings
• Date: 1851-1900
• Material: Cotton
• Place: Great Britain
• Technique: Patchwork
• Technique: Printing