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| 30s Irish Chain Dresden Plate Quilt |
Combining Classics: The 1930s Irish Chain Dresden Plate Quilt
Welcome back to the sewing corner, makers! Nothing is as enchanting as going back into the past and exploring some of the quilt designs from the past. The 1930's in particular brought some of the most happy and comforting quilting palettes and design structures that were used in the entire history of quilting. When you want to make a proper heirloom item to pay tribute to this enduring layout, a fusion of two powerhouse vintage designs is the best option. Today's quilt is a stunning wedding of the 30s Irish Chain Dresden pattern, the 20s Ziegler style, and the 30s Irish Chain method.
The combination of these two patterns in this striking layout beautifully brings together the structured geometric perfection of an Irish Chain with the soft blooming charm of the Dresden Plate, which has been historically recognized as the “Friendship Ring” or “Aster” in pattern anthologies such as Ruby Short McKim's classic 101 Patchwork Patterns.
This masterpiece comes to life through the effective use of two classical block ideas. An Irish Chain layout is a base layout of small pieced squares that create a continuous, interlocking trellis that runs all over the quilt top. Neither are the alternate background blocks left entirely blank, but we take the chance to make them a clean slate for appliqué. That's where the Friendship Ring pattern comes in handy. They're made in beautiful circles with radiating pieces of fabric piece-sewn together and an absolutely smooth and round center.
It's all about the fabric choices, right? If you're looking to achieve that authentic 1930s feel sack style, go for small-scale floral prints, happy ginghams and a bright color range of mint green, buttercup yellow, soft pink, and lavender. The rigid chain squares are contrasted with the whimsical curves of the plates, creating an incredible sense of movement in this entire quilt with its crisp white or unbleached muslin background. This is a great scrap buster that's both wonderfully organized and deliciously scrappy.
Final Thought
When I combine these patterns from the past, I can create the beautiful story with my stitches. You can machine-piece your chains to get a quilt done quickly, or hand-applique your rings for the touch of thoughtful slow sewing, this hybrid quilt celebrates the ingenuity of those who have gone before. Pick up your favorite print reproductions, carefully prepare your templates, and have fun with each and every block of this vintage trip. Happy quilting!
