One of the most amazing things about a quilt, is the meaning and symbolism of the pattern used. Many people will look at a quilt and admire the fabric used, the colors, the patterns, and the quilting that brings it all together. They may admire the pattern and the way in which it was all sewn together with such pride and precision. A quilt is a like a look into the soul of the quilter, an expression of their creativity, and a small piece of who they are. What most non-quilters don't see, it the symbolism delivered with each quilt. The individual patterns have meanings behind them that make the gift of a quilt even more valuable and special.
The Flower Garden pattern is one of many traditional quilt patterns we are used to seeing. Some people may know it as Grandmother's Flower Garden, Mosaic, Honeycomb, French Bouquet, or here at Quiltsmart, Mary's Flower Garden. Whatever you call it, did you know that it has a very special history behind it?
The Flower Garden quilt pattern was included in the Godey's Ladies book in 1835 and is thought to be the first ever pieced quilting pattern to be published. Gaining popularity at the turn of the Century, and hitting it's peak in 1925. Once again during the Great Depression, the Flower Garden was a favorite. Housewives who found quilting to be a necessity, found the hexagons were a perfect size to make using worn out clothes and rags. The flower design offered a pick-me-up during some very rough times, and many women found a sense of pride in the number of flowers they were able to make.
As modern quilting takes hold, it is interesting to see the hexagon reemerge as a favorite among quilters. Giving the gift of a Flower Garden quilt is a symbol of happy times, and a pride in your craft.
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