By: Virginia Gunn
This research project explores relationships between ornamental needlework and quiltmaking by tracing the evolution of the 1930’s calico print yo-yo or bed of roses “quilts”. Analysis of data from women’s periodicals, photographs, artifacts indicates that the yo-yo technique, a form of fabric lace, had early 19th century roots. Women manipulated white cotton calico and commercial braids and tapes, widely available after the Industrial Revolution, to form fabric laces for decorative household textiles or for trim on clothing.
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