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The background history to this quilt is unknown as, like several of the Running Stitch quilts, it was found in an op-shop, this time in Ballarat. However, the technique used to bind it together and the rarity of the materials make it a valuable piece of our 'thrifty history'. The quilt insert has been made with layers of recycled bed coverings. It would have most likely had a cover made of a fabric (such as cretonne) as the layers have only been loosely held together with large quilting stitches. The outer layer is made of "marcella": a heavily woven cotton damask. These types of bedspreads were quite expensive and hardwearing. They were often handed down through the family and it is not surprising to see that the use for this particular bed covering has been continued past the 'presentable' stage on a bed.Detail of edge showing layers and stitching method. Deatail of corner showing layers.quilting history, running stitch group, running stitch collection, quilting - history

Child's coverlet made from old blankets and clothing pieces with curtain and blanket backing. Part of the "Wagga" collection. Maker unknown, from the Ballarat area.Child's coverlet made from old blankets and clothing pieces with curtain and blanket backing.quilting history, patchwork history, running stitch group, running stitch collection, quilting - history, patchwork - history

Commercially made quilt, c.1930s. Maker unknown, found in Ballarat. The Country Women's Association of Victoria had been active during the Depression in promoting the use of wool in domestic items and handcrafts in its "Handcrafts and Home Industries Committee". In 1933 during "Wool Week", a train jointly sponsored by the Wool Board, toured the state demonstrating amongst other crafts, the making of wool quilts and mattresses. Commercially made quilts much like this one marketed as 'Kosy Quilts', were used in these demonstrations.Quilt, plain light blue cotton cover with lambs wool filler. Machine sewn. Evidence of a label can be seen at one corner, however it has been removed.quilting history, textile mills, running stitch group, running stitch collection, ballarat, quilting - history

Shearing handpiece inscribed "MUNRO / 4134/ MADE IN ENGLAND", "MUNRO/ PAT. APPLIED FOR/ OIL", "REGISTERED DESIGN". Munro manufacturers in Ballarat, created by George Munro c.1927. Handpeice manufactured in England by Burgon and Ball (Sheffield) for Austrlaian market. Handpiece contains Wolseley start spindle similar to Burgon, missing a 'bush' in tension nut.Metal, leather and plastic shearing handpiece inscribed "MUNRO / 4134/ MADE IN ENGLAND", "MUNRO/ PAT. APPLIED FOR/ OIL", "REGISTERED DESIGN". Plastic hand piece with leather casing attached with wire, covering swivel joint."MUNRO/ PAT. APPLIED FOR/ OIL" Munro 4134 made in england Registered designshearing

BALLARAT(orange and yellow) ARCH OF VICTORY (white) BALLARAT "THE GARDEN CITY"ballarat, victoria