Heritage Collection

About The Guild's Heritage Collection of Quilts

Since its formation in 1979 The Guild has built up a unique collection of antique and contemporary quilts from around the British Isles. The Guild is developing a representative collection of quilts and quilt related artefacts.  The collection of over 600 pieces date from the 1718 silk patchwork coverlet to the present day.  The most recent contemporary purchase was for a piece entitled ‘Context’ by Sara Impey which featured in the opening exhibition ‘Quilts in Time’ at the Quilt Museum and Gallery in 2008.’  As well as full size quilts and coverlets the collection includes miniature pieces, quilted clothing and small domestic items along with templates, tools and quilting equipment. There is also an archive fabric collection, which is an invaluable resource for fabric and quilt researchers and historians.

The Guild Head Office and collections relocated to  St Anthony’s Hall, York in 2008.  This location is also home to the Quilt Museum and Gallery which displays items  from The Guild collections alongside pieces by contemporary makers.  As well as visiting the exhibitions, watching demonstrations or participating in workshops, visitors can (by Appointment)  see behind the scenes and undertake their own research.  For more information about the Quilt Museum and Gallery go to www.quiltmuseum.org.uk

The Guild’s Museum and collection are overseen by a dedicated team of staff.  Museum Director – Fiona Diaper, Curator – Heather Peacock, Education  Officer – Melanie Worgan and Volunteer Organiser – Virginia Hatton.  In addition, a large volunteer team  assist with the daily activities at the museum including; stewarding, exhibitions, collections care, library and education.

Enquiries regarding donations, group or study visits, education or exhibitions should be directed to info@quiltmuseum.org.uk  Tel: 01904 613 242

Enquiries relating about the history or care of quilts can be directed to the Heritage Officer,  heritage@quiltersguild.org.uk

Heritage Officer : Joan Fisher

e: heritage@quiltersguild.org.uk

Exhibitions

'Unsung Heroines & Heroes'

Exhibition of Vintage Quilts by Unknown Makers

September 25th&26th

Saturday 10-5pm, Sunday 2-5pm

West Bridgford Patchwork Group

Friary United Reformed Church, Musters / Millicent Road, West \Bridgford Nottingham NG2 7LD

The Mary Prince Mosaic Coverlet

Made from long hexagons in plain and printed cottons and linen.

Although the coverlet is signed and dated "Mary Prince 1803", some of the fabrics suggest the coverlet may have been made around 1815.

The Coxcomb Quilt

An example of Appliqué from the North of England 1870-1880's

Hand pieced, appliquéd and quilted. Maker unknown.

Image © David and Charles / Quilters' Guild of The British Isles

The Quilted Silk Petticoat

Silk petticoat quilted with flowers and a wave motif. 18th Century.

Maker unknown, but probably professionally made.

Image © David and Charles / Quilters' Guild of The British Isles