Rainbow Quilt Blocks

I remember the first time I saw a quilt with Rainbow Quilt Blocks.  It was at the Quilted Apple in Phoenix Arizona.  One of Laurene Sinema's students showed a quilt she had made in 1936 at the age of 16.  Laurene went on to do a pattern booklet from the blocks in this quilt. It is called Fantastic Florals by Laurene Sinema. I fell in love and have been a big fan since then.  I learned a man named William Pinch from Cleveland, Ohio designed and marketed over 1000 patterns by mail order.  He advertised in magazines.  You could purchase a block kit, stamped with the pattern and fabric for the applique.  They came in two sized 9 inch and 18 inch.  No paper pattern was available. For lots more information on William Pinch read Sharon Pinka's  research paper published in Uncoverings 2009, Volume 30 of the American Quilt Study Group.  Available to read at the Quilt Index.

This year I have documented the Rainbow Quilts in my collection and entered them into the Quilt Index.  Here are a few of my favorites and a link to all of my Rainbow Quilts on the Quilt Index.

Doll Applique Block Pattern

I think these are the cutest little dolls.  A vintage pattern from the 30's or 40's. I found these three blocks, they are on a 15 inch piece of very pale pink sateen. It says on the selvage "Princess Satin". I have made patterns for the little girl and little boy here.  I think they would work as 12 inch blocks. Have fun!