Quilts 1700-2010 at the V&A

Yesterday we set out for the "Quilts" exhibition at the V&A.  Ok, I was aware beforehand that photos were prohibited and that I wouldn't be able to touch stuff but, from a stitchers point of view, I was maybe expecting a feast for the eyes ..................... I was somewhat disappointed.

It was interesting and am glad I went but it would have been nice to have had a closer view of many of the exhibits.  Whilst I realise that some of the quilts had been purposely displayed in the manner in which they had originally intended to be seen (ie. on a bed some feet away)  ................... it would have been nice to have seen them in more detail if one wished.  It was rather tantalising for the blurb to explain about recycling ordinary household fabrics and using the printed endcloth from a bolt for one particular patch when you couldn't actually see it.

My husband, more aware of the goings on around me as I attempted to ingest what I could, says that many people were saying the same ................. they wanted a closer look and, in particular, one wheelchair bound elderly lady was having great difficulty seeing much at all.  So, in my humble opinion, unless you are happy to view textiles from a stately home style vantage point you may well be disappointed .............. I just feel a bit cheated.


I saw these kantha style quilted chappies in the shop ...........

and I have made a decision.  I am going to flat quilt my patchwork ................ by hand.  When I have finished removing all the papers.  I can sit, at leisure, maybe watching a bit of TV even at the same time.  Thankyou all for all your lovely comments!
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