Exploring the Tradition of Quilting Circles and Bees

What were quilting bees and quilting circles in the 19th century?

- A quilting bee

- A quilting circle

Answer:

The correct answers for the group of quilt makers are a quilting bee and a quilting circle. Quilting bees were common social gatherings in the 19th century where women exchanged techniques and ideas while quilting together. Quilting circles are similar groups working on quilts in a shared setting.

Quilting Circles and Social Gatherings

Quilting has been a cherished form of artistic expression and practical craftsmanship since ancient times, evolving significantly through the centuries. By the 19th century in America, it had become both a domestic practice and a social one, often centered around quilting bees. These were gatherings where women could work on quilts together, exchange ideas, and enjoy a social outlet. A similar concept is the quilting circle, which refers to a group of quilt makers working together, often in a social setting. Both the quilting bee and the quilting circle are correct answers to identify a group of quilt makers.

During the Industrial Revolution, the increased accessibility to fabrics and materials allowed quilting to flourish even more, with intricate patterns and designs sewn into quilts that went beyond utilitarian needs. Women in affluent societies, like those making Baltimore quilts, would meet regularly within quilting clubs or societies to craft elaborate designs that showcased their skills and creativity.

In response to the student's question, the correct answers that identify a group of quilt makers are:

- A quilting bee (Option a)

- A quilting circle (Option b)