Background on Signature quilts

Signature quilts are quilts that have blocks that have been signed with names, either stitched or with pen. They were very popular with Victorian quilters in the mid 1800's. 

Purpose of Signature Quilts: Signature quilts were made for relatives or friends when traveling. the names on the quilt were to remind them of their family and friends. They were also made as a way to raise money for church or the community. people would pay a small fee to have their name put on the quilt, then the quilts were then auctioned off or sold to make even more money.

Signing of the Quilt: Permanent inks were designed in 1845 before that inks were made from scratch. inking became popular because it saved time and allowed women to demonstrate their elegant handwriting. Some women signed their own names which gave a diverse array of handwriting style to the quilt. Some quilts even stitched over the handwritten signatures with fancier thread.

Types of Signature Quilts

Friendship Quilts: These consist of one style of block that is repeated throughout the quilt. it is a very basic and simple type of quilt and is primarily made for sentimental value not use. 

Album or Signature Quilts: These are similar to friendship quilts but have an array of different patterns of blocks. These tended to be more sophisticated and visually appealing. They were often made to commemorate an event such as a wedding, birth or major move.