6 Comments
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Carole McCulloch's avatar

As a patchwork quilter of many decades I was drawn to this story. I think my hackles would be raised if this Jenny was writing in my era. No wonder she was excluded from the sewing circles. Quilting (with any type of fabric) is still big business in Australia and we have many UFOs ( unfinished objects) in our stash.

Lori Olson White's avatar

Not to spoil the ending, but much of Jennie’s writing was intentionally provocative and, I think, aimed at encouraging her readers to think for themselves and share opinions. This series definitely did that! 😉

Alison Baxter's avatar

Fascinating. I have friends who quilt using new fabric and the end result is lovely, but my 100-year-old friend uses leftover scraps and may never finish but is happy to have something to occupy her, now that most other activities are beyond her.

Barbara at Projectkin's avatar

Oh my, what a way to capture wayward rage. I’m reminded of the fierce debates reported when Ravelry.com turned political… today there’s an active subreddit/craftsnark. 🤭

Cynthia Boatright Raleigh's avatar

Jennie's statement certainly sparked quite a debate. Across the distance of time, I think a lot depends on preference, both for the creative aesthetics of a quilt and the enjoyment an individual derives from piecework in their free time. I can see how some women were upset by this since there is also the matter of financial status and the need to be economic, not just regarding the cost of fabric but for a supply of books to read. Looking forward to Jennie's response.

Jill Swenson's avatar

Social stratification revealed by their responses is fascinating to read for the ways they frame questions of conservation/conservatism and the economics of women's labor.