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“Felt so Good” Martha Stewart Living, 9/2009 Magazine

August 6, 2009 by Linda Lanese

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I was so excited when I opened my latest issue of Martha Stewart Living and as I thumbed through the pages I came across a wonderful 6 page spread on new and fabulous felting ideas.   The September issue is on sale at your newsstand now, so don’t miss out on this issue.  Introduction to the article: Wool may be soft to the touch, but look at it under a microscope and you will see a tangle of rough fibers and you’ll see a tangle of a rough fiber covered in tiny overlapping scales.  A little coaxing makes the scales catch on one another and locked together with a craft called needle felting, you can take advantage of that quality decorating wool pillows, scarves, blankets, and other items with wool accents and no sewing or gluing is necessary. Just take a simple tool called a felting needle and moved it up and down through two layers of wool. Then watch as they fuse. Start with any woven wool as your base fabric and for embellishments use the fiber and in another of its forms yarn, felt cutouts or loose wool known as roving. The result is a stylish one-of-a-kind accessory to cozy up to this fall.

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Have you read?

Rediscover the Charm of Old Maid’s Puzzle Quilt Patterns With These 26 Patterns

There’s something magical about quilt patterns that have stood the test of time, and the Old Maid’s Puzzle quilt block is no exception. This classic design, with its intricate geometry and timeless appeal, has captured the hearts of quilters for generations. Whether you’re a seasoned quilting enthusiast or just starting your journey, this roundup of 26 Old Maid’s Puzzle Quilt Patterns is brimming with inspiration to suit every skill level.

From free tutorials to premium patterns, this collection offers a delightful mix of traditional and modern interpretations of the Old Maid’s Puzzle block. You’ll find a variety of sizes, layouts, and creative takes that breathe new life into this vintage design. It’s perfect for scrap-busting projects, heirloom quilts, or adding a touch of nostalgia to your quilting repertoire.

But before we dive into the patterns, let’s take a step back and explore the fascinating history behind the Old Maid’s Puzzle quilt block. Its origins reveal much about the ingenuity and storytelling that have long been a part of quilting traditions.

 

The Old Maid’s Puzzle block is part of the rich legacy of puzzle quilt blocks, which became popular in the 19th century. These designs often featured interlocking shapes, symbolizing interconnectedness and complexity, much like the lives of those who pieced them together. The Old Maid’s Puzzle block, with its distinctive angular pattern, earned its name from its resemblance to a game or riddle—a playful nod to the art of creating order from scraps and fragments.

Over the years, the block has been known by various names, including “School Girl’s Puzzle” and “Bachelor’s Puzzle,” reflecting regional differences and changing social attitudes. Despite its many identities, one thing remains constant: its enduring charm and versatility. The Old Maid’s Puzzle block is not just a pattern; it’s a piece of quilting history that invites you to be part of a larger story.

 

Whether you’re drawn to the historical significance of the Old Maid’s Puzzle block or simply love its bold and striking design, there’s no shortage of ways to make it your own. This roundup of 26 Old Maid’s Puzzle Quilt Patterns offers endless opportunities to experiment with color, fabric, and layout, ensuring your creation is as unique as you are.

As you piece together your Old Maid’s Puzzle quilt, take a moment to appreciate the generations of quilters who have stitched this pattern before you. Each quilt tells a story, and now it’s your turn to add your chapter to this timeless tradition.

Ready to get started? Browse through the patterns, gather your favorite fabrics, and let your creativity shine. Whether you’re creating a wall hanging, a cozy lap quilt, or a show-stopping bedspread, the Old Maid’s Puzzle block is a beautiful choice that blends history with artistry. Happy quilting!

Old Maids Puzzle Quilt

Accuquilt Old Maids Puzzle

Old Maids Puzzle Quilt 

A quilt block by any other name 

Old Block Quilt-Along, Part 21: Old Maid’s Puzzle 

Old Maid’s Puzzle – Sunrise Quilt Studio

Splish Splash Stash: old maid’s puzzle block

Block #3 – School Girl’s Puzzle (also called Old Maid’s Puzzle) 

Old Maid Puzzle for Jen Kingwell’s Gypsy Wife – GnomeAngel 

0227 Old Maid’s Puzzle Quilting Tutorial | Block of the Day 2023 | Rotary Cutting | AccuQuilt

Old Maids Puzzle – Stash Buster Block #19

Old Block Quilt-Along, Part 21: Old Maid’s Puzzle 

 

Old Maid’s Puzzle Quilt Block – 6 sizes to choose from! 

Old Maid’s Puzzle – Jinny Beyer Studio

Old Maid’s Puzzle Patchwork Quilt Pattern | Purple Kitty 

Old Maid’s Puzzle – Free Quilt Block Pattern 

Old Maids Puzzle Quilt Pattern to Make ! – Beth Ann Doing

Free Quilt Pattern: Old Maid’s Puzzle Quilt Block

Sisters’ Ten Modern BOM August Block: Old Maid’s Puzzle — AnneMarie Chany Quilt Patterns

Quilting Assistant : Free Pattern : Old Maid’s Puzzle Block 

Old Maid’s Puzzle

Old Maids’ Puzzle Quilt Block Remix! – Kate Colleran Designs 

Old Maid’s Puzzle quilt block – ooobop

Old Maid’s Puzzle Quilt Block

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