Use your cotton crocheted doilies as partofyour quilting projects. These doilies can be used in the centerofeach quilting square, as an appliqué or for edging. And if youhavein your quilt fabric stash reproductions of fabric prints fromthe17th century this will be an added opportunity to create averyunique quilt.

In my youth doilies were commonly used:

On armchair rests
Draped over the back rest section of chairs and sofas
Used on fireplace mantels to underline candle holders andotherknickknacks
Found on end tables underlining peanut and candy dishes
Table lamps and silver bowls stood on doilies
Can you recall your mother or your grandmother spendinghourscrocheting these lace mats?

I rarely see these doilies anymore. But, I have noticed quiltersareusing them in their wall art quilts, throws, and bedcovers.

Doilies can be found at swap meets, flea markets, garage sales,andantique shops. Here is a word of caution; think carefullybeforestitching these doilies. If the doilies you are preparing touseare considered as collectibles or are in the category ofbeingantiques; proceed with caution.

The value of your doilies will determine how you may use theminyour quilting. Appliqué these lace decorations to your quiltfabricwill preserve both as a keepsake.

Doilies are usually round, but are crocheted in rectangular,oval,and square shapes as well. Do your best to not cut thedoilies. Cutyour fabric to accommodate the size and the shape ofthedoily.

These lace decorator scarves were crocheted from cotton inanopenwork pattern or holes which displayed the counter top withitsdrape as well as to protect the furniture from scratches causedbymetal bowls. These cotton beauties are excellent for ourcottonquilt fabrics.

You may possibly have designs which were edged with roses, apopcornpattern, or ruffles.

The roses would add interest.
The popcorn pattern would add texture
Ruffles can offer a thicker dimension to yourquiltingproject.
I just had a flashback. Also as a small child I remember mymotherhad starched a ruffled doily which was the exteriorskirtoverlapping a satin stuffed skirt which held a beautiful slimdollwearing a crocheted picture hat in the center of thisdoilyskirt.

Stuffing your appliqué doily in appropriate areas will amazeyouwith wonderful results. It was also common to thread prettyribbonsthrough the open areas of these crocheted beauties. Thiswould alsoadd an unusual attractiveness to your quilt design.