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We invite you to share comments and ideas, ask questions, and send photos of your finished RSM projects.
If you can't find the patterns you're looking for on our website, let us know. If we don't have it in our family archives, we'll post your request on our Bulletin Board. |
NOTE: There are so many quilters in the world that admire and appreciate my grandmother's work, I am constantly amazed and inspired.
I have spent the last few years on this journey to reclaim my grandmother's work which is our family's legacy. My mission is to build a library, of sorts, honoring her life's work. My goal is not to make money on this journey as a business, but to make enough to support the effort.
I have had many requests for permission to publish Grammy's work in the past couple of years, and I find it more and more difficult to respond each time. I completely understand those who love Grammy's patterns, and want them for their own personal enrichment. What I don't understand are those that want to profit from her life's work.
Grammy had the foresight to copyright everything she has ever done dating way back to 1916. She protected her designs so others could not profit from her talent and hard work. I feel it is my obligation as her granddaughter to protect her work as she did to the best of my ability. Therefore, I'm sorry, but I cannot grant permission to publish Grammy's work. I hope you can appreciate my position.
Merrily McKim Tuohey |
July 21, 2008
I have an interesting story to tell you about Ruby Short McKim's Mother Goose quilt that I made.
A few years ago, I gave a presentation of the history of quilting to a local ladies church group, and in the talk I mentioned that quilt patterns used to be printed in newspapers. A lady by the name of Ida Clarke, born in 1918, said she had an original 1921 Mother Goose quilt pattern from the Portland Telegram newspaper dated 1921, and would I like it. Of course I said yes. I traced each of the twenty blocks onto muslin and stitched the pictures in blue embroidery thread. Lastly I framed the blocks in a blue fabric and hand quilted all in cross-hatch. Friends indicated that the quilt belonged in a museum, and when my sister-in-law, who lives in Nebraska, sent me an article on the International Quilt Study Center & Museum, part of the University of Nebraska in Lincoln I contacted them about donating the quilt. They were delighted to receive the quilt, especially because of the documentation, which contains the original pattern, which I have put into a scrapbook including biographies on Ruby Short McKim. I note that the museum contains two quilts of your Grammy's.
Hope you have enjoyed this story…
Judy K. • Bend, OR |
July 14, 2008
Just a little note to say "Thank You" for this wonderful web site and for caring enough to preserve Ruby Short McKim's work.
Kendra M. |
July 12, 2008
Just a quick email to let you know that my order arrived safe and sound. I can't wait to stitch the zoo animals [Gay Zoo Animals], they are so cute. I just love the other patterns too, I am glad that I ordered the ships again from you, the ones that I already have from the seventies are great, but your remastered pattern is so much better.
Regards
Julie B. • Willaston, South Australia |
June 25, 2008
Thank you so much for letting me know you received my order. I must tell you why I searched for these nursery rhyme blocks [Nursery Rhyme Quiltie] on the internet and found your site. I received several boxes of embroidery patterns from my husband's grandmother and among them were a few of the same style patterns that I found on your site. I was so impressed by the ones from Grandmother Shoffner and since I love to embroider, I traced them off and finished them into a quilt for my daughter's first baby. My daughter fell in love with them also. I am 61 years old and Grandmother Shoffner was 90 when she passed away several years ago so I knew they were older patterns. I was so excited to find more about who designed them and that there were more in the set. I am anxious to receive them and embroidery the whole set. It was really neat to read about Mrs. McKim - she was a very artistic lady.
Beverly S. • Abilene, KS |
June 7, 2008
I really like your site. What you are doing to remember your Grammy and make her work available again is wonderful.
Monique R. • College Station, TX |
May 31, 2008
The American Ships book arrived this morning and indeed, it will keep a body busy for a long while! Thanks so much for making it available for Ruby McKim fans and followers. I started quilting in the late '50's/early '60's (telling my age!) and her book, 101 Patchwork Patterns was the first book I bought. Of course, that was just about the ONLY book to purchase and I used several patterns from that book. Ruby would be totally amazed at what they are doing with three layers of 'fiber' today!
Again, much thanks,
Sandra D. • Waka, TX |
April 15, 2008
As per our telephone conversation, please send me the Flower Garden Quilt Book #401 so I may finish the quilt my mother began almost 60 years ago. We are so thrilled to be able to find the pattern again since it was lost, although all 25 flower blocks are embroidered. Your grandmother sounds like an amazing woman, and I know she would be pleased that you are reviving her work.
Susan P. • Palmer Lake, CO |
April 15, 2008
Thankyou, Thankyou, Thankyou! My beautiful book [Flower Garden] arrived safe & sound, sorry for the delay in thanking you but we were away down the coast for 10 day break which was over Easter. Waited till l was tucked up in bed to savour every page. What wonderful job you have done…
Now l have to decide on how to tackle mine, thinking maybe embroidering, keeping it colourful like flowers are!!
My mission is to get the blocks ready for stitching early Sept as Phil & l have booked our trip to Canada, Alaska & Hawaii (our trip of a life time) & thinking l may have time, on cruise, trains & planes to complete maybe a couple!!!! Not sure about the planes with all the security now, but will ask if l can carry a needle on board.
Thankyou again, l am so pleased that l followed up on something l saw on the TV & had such positive results.
Hope we can keep in touch
Best wishes,
Sharon A. • Sydney, Australia |
April 15, 2008
I received my patterns today in the mail! I was thrilled-they are wonderful! Great designs and the presentation is wonderful-very well done! I have the first 4 of Farm Life traced off and started stitching on the farmhouse block. Every set is wonderful and I can't wait to do them all.
Again thank you so much-each is a wonderful treasure and I am sure I will be ordering again!
Barbara W. • Reardan, WA |
April 14, 2008
In 1984, I fell in love with the little characters created by the genius of Thornton W. Burgess. My daughter and her second grade class read Old Mother West Wind and Old Mother West Wind's Children. The little animals stole my heart and I started collecting his books. About 18 months ago, while reading Better Homes and Gardens Century of Quilts, I saw a red work quilt from 1916 and immediately recognized the little animals of Burgess. It was love at first sight for the work of Ruby Short McKim. I felt Ruby was a woman ahead of her time. Her interpretation of the animals in the quilt square were equally as endearing as the illustrations in the books. I just had to recreate the quilt for myself. This is when I found your cousin on line and she told me where to order the originals from (yours were not available at the time). So I ordered the photocopies (in a spiral book) from a woman in WA or OR can't remember.
Last summer while back in the US my husband was in an antique shop in Florence, Colorado and he saw this old red work quilt. When he got back to Colorado Springs and told me about it, I could not believe it. So bright and early the next day we drove back to the shop and I bought it. It was started in 1916 by a 6 year old boy, Robert Knight, in Oklahoma. He was in first grade at the time. You can see that he added other red work to it and did multiples of some. The only one of the quaddies that is missing is Reddy Fox. I am assuming that his mother or grandmother did the piecing and quilting–it was all done by hand. They used what ever materials they had. Several of the animal blocks were stitched on flour/seed sacks and there is still a slight imprint of the words on them. Many different fabrics were used in its construction. It is faded in some places, but over all it is in very good condition. It covers the top of a queen size bed. Peter Rabbit in the bottom right corner was his first block. He really improved with each block.
Anne B. • New Zealand |
April 2, 2008
I will be eager to get the patterns-already bought some backgrounds for the blocks. I am sure you will be receiving future orders from me as new patterns come out. I am looking at ordering some of the special order ones too. I want to do up some quilts for the great grandkids that will come eventually. My grandkids are only 13 and twins that are 11 but that will give me time to get them done for their kids. I can think of nothing better than being able to give them a quilt designed by Ruby Short McKim! Thanks again for making them available.
Barbara W. • Reardan, WA |
April 2, 2008
I just wanted to write to say how great it is to see this company still up and running with their beautiful quilt patterns. I was just looking at a catalogue I have from 1931. This is just great! |
March 27, 2008
Thank you for your welcome! I called and ordered patterns from you earlier today and I am anxious to see them. I am just sooo glad to have found your website and again thank you for making these patterns available to us again!
Barbara W. • Reardan, WA |
March 14, 2008
I was pleased to find on your web site the source of the pattern for the quilt squares I have from my Mother-in-Law. Her Bible History story blocks were beautifully done. She also left 24 blank squares and I have wondered if she was a preparing to do a set of New Testament stories. Do you have any other Bible History patterns?
Marcia M.
MMT—My grandmother did not design any other Bible History patterns. In reading the Bible History text from Designs Worth Doing, Grammy says, "…if a double bed size quilt is to be made, the 24 embroidered blocks are alternated with 24 plain colored squares." So perhaps your grandmother wanted to make a double size instead of a twin. You may be able to find a quilting pattern locally that would compliment the Bible History series. |
March 3, 2008
I have just stumbled onto your web-site and I love your grandmother's patterns. Being based in the UK I have no chance of obtaining any as redwork/embroidered quilts are not fashionable here. …you seem to quote only postage and packing for the US. What about the UK? Can you help?
I come over to the US twice a year, just love your country.
Sally • UK |
February 27, 2008
One Hundred and One Patchwork Patterns - Page 55 - Wedding Ring
I can see how these pieces stitch together into multiple touching rings, with a curved sided 'square' space in the centre of the four touching rings. Hope you find the description OK. Should there be a piece of material cut to fill that space or does the 'floppy' multiple rings get pinned to a plain sheet and then stitched on?
Maureen • Aberdeen Scotland
MMT—I'm not an expert, but the way the instructions read to me is that the rings themselves are not floppy, they are attached to the center piece which is the ellipse shown as 1 YELLOW. So the finished blocks are elliptical instead of square with a plain center. The larger background area referred to as the "pillow shape" can be seen and a pattern created for it once you line up your elliptical blocks, OR the elliptical blocks can be appliqued onto a plain sheet. |
February 12, 2008
I have always wanted to do a redwork quilt of Alice in Wonderland and now that my granddaughter is born, I am eager to begin. How can I purchase the patterns from you? What is the cost and shipping charge?
Thank you for your help,
Anita C.
MMT—We have added this series to our Special Request List! |
February 12, 2008
I am interested in the Alice in Wonderland quilt patterns and perhaps the Child's Life…is there a way to view these?
Thank you for your time, you have beautiful patterns.
A. Cheffer
MMT—Since these series have not been prepared for publication as of yet, we can send out 1 or 2 images to give you an idea of the pattern style, if you like! |
February 6, 2008
I discovered in my grandmother's attic some State Flower quilt blocks along with the patterns for some of the states. However, we are missing West Virginia and Oklahoma. Would it be possible to purchase those two patterns?
Marilyn R.
MMT—We sent Marilyn her missing blocks.
February 8, 2008
Oh thank you so much! These blocks were apparently published every Sunday in the Daily Oklahoman back in the 1940's or maybe the 1930's and it's such fun to discover them all in her cedar chest. And then a bummer to find we were missing those two states. You are a lifesaver!!
Marilyn |
February 4, 2008
I am re-working a Quaddy Quilt which my mother made for my daughter. I have most of the original patterns from The Milwaukee Journal, 1920. I seem to be missing installment 20 of 20 and was wondering if the character is available. I would enjoy having more information to give my daughter. She loved the quilt as a child and cherishes the memories of her grandma.
Thank you,
Carolyn D. • Fredericksburg, TX
MMT—We sent Carolyn her missing block, and she bought the book for background on this series.
February 12, 2008
Merrily,
I’m anxious to get the pattern book for background material. In repairing some of the blocks, I found that my Mother probably started the quilt at a much younger age since a few of the blocks had much larger stitches. After talking to my daughter, I am going to use just the blocks my mother made. She might do the 20th block as a pillow.
Thank you,
Carolyn |
January 26, 2008
As an old lady of 77 I am hopeful that the pattern for the Three Little Pigs Quilt is still available. I had this quilt as a child and would love to make it for grandchildren and greats. Any information would be appreciated.
Sincerely,
Patricia G. • Lobelville, TN |
January 18, 2008
Hello…quilter from Oregon. I have a quilt that was given to me from my grandmother and was never finished. I am working on it to complete it. I have asked many of my quilter friends to see if anyone can tell me when and where these patterns came from and the time date made. My grandmother has been gone for over 20 years and I have no way to date this…Was hoping you could help. I am attaching some photos of the flowers and hope you can tell me if this is one of Ruby McKim's. If so, can you tell me when the pattern was made?
Thank you so much
Colleen W.
MMT—Colleen's quilt is indeed a Ruby Short McKim pattern, The Flower Garden published in 1930. |
January 9, 2008
Thanks for the order confirmation! I'm excited about getting the pattern book…[Quaddie Quiltie]
I just finished reading a Thornton Burgess story and was writing a review for my blog, Up the Hill Gang. I always do research about the author and somewhere in my search I read that a quilt with the characters from his stories was on display somewhere…maybe a museum? I googled several different things and eventually came across this site http://www.quiltersmuse.com/bluework_embroidery_history.htm where I discovered the designer, Ruby Short McKim! I believe I googled "Ruby Short McKim Bedtime Stories Quilt pattern" and voila!
I do a lot of book reviews and I certainly plan on sharing this find with my readers!
Take Care,
Jenny D. • Elizabethton, TN |
December 2/3, 2007
I found my mother's quilts she started over 70 years ago and am going to try and finish them. I wonder if you know the name of this block.
Hoping to put my mother's 70 year old work to the quilt she intended. I found one that resembled it called a 4 Patch Daddy's Tie, the coloring was different but same shapes.
Thanks,
Shirley F. • Omaha, NE
MMT—We couldn't find this pattern in our archives. Please check the BULLETIN BOARD / TREASURE HUNT to see if you can help us identify Shirley's quilt!
December 11, 2007
Thanks for trying. I am working on another of mom's quilts too and since I did not really know what I was doing I was not thorough enough. I measured one of the Bird Life squares and it was 9 inches so I assumed all were that size-wrong. Mom never squared them. Well she was only 15. I finally have it together with the sashings-a little crooked but do-able. I notice all of the daddy's tie ones are not the same either so squaring them and putting them against each other will probably not work. That is why I was trying to find it so I could see if it had sashings. I will keep plowing through all my books. You see, once I get hooked on something all my kids think the old lady needs all these books and they keep buying them for me. Looks like I better live up to their expectations.
LOL, Shirley |
November 27, 2007
I would like to order the pattern for the Farm Life Quilt. Can you please tell me what shipping would cost to Luxembourg? I will be happy to pay through Paypal if you send me an invoice.
Best wishes,
Margareta F. • Luxembourg
December 12, 2007
Hi Merrily,
Thank you for the pattern book, it arrived safely yesterday. I'm very much looking forward to stitching those cute squares!
Best wishes for a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
Margareta F. • Luxembourg |
November 18, 2007
…I was looking through the newest Quilter's Newsletter. There I saw a picture of Ruby Short McKim and the Crystal Star pattern, with an article about Kansas City Star patterns. The pattern caught my eye first, as that is the first block my daughter made. Her name is Crystal. She hasn't done a lot of quilting, but she does appreciate them. I'll have to see what happened to those Crystal Star blocks.
Do you ever speak to guilds about Ruby McKim? I'm a member of the Nitetime Needlers. I'm not in charge of programs, but I can always pass on interesting info to the program chair.
Take care,
Marci H. • Kansas City, MO
MMT—We aren't currently doing any presentations, but thanks for asking! |
November 3, 2007
I am interested in the Flower Garden Quilt Book. Please let me know when it will be available and the price.
I have embroidered all of the Wildwood Flowers blocks and I am now working on some of the State Flowers blocks. I am planning on combining them into one quilt as I wanted to make a king size coverlet. It has been very enjoyable to see the progress and how pretty they look when I have laid them out on a background fabric. I plan to place 1-1/2" to 2" fabric strips between each block which seems to make them stand out from each other. I'm currently stitching block #41.
I enjoy receiving your emails informing me of the new items available.
Thanks,
Cari K. • Rockaway Beach, OR
|
October 2, 2007
I rec'd all of my order, and…my granddaughter is already working on the Three Little Pigs. I am going to make the [Coal] Black Cat this week. Thank you so much. I will be at our quilt guild meeting next Tuesday and tell them about your studio. It was in our newsletter from Karen Alexander but I would like to make sure they remember. I will take some of my order with me to show them.
Shelby WG • Marion, IN |
September 21, 2007
I would like to find out more about the appliquéd blocks that my great Great Aunt Stacy (Proskocil) Ripa finished. The pattern came from the Kansas City Star. I would love to find out what year they were published. The blocks consist of an Iris, Pansy, Tulip, Daffodil , Daisy, Rose, Marigold, Lilly of the Valley, Lily Pad - there are 24 blocks in all. They are all different flowers. I would love the name of the pattern, if possible. I finished the quilt blocks with a simple sashing. I would like to gather any information so that it can be written on the back of the quilt on muslin for future generations. The blocks are in excellent condition and are perfectly sewn. Her father, a tailor, came to this country from Austria and made all of the dress uniforms for the Austrian Army in the late 1800's and early 1900's. They arrived in the U.S. in about 1905.
Thank you,
Pat W.
MMT—Again, it's the Flower Garden Quilt! |
September 18, 2007
I have an old quilt that is clearly a Ruby Short McKim design – picket fence with embroidered flowers. I’d love to know when this pattern was published (I think it was in the Kansan). I’ve attached two photos of the quilt – I had it framed. I think it was made by my great-grandmother who lived in Missouri. It is really a thing of beauty.
Thank you so much,
Mary M. • Santa Fe, NM
MMT—It is, of course, the Flower Garden Quilt! |
August 31, 2007
I live in Marion, IN - the home of The Quilter's Hall of Fame. I am a supporter of the QHF and a member of the Marie Webster Quilt Guild.
I just wanted to tell you how pleased I was to hear from Karen Alexander that you were reviving your grandmother's patterns. (Especially the Three Little Pigs)
In 1947, when I was four years old, my wonderful Grandmother began my embroidery career with Ruby McKim's Three Little Pigs. I stitched them in blue as it is my favorite color. The stitches were what a four year old would do, but over the past 60 years I have improved a little.
Now I hope to be able to purchase the pattern for the Three Little Pigs sometime in the future as my granddaughter is now ready to learn to embroider.
Shelby WG • Marion, IN |
August 28, 2007
Just wanted to respond and say the State Flower patterns arrived and I can't wait to do them. I'm working on the Flower Garden patterns at the moment so I must stay focused and finish them before I start another project or my UFO pile will get bigger! Many thanks.
Sally R. • Trappe, PA |
August 21, 2007
I understand that Ruby McKim designed redwork patterns based on the Burgess Bedtime Stories. Are the patterns still available for purchase?
My grandfather read the stories to my father and his brothers when they were children, my father read them to his six children, and I read them to my two sons. Both of my grandmothers were quilters but I have found no such patterns among their quilting stashes.
I think this quilt would make wonderful gifts in my family and would appreciate any help you can give me to obtain patterns.
Sarah Stevens • Sandwich, IL |
August 19, 2007
I am writing to share some information that I think you will be pleased to know. My baby quilt was made according to Ruby's 'Three Little Pigs' pattern–all colors and the scalloped edges just as she suggested. It was well loved but intact.
I now reside in Maryland, not to far from D.C. As I had no children to leave my quilt to, I got the idea in my head that I should see if the Smithsonian would be interested in having my little 'treasure' in their quilt collection. The quilting was very 'utility' but the applique and embroidery was 'wonderful'. Long story made short, they were delighted to have it! They do not have much 'space' to accept quilts any more, but with its history (long ago fairy tale) and Ruby being the designer, it had wonderful 'historical' interest and value.
I remember we had another quilt designed by Ruby–the Mother Goose pattern. It was a large bed-size with blue setting blocks. Sadly, I know it was 'used' and I have no idea of what happened to it. I had forgotten all about it until I was looking for a picture of me with the 'Three Little Pigs' quilt as a child. The museum asked if I had a picture and I was so surprised and happy when I found one, but stunned by seeing the other one of which I had completely forgotten about.
Hope this has made you happy to know that the 'Three Little Pigs' now reside in our nation's museum. If you have any questions, feel free to respond to this email.
Quiltingly,
Kathy Brown |
July 27, 2007
I'm so glad I found your web site. I was at an estate sale when I thought I found a bag of brown j/p coats thread for a dollar. When I got home I found in the bag quilt blocks, some finished some not, with a pattern of several ships in it. The name of the quilt was American Ships Quilt by Ruby McKim. Dated on the paper was Feb-March1976, every month a ship pict. was sent. I have the first 10 blocks and that's all. I would like to get the rest of these ships to finish this quilt. On the botton of the pages it's printed in the corner of the page, the name of the magazine it came in, Olde Time Needlecraft. If you have any thing on this quilt please e-mail me back w/the price so I may order this info.
Thanks
Sharon P. |
June 25, 2007
Hi! I wrote to you a few months back, asking for pictures of the McKim Wild Rose and Sunflower blocks which were mentioned in Designs Worth Doing, but not pictured. You said that you had no pictures of these blocks. Well, my good friend Victoria Miller from Northfield, MN has found a pattern she ordered from Quilters Newsletter Magazine (many years ago) of the Wild Rose block. Bless her heart - she made a block for me and made a copy of the directions…I see you are making cards with the pieced flowers. You might be able to add this to your line.
Sincerely,
Rose Marie Werner • Dundas, MN |
June 16, 2007
I have a question about the "First Lady Quilt"…Is there a pattern that can be purchased for this quilt? Is there a website that has a picture of this quilt? I am an Eleanor R. fan as well as a Ruby fan. Thank you.
Sincerely,
Marti Phelps • Calvert Quilt Shop • Prince Frederick, Maryland
MMT—Does anyone know about this quilt? If so, e-Mail us at letters@mckimstudios.com |
June 5, 2007
Merrily, I sent my order yesterday by mail for the Peter Pan Quilt book. I'm still elated to have this information & source for the pattern [ see Pat's email from June 3rd ]. It would be fine with me if you want to post the redwork quilt photos on the bulletin board. It would be wonderful to be able to identify that one too. It's a plus to have some history on a quilt. Thank you very much.
I think it is wonderful what you are doing with your grandmother's legacy. So many people will benefit from it & it's a wonderful tribute to your grandmother.
Best wishes,
Pat H. • Clinton, MO
MMT—Please check the BULLETIN BOARD / TREASURE HUNT to see if you can help us identify Pat's quilt! |
June 4, 2007
Hello - I have an embroidery pattern called "Covered Wagon States" and I am wondering if this is one of Ruby McKim's patterns?
Thank you,
Brenda Y. • Lake Oswego, OR
MMT—There used to be a publishing company here in KC that sold a variety of my grandmother's patterns. Their order form listed the "Covered Wagon States" as one of my grandmother's quilt series, but I have no references on my end to verify that. Unfortunately, they're not in business anymore.
Does anyone know about this quilt? If so, e-Mail us at letters@mckimstudios.com |
June 3, 2007
I was very happy to find the McKim Studio site & your email address. I have an embroidered baby quilt that I am trying to find out if the patterns are Ruby Short McKim patterns. Can you help me? I would be glad to send a picture, etc. to help identify the nursery rhyme patterns. I would be forever grateful!
Sincerely,
Pat H. • Clinton, MO
MMT—One of Pat's quilts is a Peter Pan Quilt, the other redwork quilt is not a RSM design. |
May 23, 2007
I was introduced to the patterns of Ruby McKim in my redwork club. Since then I have collected both examples of her patterns and the patterns themselves.
I am thrilled to see that you are re-introducing the patterns. Have you ever considered sponsoring a Ruby McKim Redwork Club? ( If Ruby were alive today, I know she would be doing one. It so fits in with her entrepreneurial spirit.) Many of the redwork clubs are looking for fresh ideas, and I think a Ruby McKim Redwork Club would be great and would not involve too much additional work on your part…
Keep up the great work. If you are interested in the redwork club idea, I will be glad to share both my ideas and experiences with you.
Regards,
Kathe L.
|
May 21, 2007
...I was so inspired by Melinda's gift to some guild members, that I thought they [ Icebox Bags ] would make wonderful gifts for friends and family that have everything. They certainly won't have these darling bags. The design is wonderful and I am sooo in love with embroidery. I am a member of our Redwork Club, so I am always looking for more embroidery items. The design is wonderful and I am looking forward to getting started on these. Melinda shared her method of printing the pattern off on her printer, so I am looking forward to experimenting with her method, too. I will be checking my mailbox, awaiting their arrival.
Thank you so much for these patterns, I love them.
Connie N. • Ocean Park, WA
|
May 19, 2007
I finished the veggie [ Icebox ] bags and gave them to my guild board members and committee chairs Monday, 26 in all. They were so pleased. I used my surger to make them, how easy.
Thank you for such wonderful recognition and the pictures of our quilt show on your website. Your site is my favorite to visit. The pansy quilt will be my next large quilt, probably will start it this fall. There is still one question I have - The caption under Janet King's and Karen Snyder's Mother Goose Quiltie "aka Mother Goose Colonial Quilt" - should that be there? Was the Mother Goose Quiltie also know as Mother Goose Colonial Quilt? Anyway, by adding us to your website you've honored my guild and myself. Thank you, thank you, thank you.
Have a great day,
Melinda C. • Long Beach, WA
MMT—I do have a set of original clippings that title this quilt as "Mother Goose Colonial Quilt." The patterns are identical to the "Mother Goose Quiltie." |
May 7, 2007
I just discovered your web site and am absolutely thrilled!! I bought 101 Patchwork Patterns soon after it was published. Immediately, I fell in love with the Oriental Poppy pattern, but had no inkling that I would ever have a source for it. Now I learn it is available! How wonderful!! Please advise me of the price and shipping charges.
Thank you.
Virginia C. • Thibodaux, LA |
April 23, 2007
I picked up a copy of 101 Patchwork Patterns at a library book sale on Saturday. I've fallen in love with the picture on page 82 of the Oriental Poppy quilt. Do you have a pattern available for this quilt?
What a wonderful way for your grandmother and her artistic vision to live on.
Again, thank you, and regards,
Gloria W. • Santa Rosa, CA
MMT—Thanks to this special request we found original illustrated instructions for the Oriental Poppy Quilt, as well as cut pieces for the quilt in a kit in our family archives. Many thanks for inquiring! |
April 16, 2007
l live in Sydney Australia. l enjoy quilting very much, but like everyone there is not enough hours in the day what with work, family etc. Also resources over here are very limited - thank goodness for the Internet!
l happened to see episode 625 on Simply Quilts - Jane Przybsz! showing a reproduction quilt of your grandmother/greatgrandmother Ruby Mckim's quilt with flowers.
Reading through your website l see you have the patterns available for "Flower Garden" & "Wildwood Flowers".
l am hoping that the Flower Garden quilt is the one l saw on the show & may be able to make may own appliqued flower quilt. l managed to purchase the 101 Quilt Pattern book but this only shows a small picture of the embroidered patterns.
l hope this all makes a little sense? From memory l think it had a lilly of the valley, tulip, rose etc. Hoping to hear from you very soon, letting me know what is available, price, payment & posting details.
Kind Regards
Sharon |
April 6, 2007
Hello! I am a quilt shop owner in Cynthiana KY. I just stumbled upon your site and am amazed at the designs. This is my first experience with Ruby's work. I would like to make several of the books available in my shop, if possible. Would you offer a discount if I ordered several at one time?
Thanks dearly,
Heather • Cynthiana, KY
MMT—The answer is of course, YES, YES, YES! |
March 26, 2007
Merrily: I have a LOT of McKim stuff; some original clippings/patterns and lots of pc's. Now. Do You have all of her booklets "Designs Worth Doing" etc.? I'm in the process of downsizing my extensive quilt ephemera collection, and will be glad to send all of the McKim things, if you would pay postage. (At least a large boot box full.) I can't think of a better place to send these things to!!
I will also send pictures of the quilts in my collection that are made from her "series" patterns, if you like.
Shirley McElderry
March 26, 2007
Original Message-----From: Merrily Tuohey
Hi Shirley,
Debby Kratovil gave me your name and email address and asked me to contact you regarding donations for the Historical Society's "Ruby Short McKim Collection". I don't expect anyone to donate their original clippings unless they wish to, they do have a dollar value. We would be happy to receive originals or copies of originals, whichever works best for you.
Thank you for your offer, I look forward to hearing from you!
Merrily McKim Tuohey |
March 25, 2007
As a quilt historian, I'm delighted that you are reprinting Ruby's work. My very first quilt book -- back in about 1970, was her 101 Patterns book -- I couldn't believe there were that many patterns. Little did I know that was but a drop in the bucket <grin>.
I hope you have a good day, and continued success as you revive her work. Through your website I'm learning more about the breadth of her work. Thank you.
Sincerely,
Barb G. in PA |
March 25, 2007
What a wonderful legacy for your family. Thanks for being willing to share them.
Cari K. • Rockaway Beach, OR |
March 25, 2007
A friend sent me the address to both your Ruby McKim websites today. I am so pleased to see what you are doing to keep your grandmother's legacy alive in the hearts of American needlewomen! I have tried to keep my eye out for Ruby McKim quilts on eBay. I lucked out and found a crib quilt dated 1918 made from a selection of Ruby's Bedtime Quilt series. It is a well-loved, well-worn little quilt, but I even have the name of the child it was made for. That is a real thrill as a quilt historian!
I wish you all the best in your on-going efforts to recover all of Ruby's patterns and other paper ephemera concerning her work. We can never have too much history about our honorees and their contributions the legacy of the quilting world!
Sincerely,
Karen A. • Lopez Island, WA • President, The Quilters Hall of Fame |
March 24, 2007
I saw Debby Kratovil's posting on the Quilt History List asking for original or copies of newspaper clippings for the historical society. I have several original newspaper clippings but they may be in the same shape as what you already have. Since they are clippings, I sometimes can't determine where they were originally published or the date.
Personally I have made the Toy Shop Window quilt and use it on our guest bed for the grandchildren at Christmastime. I love doing embroidery.
Audrey W., Co-Director • Quilt Camp in the Pines • Quilting in the Desert |
March 24, 2007
What a wonderful website! Ruby McKim is one of my heroes.
I have a question for you about one of Ruby's patterns/kits. I have been documenting the quilt kits from the 1920s through the 70s and am working on a book about the kits. I have Designs Worth Doing catalogs from 1931, 31-32, and 1932. In them I found the pieced floral kits, including wild rose and sunflower - which are not pictured in the catalogs. Do you have any pictures of these two designs? I've looked through her columns in Better Homes and Gardens with hopes that I'd find them there, but no luck so far.
Sometime I'd like to send you a list of the McKim kits I have documented, to see if I've missed anything. My quilt collection includes several of her designs: Peter Pan, American History, Bird Life, State Flowers, the Flower Garden series, and a combination of Quaddy Quiltie, and one of the Nursery Rhyme Quilties. If you would like photos, I'd be happy to oblige.
Rose Marie W. • Dundas, MN |
March 24, 2007
Your grandmother was a PROLIFIC designer. She gave us such a rich history of design. We are indebted to her. There is an online group called The Quilt History List. I am a member. They talk about all sorts of historical things related to quilts. I suggest you sign up and tell that what you're about. You can join here: www.quilthistory.com/
Debby Kratovil • Projects Editor, Quilt Magazine
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March 17, 2007
Thanks for the great website, and for taking Paypal! I'll be ordering soon! I've gotten into collecting Ruby McKim patterns. 2 weeks ago, I was at a flea market, and found a Designs Worth Doing catalogue, together with several newspaper patterns from the Portland Oregonian. What a treasure! Today, at the used book store, I found 101 Patchwork Patterns. Another treasure.
BTW--we also call my mother "Grammy"!
Susan in Oregon
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February 12, 2007
I have been going through some of Mom's papers, she passed away at age 98 and so I have almost 100 years of stuff. And, I found a set of quilt block patterns called the Bible History Quilt. All 24 block are here. Mom pasted them into an old John Deere implement book and cut out of wallpaper scraps a book cover for it. I saw the name Ruby Short McKim and there she is on a website. Isn't life wonderful! Congratulations on reconstructing her life. I want to do that with Mom's papers…and don’t know how to begin. I have over 12 boxes (LARGE) of recipes, patterns, poems, pictures she cut out of magazines and letters, postcards and I’m not sure what else. It is a journey. I am not a quilter but I treasure her book and I wanted you to know that ruby lives on.
Thank you,
Darlene L. |
January 29, 2007
Hi there-
My name is Melissa & I have just discovered that some of the vintage redwork I love is by Ruby Short McKim. I have really enjoyed looking at your website. I am also a huge Thornton Burgess fan and it looks as though Ruby Short McKim designed the Quaddie Quiltie patterns based on his stories. Is this correct?
Thanks again and how wonderful of you to keep the work of Ruby Short McKim available!!
Sincerely,
Melissa S. |
January 26, 2007
Hello! I am so thrilled to have found your website. I am very interested in obtaining the pattern for the 'Three Pigs Quilt.' I understand this pattern is special order only, so I will wait to hear from you with the details for ordering.
Thank you.
Dale FC. |
January 15, 2007
I too have found the patterns for the 'Rhyme Land' Quilt in my grandmother's belongings. I have 28 blocks. Is that the complete set?
Your grandmother is truly an inspiration!
Thank-you for sharing her work.
Leah
NOTE: There are 31 blocks for the 'Rhyme Land' Quilt. #29 and #30 are for the alternate blocks (Girl Goose and Boy Goose), #31 is for the border (Baby Goose). We also have a miniature profile and 2 pages of Grammy's original instructions available. |
January 10, 2007
I just had to write and say a big THANK YOU for the work you are doing. I love the patterns by Ruby Short McKim. I am an embroiderer (a teacher in fact). My particular favorites are the vintage patterns such as Ms. McKim's. Please keep up the good work.
Many many thanks,
Brenda Y. • Lake Oswego, OR |
January 9, 2007
I am so excited to see your website. I just think it is wonderful that the family is so interested in not only keeping their talented grandmothers memory alive but to keep the art she so loved alive. I give you thanks.
Lauri M. |
January 6, 2007
Thank you SO much for reviving her designs. I can't wait to see what you offer next!
avid stitcher & stitching teacher,
LouAnne in CA |
November 30, 2006
Hello I've been trying to find some information on Kimcraft and Kimport dolls. Would you know of any sites that have any information on these dolls? I had no idea that she was also a famous quilter. I find that very interesting and would like to know more about her so I will put your site in my favorites and visit it from time to time. Thank you!
Theresa M. |
October 14, 2006
I am so pleased to find your website. I was lucky enough to find the complete set of 'Rhyme Land' quilt patterns in the attic of my husband's grandmother's home which had been unoccupied for about 40 years. They must have been printed in the Birmingham Post. I've had them for almost 15 years. Last week I had some surgery, so I planned ahead and traced some of the blocks and purchased some floss. This week I have finished 5 blocks. I knew nothing of Mrs. Ruby until tonight when I decided to try and find out something about her. You have a wonderful heritage. Thanks for sharing it with all of us.
Shirley H. • Aliceville, AL |
October 8, 2006
I received your package [Quaddy Quiltie, Alice In Wonderland, The Three Pigs]. I love them! I'm looking forward to seeing 'Peter Pan'. I can see opportunities to use appliqué with some of the patterns as well as embroidery.
Jeanne B. • Hudson WI |
September 22, 2006
Thank you again for your help with the [Rhyme Land] quilt pieces. Please do let us know when the web page is up. My mum very much wants to see more of your grandmothers work.
Daphne C. • Abbotsford, BC, Canada |
August 15, 2006
I’m so happy to hear from you. I’m part of a small work craft group and we loved the [Quaddy Quiltie] design. I also love the Alice in Wonderland patterns and the Three Pigs…they are wonderful!
Jeanne B. • Hudson WI |
August 3, 2006
That was fast. Thank you so much for your time and effort in locating it [Flower Garden Quilt].
I'm looking forward to being able to show these to my mother. I still have some of the sugar sack material that she did the original squares on, that I may use to do some of the new ones.
Lorraine M. • Prince George, BC, Canada |
July 21, 2006
Just came across this website today and have tears in my eyes while writing to you. What a wonderful way to preserve her memory. She would be so proud of you and so would your Dad.
Love Ron and Wink |
July 14, 2006
I think what you're doing is great, and wish you success. I've always thought Grammy's designs could be used in many ways.
Love to all,
Chris Jones |
July 1, 2006
I want to buy McKim quilt patterns. Could you send me prices and a list of all quilt patterns you have. Brochures and catalogs too. She is mentioned in my quilt books and I am delighted to know I have found a trace of her patterns. She had some of the most beautiful patterns I have ever seen but I can't find her books and patterns now and I certainly want her patterns. I've tried to find an address but no luck until now.
Kay D. • El Dorado, AR |
June 20, 2006
I got your mailing yesterday and I'm very excited about making the [Rhyme Land] quilt. It will probably take me a good year to complete all the embroidery but when I saw how it was pieced together I wished I had it before my girls were born. That not being the case, I will make it and put it in a cedar chest to give to my first grandchild! Or a good friends child. Someone whom I know would appreciate all the work that went into it. Thank you so much for doing the trade, it now has an even more special meaning and I feel I have a new friend.
Thanks again Merrily and keep in touch.
Cheryl D. • Block Island, RI |
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