Quilt Inspiration Using her growing knowledge of antique quilts and textiles, Kathie Ratcliffe began piecing quilts at miniature scale, each inspired by an actual 19th century quilt or quilt pattern.  This new direction gave her the opportunity to make quilts in distinctive regional genres and to document 19th century trends in fabrics and design styles, using the same vibrant colors and patterns that made the originals so exceptional.  Here is an example of an original quilt and Kathie's miniature: Click to enlarge   Nine Patch, c. 1850, in the lively colors typical of 19th century Pennsylvania quilts Miniature Nine Patch quilt inspired by the 19th century quilt pictured on the left     Copyright © Kathie Ratcliffe All text and photographs on this site are the property of Kathie Ratcliffe and may not be reproduced without written permission       Nine Patch Studio   PO Box 189   Waterford, VA 20197   (540) 882-3348

These miniature quilts come framed and unframed. They are made in the historic village of Waterford Virginia in Loudoun County. The effort involved in making these heirloom quilt patterns in miniature is seen in the detailed finished product. These mini quilts make great gifts or Christmas presents. The miniature quilt patterns represent colonial crafts patterns from the 1800's (nineteenth century).
These folk art quilts represent textile art at its finest. The quilt patterns show off the beauty of America’s antique quilt designs. These early American patterned quilts are made by Kathie Ratcliffe, a skilled artisan who has been creating juried hand sewn mini quilts (miniature quilt) for many years.

- 04/01/2007