Handmade Americana Bow Tie Quilt Mat - Vintage Men's Shirting Fabrics

Details

Description

….TITLE:
Handmade Americana Bow Tie Quilt Mat - Vintage Men's Shirting Fabrics
SUBTITLE:
14" x 16" Hand-Stitched Red, White & … Read more ….TITLE:
Handmade Americana Bow Tie Quilt Mat - Vintage Men's Shirting Fabrics
SUBTITLE:
14" x 16" Hand-Stitched Red, White & Blue Table Mat - American Classical Folk Art

DESCRIPTION:
A Textile Artisan's Treasure
Crafted with exceptional care by a skilled Vermont quilter, this spirited quilted mat celebrates classic American textile traditions through the time-honored Bow Tie pattern. Measuring a generous 14" x 16", this hand-stitched piece transforms vintage men's summer shirting fabrics into a patriotic accent that bridges folk art and functional design.
The Bow Tie Pattern Heritage
The Bow Tie quilt block holds a special place in American quilting history, popular from the 1920s through the 1950s when resourceful homemakers transformed worn men's shirts into cheerful household textiles. This geometric pattern, with its distinctive pinwheel-like arrangement of contrasting triangles, was prized for its ability to showcase both pattern and color while using every precious scrap of fabric.
This version honors that tradition while adding a masculine, preppy sensibility through the careful selection of vintage shirting materials in classic red, white, and blue.
Fabric Selection & Composition
The mat features an expertly curated palette of vintage men's summer shirt fabrics:

Navy blue polka dots: A sophisticated small-scale white dot pattern that anchors the composition
Bold red anchor print: Adds spirited nautical charm with white anchor and cross motifs
Blue and white gingham checks: Classic American charm in varied scales
Navy striped shirting: Crisp pinstripes evoke seaside elegance
Turquoise and teal stripes: Add fresh coastal color variations
Cream and white solids: Provide visual breathing room and balance
Golden tan binding: Frames the composition with warm definition

Each fabric carries the soft hand and subtle wear of genuine vintage textiles, adding authentic character and a lived-in appeal that new fabrics simply cannot replicate. The red anchor fabric adds unexpected warmth and maritime spirit to the traditional blue and white palette, creating a piece with distinctly nautical yet sophisticated appeal.
Craftsmanship & Construction
This piece showcases traditional hand-quilting techniques:

Hand-cut fabric pieces precisely arranged in the Bow Tie pattern
Hand-stitched seams throughout
Quilted layers providing subtle texture and dimension
Golden tan binding expertly applied by hand
Backing fabric coordinates beautifully with the front
Larger 14" x 16" format showcases the pattern's complexity

The quality of construction ensures this mat will provide years of service while maintaining its handmade charm.
Styling & Use
This versatile piece works beautifully as:

A handsome table runner or placemat for casual dining
An elegant trivet for serving dishes, bread baskets, or casseroles
Patriotic accent for Fourth of July or Memorial Day entertaining
Display piece showcasing American folk art traditions
Layered accent under a centerpiece or decorative object
Part of a curated collection of Americana textiles
Thoughtful gift for quilting enthusiasts or Americana collectors
Nautical-themed décor accent

The 14" x 16" format is perfectly sized for practical daily use as a placemat while remaining decorative enough for display.
The American Classical Aesthetic
This mat embodies the American Classical style - clean lines, traditional patterns, and a palette rooted in colonial-era textiles. The red, white, and blue color scheme creates instant Americana appeal, while the variety of patterns (dots, stripes, checks, anchors) adds visual interest and sophisticated layering.
The use of men's shirting fabrics adds a gentlemanly, prep-school sensibility that sets this piece apart from typical floral or calico quilts. This is patriotic style with refinement - think Newport yacht club rather than county fair.
Specifications

Dimensions: 14" W × 16" H × 0.25" D
Pattern: Traditional Bow Tie block
Materials: Vintage men's summer shirt fabrics (cotton)
Construction: Hand-stitched throughout by Vermont artisan
Period: Contemporary (2020s) using vintage fabrics
Style: American Classical, Americana, Folk Art, Nautical
Color Palette: Navy blue, red, turquoise, teal, white, cream, golden tan
Motifs: Polka dots, stripes, gingham checks, nautical anchors
Origin: Handcrafted in Vermont, USA
Condition: Excellent, new handmade condition

Condition
Pristine condition. Freshly made with vintage fabrics that have been carefully cleaned and prepared. Ready for immediate use or display.
Perfect For

Americana and folk art collectors
Quilting enthusiasts who appreciate traditional patterns
Lovers of preppy, classical American style
Nautical and coastal décor
Those seeking handmade, sustainable home accessories
Farmhouse and cottage décor
Summer entertaining and patriotic holiday tables
Gifts for textile lovers and makers
Anyone who appreciates the beauty of repurposed vintage fabrics
Lake house or beach cottage décor

Provenance
Acquired from a talented Vermont quilter known for her meticulous hand-stitching and eye for textile composition. This piece represents the continuation of American quilting traditions passed down through generations of makers.
About Gentlemanly Pursuits
From our Northern Vermont location near the Canadian border, we seek out vintage treasures and handcrafted pieces that honor traditional craftsmanship. Each item in our collection tells a story of artistry, heritage, and the enduring appeal of well-made things. See less