Hearts & Paisley Cushion Cover Pattern

The inspiration for this cushion was taken from the Ladies’ Work Society Coverlet in The Guild Collection. The coverlet was made between 1875 and 1899 and the maker is unknown. This appliquéd coverlet is made from a background of blue and off-white linen, with appliqué motifs of good quality printed dress fabrics. All of the applied fabric has been couched over its joining edge with embroidery silks, and in the centre of the piece ‘Industria’ is embroidered in satin stitch. A Ladies Work Society woven label is still present on the back of the coverlet, and reads 'Ladies Work Society, 21 Sloan Street, London'. 

The Ladies Work Society was established in 1875 and was part of the wider Arts and Crafts movement that was emerging at the end of the 19th century. Led by artists such as William Morris, the movement aimed to promote and encourage architecture and the applied arts as worthy artistic disciplines. Textiles, as an artistic craft, was one of the disciplines revived, and the Ladies Work Society provided a respectable means of employment for distressed gentlewomen, who had needlework skills and education but no other means of making a living. Decoratively embroidered clothing and textiles were made to order through the Society or sold through their premises on Sloane Street, London.

Finished size 16” x 16”

Finished block size 8” x 8”