Winding Ways Quilt Patterns and Tutorials

We wrote about this Farmers Wife Quilt book back in 2012 – you can see the Quilt along to the Farmers Wife Quilt article here.

Since that article, we can share some more Farmers Wife Quilt links with you, including these free Farmers Wife Quilt patterns and templates.

free printable template

Farmer’s Wife 1930’s Sampler Quilt Block Tutorials – GnomeAngel

Free templates & Patterns

Farmer’s Wife Quilt 1930s Part 1 – A Scrappy Foundation Paper Pieced Version!

Hand Made Karma: Farmer’s Wife Quilt-along Block Index

Farmer’s Wife – sampler quilt

The Farmers Wife Sew Along Tips Video 1

Farmer’s Wife Quilt 1930s Sampler Quilt – Modern Scrappy Version – Scrap Fabric Love

Easiest blocks – Farmer’s wife sampler quilt – Sewn Up

But this post is all about the book itself and my 2024 review.

As I delved into “The Farmer’s Wife Sampler Quilt” by Laurie Aaron Hird, I found myself transported back to the 1920s, a time when the rural American landscape was painted with the honest toil of farmers and the quiet strength of their wives. Through the lens of letters from The Farmer’s Wife magazine’s 1922 contest, Hird stitches together a narrative that intertwines the practical wisdom of farm wives with the timeless artistry of quilting.

The heart of this book lies in the responses to a simple yet profound question posed by the magazine: “If you had a daughter of marriageable age, would you, in light of your own experience, have her marry a farmer?” Within these pages, I found not only insightful reflections but also glimpses into the very essence of rural life during that era. The letters, penned by women from diverse backgrounds, resonate with authenticity, offering a poignant mosaic of joys, challenges, and enduring love for the land.

Accompanying these heartfelt missives are 111 quilt blocks, each meticulously designed to reflect the essence of rural life. From simple geometric patterns to intricate designs, these blocks serve not only as a visual representation of the era but also as a testament to the creativity and resourcefulness of the women who crafted them. With detailed instructions and template cutting directions, Hird equips readers with the tools to recreate these blocks and embark on their own quilting journey.

“The Farmer’s Wife Sampler Quilt” is more than just a quilting book; it’s a tribute to the enduring spirit of farm women and a celebration of their timeless artistry. Whether you’re a seasoned quilter or a novice enthusiast, this book invites you to embark on a journey through time, stitching together the stories of the past while creating something beautiful for the future.

This book also has a few spinoffs, including “The Farmers Wife coloring book“.