LadyAg

I am trying to locate solid white background fabric for an 1850-1860 reproduction red and green applique quilt I am planning. I would like a fairly thick fabric that will hold the large size applique shapes well, is not blindingly white, and not a broadcloth texture. I know little about the whites of that era, but it doesn't seem like the fabrics then were likely to be as 100% pure white as the modern fabrics are.

Does anyone have any suggestions as to who makes good background fabrics?

Thanks so much for any and all help!

EasyPeezy

How about Kona Snow? It's off white and very nice to work with.

jclinganrey

I agree with Easy Peezy. Kona solids are some of the best in the industry and Kona Snow would be a very good choice.

PamelaOry

Kona makes one called “prepared for dye” or something like that and I bought a bolt of it. I love working with it.

joe'smom

Marucs specializes in reproduction fabrics. Judie Rothermel designs the Centennial Solids line for Marcus; I don't know if they make a white, but there is sure to be a cream. They also have a line of aged muslins.

https://www.fatquartershop.com/nsear...tennial+solids
https://www.fatquartershop.com/nsearch/?q=muslin+marcus

feline fanatic

Have you considered muslin?

Tartan

They make white on white fabrics with small prints but they also make white on beige or cream that might work. I find that most of those have a good weight.

Ariannaquilts

I always use Kona white when doing reproduction type quilts, I love the feel of it as does the recipient.

BSKTLOFR-QUILTER

I'm using a Kona Porcelain. It's not bright white. I'm like you and I wouldn't tend to think they had bright white in the 1800s.

quiltingshorttimer

what I was going to suggest--it doesn't have a weird finish on it and it seems little less sheer than most.