Log Cabin ~ Barn Quilt Card

These colossal roadside barn quilts are a folk art movement that artistically pay homage to women of the farm by combing two symbols of our farming heritage: the traditionally thought of male domain of the barn and the female domestic domain of quilting. Barn Quilt Trails feature collections of these colorful large usually 8 foot blocks painted on barns. It is the story of one of the fastest-growing grassroots public arts movement in the North America.

The Barn Quilt phenomena began in Ohio when Donna Sue Groves and her wish to honor her mother, Maxine an Appalachian quilter by having a painted quilt hung on her barn. As she began talking about the project with friends and community members, it became clear that barn quilts resonated with many. The barn’s owners choose the barn quilt design which is usually a single block that can be a traditional such as the Ohio Star or a modern take on a traditional design. Often barn quilt patterns are chosen for the name; for instance Mariner’s Compass would reflect the love of travel.

This simple idea has spread and Barn Quilt trails continue to grow. Over 7000 quilts are part of organized trails; dozens more are scattered through the countryside waiting to be discovered. Quilt trails are created by quilt guilds, civic groups, local arts councils, 4-H clubs, school groups and other organizations. Most are a countywide effort, which allows for a distinct trail in a single area and creates local pride in the project.