The Wrexham Tailor’s Quilt

Mrs Elizabeth Williams (53), sits writing by candlelight and we hear her voice reading the words as she sets them down.

For Years 5-6

My dearest Lynette

I cannot make this a long letter, but you have been so interested in James’s coverlet from the start that you have to be the first to hear the news.  I am so excited!  For the coverlet itself is now on display in the art treasures exhibition being held here in Wrexham!

Well, in truth it hangs within the exhibition’s industrial annexe. Exhibit Number 46, with a sign declaring it to be a Table Cover, produced by the hand of military master tailor James Williams. My James, Lynette!

Ten years it took him. More than four thousand pieces of cloth. Every evening for ten years, James stitching while I read the bible to him – or Pilgrim’s Progress. Our favourite time of the day together.

Your loving sister

Elizabeth

For Years 7-8 (or older)

My dearest Lynette

I cannot make this a long letter, but you have been so interested in James’s coverlet from the start that you have to be the first to hear the news.  I am so excited!  For the coverlet itself is now on display in the art treasures exhibition being held here in Wrexham!

Well, in truth it hangs within the exhibition’s industrial annexe. Exhibit Number 46, with a sign declaring it to be a Table Cover, produced by the hand of military master tailor James Williams.

Yet you remember how James began the coverlet? Using scraps of material left over from the military uniforms which have made him so famous. And stitching them to make a picture of our favourite bible story – Jonah and the Whale, of course. Ten years it took him. More than four thousand pieces of cloth. Every evening for ten years, James stitching while I read the bible to him – or Pilgrim’s Progress. Our favourite time of the day together.

I wonder what everyone will think of it. Wouldn’t it be wonderful if it inspires a new style of patchwork and quilting? Who knows what amazing and strange things people will depict on their coverlets and quilts of the future!

Your loving sister

Elizabeth

Can you design a quilt of your own? Or draw and paint some images about life today or famous places where you live? Or write about James’s quilt?