And here we have another violet!
Actually, four states claim it as their state flower, so be prepared to see two more; Illinois has been done, but Wisconsin and Rhode Island (#25 & #26) are yet to be stitched, and back-to-back at that---by happenstance it seems.
The flower blocks are similar, so I did this one in shades of purple to give my quilt blocks variety. Besides, common meadow violets in eastern North America run a range of colors. In New Jersey for instance, from March to June, native violets appear as white, blue, and purple, so any shade of those could be adopted to suit your own color aesthetics.
One thing they all have in common is they self-seed. The seeds are tiny and are easily carried by the wind and weather. That's why they often pop up in empty lots and fields, cracks in sidewalks, in manicured lawns and gardens alike, anywhere they find a little earth, water, and dappled sunshine. They do nicely in hanging flower baskets too.
Beyond their use as a garden plant though, the violet has historically been used for food and medicine. Flowers and roots can be eaten. The Cherokee Indians used it to treat colds, and headaches. In the Manual of Medical Botany of the US of North America (1821-1830), it was claimed to be useful for colds, sore throats, and constipation. I wrote a little more about its fine qualities, and uses in baking here.
Historically, the violet was the chosen favorite by New Jersey residents, and in 1913, the common violet (viola soroia) was designated by legislature.
Unfortunately, the resolution was overlooked for one reason or another, leaving the status for the state flower uncertain for the next fifty years. Another attempt was made in 1963, but it was contested and failed to pass. Finally, with a collective push by garden clubs and other states declaring the virtues of the violet as a prized plant, the bill was approved on February 15, 1971, establishing its position once and for all in the 'Garden State'.
COLORS: I chose these--but again, don't feel you have to do them exactly the same. For the record I used #155 & #3746 for the petals; leaves #3346; stems #581. Stitches used were stem (for outlines), and satin stitching (for fills), and back stitch for the letters.
BLOCK SIZE: Images should be about 4 x 4-inches---to fit a 6.5" quilt block. To get the image:: RIGHT CLICK to save it as a file, or for size options--LEFT CLICK and use the flickr 'all sizes' link.
STITCH GUIDE: For general color and stitch guide; print out the original PDF Directions here:
That's it for now...I'm off to do the (sunny) California poppy next.
Perfect for this rainy day!
EEK! The prettiest one so far--I love violets!!! :)
Posted by: Sharon M. | May 10, 2010 at 01:16 PM
Here in southern WI I have a collection of violets in several different shades and combinations. I took several years of scrounging sprouts where I found them, but now our yard has waves of white and violet in the spring.
The foliage makes a nice flower bed border, and lawnmower wheels fit under the leaves. No trimming!
I love violets! Thank you for the pattern.
Posted by: Mom Wald | May 11, 2010 at 05:41 AM
Missouri??
Posted by: Jeanette Silvey | May 12, 2010 at 02:43 PM
I think the Missouri flower is the dogwood by the way...
Posted by: Jeanette Silvey | May 12, 2010 at 02:44 PM
I stand corrected.. it is the Hawthorne and I see it is already on the list...
Posted by: Jeanette Silvey | May 12, 2010 at 02:45 PM
I can almost smell it, it looks so real! Beautiful work, and nice commentary.
Jody
Posted by: Gumbo Lily | May 13, 2010 at 07:06 PM
Violets are prone to being thought of as a weed, as they spring up all over the place and are difficult to control. However, in my opinion, violets are beautiful fragrant flowers. I am so glad you used it as your inspiration.
Posted by: Clever Cleo | May 14, 2010 at 02:24 AM
Yay! NJ made it :) Beautiful job Vicki...you know NJ IS the 'Garden State"...but my friend said that's because of all the garden apartments! lol
Smiles, DianeM
Posted by: DianeM | May 16, 2010 at 06:06 AM
Thanks for taking the time to share this, I feel strongly about it and love learning more on this topic. This blog makes me realize the energy of words and pictures. I look forward to more.
Posted by: Jordan Sneakers | May 17, 2010 at 05:32 AM
I just found this project and can't wait to start on these blocks! I did notice that my state of North Carolina with it's dogwood isn't on the state list yet. Thank you for sharing this.
REPLY: North Carolina has been added as #43 on the list--thanks for posting!
Posted by: Kylie | May 18, 2010 at 07:43 AM
Very, very sweet! What a nice idea to give each state a flower. And the irises in your garden are soooo beautiful.
Posted by: sabine | May 19, 2010 at 11:20 AM