With the invention of the jacquard loom, more complex patterning became possible in handwoven work. Jacquard coverlets became popular in the US as immigrants brought their state-of-the-art technology with them. The coverlets were usually made of two colors, consisting of repeated motifs of floral medallions surrounded by a complex border. The Jontz-Montgomery Coverlet Collection has an impressive display of coverlets of the 19th Century.

At Berea College, Appalachian families were taught to weave coverlets. This was the start of a weaving program at the college. The students work was marketed across the U.S and enabled them to pursue their education.

A figured Double Weave coverlet
woven by John Stiff in Milford, Pike County, PA, 1844 displays Lilies of France medallions, 2 facing eagles and a tree border.

Overshot,
Summer-Winter,
Beiderwand,
and Star Work
coverlets are also featured at this site.

Marie Miller Antique Quilts has a lovely wool jacquard coverlet, circa 1850. A close-up of the eagles in the corners can also be viewed.
If you are looking for a coverlet of your own the Family Heirloom Weavers specialize in 19th Century Jacquard woven yardgoods.

Mothers of Invention
The Museum for Textiles exhibit features the development of textiles through the ages, including the use of jacquard looms and woven coverlets.
Martha Stewart Living – Antique Coverlets
Martha Stewart’s feature on collecting antique coverlets shows Laura Fisher’s collection of coverlets woven in traditional overshot and Jacquard designs.

Lee’s Surrender Coverlet

Jacquard Looms

Computers and Looms