Feed Sacks: The Colorful History of a Frugal Fabric

Volume F from the Uppercase Encyclopedia of Inspiration series

If you're familiar with my quilt fabric collections, you know that I am a devotee of feed sacks, the perfect example of a utilitarian product turned into something beautiful. 

In this hefty volume with 544 pages of yummy pattern and color, Author Linzee Kull McCray explores the history of the humble feed sack, from a plain burlap or cotton sack to exuberantly patterned and colorful bags that were repurposed into frocks, aprons and quilts by thrifty housewives in the first half of the 20th century. Extensive imagery and at-scale reproductions of these fabrics create an inspiring sourcebook of pattern and color—and offer a welcome visit to a slower-paced way of life.

This 2025 edition includes a refoldable dust-jacket to showcase four different designs, and belly band. Images shown include my own well-thumbed and referenced edition! 😍