A Benni Harper Mystery: vol. 9

Steps to the Altar

A Benni Harper Mystery

Plot

The Steps to the Altar pattern most likely has its origins in things romantic, though there is a possibility that it also has a spiritual aspect. Prior to the twentieth century, marriage denoted a major role shift in a woman's life. A gift of a quilt from her closest friends both commemorated this event and served as a reminder of her friend's love and support. The Steps to the Altar pattern is a fairly simple one using squares and triangles to make a block that is striking when contrasting fabrics are used. The name actually refers to at least three different patterns, some of which have their earliest origins in late nineteenth century Ohio and New York. It is also called Dish of Fruit, Flat Iron Patchwork, Strawberry Basket, Stairstep, Stairs of Illusion, English T Box, Jacob's Ladder and Building Blocks.