My mom saw a quilt that was on display by her. The borders were smocked at the corners and from each corner about 10" only. The remainder of the border was not smocked. Because it was a solid color border, she said it looked very striking. I have never seen this done before either. Have you? It sounded very unusual. How could that be done without puckering?

I would love to see a picture of this quilt! :D:D:D
I wonder if it was tightly smocked in the center and then looser as it fanned out?

No, not smocked in the centers of each border at all -just the areas near each corner. Mom is a very experienced quilter so I trust her description but wish I also could see it.

I wonder if it was done with that new shrinking thread? Of course, can't think of the name of it right now. LOL