I have been given some Sunbonnet Sue blocks in Thirties prints (I think they are original, not reproductions). Some have been appliqued onto stained muslin with black floss in a buttonhole stitch. Some have just been basted together, ready to applique. 25 in all. I want to replace the muslin with new muslin. Debating on whether to use black floss to redo them, and match the colours in the pieces with darker shade. I have a ton of floss from a store closing. I don't have a pictures at this time.

Isn't black stitching traditional for Sue blocks?

I would certainly replace the stained muslin. You don't have to use black floss if you would like to match colors instead.

If the blocks are for you, I think you should do what pleases you. Different colored floss could look really cool

When I was 12 years old, my aunt taught me how to applique Sunbonnet Sue blocks. We used black embroidery floss. I still have those little blocks -- notice I said "blocks" and not quilt!!?? Those little jewels were cut from double knit polyester and stitched onto white cotton squares!!! Imagine that!!! ;-)

I agree, use whatever colored thread you want on them :D:D:D

The black is traditional, but I think it would look nice to match the floss with the predominant color of each block!

I think you shoulddo it the way you want, since you are the one who gets to see it every day! Hope you will post a picture when you finish!

It will be a fusion quilt, a little old and a little new. Do it the way it pleases you. Totally agree on changing the background.

You might be able to get the stains out of the muslin by soaking the blocks in some Oxi-Clean & water.

Thanks everyone for your comments. I have tried to wash the blocks, and could not get any of the stains out. Also I can't match the colour with new for the blocks that aren't done yet, so will replace it all. I will post a picture when done, but it could be a bit yet.

Depend on if you like that look and like to do hand work.

My mom had a number of embroidered pieces from the 30's and 40's that had the black outline stitching.

My MIL made lots of quilts and I think she did either white or matching stitching on her SBS.

Many years ago my mom made us a 25th anniversry Sunbonnet Sue quilot and she used colors that matched the dresses and shoes. It is delightful.

You might tea-dye the rest of the muslin if the stain is just from age.