Proposed Layout for 1928 Ruby McKim Bird Life Embroidered blocks
 

I have 24 embroidered bird blocks that I either got at an estate sale or was given by a relative who knows I quilt and love old blocks & quilt tops. After a little research, I was able to identify the blocks as the entire set of Bird Life blocks by Ruby McKim (published in 1928). They were likely embroidered in the 30's or possibly early 40's by the unknown seamstress. I want to have a little fun with the setting while at the same time staying in touch with the era...Below is a mock up of what I'm planning...I chose blue and green to represent the earth, trees, sky and water...home to all our bird friends.
Does this setting work? I'll be using solid blue and green. The blocks are 9" and I plan a 3" sashing. Opinions are appreciated...thanks.

Very pretty! I think it works fine.

I think it looks great.

Looks good go with it

I think your colors need to be softer. All I see is the sashing & nine patches. It makes the embroidery fade away into the background.

I agree, the colors need to be softer but I like the colors blue and green.

this was my first impression as well. Here is a link to a quilt that might give you some inspiration. I recently longarmed a hand appliqued bird quilt for a client. While the circa is not as old as yours, it still had that same feel. The client used a calico floral print print fabric and solid corner stones for hers. Then did a 3 fabric outer border. It really framed the birds nicely. http://www.quiltingboard.com/picture...d-t262627.html

My fabric is actually lighter than the mock up and the sashing to block proportions are also off...the blocks are actually bigger....I'll cut some fabric and sew some nine patches and layout a few blocks on my design wall to make sure the embroidery isn't overwhelmed. I may also look for a 30's print to replace the white stripe which may act to soften the contrasts in the sashing and make it read more as a simple sashing...thanks for the suggestions and ideas.

I agree...more muted blues and greens.

Lovely! I agree with all the others that say the colors should be more muted, but I do like the choice of blue and green. I'm pretty sure the colors of that era were more bubble gum-ish. Now that being said, it's your quilt and if you are enjoying it, go with whatever pleases you. Nice find!