Casgliadau Arlein

Short quilted bed jacket made and designed by Irene Morgan (nee Davies) of Porthcawl (originally from Aberdare), 1948 . Made from a pale dull pink floral brocaded synthetic fabric, with plain apricot fabric lining. Entirely hand stitched seams. Long wide sleeves. Collar turned back to show lining. Two button fastening (self fabric covered buttons and two made loops). Main body (back, front sides and sleeves) quilted in shell pattern with border of small leaves and outer border of trellis all around front edges, hem and sleeve edges. Possibly relating to a prize certificate awarded to Irene Morgan at the National Eisteddfod, 1948.

Irene Morgan (nee Davies) was taught to quilt at Aberdare Technical College in 1928. The class she attended was organised by the Rural Industries Bureau. The RIB established quilting classes in economically deprived areas of South Wales with the intention of providing employment for young women. The Bureau provided the women with materials, tuition and a market for their products. They made quilts and quilted garments for the middle-class professionals of Cardiff and for exclusive shops in London. They even sold their wares to Claridge’s Hotel and members of the Royal Family.