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Quilter's World
By Sandra L. Hatch
Quilter's World newsletter ...
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May 9, 2008, Vol. 5 No. 7
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Dear ,
In the Quilting World
When checking out the quilt exhibit curated by Ricky Tims that will be at the Museum of the American Quilter's Association, I took a detour to Ricky's Web site to learn more about him. I found some very interesting blogs
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there with videos of some of his travels. One of them was a short tour through the home of Caryl Bryer Fallert in Paducah, Ky. It was very interesting and totally unrehearsed.
Check out the Web site given at the end of the following press release to read some of Ricky's blogs and view the video presentations he shares. While there, be sure to take the opportunity to read his biography and listen to short sections of some of his recorded music. I found his music to be very relaxing and quite beautiful. There are many sides to Ricky Tims as you will see when you visit his Web site.
Expressions: The Art Quilt Exhibition
I received the following press release from the Kentucky Arts Council:
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"The stunning international art-quilt competition and exhibition, Expressions: The Art Quilt, is currently on exhibit at the Museum of the American Quilter's Society through July 8.
"Award-winning, internationally renowned quilter and musician Ricky Tims, owner of the Tims Art Quilt Studio & Gallery in LaVeta, Colo., curated the exhibit. The Expressions exhibit began in 2006 with its initial showing at Tims' Gallery and has toured the country for the last two years. The museum is its last stop before these incredible quilts are returned to their owners.
"Tims developed the concept of this biannual art-quilt exhibit as a way to raise the visibility of the art quilt and expand the number of forums in which art quilters could exhibit their work in a high-profile setting. The exhibit features art quilts of varying sizes, and diverse styles and techniques, with a minimum of rules. The main criteria for inclusion in the exhibit were strong visual impact, originality and quality workmanship.
"The topic and techniques used to create each personally expressive piece was left solely up to the artist. From abstract and stylized to photo-realistic designs, with colors ranging from vibrant to subtle, these dazzling pieces are often purchased by private modern art collectors or added to museums.
"With over 230 entries, quilters from across the United States and as far away as Japan, Australia and Switzerland competed. The final 63 were selected by Tims, Joan Hanley, a painter and sculptor, and Katie Pasquini Masopust, art quilter and current president of Studio Art Quilt Associates."
Additional information on Ricky Tims, Tims Art Quilt Studio & Gallery, and past and upcoming exhibits can be found at RickyTims.com.
Write to info@quiltmuseum.org or visit their Web site at QuiltMuseum.org to find information about exhibition hours and more.
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| Tonal Meditations by Carol Krueger is part of the competition and exhibition, Expressions: The Art Quilt, currently on exhibit at the Museum of the American Quilter's Society. |
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Grouseland's Festival of Quilts 3
Located on West Scott Street in Vincennes, Ind., Grouseland was home to William Henry Harrison, the ninth president of the United States. On Oct. 10 and 11, 2008, it will be the venue for a quilt show, which will include 100 quilts on display, as well as classes on appliqué and hand quilting, along with lunch, vendors and a guest-speaker program. All proceeds will benefit Grouseland.
If you would like more information about this event, go to GrouseLandFoundation.org or contact chairman Nancy Schuckman at (812) 743-5129, the staff at Grouseland (812) 882-2096 or e-mail grouseland@sbcglobal.net.
I have many fond memories of my own visit to Grouseland several years ago. I met so many wonderful Indiana quilters and made some lifelong friends to boot. I can't wait to make another visit to that part of Indiana. There are a couple of wonderful quilt shops in the area, several of which are run by Amish quilters. The eateries are fantastic, and the scenery is sure to please.
Plan a visit to the quilt show and stay a few days to take in the area. It will be a trip to remember.
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SPAN USA Launches Lifekeeper Program
I learned about the Suicide Prevention Action Network USA (SPAN USA) through a press release about their program to create memory quilts or unique jewelry as visual reminders of those lost to suicide. Quilts have become an important form of remembrance in this organization. The following information is an excerpt from their release.
"The Suicide Prevention Action Network USA (SPAN USA) has launched a nationwide Lifekeeper Program, which includes the creation and display of Lifekeeper Memory Quilts and the sale of Lifekeeper Jewelry. The Lifekeeper Program has become one of SPAN USA's flagship initiatives for raising awareness about the toll of suicide.
"SPAN USA is the nation's leading grassroots advocacy organization working to advance public policies that prevent suicide. Their goal is to carry on the Lifekeeper Program's legacy of putting a face on suicide and raising awareness of its tragedy. With more than 31,000 Americans taking their lives each year, we must do all that we can to educate the public that many suicides are preventable through research, treatment and education programs.
"Founded in 1995 by Sandy Martin, the survivor of her 17-year-old son Tony's death, the Lifekeeper Foundation was established to provide both a creative outlet for grief, and powerful visual representations of the staggering losses of suicide through Lifekeeper Memory Quilts and Lifekeeper Jewelry.
"After Martin's death in 2006, the Lifekeeper Foundation was transferred to SPAN USA to become a new program per her wishes. Martin had served as a board member and president of SPAN USA, a facilitator of a Survivors of Suicide support group in Atlanta, and as a trainer with SOSST (Survivor of Suicide Support Team).
"Lifekeeper Memory Quilts feature images of those lost to suicide and have been displayed at the United State's Capitol, on the National Mall and in many state capitals. There are currently more than 100 quilts in 43 states. SPAN USA's goal is to have quilts in all 50 states.
"Lifekeeper Jewelry reflects both the endurance and continuation of life whose design includes two circles, which house seven infinity signs. The inner circle represents the loved one's life, while the outer circle represents the wearer's life. The infinity signs symbolize spirits that will live on forever. The jewelry will soon be available for sale on SPAN USA's Web site. Proceeds from the sale of the jewelry will supplement the general operating costs of the organization."
Information and images of many quilts can be found on SPAN USA's Web site, SpanUsa.org.
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| Lifekeeper Memory Quilts from Washington state are shown. |
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Quilters Without Borders: National Contest for Quilt Guilds
Last year I wrote about Maggie Ball and her work with Quilters Without Borders, a group of quilters whose goal is to build a quilting center for quilting women in Mongolia. Maggie wrote me a few weeks ago to ask that I pass on new information about her work with this blossoming group. She invites quilt guilds across the nation to enter to win an all-expenses-paid lecture and workshop from her, while helping to build a better future for quilters in Mongolia.
"The group's goal is to raise $100,000 to purchase a permanent facility for the Mongolian Quilting Center, where low-income and unemployed women in Ulaanbaatar learn quilting skills, make items to sell, and forge new friendships.
"The group has already raised $30,000, and the next $20,000 they raise will be matched by a local family, providing they can raise it by October 2008. With your help, they will achieve their goal. Encourage your guild, satellite groups and others in your area to participate. Ask them to publicize this project at their meetings and in their newsletters. Donations from individuals are also welcome and may be made online at the Web site DragonflyQuilts.com.
"This campaign is hosted by St. Barnabas Episcopal Church Outreach Program, and all funds go to Quilters Without Borders. Quilt guilds will be entered into a drawing for the free lecture and workshop when they donate $100, a small fraction of a guild budget; or this is an easy amount to collect in cash at a guild meeting. We are also asking for a 6-inch square of fabric so that we may make a quilt to give to the Mongolian Quilting Center. Each patch symbolizes $100, and as we piece together the quilt, so we build the community center in Mongolia. All participating guilds will be listed on the back of the quilt. To enter, use the Guild's Contest form found on the Web site. Your support as a guild, or as individuals will be greatly appreciated."
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| Quilts made for sale by the quilters in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia. |
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Willimantic Victorian Days
I also wanted to let you all know about a fun event coming up Willimantic, Conn., in a couple of months. Here's your chance to visit some old homes and a textile museum all in one location.
Willimantic Victorian Days, in its 10th season, will be presented by the Victorian Willimantic Neighborhood Association and the Windham Textile and History Museum. Thirteen homes/historic sites will be open for guided tours on the weekend of June 7 and 8. Over 17 events, including theatre productions, walking tours, garden tours, concerts and three museum exhibits along with the Artisans Expo, Victorian Teas and Titanic Showcase & Reception will delight visitors starting on May 31, and then June 5 to 8. For information, advance tickets or to receive a brochure with full details call (860) 456-4476. Also visit VictorianWillimantic.org.
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Quilter's World June 2008
The June issue of Quilter's World has hit the newsstands and mailboxes. It is filled with wonderful quilts with a summer flavor. The theme for the issue is Quilts for Men & Boys, so there are at least five quilts with designs that the guys would like. Schooners at Sea by Rochelle Martin is perfect for the sailing enthusiast while Spring Training fits the baseball fanatic perfectly.
If you like to make patriotic quilts to fill your home for the Fourth of July celebration, you will find Let Freedom Ring by Heidi Pridemore will fit the bill.
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Spring Training by Holly Daniels |
Schooners at Sea by Rochelle Martin. |
Let Freedom Ring by Heidi Pridemore. |
Check out the rest of the contents of the June 2008 issue of Quilter's World at Quilters-World.com.
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Upcoming Quilting Events
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June 2, 2008
Flora School Days
Flora, Ore.
floraschool.org
June 6, 2008 - June 8, 2008
Brown County Historical Society 30th Annual Quilt Show
Nashville, Indiana
browncountyhistory.info
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June 6, 2008 - June 8, 2008
Quilters Unlimited of Northern Virginia 35th Annual Show
Dulles Expo Center
Chantilly, Va.
quiltersunlimited.org
June 6, 2008 - June 8, 2008
West Central Quilt Guild 9th Annual Quilt Show
Van Wert County Fairgrounds
Van Wert, Ohio |
Send in your events!
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Last time I asked this question: Do you prefer to make bed-size or smaller quilted projects? I got a variety of answers. It seems that some people think making anything except a bed-size quilt is a total waste of time, while others are happier when making quilts of varied sizes. I totally ignored the topic of quilted garments. This time I'd like to know how many of you enjoy making and wearing quilted garments. If you do, what kind of garments do you enjoy making?
I have enjoyed reading the tips from readers. I would really like to get lots more to share here with you. If you have not written before, what's holding you back? Let me hear from you. |
 Favorite-Size Quilts |
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Judy says she is old-fashioned.
"I think quilts are to keep you warm, so the smallest I usually make is 48 x 72 inches -- what I call afghan-size. When I make a baby quilt it's 49-inches square -- big enough for the child to use for several years."
Karen prefers making bed-size quilts.
"I learned to hand-quilt making wall-hanging-size quilts. Since retiring from teaching, I have switched to making bed-size quilts. I use a regular sewing machine purchased in the early 1970s. Recently I purchased a Quilter's Companion machine made by Janome. I now enjoy making the larger quilts more than the smaller ones. It seems as if there is as much prep work with a smaller quilt as there is with a larger one, and you have more to show for all the work with a larger quilt. So far none of my gift quilts have been returned."
Marty also prefers to make bed-size quilts.
"I will make quilted wall hangings if I have a specific place for one. I also have enjoyed making a few table runners recently for my grown children's homes, but generally, I do prefer making bed-size quilts. I sure wish everyone slept on cots!"
Elsie writes:
"I think it is a waste of time to make a small quilt. There is just so much room for wall quilts, and how many throws or lap quilts can you cover up with? I definitely prefer making bed-size quilts!"
Edith would rather make small quilts.
"I make quilts to display on my walls and quilts for charity (lap-size). If I really want a challenge, I will make a large quilt, but I only have two beds. If I see a quilt I like that is bed size, I note the size of the blocks, and then only make the number of blocks I need to make a wall quilt."
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| Men Quilting |
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Tandie writes:
"I am a 46-year-old man who wants to learn how to quilt. Where do I start? Are their many men who quilt? Thanks very much."
Start by taking a class at a local quilt shop, watching some of the quilting shows on TV or reading a few beginner books. It is easier to learn from someone else. Find a group near you; it will probably be all or mostly women. They won't bite! They will welcome you, I am sure.
As for your question about men quilters, check out some famous male quilters like Ricky Tims, Michael James, Kaffe Fassett and John Flynn online. Just do a search for their names. You can also learn more about men quilters by searching for that topic online. Good luck!
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| Star Quilts |
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A quilter writes:
"For 20 years, I have practiced the 'red road' spiritual path, taught by a Lakota elder. Star quilts are a custom of these plains Indians and their descendants. Most commonly used is the 4 x 4 rows pattern, which refers to the four directions in the Native American belief (of this continent).
"Star quilts are made for memorials at the one-year anniversary of someone who has crossed to the spirit world. Star quilts are given to those who have lost a relative to death. Star quilts are made to honor and bless the birth of a new baby. When there is a wedding, the couple is wrapped in a star quilt. When someone is being honored for an accomplishment, they are given a star quilt. The elders and teachers in an indigenous nation are honored for their teachings and contributions with star quilts.
"I have made star quilts with prayers of cloth from the sundance tree for those who are ill from disease, for comfort and for healing. These quilts are considered a sacred healing, and when sewn together, each piece is a prayer for honor, recovery and blessing.
"The maker is also blessed when making one, especially if the maker keeps a consciousness about the purpose of the quilt. The gift I make for others, is also a gift to me, and to the Creator of us all, in honoring the human experience of this life on Mother Earth. May this information be treated with respect and love for those of us who do this work with our hearts and hands."
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| Work-Supported Quilting |
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Perla writes:
"I am currently head of a quilt group at my office which was started in 2001 by a dearly loved secretary who has since left to open up her own quilt shop. We had five wonderful years with her, and she taught us everything we needed to know about quilting.
"We started off as a fairly large group, but it has now dwindled down to about seven active members who meet weekly during our lunch hour to quilt, share patterns, celebrate birthdays, etc. In fact, the firm has even given us a room for us to quilt in. This small room is packed with fabric (originally purchased with money donated by the firm), three sewing machines, iron and ironing board, cutting table, and all the accessories needed to create quilts (sewing machines and accessories were all provided by the group members).
"This wonderful group of ladies has donated over 100 quilts, hats, scarves and pillowcases to two worthy causes: City of Hope and Los Angeles Children's Hospital. The lady who started this also started a tradition whereby the quilters create a queen-size quilt, which is given to the Outreach Committee who then raffles it off and uses the money received to support worthy causes. Last year our raffled quilt brought in over $1600."
I don't know what kind of firm you work for, but I hope they know what a difference they are making by providing you with a space to quilt, in addition to fabrics to quilt with. I hope your letter is an inspiration to others who might like to get together to quilt in the workplace in a similar fashion. What a great way to use little bits of time wisely to help other people. Thanks for sharing, Perla.
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| Test for Fiber Content |
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Donna writes:
"After reading your April 18 newsletter, I noticed the question on identifying blends and 100 percent cotton. You said they burn differently, but if you said what the difference was, I missed it. So here goes -- 100 percent cotton burns and leaves an ash similar to paper or burned leaves. If you have a blend and burn it, the synthetic portion (plastic) will melt and leave a blob instead of ash."
Thanks for this comment, Donna. You are right, I did not mention that the plastic part of the blend would not burn and would leave the blob instead of ash. Thanks for reminding me to add this important distinction.
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| Handkerchief Quilts |
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Beverly shares another source for quilts made from hankies.
"Hanky-Panky Crazy Quilts from the American School of Needlework is a great book about using handkerchiefs in quilts. I made two big wall hangings for a friend from hankies that belonged to her mother and grandmother. We embellished them with jewelry, beads and pins that had belonged to them as well."
Karen adds:
"Cindy Brick, author of Hanky Panky Crazy Quilts, was featured on Simply Quilts on HGTV. You can watch get some simple instructions for using handkerchiefs at Hgtv.com. Go to Cindy's Web site (CindyBrick.com) for more information."
It just so happens that there is another book available through a link at the Quilter's World Web site. Go to Clotilde.com to find Hooked on Hankies by Laurene Sinema and Janet Carruth for $19.98.
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| Hooked on Hankies by Laurene Sinema and Janet Carruth. |
Sharon writes:
"I have some feedback for Charlotte who wants to make handkerchief quilts. I was on the same quest when I wanted to use my mother's handkerchiefs to make memorials for her granddaughters.
"I found my solution in the book Handkerchief Quilts by Pat Long Gardner. I ordered it several years ago, and it is still available on Amazon.com. Not only does the book contain excellent advice concerning developing a handkerchief quilt, it has many quilt samples, and the border patterns you need to make your own handkerchief quilts."
Pat has some advice:
"I made a handkerchief quilt by cutting a large square of muslin (about 30 inches square), and when I made the three-layer quilt sandwich, I cut the batting and backing about 7-inches larger so I could add a border later. I then arranged some of my hankies on it -- some opened up flat, others folded -- added little crocheted small pieces I had (glove, cross), then tacked all on the square, trying to actually quilt it on, with stitches not showing on top. I then added a large floral border, which I hand-quilted. I was pleased with the results."
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| Charity Quilts |
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Gerry writes:
"I have lead a group of quilters in my church for seven years now. We have donated literally thousands of quilts to people in need around the world. We have sent quilts to orphanages in Africa, Mexico, Thailand and to AIDS houses, to women's prisons, government leaders in various countries and to church leaders too. We also provide quilts for our local women's shelter and to those in our church who have been hospitalized due to injury or illness. Go to GraceandPeaceQuilts.com.
"Recently I started a new group who will gladly assist anyone interested in starting a quilt group for donating quilts. Please go to our Web site GracenPeaceMinistries.org for more information. We are a nonprofit corporation."
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| The Seeds charity quilt was made by the Grace and Peace Ministries. |
This scrappy Lite of Life quilt was made for charity by the Grace and Peace Ministries. |
Check out the quilts these women have made for charity. I am sharing photos of a couple with you here. Patterns and instructions for many quilt designs are included on their Web site. If your group is wondering how to start giving, this group is a good example to follow.
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| Bias Versus Straight-Grain Binding |
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Dianna is a relatively new quilter.
"I haven't graduated to sewing triangles yet -- I find it safer staying with squares. I would like to know what is preferable and why -- a straight-grain binding or bias binding. I know that on curved edges of a quilt, bias binding is easier, but does it matter with just a straight-edge quilt?"
Susan only uses bias binding with a double French fold.
"I use an old laminated card that tells me how big a square to cut to make the needed length of continuous binding for each quilt, 2 1/4 to 2 1/2 inches wide before folding.
"I prefer bias binding because straight-grain binding wears out on the folded edge. I have been making clothes and quilts for many years and would never consider using straight-grain binding! And hand-sewing it down on the back side gives better results and more control. This is one of my pet peeves about quilting, so thanks for letting me share!"
As you can see, Dianna, there is no right or wrong answer to your question. Susan is right about wearing on the edge. If I were making what I would consider to be an heirloom quilt to be passed along to generations to come, I would probably want to use bias binding to finish the edge of my quilt. When cutting fabric-width strips for straight-grain binding, you probably won't get an exact straight-grain strip unless you have straightened your fabric before cutting. Regardless, the double layer does help with the wear factor. I have never had a quilt with a straight-grain, double-fold binding wear out on the edge yet, but that doesn't mean it will never happen.
As for hand-sewing the binding on the back side, I agree that this is the best method. I just don't do it much anymore because it takes at least an hour per side, and I am usually working on a deadline when I am making a quilt, so I don't have the time. I have perfected my stitching-from-the-right-side method and am happy with that for my quilts.
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| Reader Tips |
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Tamera shares:
"In order to keep my machine foot from wandering, I hot-glued an old computer mouse pad to the bottom. Now it stays right where I want it."
Ramona has a good table solution.
"I have a 6-foot-long by 3-foot-wide table that I use for sewing. A friend made a topper for me from a 4 x 8-foot sheet of 3/8-inch plywood. He cut it in half, and put locks/clamps on the underside so the two pieces come together. He nailed 1-inch strips onto the bottom, which are the exact dimensions of my table. The topper fits onto the 6 x 3-foot table and doesn't slide around, and it gives a big area for laying out quilts.
"The top side is sanded smooth. Storage isn't a huge problem because the two pieces are 4 x 4-feet, and I store them against a wall behind my piano. He made one of these tops for my daughter who is an avid quilter, and she has found it to be very helpful. Hope others can benefit from this idea."
Freda has a good tip for removing sticky residue.
"If you get the sticky backing on your ironing board cover or any fabric when pressing on fusibles, just take a sheet of paper that comes with your self-stick stamps or labels and put the shiny side down on the spot. Iron over it, and it will come right off on the paper. No more residue where you don't want it."
Tamera has a second hint:
"When I hand-quilt, and there is a large area where I will be using a lot of one color, I 'load-up' a few needles of that color, cutting down on re-threading, just when I get into the zone!"
My tip for this time is easy and saves time later. When cutting strips for any quilt, cut an extra strip in the width you prefer to use most when making scrap quilts. For example, if you like making scrappy Log Cabin quilts with 2 1/2-inchj-wide cut strips, cut that size strip from every fabric you cut from now on. Fold the strips over a clothes hanger or use large magnet clips to hold them together and hang on a filing cabinet. You will be surprised how quickly you will accumulate a large variety of strips. The next time you want to make a scrappy quilt, you won't have to get all those fabrics out to cut again.
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Stay in Stitches
As the weather turns warmer and the flowers start to blossom, be sure to try to find some time to quilt. You don't want your sewing machine to feel neglected; so stay in stitches until next time.
Sandra L. Hatch
Editor, Quilter's World
Send feedback!
Please do not reply to this e-mail. Instead, fill out my easy feedback form and let me know your thoughts, questions, news or anything else you want to tell me about. You never know, I may feature it in an upcoming issue of Quilter's World newsletter e-newsletter. Keep reading!
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