Improv Hand Quilting Join Heidi Parkes for an in-depth discussion of her approach to hand quilting in three parts. First, stitch formation and improvisation will be discussed with lots of visuals of her quilts, in reference to the evolution of Heidi’s own design aesthetic. Second, hand quilting will be covered in regard to… Read More
Wonder Fiber: Polyester in American Quilts Polyester is one of the most lamented quilting fabrics of the past, but like it or not, it is part of American quiltmaking tradition. It may not be as rare as the 18th century fabrics made of natural fibers, such as blue resist, cotton chintz, or calendered wool, but it… Read More
How to Make an Easy Weighted Blanket In the process of formal therapy, weighted blankets have been used to calm anxiety, promote a feeling of calm, and stimulate serotonin and dopamine. While weighted blankets haven’t been proven by the science community to help with disorders like ADHD or autism, many people that use them swear by their… Read More
Member Spotlight: Sharyl Sheppard If you ask Sharyl Sheppard where she learned to quilt, she’ll tell you about her time in the Mokattam Hills, a city where Sheppard volunteered for six years, and a region she describes as the most impoverished she’s ever seen. At the time, the geologist was living overseas with her… Read More
Member Spotlight: Karen Foster Karen Foster is a social maker. The mother of two and grandmother of an imaginative 5-year-old joined Flickr at the height of its creative boom. Foster recalls swaps and quilt-alongs on the social platform as the turning point of her social media presence, and her start with a transformative quilting… Read More
Organic Diamonds Block, July, August, September 2019 Our latest Block Study design is Organic Diamonds by Hannah Haberkern, a member of the Washington DC MQG. This block is a beginner-friendly paper piecing design with lots of versatility and potential. Don’t forget to see the bonus quilts made with this block — the Breeze and Pinwheel quilts, available… Read More
Breeze Quilt: July, August & September 2019 Block Study This quilt uses the components of the Organic Diamonds block in unique ways to create lots of bold impact. The use of bright, bold, high-contrast solids makes this quilt very dimensional full of drama. The unique arrangement of the Organic Diamonds blocks leads the eye around the quilt and enhances… Read More
Pinwheels Quilt: July, August, September 2019 Block Study This quilt uses the Organic Diamonds block and pops of negative space to create a unique design. Negative space interspersed throughout each block creates the illusion of a whole new block. The on-point construction gives the focal point plenty of room to breathe and lead the eye around the quilt. Read More
Cones Quilt, July 2019 This quilt is an advanced take on curves, using large oval templates to create unique cone shapes. If you’re looking to take on a challenging curve quilt, try this one!… Read More
Fleeting Strings Quilt, August 2019 Fleeting Strings is an updated minimalist version of the traditional string quilt. Unlike the traditional string quilt that is made of strips of fabric throughout, Fleeting Strings uses a selection of strips scattered throughout the quilt. Customize the colors to suit your style!… Read More
