Over the past several years, since I first started writing quilting patterns and created the Classic Curves Ruler, I have had the opportunity to visit several quilt guilds to show and tell about my quilts, inspiration, and teach workshops. This is my favorite thing about being in the quilting business. There is something special about meeting in person, sharing our love of color and quilting, and seeing you all start -and finish- curvy quilts.
My most recent guild visit was to the Stringtown Guild in northern Kentucky in April. I feel like this trip was kind of an ah-ha! moment as I realized how valuable -and just how much I enjoy- meeting in person. I really want to work on making this a bigger part of my work and hope to meet more quilters where they are in the future. This group was fantastic…read to the bottom and be amazed….
It always amazes me what these workshops produce. I’ve taught people of all skill levels and persuasions, and it’s always a joy to see the different color and fabric choices you all make. The Stringtown quilters were no different: they really showed how great the Bloom quilt pattern looks in each unique style.
For this class, we all worked on the Bloom quilt pattern to learn how to use the Classic Curves Ruler for easy cutting, curved piecing, and how to put it all together. This group sure made my life easy, I think I did more socializing and laughing, as they all seemed to take right to the techniques and made great progress!
My goal for every class is for each person to get enough practice cutting and piecing, and enough progress on their quilt that they will go home and feel comfortable continuing and FINISHING their project. That is the biggest reward. Throughout the day, whenever someone breaks into a little giggle or squeal and holds up a successfully completed piece for group admiration, we take a step toward that goal.
Each group is so different, and always so gracious, welcoming and ready for a good time. I have been overwhelmed time and again with the openness and kindness the members give, as if we’ve been friends for more than a few minutes or hours.
I don’t often hear from groups after our meet up is finished, but I was thrilled when the Stringtown Quilt Guild program organizer sent me photos of their show and tell. Let me tell you, this is impressive. These photos were taken at THE GUILD MEETING ONE MONTH AFTER OUR WORKSHOP! Look at all these quilt tops:
They made my dream come true: they went home after our workshop and kept piecing and finished their Bloom quilt tops. To say I am impressed is an understatement! I am so happy to be able to share one group’s success and the fun we all had together that day.
If you organizing for a guild, shop or show and are looking for a class, retreat, and/or a guild meeting speaker, I’d love to hear from you. If you are reading this and we have met at one of these events, please leave a comment about your experience! I’d LOVE to see what you’ve made if we did a workshop together.
Happy sewing!
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