BeCause

Our open door has received many blessings over the five years we’ve had our shop.  So many people have touched our lives in passing and on a much deeper level.  This makes for sadness, at times, and equal joy.  Thanks to all who have participated.

One phenomenon that recurs is themes-in threes. In one week, the theme was hope in the shape of three visitors who are making quilts for three separate causes, because they care.  It started with a lesson with two ladies who are creating a quilt for Juvenile Diabetes Research in Fairfield County.  I was thrilled to be part of this design because it was so artful and full or hand dyed raw materials for the project by the children themselves.

A second person needed advice on how to construct a “helping hands”  quilt for the Neighbor’s LInk in Mt. Kisco, NY.  I love when I can make the project seem so simple and possible.  I am amazed how many people use quilts to tie things together.

So as the theme of the week progressed, (CT Challenge works to support cancer survivorship,)  another quilt, using photos, is in the works. I can’t wait to see it! and I’ll share it, of course.

Neighbors Link Quilt

Neighbor’s LInk helps train participants in skills for future jobs…  Sewing and quilting among these.

A Night in the Tropics

The strips were numbered so they could be sewn into a sunset.

Right before trimming

On the quilting frame

Ready for the auction, well, almost!

Museumable

Project of the week by far was the recreation – from vintage-inspired faux fur – for a Laverne Lily Chair that one of our customers owns.  In our construction discussion, he nixed the zipper. Also, no polyfil here.  The pillows are filled with rags. I had no idea what I was working with.  So I built a template, muslin pillow forms and two furry chair pads that look quite like the pictures.

We also had a a very unusual quilt dropped off by one of our neighboring shop owners.  It has the most amazing burlap-y back and plaid top, built over an earlier quilt that isn’t quite as interesting.  We researched it but there is nothing around quite like it.

 

 

 

I want some of this in my stash.  It would make a great coat!

 

Some other projects worth mentioning…

Amy wanted modern quilting on this old favorite.

Traditional feathers in process

Lots of threads to tie off with custom work - sorry!

 

Hope Gangloff is an amazing artist. This piece is hanging at the Aldrich Museum in Ridgefield.  I was honored to be asked to teach a workshop based on Hope, her textile imagery, her use of pattern and fabric stitching and storytelling.  It’s the first in a series of six which will reflect topics of future exhibits.

 

This is Kathryn's BEACH Quilt.

We’re hoping for warm weather any way we can.