Start the Year off With a Little Charity

One of my favorite parts of the Salt Lake Modern Quilt Guild is the desire to create for charity. I love having friends that will create just for the love of creating for someone. Not for attention, not for a magazine, not for any recognition. It's an awesome and increasing rare trait - love it.

Leigh created the quilt top. I love the modern and organic feel to it. It's a great design to showcase a favorite fabric.

The back and binding fabric were donated by Elisa. I love how the back colors pull out the light shade of coral and the various blues.

And I quilted it on my mid-arm, Fiona. I'm still so nervous when I quilt for others, but I'm pretty happy with this delicate design.

Do you quilt for charity? What are your favorites? I've also made a few quilts for Quilts For Kids -a fabulous organization!

Dresden Challenge - SLMQG

I have been a member of the Salt Lake Modern Quilt Guild for almost a year. I've met friends, learned new techniques, been inspired, and most important - been surrounded by others that understand a love of fabric.

The SLMQG came up with a challenge that has taken on a life of its own. We were tasked with creating a Dresden quilt, inspired by Darlene Zimmerman's amazing template.

What did I make? 

I made an art quilt inspired by Dia de los Muertos. I love Day of the Dead! My husband is of Mexican heritage and it is important to me that our daughters embrace their Latin roots. Day of the Dead is NOT Halloween. It is not scary. It is a joyful occasion when families remember and celebrate those that have passed. Decorations are bright, cheerful, and yes lots of skulls.

Why did I make an art quilt? I quite often struggle with my love for true art and what is considered mainstream. I have boxes full of patterns from designers that appeal to the masses. And I love them.. However when I create, many time I'm trying to express a feeling, a thought.. something that may speak to only a few. But do these two loves always have to conflict? I don't think so..

So the challenge to me was to use this amazing Dresden template - something that would be a great tool for all quilters.. and make something that spoke from my heart. Something that I consider beautiful and unique.

On my quilt I have a folded rose with skull..

Lots of hand embroidery

Free motion quilting and lots of painting..

I hope this inspires you to try creating a bridge between traditional quilting with art quilting. Darlene Zimmerman's template laid the foundation for a perfect Dresden circle. It created a crucial base for my art quilt. I can't wait to play with this more! This template also makes a fabulous mini tree skirt, which was my original idea.. Come back later this month and maybe you will find a Halloween tree skirt using this same template!