communicating through quilts

Top left: Mariko Kanazawa, top right: Noriko Koyama, bottom right: Kumiko Nakamura

Today I met some of the charming and talented Japanese quilters at the La Conner show. Mariko pointed out her first machine-stitched project. Noriko shared the fairy tale behind her fabulous free-motion quilt. And Kumiko proudly showed me her fastidiously appliqued quilt. All the work is world-class and inspired.

japanese quilt show : la conner

Today the biennial Japanese show opened at the La Conner Quilt Museum. Fourteen ladies, a floor of incredible quilts, and coffee service with yummy treats welcomed the media and public. I will be back later this summer to spend more time at the show!

quilt encyclopedia

The Quilters Ultimate Visual Guide, From A to Z—Hundreds of Tip and Techniques for Successful Quiltmaking

Never a kid who wanted to read encyclopedias, I’m proud to say that I finished this 275-page volume on just about everything about quiltmaking.

This book is like a ten-year subscription to good magazine filled with great how-to articles. All in one place, I like knowing I can easily find the information again.

I highly recommend this book for a beginning or intermediate quilter. With short articles by many experts and over 700 helpful illustrations, it’s a great resource.

walleyed dachshund

At Spring Market I saw fun little stuffed chicks by Joel Dewberry and a cute puppy by Bari J. They made me want to try a 3D project.

This full-sized dachshund is made with an online pattern designed by Japanese dollmaker, Runo. Although Runo’s pattern didn’t include full instructions, her pictures made the pup straightforward to make.

Using cotton that I “dab dyed” in Goldendale last Fall, I produced a double dapple dachshund. I finished the doll with mismatched buttons. Once I find two dark buttons, I’ll perform eye surgery.

nirvana?

“Quilts” beside “Japan.” Finding my two favorite interests side-by-side makes Anacortes my kind of town!

wiley’s quilt

Passport, 2010, 52" x 88"
GIFTED TO WILEY WILKINS

Today Plymouth Church recognized its high school graduates in the late morning service. Five of the eight seniors showed up and were wrapped in quilts produced by Plymouth Piece Makers. My quilt was given to Wiley Wilkins, a free-thinking and creative young man.

Best wishes, Wiley.