From Fabric Scraps to Works of Art—The Joy of Quiltmaking

There’s something truly magical about stitching together small pieces to create something larger, and full of beauty, meaning, and joy. It’s a process that has captivated me for as long as I can remember (I made my first quilt when I was 11 years old).

I fell in love with quilts as a child, but everything changed in high school when I discovered quilts could also be art. A local gallery near Middleton Beach, filled with an eclectic collection of art, artifacts, and even vintage cars, had a profound impact on me. Among the treasures on display were art quilts by Wendy Lugg, and I was mesmerized. It was my first glimpse into the world of textile art—a world where fabric and stitching could be a powerful form of creative expression.That moment set me on a lifelong journey of exploring piecework, pushing the boundaries of traditional quiltmaking, and developing my own style. I love the intricate play of colors, textures, and shapes, the way small details come together to tell a story. My process is deeply rooted in traditional piecework, but with a contemporary twist—curved seams, partial seams, as well as some hand-dyeing and screenprinting to bring each design to life.

People often ask if others make quilts the way I do. While I’m sure there are some who use a similar process, I trust that each of us applies the process in our own unique way. Just as every artist’s drawing style is distinct, so too is the way we translate ideas into fabric. And drawing forms the basis of each of my quilt and artwork designs, so drawing style is a critical part of the process for me. My work is a celebration of joy, nostalgia, and beauty—an invitation to slow down and appreciate everyday life.

For me, quiltmaking is more than a technique. It’s an extension of who I am—an introvert with a deep love for nature, an obsession with our local flora, a mother, a maker, and someone who believes that beauty and craftsmanship matter. From my first vintage sewing machine at age 11 to the encouragement of my local quilting community, every step of my journey has shaped the work I create today.

More than anything, I make art for God’s glory, to celebrate the little gifts he gives to us every day, that we so often take for granted. I hope my work brings joy and sparks inspiration.