News

Welcome To Studio News

March 14, 2008

Welcome to the Studio News section of our Web site. Shows and special events will be announced throughout the year. In addition we will include some of our thoughts regarding quilts and the quilt market. Some of these will be archived for future reference while others will be periodically deleted.

How to Select a Quilt

November 29, 2007

In selecting a quilt, many people don't really know where to start. Quilts are very often viewed as heirlooms -- something they will enjoy now, but also something that they will want to pass down to their children and grandchildren. In selecting that quality heirloom, there are several things to consider. First, is the overall appeal. Does it touch our heart? If it does, look further to be sure it will remain a treasured art piece to be loved for generations.

The workmanship should be as fine and as intricate as you can afford. Look for a quilting stitch that is even on the top as well as on the back of the quilt. Look also to be sure the piece is hand quilted. In today's market, machine stitching is more prevalent than before, and if you think all quilts are hand quilted, you may be disappointed.

Look for the piecing to be even and straight. Points should not be chopped off, and seams should match.

Think about the design. Is it unusual? Does it balance? Does it fit the decorating style of your home? While some quilts are transitional, others are definitely country and still others contemporary, with many styles in between. Quilts that are of an original design will be more of a collector's piece than one made from a pattern or kit.

Colors should blend and give a pleasing effect. Is it artistic? Think of a painting and how colors move and blend. A quilt can have that same effect. If two or three colors are used in a blended manner, it will be more versatile than if it is only one color. Conversely, however, is the monochromatic neutral quilt. This is one that may combine numerous neutral fabrics, and will work into various color schemes over the years. If color is not making the statement in a quilt, however, the stitching takes on even more importance. A neutral quilt which is heavily quilted can be a wonderful heirloom because no matter how color trends change, the quilt can always work.

Many customers come in and say they are redecorating, and as soon as they figure out their colors, they'll be back. I personally think that is backwards. Think how much easier -- and more fun -- it will be to decorate around a quilt that has touched your heart than a paint chip!