subject: Beautiful Quilt Fiber Art Brings All Together [print this page] Standing in line is something that none of us enjoy. In Greece, its a well-known fact that Greeks do not respect the queue! They really dont. A line, just like a stop sign, is just a suggestion of proper behavior. People in America are not much better, but we dont accept it as the norm. Still, if a great fabric sale is on, Ive seen quilters stand in line for hours without a complaint and little to no line cutting; in both countries.
So, whats different? Greeks are in a hurry, always, and dont respect that others are also in a hurry. And, other than being Greek, each person has very little in common with the others in line. In a fabric cutting line, making quilts or other fiber arts brings us all together. We have something to talk about, making the line a pleasant experience instead of one of tired boredom and angst.
Because Im a quilt teacher, the instant that becomes known, I spend a lot of time in line helping others. Techniques for making quilts of a certain style, what quilting supplies are absolutely needed, and whether or not machine piecing and quilt embroidery are acceptable as real quilting are just some of the topics. The ladies in my part of the queue hold my place as I move up and down the line helping others. I love every minute of it, and it was something I seriously missed in Greece because of my inability to learn their language.
As well as helping, I also pick up excellent advice from the older ladies who have been making quilts for many years more than I have; how to tie a quilt, easy ways to perfect my hand-quilting, and stories of days gone by are always welcome to me. I especially love the insights into the quilting supplies that they used to use. Many of these items were not meant for quilting at all, but nothing else was available!
Back to modern days and techniques, embroidery quilting is a hot topic. Many are intrigued at the thought of machine embroidery quilt designs that allow the machine to do the work. Others are already in the know, and add a lot to the conversation about hooping and stabilizing and all the little tips for great results while doing quilt embroidery. I also pick up a lot of new hints and tips here!
I think my favorite part of the waiting, though, is the discussions about what we are going to do with our new fabric treasures. Many will just add it to their overflowing stash while others have very decided ideas for projects. Ive been making quilts for many years. Sometimes I get in a rut of styles that I use over and over, so its always wonderful to get a new idea. Pens and paper get passed through the queue as we all try to show what we are going to do. I usually doodle embroidery quilting designs that Ive digitized myself as my contribution to the show and tell moment.
All in all, I love waiting in line at the fabric cutting counter. Its one of the few times Im surrounded by like-minded folk who have a clue what it is I do for my creative outlet. There is no angst waiting at the end, like registering a car or paying a bill. Its just pure fun.
Now, if we could only make all lines as fun and productive! I vow to try!
