Welcome!

With a degree in Mathematics, I worked for many years as a computer programmer and analyst.  I began quilt making in 1990 while taking time off from work to be with my young children.  I have no formal training in art or quilting, but have learned through extensive reading and experimentation.  My quilt making began with the traditional style block quilt, but soon evolved into the more innovative art quilt.  

My current technique of machine quilted fabric collage began as a challenge to enter a collage only show at AVA.  Being pleased with the result, I have continued to develop this technique.  I begin by making a rough drawing.  I then cut out bits of fabric, sometimes following my drawing and sometimes letting the pattern of the fabrics dictate the exact shape to be used.  When my design is complete, I layer it on batting and a backing a fabric as one would a quilt.  With decorative threads, I stitch the layers together adding dimension and detail to the design.

My first attempt at fabric collage was a stand of aspen trees.  This was the piece I entered in the AVA show and it sold.  That felt very good, so I thought I’d investigate if other quilters were doing fabric collage.  A search on the internet turned up Susan Carlson.   She has a wonderful book which included some fish patterns.  I made a couple of quilts using her patterns and fell in love with making fish.   I started making my own fish patterns and have been making them for about 6 years now.   I have also done landscapes, trees, beetles, butterflies and flies.  In between fabric collage quilts I have also done a few pieced quilts, which I still find quite enjoyable to design and stitch.

 

You can find my work at these locations:

In-Town Gallery on Frazier Ave in Chattanooga, TN

Museum Center 5ive Points in Cleveland, TN

Morris Galleries in Sweetwater, TN

Westside Gallery @ 3627 Cummings Highway, Chattanooga, 37419