Category: repurposing materials

Repurposing materials creates a new use for an object. Art can often be created. The goal is to reduce materials that end up in the landfill.

About the Quilt Artist

My art quilts are all about the quilt artist creating abstract, whimsical or impressionistic pieces. Inspiration comes from the natural world as well as from Mexican and Native American influences. My materials of choice are often redirected fabrics from the San Francisco Design Center and found objects. Art quilts free me to play with color and texture. My technique, Scribble Quilting allows me to create movement on many of my pieces.

TWO INSPIRATIONAL ARTISTS

I owe some of my inspiration to two artists from Santa Cruz County, California. Meri Vahl, an award winning art quilter has been recognized nationally for her work. Teacher of the fabric layering technique, she was patient. Understanding that each student brought individual strengths, weaknesses and abilities. Ellen edith;friend, art quilter, fabric designer and artist extraordinaire made whimsical, personal quilts. Her influence lives on well beyond her life. I have great appreciation for these two local leaders of the art quilt world.

SAQA (STUDIO ART QUILT ASSOCIATES)

I am proud to be part of an evergrowing group of art quilters. SAQA started by Yvonne Porcella in Northern California in 1989. It has grown to an international organization. Art quilters have transformed the quilt into a 21^st Century art form. I continue to explore new forms and ways of working with unusual materials on this journey.

ABOUT THE ARTIST,BIO

I was born and raised in Palo Alto, California. In high school I studied sewing and clothing construction for two years. I continued to sew much of my wardrobe. In 1974,I took my first quilting class at a neighborhood fabric store. Over the years, I continued to sew clothes and make quilts for my family. I stopped counting bed quilts at 300. After teaching 30 years in Watsonville as a bilingual teacher, I retired to spend more time on creating art quilts.

MY FIRST ART QUILT

Homage to a Dancer,45″ x 56″

In 2008, I made my first art quilt, Homage to a Dancer. It reflects my participation in Los Méxicas,the University of California,Santa Cruz ballet folklórico group.

A STUDIO IN THE ART CENTER

In May of 2016, I opened a studio in the Santa Cruz Art Center, 1001 Center St. Downtown Santa Cruz. I have space to work and display my work. For First Fridays and Open Studios, I fill the lobby with art. In June, 2019 New York Art Center accepted my work into their gallery. 7 Franklin Place, TRIBECA, New York City.

AWARD WINNING ARTIST

Great Blue Heron at Dusk,31″ x 25″

Great Blue Heron at Dusk entered into an art show in 2010. The following year it won a merit award at the Olive Hyde Art Gallery in Fremont,California.
In 2013, Visions of New Mexico won third place in the Neo Membreno Vessels 2013 Show at the Western New Mexico University Museum in Silver City, New Mexico.

How to Mentor like Project Runway

A Project Runway Unconventional Materials Challenge

The First Conversation

Recently,I was approached to teach a creative fifteen year old girl. What do you want me to teach her? The father liked my website, but .wasn’t exactly sure about what he wanted for his daughter. He liked that I had done Mexican folk dance like his family does. I suggested that I teach her a small project like to make a gift bag. Or perhaps how to create a quilt using the fabric layering technique. He mentioned that this girl was working on a dress. I thought maybe she would like to work on that. Most of this communication happened by text.

The response, a resounding YES! He sent photos of the dress that his daughter was currently working on. The teenager had completed a design drawing of a prom dress. The zippered bodice of the dress covered a free standing model of a bust. Small pieces of fabric sewn together created the larger fabric of the dress Small pieces of fabric . The dad asked for feedback and thoughts.

The First Assessment

Compliments for nice colors and good design. Inspiration from Project Runaway and Next in Fashion made me smile. She had brilliantly emulated them. Concerns: fit and comfort. She would need a pattern. I pointed out that a lining would make insure comfort. She would need a pattern. I suggested that she bring her fabric, bodice stand and design when they came.

Making Plans

In preparation for our two hour session, I considered several thoughts. What if they hadn’t already bought a pattern? We would need to get one. Maybe we could go to a local fabric store. Yet, I don’t think that she should go in my car to the store. Surely we would be able to find her design, a strapless bodice with a not too full skirt. We would need to cut out the tissue paper pattern before it could be used? It would be easier to adjust a pattern rather than create one. Just perfect for her own Project Runway Challenge!
She had sewn in a zipper in the bodice. That level of sewing was reassuring; she could sew. I couldn’t tell from the photos what type of fabric she had chosen. I could set up an extra table outside of my studio for extra room if necessary. Remove extra clutter to allow for a bit more space in my small area. All of my forethoughts proved successful.

First Steps

The family of five arrived at my studio. First, we discussed the need for a pattern and lining fabric for the dress. The whole family would go to a local fabric store for those items. While I took my own car, they followed me. Fortunately, I had considered all of these possibilities beforehand.

On the one hand, because the bodice was complete, we were able to get a pattern for an A-line skirt only. Rather than trying to find a complete dress instead. The pattern came with several lengths . The design called for a short length in front and a longer train in the back with the lining showing. Furthermore, the pattern called for beginning sewing skills. In addition, we found a lilac cotton lining. I learned a long time ago that dressing was easier with a long zipper opening. We found a longer matching zipper. Ready we were.

Next Steps

Upon returning to my studio, I put Mom to work cutting out the tissue paper pattern pieces. This was a new experience for her. Above all, she appreciated being involved. Meanwhile, the young designer and I worked to cut out the lining for the completed bodice. Then we measured the bodice for fit and discovered that it needed about 4″ more. Above all, the wearer needs to be able to move comfortably. Next, we added more fabric and a new longer zipper. finally we began to cut the skirt out. Allowing for a generous seam allowance just in case, we laid the bodice on the fabric.

Project Runway Issues to Address

Issue One

Certain issues needed to be addressed. Above all, the teenaged designer is not local. Most importantly, she lived three hours away. For example, a follow up session was unlikely. So the young designer took notes on next steps and important things to remember.

Issue Two

Even though her sewing wasn’t perfect, it was totally acceptable for a beginning highly challenged creator. She had the right idea to finish the curved top edge of the bodice by turning it over. Yet the edges were left off. Ripping out of that work and attaching the bodice lining would solve that problem.

Issue Three

Due to its petite size of the bodice, I suggested that the lining be made of one piece of fabric instead of three; side, front side. We discussed how to sew the three sides and then turn it inside out. The lower edge would have to be trimmed as well. So the plan for the top was completed so that she would know what to do to complete it at home.

Issue Four

Now we turned to the pattern for the skirt . We organized the pattern pieces into groups that we would use.

The pattern came with a wide range of sizes marked on the pattern pieces. We discussed the information on the back of the pattern and how she should use it to determine which size to use. I showed her how she might trim the pattern pieces to the correct size once determined. The pattern proved more expensive than in the past. However, the included instructions were more comprehensive and actually very helpful.

In Conclusion

We were just about at our two hour time limit. Luckily the trip to the store went smoothly. I was able to send them away with a plan to complete the dress on her own. I felt confident that she would be able to do that successfully.

To my thought , the use of fleece as a prom fabric was a bit odd. However, I found out that the young designer had access to a lot of pieces of fleece. So in addition to creating her own design, she was upcycling materials. She accepted a Project Runway challenge!

I can’t wait to see how the Project Runway dress was completed. Furthermore, I expect to see wonderful designs from her in the future.

Consider this One Way to Advance your Art

https://www.bravotv.com/project-runway
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Project_Runway

The Devil is in the Details-Create Fabric Embellishments

I create fabric embellishments to add color,texture and movement to my abstract art quilts. Some are 3D. Couch(zigzag) leftover yarn or decorative threads to create lines. It is fun to try out new ways of adding textile details to my art. Take a closer look at how fabric embellishments with decorative threads or yarn can add texture and interest to an art quilt.

Finding Materials to Create Fabric Embellishments

Several years ago a fiber friend gifted me a huge container of bits and pieces of a wide range of colors and styles of decorative threads or novelty yarns. She knew that I like to add them to my work. Right, she was.

My bin full of different colors and lengths of decorative threads. — My bin full of different colors and lengths of decorative threads to make textile details.

A cards with several different types of decorative or novelty threads like the one below can be purchased. I bought mine at a huge quilt fair. Of course, find shorter bits of yard at thrift shops and garage sales. Regardless of what the threads are called, the point is to add unusual threads or yarn to your pieces. Use embroidery threads, yarn or thicker threads. Double, triple or quadruple the ply to make the threads thicker.Think outside the box and create a new use yourself.

Decorative threads that I often add texture to my art quilts. Variety of thicknesses and colors of threads — Decorative threads that I often add texture to my art quilts.

A card with 6 different types of decorative threads to embellish art quilts. — Another example to the types of threads I embellish my quilts with.

To Begin

To begin, choose 3-4 colors to work with. Pick out other fabrics in those hues or shades.After that, I randomly place the fabric on the design wall. At this point I haven’t decided if I will use all of the fabrics. Will they all go together and make it into the final piece? Stay tuned.

Lavender decorative thread above piece where it is sewn.

For instance,the deep purple fabric has a lighter purple decorative thread couched or zig zagged onto the fabric. Ultimately,I prefer a matching thread color while couching so that the sewing threads are not so visible. But that is an artist’s choice. In the photo on the left, view the purple decorative thread before it is sewn on. Also see the pattern created by multiple strips of ribbon and decorative threads. Cheap thrills!

A Strip of Fabric

Primarily, I start with a strip of fabric about 20″-30″ (51cm -77cm) and couch(zigzgag) the ribbons and decorative threads on the strips. Then I cut the strips into random lengths like the pieces you see. I also choose the cut pieces to be of different widths. You may choose differently.

Fiberous Fabrics Create Fabulous Fabric Embellishments

Furthermore,using fiberous fabrics to create textile details adds interest to your art quilts. Check our decorator shops for their discontinued materials. Find unusual fabrics there. Moreover,they will be thrilled that you will take these discontinued materials off their hands.

small piece of cream fabric with lavender, blue and white decorative threads and ribbons sewn on — small piece of fabric with decorative threads and ribbons sewn on

small pieces of fabric with decorative threads sewn on

A fiberous type of fabric with decorative threads sewn on. Example of type of decorative thread on the left. — A fiberous type of fabric with decorative threads sewn on for a textile detail. Example of type of decorative thread on the left.

More examples of details on the design wall

Several plys of yarn together make a thick line. Decorative threads alternating can too. — For example several plys of yarn together make a thick line. Decorative threads can too.

A fiborous piece with decorative threads sewn on the back — back-A fiborous piece with decorative threads sewn on

A brown fiborous piece with purple decorative threads sewn on — A fiborous piece with decorative threads sewn on-front

After I have completed several details with decorative threads, it is time to start placing pieces on the design wall. See photo below.

Trying out spots on the design wall for fabrics

Small pieces of fabric on the design wall ready to be sewn together.

This is how I placed the textile details after moving them around for balance of color. As a result several of the details did not make it into the final piece. That is all right. I will save them for another time. My main intent in this post is to focus on the creation of details. Yet, here is the finished product, Lavender Caramels.

Lavender Caramels completed,
28" x 26" 71 cm x 66cm — Lavender Caramels completed 28″ x 26″ 71 cm x 66cm

https://annbmayartquilts.etsy.com/

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2020/02/add-decorative-threads-for-texture/

www.saqa.com/

How to Use Small Pieces of Fabric

Quilters create small pieces of fabric or scraps as a normal part of their sewing process. How to effectively use these scraps is a constant issue. I often use fabric 2″-3″ (5-8cm) to create my art. Guild members have gifted me small pieces of fabric, saying “Here, you use small pieces of fabric. Have these.” I didn’t refuse them. I put them to good use.

A little fabric humor- In my fiber group, I was the only art quilter. The other members made different kinds of fiber art. We would meet and share our art and our process. I learned that what seems obvious to quilters is not always so obvious to others. Discussing my process, I asked how do you think I begin? A friend answered,”You start by cutting up a lot of little pieces of fabric.” I had to chuckle. Sewers and quilters know that as we sew and trim, we easily create small pieces that become our scraps. We don’t need to create our own.

Another Use for Small Pieces of Fabric

Above all, quilters will probably always have small pieces left over. Whenever I make a bed quilt or a lap quilt, I like it to be reversible. In that way, I get two quilts for the price of one. Variety and change is good. Use your small pieces as part of the second side. Sew the leftover fabric from the front together and add them to the back fabric. This uses up the fabrics and also adds to the beauty of the quilt.

Many Art Quilt Techniques use Small Pieces.

There is a wide variety of techniques that use small pieces of fabric. Impressionistic art quilts lend themselves easily to the use of small pieces. With a little trimming a small piece of fabric becomes foliage, a rock or a hint of an animal. I have a container to store strips. Another bin is only for small pieces. Several bags are full of pieces larger than 6″. The real trick is to remember to look in those containers when choosing fabrics.

Small Pieces are my Signature Item.

Several years ago I had a commission to make a huge bed quilt 130″x130″ 325cm x 325cm using geometric shapes of solid colors. This is a king size bed with the quilt hanging down the sides to the floor. I was almost finished piecing the top together. But I came up short of a small bit of fabric. I could have bought some more. Yet I really needed only a few very small amount. I had a few small pieces left over so I sewed them together. That was enough fabric to complete the top of the quilt.

Furthermore, I was so pleased with the effect I decided I would repeat the process in the future. I would add them as a feature to my work. Small pieces (about 2” -3″ 5-8cm) sewn together are now a signature part of my abstract art quilts.

Business Cards Use Small Pieces of Fabric

I use small pieces of fabric to create my business cards. My business cards are small handmade art quilts about 3″ x 4″ 8cm x 10cm.Most people would throw out these small fabric and batting scraps. I sew several small pieces of material together. Then I write the basic information on a solid light color piece with a fabric pen. I add batting. I sew the three layers together and zig zag the edges. The extra effort to use materials that normally would be tossed out is important to me. I like that the card is a small art quilt for those who are unfamiliar with the art form. The positive response I receive for such an unique business card also makes it worthwhile. https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2020/12/artful-fabric-business-cards/ /i

A handmade fabric business card. Each one is unique."Use small pieces of fabric" — One of my handmade fabric business cards. Each one is unique.

The other side of my business card with the important information , location, phone number, website and etsy shop."Use small pieces of fabric" — The other side with the important information

Will these techniques make all of your scraps go away? Probably not. But it might be a step in tbe right direction.

I do realize that some might consider some of these scrap reducing suggestions to be a bit time consuming or even wacky. However, I am serious about reducing waste and reusing materials.Yet I can be a bit over the top at times. But as I say, ” It is not illegal, yet.” In addition, the best part is one can choose to do these ideas to use small pieces of fabric or not. Sometimes I give myself permission to toss a piece of fabric.

https://annbmayartquilts.etsy.com/

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2022/08/add-sheer-fabrics-to-create-a-surprise/

http://www.saqa.com/

Everything I Know about Thread for Quilting

Let’s talk about everything I know about thread. Notice I didn’t say everything there is to know about thread.I am not a thread expert. But I have been sewing clothes and quilting for decades.I will be the first to admit that there is a lot that I don’t know about thread. I can not say which type of thread is perfect for which project. Some shiny metallic threads are too fussy to work with for my liking. I might couch them from time to time.A special needle helps if sewing them by machine.

Here is a large a large basket of new and old threads. — a basket of threads

What I Know

Thread colors and fabric colors are like fashion.Styles, shades and hues change often.Greens may always seem available. Yet the shades change. If you want a forest green It may not always be available. This I learned yhe hard way. My preschool daughter wanted a forest green dress when that color was out of style. Currently, tealish or bluish greens are currently popular.

All Brands are Good.

All brands make good quality threads. After 50 years of sewing I have not found thread brands that are not good quality. Individual threads may have different uses. Some may be easier to work with on your particular sewing machine than others.When I bought my Husquarva Lily over 20 years, Guttenberg thread was recommended for use with my machine. I used that thread with mixed success. I kept using Guttenberg because of the recommendation. Yet, while doing donation quilts, I was given some other brands to use. It was amazing to see how much easier this other brand was to use. The stitches looked better also. I learned that some machines work better with some threads. Of course, paying a company for a recommendation is not unheard of. Get to know your machine and what it likes for the type of sewing that you do.

Free Motion Quilting

Aurifil Threads for free motion quilting and other sewing.

For free motion quilting I am very fussy about the thread I use. I find Aurifil brand improves the quality of my work when I am free motion quilting. It can be used for piecing or general sewing. At times it can seem pricey so I try and save it for those particular projects. I will say that there is a lot of thread on the spool because the thread is very thin. So it isn’t as expensive as it seems. Once, I pieced and quilted a king size bed with only one spool of thread.

Old Thread

Don’t be afraid to use old spools of thread. The quality is amazing. The colors unique. If it breaks easily in your machine, save it for hand basting. I acquire old thread whenever possible to maintain a wide range of thread colors. Test the thread to see if it is good. Pull on the thread. Does the thread break easily when you pull on it? Then it is no good. I have bought new spools of thread that failed this test. Build up a resource of thread colors just like a fabric stash.

I avoid polyester threads but sometimes it is not possible. Depending on your project polester may be fine. If you are making an heirloom project, definitely use 100% cotton thread. Yet I have come to the conclusion that most of my projects will last 20-30 years. Polyester thread is fine for those projects. Quilting is supposed to be fun. Not stressing over little details of the quilting police.

Chartreuse Thread?

At a flea market I bought a chartreuse spool of thread. I surprised even my self. Greenish yellow? What was I thinking? It quickly became my favorite thread to quilt with. Chartreuse on black fabric is stunning! Move out of your confort zone.Try unusual or different colors than what you are unaccustomed to using. One never knows how a color will look once sewn or placed on another fabric. It changes. Our eyes also see colors diffferently. Let the fun begin. Try a different and unexpected color of thread for your next quilting project.

All I Know About Thread

As you can see I am not an expert on thread.Yet I do have a few suggestions to make. Don’t be afraid to use old spools of thread. Most of them are perfectly fine. Unless the threads break. Polyester is fine to use for some projects. For family heirlooms I would stick to 100% cotton fabric and thread. Practice helps. Get to know your machine and what works best for the type of sewing that you do. Some unique threads like metallic ones need a special needle. Relax and have fun.

http://www.saqa.com/

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2022/07/art-solutions-came-to-me-in-a-dream/

https://annbmayartquilts.etsy.com/

Check out this Interview for the Featured Fiber Artist

I am honored to be the first Featured Fiber Artist at the Santa Cruz Art League’s (SCAL)virtual interviews. This posting represents my memory of the interview as well as combined with the notes I made beforehand. Val Miranda, executive director of the Santa Cruz Art League narrated . During a technical glitch, I lost sound. Val engaged with the audience at that time.

Featured Fiber Artist

We Are the Story — Let Us Breathe, Ann Baldwin May

First Featured Fiber Artist

Val Miranda: Ann Baldwin May,art quilter As Execuive Director of the Santa Cruz Art League I am pleased to have you as our first Featured Fiber Artist.please inroduce yourself. How did you come to art?

Ann: Thank you, Val. I am very honored to be the first Featured Fiber Artist at the Santa Cruz Art League.My sewing career reaches back to high school where I took 2 years of sewing. The focus was on clothes construction. In the 1970s I started quilting. My focus was bed quilts.

Exploring other Avenues of Creative Expression

Around 2008-09, I began exploring other avenues of creative expression. So I moved towards art quilts. I took a class on fabric layering from Meri Vahl. During this time I created several large art quilts combining my love of Mexican folk dance with my quilting. These 3D colorful skirts and costumes stand out as Mexican outfits.

My First Juried Art Show

In 2010, I entered my first juried art show. It was the Pajaros show in Watsonville in conjuction with the Birding Conference put on by the Pajaro Valley Arts Council. My work was included on the brochere. The following year, Great Blue Heron at Dusk won an award at another show. So I was encouraged to continue.

In 2016, I opened my studio at the Santa Cruz Art Center downtown,Then I applied to Open Studios for the first time. So for Open Studios and First Fridays, I take over the lobby and fill it with my art.

I am all about Color! Texture! and Movement! I make Nature art quilts; like underwater fantasies, trees and landscapes. Abstract and Mexican inspired fabric collages.

Traditional Quilts versus Art Quilts

Val- Can you tell us a little bit about the difference between traditional quilts and art quilts?

Ann-Most people are familiar with bed quilts. A quilt is made up of three layers sewn together; the back , the batting inside and the top. Being able to wash a quilts is foremost for a bed quilt. 100% cotton is always used for washability and durability.

An art quilt often uses tradional quilting techniques to make wall art. When one is not concerned with washing a quilt, a wider range of fabrics can be used. There is also a wide variety of art quilters and the techniques they use. Many art quilters do not have experience with making bed quilts or even sewing. Some dye their fabrics, paint on their fabrics or print their own designs on fabrics. I don’t do any of those techniques.

FABMO offers an Incredible Variety of Materials

For me there is such an incredible variety of printed fabrics and materials.I choose to use those to create my art. I am a big fan of FABMO, the non profit now based in Sunnyvale. Volunteers go weekly to the San Francisco Design Center. They collect all kinds of materials to keep them out of the landfill. They make these materials available to the public for a donation. PreCOVID they were coming to Santa Cruz about 5 times a year to Harvey West Park. They are having several selection days in Sunnyvale. But I haven’t been to their new location. sign up for their newsletter at https://www.fabmo.org/

Other Local Featured Fiber Artists

Val- That is interesting that art quilters use such a variety of materials. Are you familiar with Consuelo Underwood’s work at teacher at San Jose Statet University. I know her work to be very engaging.

Ann- No, I don’t know her. I wanted to give a shout out to Susan Else. She lives in Santa Cruz. She creates 3D figures out of fabric often with whimiscal themes. More recently she has been adding electricity and lights to her pieces. One of her pieces is of a merry go round with the animals riding the people.

The Piece in the Member Show

Val- Could you tell us a little bit about the piece that you have currently in the Member Show?

Ann- My piece in the Member Show is Let Us Breathe! Physically the art quilt is in Minneapolis. Digitally it is in the Art League show. Several weird random events happened concerning this art quilt.It’s all good.

The Murder of George Floyd

Around Memorial Day when we all witnessed the murder of George Floyd, I was horrified. as many others.The artist buzz on the internet questioned how this would affect one’s art. At first I was too stunned to do anything. Later I thought about what I could create within my own style to address the issue of racial injustice.

So I made an abstract type of art quilt for the background, incorporating African designs to support my view. Then I created a cutout silouette of man and a woman. I dressed them in African fabrics. I made red white and blue hearts to place on their chests. My thoughts were for them honoring thier cultural roots. Including their love for America while America was not returning their love.

A Call for Entry

Then I saw a call for entry from Dr. Carolyn Mazlotti who I had heard speak at a conference before. The call was for Rascism:In the Face of Hate We Resist. I hesitated applying. My thoughts were that this was a moment for black artists to shine. Then I thought of the saying, White Silence Eguals Violence. So I decided to enter the show to show my support for the BLM.To my surprise and joy,my piece was accepted.

I was instructed to send my art immediately to Ohio where Dr.Mazlotti lives.As you can imagine Dr.Mazlotti worked quickly to organize this show. She explained that there would be 7 venues and that she was writing a book about the shows. However, when I sent my quilt off, I had no knowledge of where the venues would be.

The Fires Began

Then the lightening stuck and the fires began. I live near UCSC. So when UCSC was evaculated I was extremely worried that we would be next. When my friend from Watsonville offered me a room in her house, I jumped at the opportunity.I ended up staying there for 4 days. After the second lightening storm passed over SC, I returned home.

A Bit of Disorientation

Luckily, everything at home was fine. However the whole experience was disorienting. It was during that first disoriented week back that I heard from Heidi, a friend from high school who lived in Minneapolis. Her text included a photo of my art quilt. She said that it was in a Swedish magazine.What? I was totally confused. I had no idea how these very different parts of my life had come together. Heidi graciously sent me the newsletter. The random pieces began to fall into place.

The First Venue for the BLM Show

The Swedish American Institute in Minneapolis is the first venue for the show. The title of the show morphed into We are the Story. The newsletter chose my art for their article promoting the show. My name was printed prominently. If it hadn’t been, Heidi would not have known that it was my art.

I also learned that Heidi is half Swedish and formerly worked at the institute. Therefore , she was on their mailing list. The number of random events really surprised me. Without one of them, I wouldn’t have learned about any of it. Finally, all of the different parts of my life came together to make sense.

My Process

My process changes depending on which portfolio I decide to make.My nature quilts are the most popular with the public, landscapes, underwater fantasies and trees. I use a table to create these works of art.

Nature Quilts

I lay a piece of backing fabic on a table. Then I cover it with batting, the soft material that goes inside of a quilt. Then on top I create a scene. When I am finished, I cover the scene with tulle netting. I free motion quilt the three layers together. Free motion quilting involves lowering the feed dogs on the machine. This lets the sewer control the movement of the quilt.

Abstract Pieces are made on a Design Wall

green yellow bits on design wall,Featured Fiber Artist — green yellow bits on design wall, an abstract piece in the making

My abstract pieces are made on a design wall . I use a huge piece of flannel covering the wall. Fabric adheres to the flannel. I choose 3-4 colors that I want to use. Then I search for the complimentary hues, the light and darker shades of that color. I look for decorative threads or details in that color wave to include to add texture.

Sometimes I couch or zigzag yarns to create fabric that I cut apart to use. Then I put them up rather randomly on the design wall. I balance the fabrics or details that stand out more. Sometimes I choose to do curved line piecing to create movement. I begin sewing pieces together. I keep checking that the piece is balanced for color and texture.

Mexican Inspired Collages or Art Quilts

Mexican inspired collages or art quilts start with me choosing the fabrics that go together or that I want to use. I gather my materials with no plan in mind. So I consider color and what I want to use. I often have to work backwards. Finishing the plain top and then adding 3D objects or found objects.

But sometimes I need to plan where the objects will be placed. I have to wait until after quilting the top to add the 3D found objects. Quilting over thick or hard objects creates problems for the sewing machine. If I add a bright ribbon, I then it can be added while quilting so I don’t duplicate sewing. So lots of forethought goes into these pieces.

A woman with a shopping bag Mexican inspired art quilt,Featured Fiber Artist — Market Day

I have written detailed step by step instructions on these processes on my webstite if anyone is interested.

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2019/11/mexican-dance-fabric-collages/

The Future

Val-What do have in store for the future? This is the answer I should have given.

About a year ago , I took Janet Siverglate’s class in assemblage. I have been mulling ideas around since then. I have a piece just about finished using wooden sewing spools and some whimsical items.

Val- I have only been at the Art League for four years now. I am aware that they was a Fiber Show a few years back. Maybe that is something that we can consider doing again in the future.

Another fiber show would be great!

http://www.consuelojunderwood.com/

http://www.susanelse.com/

https://scal.org/

https://www.etsy.com/shop/annbmayartquilts/

Want an Heirloom?Make a Memory Quilt.

Memory Quilt finished art quilt

Memory Quilt-Step by Step

Above all,a memory quilt is a quilt made out of a person’s clothing as a way of honoring their memory. After seeing my art work, a client contacted me to make an art quilt as a way to keep the memory of her grandmother alive.For example,follow as I show the step by step the process of making a memory quilt of the client’s grandmother’s clothes and articles.

At our First Meeting

At our first meeting, the woman shared information about her grandmother’s life that she especially wanted to be included in the memory quilt. In addition,she brought artifacts to illustrate her life. The artifacts included buttons, artificial flowers, a paper card notice, lace and several dresses and clothing . Together step by step, we decided on the colors. We both agreed on the pink, green, and blue palette. I was able to use some dark blue from the orange and blue housedress.

Personal details

Furthermore,the wide range of details, artificial flowers, momentos, jewelry,clothing gave me a lot to choose from. Subsequently,I was also able to include buttons, lace from hems and the safety pins that had been hidden inside the clothing. Luckily, the client said that she would trust my artistic choices to arrange or eliminate as necessary. After that the work on the Memory Quilt-step by step began.

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2020/11/memory-quilts-i-have-made/

choosing fabrics for a memory quilt a work in progress Memory Quilt-A work in progress — Step 1. Choosing fabrics and details for a memory quilt

dresses for a memory quilt a work in progress,Memory Quilt-A work in progress — Step 2. dresses for a memory quilt

earrings for a memory quilt a work in progress,Memory Quilt-A work in progress — Step 3. Earrings add a very personal touch.

To Begin-Memory Quilt-Step by Step

First I cut out parts of the fabric from the dresses. Based on my experience and the approximate size of the finished piece, I knew that I didn’t need to take apart all of the seams. In other words, there would be plenty of fabric. Therefore, I cut pieces of about 10” -20” square. I heat fused interfacing on to the back of the polyester to reduce stretching and to aide sewing. Then I was able to cut out a variety of interesting geometric shapes in dark navy blue from an eliminated orange dress. Finally,I noticed that the back side of the fabric was a lovely medium blue so I decided to use both sides of the fabric. The pieces were smaller about 3” each.

Using the Design Wall to create the Memory Quilt-step by step

Using the design wall, I pinned the fabric up to begin to try out fabrics for work in progress of the memory quilt.

Memory Quilt,Memory Quilt-A work in progress — Trying out fabrics for a memory quilt on the design wall

I created this accent from zippers I took out of the clothes. The safety pins are decorative. Be brave and use interesting objects that one might not usually think of using for a memory quilt.

zipper detail — Step 4 Create zipper accent

Next, I added the details to get an idea about where they should go.

Moving around fabrics and details a work in progress — Step 5 Moving around fabrics and details

Then,I began to sew pieces together.

Memory Art Quilt, I sew many pieces together — Step6 Trying out places

I continued to sew pieces together and change their place for balance of color.

The various pieces are ready to sew together. — Step7 ready to sew together

Finally, all of the pieces found their special spot.Next, the top was sewn together. Then,the backing and batting are added. Lastly I quilt the three layers together. In this case,the focus is on the materials and details. Therefore, the quilting took a back seat and did not stand out.

Memory Quiltfinished art quilt — Step 8 Memory Quilt finished art quilt

Read more in these articles on Memory Quilts.

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2021/10/something-about-memory-quilts/

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2020/11/memory-quilts-i-have-made/

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/commissions-and-memory-quilts/

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2017/08/memory-quilts/

https://www.toocooltshirtquilts.com/blog/memory-quilt-ideas

https://www.etsy.com/shop/annbmayartquilts

How to Use Redirected Fabric in Art Quilts

Kelp Dwellers 25″ x 25″ A piece of multicolored blue sheer fabric is a perfect background for this underwater fantasy.

Use Redirected Fabric in Art Quilts

Redirecting materials inspire.

Use redirected fabric in art quilts to design something new and inspire yourself to create. I find unique fabrics not like those sold in a regular quilt store among redirected materials.

Discontinued fabric from a decorator’s studio

A sample of linen fabric from a decorator’s studio becomes the main design element with the addition of zigzagged or couched yarn. The colors; black, white,, and grey attracted me before I saw that this linen actually had greyhound dogs printed on it. My fondness for dogs aside, I didn’t want the dogs to stand out. I accomplished this by rotating the fabric and couching yarn to it. Next, I cut the fabric into twigs and branches to suggest tree tops. Then, I placed the branches on a sky blue indigo fabric background to complete the art quilt.

Friends’ Suggestions

Although dyeing fabric is a great way to redirect materials, it is a bit too messy for my situation. But many of my fabric friends have done it. The sheet that the dyed fabrics are wrapped in to carry home often is colored in an interesting way . Thanks to that warning, I was prepared when I recently took an indigo dyeing workshop. The background fabric for the sky was indeed the bedsheet that had used to carry my other dyed pieces home.

The Process-

First,I choose the fabric. I liked the way the curved lines of the dogs’s backs created movement on the fabric.

grey and black dogs, Use Redirected Fabric in Art Quilts — Greyhounds on linen

Next,I choose the yarn colors that I wanted to use, grey, green, and black yarn. I couched the yarns with matching threads so that the sewing threads wouldn’t stand out.

black grey and white fabric with green and black yarn ,Use Redirected Fabric in Art Quilts — Black, grey, and white fabric with green and black yarn couched yarn

Next,I continued adding yarn curving it as I zigzagged(couched) it onto the linen.

More beige, grey, black and white yarn couched onto the fabric

Then,with more yarn, it is more difficult to identify the dogs.

Use Redirected Fabric in Art Quilts — The dogs disappear.

Continuing,I kept adding more yarn and zigzagging it down. For thicker lines, I wrapped 3 pieces of yarn together.

Different view of the fabric with threads couched

Ready to cut the Fabric into Branches

Finally, with this fabric, I cut out the tree branches,twigs and sticks. I put the backing fabric flat on the table. Then I added the batting on top. Then I added indigo dyed fabric for the background. Next, I basted them with a touch of glue. I assembled the tree on top and basted it.

black and white branches on an indigo died background

Lastly,I covered the finished top with tulle and free motion quilted the layers together. I finished the edges by adding a 2″ facing folding it to the back and hand stitching it. Finally, I sew a fabric sleeve or tube onto the top back for hanging with a dowel and fishing line.

You may be interested in this previous blog post as well.
https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/zig-zagging-yarn-to-create-fabric/

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2020/01/creating-movement-in-abstract-art-quilts/

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2020/03/using-discontinued-fabrics/

The completed piece of art is totally made from redirected materials; linen and backing material from the San Francisco Design Center, redirected yarn from my sister-in-law, redirected tulle from a wedding, and redirected background indigo fabric from a bedsheet. My heart’s desire is complete;making beautiful art from repurposed materials.

https://www.etsy.com/shop/annbmayartquilts/

See A New Abstract Art Quilt Work in Progress

Winter Sunset greys,pinks and purple fabric in this abstract art quilt.

Abstract Art Quilt Work in Progress

Winter Sunset, An abstract art quilt with lavander,pink, and grey colors,the finished piece

Abstract Art Quilt Work in Progress, Winter Sunset

This work in progress shows the steps I follow to create an abstract piece of art. Designing my abstract art quilts begins with choosing a group of colors. Inspiration for this quilt came from the greys and pinks of a winter sunset. I pick the decorative threads that I want to work with. I choose fabric that fits into the shades of colors that I chose. This time I want the colors to blend together and hardly be noticeable. Look for the green marbled fabric I added for that purpose. Choosing mnaterials from my stash is my favorite part of the creaive process.

Couching Decorative Threads and Yarns

Couching decorative threads and yarns to a long strip of fabric is fun. I use little pieces that might otherwise be thrown away. Each person’s eyes will blend the colors together differently. Then I randomly cut up the strips to use as fabric. I place the fabric on the design wall. Then I move the pieces around until I like it.

Keep Colors and Textures Balanced.

Beginning to sew the pieces together, I keep my eye out to make sure that the balance of the colors and textures is good.

I keep adjusting the fabrics adding and subtracting fabrics as I go. Until I get it just right in my eye’s mind.I begin sewing small pieces together.

I continue sewing pieces pieces together. Here you can tell that the pieces are getting larger.

I moved some other pieces around. Sewing together continued. I finished sewing or piecing the top together.. The quilt sandwich has the top, the batting and the backing fabric pinned together to quilt.

I use my wacky fun scribble quilting technique to quilt the three layers together creating an added level of movement. Scribble quilting is a technique I named. I move the quilt side to side while quilting with a walking foot.

You may be interested in reading more at Studio Art Quilt Associates (SAQA) website.

http://www.saqa.com/

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2021/06/abstract-art-in-fabric/

https://www.etsy.com/shop/annbmayartquilts/

Challenge Yourself!Having Fun With Color!Texture!Movement!

Along the Path

Having Fun With Color!Texture!Movement!

Having Fun With Color!Texture!Movement! appeared in Art Quilting Studio, Summer edition, 2018. Ann Baldwin May is having Fun With Color!Texture! Movement! in each of her art quilts.

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/press-coverage/

fabric teal colored tree with leaves falling and rocks at foot of the treeFun With Color!Texture! Movement! — Along the Path

Having Fun With Color!Texture!Movement!

Having Fun With Color!Texture! Movement! will show the steps needed to add color,texture andmovement to art quilts using the fabric layering technique.

Having Fun With Color!Texture!Movement!
GETTING STARTED

The fabric layering technique makes it easy to have Fun With Color!Texture! Movement! to your art quilts. Begin by laying the back cotton fabric on a table. Choose a size that will easily fit on your work table. A square or rectangle about 15”-20” is a good start. Press the fabric to lay flat. Cover with batting which should also lay flat. Don’t worry if the edges don’t exactly line up, they will be trimmed later. Next, choose a fairly neutral background fabric or fabrics. Overlap the fabrics about an inch. If the fabrics shift during quilting, the batting won’t show. Cut a meandering line to look like rolling hills on the edge of the top fabric. Lightly baste with a glue stick.

Choose your Colors Having Fun With Color!Texture!Movement!

Choose your colors adding a range of hues from light to dark as well as colors that contrast. Play with the colors to see what you like. Be ready to eliminate those that really don’t work. Go for an impressionistic view rather than a picture perfect trunk, leaf, or branch. Each viewer’s eye will blend the colors uniquely.

Start Large to Small

When beginning to create the scene, start with the largest part and work to the smallest. Cut out the tree trunk and add branches as you go. Flip the fabric and use the backside to add dimension. When you have the tree the way you like it, lightly baste. Just baste in a few places not all over. Later on, if you may want to slide a branch underneath and you won’t be able to if it is totally glued down.

Add Details Having Fun With Color!Texture!Movement!

Add rocks to the foreground. Choose fabric that will work for you to add texture. Avoid fabrics that have rocks printed on them. I chose marbled fabric I bought at Pacific International Quilt Festival and a redirected fabric to add texture. You will notice that they are cut simply. Lightly baste the rocks to the background.
For the medium sized branches, I couched (zigzagged) decorative threads and ribbons on to a multicolored piece of redirected linen. Then I cut the branches out. I lay them on the piece balancing out the colors. Crossing branches adds interest and movement. Keep going until the scene is pleasing to you. Baste lightly.

Leaves Add Interest

Working on the leaves is so much fun. Gather contrasting and blending colors. Make the leaves about
3”-4” varying the shape and size. Small scrap pieces are all that are needed. Pay attention to balancing the placement of the colors . Reflective, shiny sheer fabrics add a pop to the leaves. Save them for the top for the greatest effect. If you choose to have the leaves stick out from the edge, make those leaves ½” bigger for ease of zigzagging. During the final trimming you can adjust the leaf lines by cutting before zigzagging. Lightly baste leaves in place. Your art quilt will also be successful if you decide to make the edges straight .

The Beginning of the End

When your artist’s eye says that the scene is complete, cover with tulle. Make sure that the tulle is 2 “ longer on all sides. It can pull a bit during quilting. Pin the tulle down making sure that it is flat but not stretched. Use a lot of straight pins; remove as you quilt. As with other quilting techniques, begin in the middle of the piece and quilt outward. Edges may be rolled to accommodate the machine’s space.

Helpful Hints

Beginners will have success stitching along the edges of the branches, following the lines of the fabric. More experienced quilters can add movement by quilting lines resembling slanting plants. Choose a thread color that blends with the background. I highly recommend Aurifil thread for successful free motion quilting. Trim the edges and zigzag two times. Press lightly with a pressing cloth or piece of fabric. Add a sleeve to the back to hang. Stand back and admire!

Everyone Starts Somewhere.

Several years ago I began my path from traditional quilts to art quilts. I took a class in the fabric layering technique from the award winning, Meri Vahl (meriartquilts.com). Meri had learned the technique from Northern California artist, Laura Fogg(laura-fogg.squarespace.com).The technique allows for much personal creativity; none of our work looks similar. I was inspired to create a tree with leaves overflowing the edges as I have sold five pieces to the new Kaiser Permanente Facility in Scotts Valley and WEatsonville, California. A change in color scheme keeps all of my trees unique.

Important Materials

quality scissors; large and small, sewing machine, darning /free motion foot, walking foot for zigzagging, rotary cutter, cutting board, plastic see through quilting ruler, cotton fabric for backing, tulle, synthetic fabrics, redirected materials, commercially marbled fabric, sheers, batiks, Aurifil thread, Avery glue stick, pressing cloth ( to protect tulle and synthetics from melting when being pressed),a pointed wooden stick , straight quilting pins(They are longer than sewing pins.)

Tips

Leave a 1-2” empty back ground space on the sides of your piece. Then when trimmed your art doesn’t lose any interesting parts.
A light colored tulle will be best for your first project. I personally am not fussy about the color of tulle I use.
This technique is a forgiving way to practice free motion quilting. Before I learned this technique, I was ready to give up with free motion quilting in frustration. Lower or cover your feed dogs. Put your stitch length at 0. Use the darning/free motion foot with Aurifil thread. Push foot pedal control fast while slowly moving/quilting the layers of fabric.( Fast foot ,slow hand) Aurifil thread is available at most quilting stores. It appears more expensive but it really isn’t. I pieced and quilted a queen sized quilt of many seams with one spool.
Throwing the leaves onto the scene adds movement. Free yourself from cutting out perfectly formed leaves.
Use a large straight pin like a hat pin to get the tiniest dab of glue on the tip and gently slide under the fabric to be basted. I use a wooden stick similar to an emery stick to help me gently nudge the pieces of fabric to where I want them to be.

Advice for Beginners

I come from the world of bed quilts. The basic sewing skills used in traditional quilting are fundamental for most art quilting. However the “Quilting Rules” can be left behind. Buying patterns, pressing seams and matching seams are a few of those rules I have freed myself from. Give yourself permission to try something new, be it a color combination or creating your own designs. Listen to yourself. Take baby steps. You decide if you like your work or not. If not, change it. There is no wrong way to do it. Many art workshops or seminars begin with activities to get people in touch with one’s creative side.

About the Author

Ann Baldwin May lives in Santa Cruz, California. In 2012, she retired after teaching elementary school for 36 years. She began quilting in the 1970s. Ms. May participates in the juried Santa Cruz County Open Studios Art Tour from her studio in the Santa Cruz Art Center. She recently sold five tree art quilts to Kaiser Permanente for their facilities in Santa Cruz County, California. May is a member of SAQA( Studio Art Quilter Associates). Contact her at baldwinmay49@yahoo.com or www.annbaldwinmayartquilts.com. Or visit her Etsy shop at https://www.etsy.com/shop/annbmayartquilts/

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2020/01/creating-movement-in-abstract-art-quilts/

https://stampington.com/art-quilting-studio-summer-2018/

The Amazing Story of FabMo Reuses

Fabmo reuses fabric and materials.

Posted on October 13, 2017 by ANYTexture

https://www.anytexture.com/2017/10/the-amazing-story-of-fabmo-how-two-dedicated-people-can-help-the-world/

Several Years Ago

Exactly two years ago I came home with a small stash of beautiful upholstery fabric samples. Little did I know how quickly and profoundly these textiles would change my life! Today I want to tell the amazing story of FabMo, the non-profit organization where I acquired those samples. It is also the inspiring story of how two people can make a difference, its two co-founders, Hannah and Jonathan Cranch. Fabmo reuses fabric and materials.

founders of FABMO — Hannah and Jonathan Cranch

Holly, Hannah and Jonathan speak with visitors to FABMO — Holly Welstein, Hannah and Jonathan Cranch speak with visitors to FABMO

How It All Started for two people to make a difference

A couple of decades ago Hannah and Jonathan Cranch were ordinary people going about their own business. Hannah taught art in Palo Alto primary schools, while Jonathan was a general contractor. They occasionally enjoyed attending seasonal open houses at the Design Center in San Francisco, seeing what was new in the design world. They both enjoyed the refreshments, browsing the beautiful displays and chatting with the salespeople

You are Throwing What Away? Fabmo reuses fabric and materials.

One day, during one such visit, they saw a man toss a big trash bag into the dumpster. The bag tore open, spilling out a bunch of gorgeous fabrics. It turned out that in preparation for the open houses, the showrooms had to make room for newly released fabrics, which meant getting rid of all the discontinued textiles. These exquisite, expensive designer fabrics, which were displayed but never used, were thus headed for the landfill.

Fabmo reuses fabric and materials for an art teacher.

Hannah, as an art teacher, knew her fellow teachers would salivate over such a treasure, so she began the quest to save these resources. She visited showrooms and spoke with key people, asking for some fabrics, and they gradually agreed to give her some. Each time, she returned home with a bag or two full of lustrous samples, which she distributed to Palo Alto teachers.

As she gradually built relationships, the amount of material she acquired began to grow. Soon, she and Jonathan started supplying five school districts, and passed some fabrics on to the Children’s Theater, as well. Fabmo reuses fabric and materials.

When Things Got More Serious

Hannah later learned that someone named Steve was visiting the showrooms every Monday to collect discontinued fabric samples, which were then picked up by a charitable organization run by a group of nuns. One day the charity did not come by to pick up, and so showroom workers asked Hannah, who was fortuitously at the Design Center at that moment, whether she wanted the fabrics. She certainly did! As it turned out, the charity never came back, and Hannah began a weekly pickup from then on. With the sudden increase in quantity, the picture changed dramatically. However, Fabmo still reuses fabric and materials.

Selection at Johnathan and Hannah's house — Selection at Johnathan and Hannah’s house

At essentially the same time, in summer 2007, Palo Alto schools closed for the summer. Hannah and Jonathan were unable to distribute the growing amounts of fabrics they were collecting. They published notices on Freecycle, Craigslist and other online venues, and began compiling an email list of interested people. Soon after, they set up five tables in their living room, filled them up with materials, and invited these interested fabric-lovers to come over and pick whatever they wanted. Before long this became a recurring event.

Fabmo reuses fabric and materials at selection events.

Originally, Hannah and Jonathan distributed the materials they gathered. They were the ones deciding what resources to give each school/theater. Once they allowed people to come over to their house and pick on their own, however, they could no longer think of it as “distribution.” They decided to call these “selection events” instead, since patrons got to choose their own treasures.

Running out of Room at their house

At first, their living-room events lasted two days. As the amount of fabrics kept growing, they were extended to three. Soon, the living room wasn’t big enough for everything. Hannah and Jonathan set up yet more tables in their family room.

But the rescued samples kept accumulating. In no time they filled one spare bedroom, then another, until all the bedrooms in the house were full of textiles and other materials. Hannah and Jonathan began holding regular selection events, timing them to open up a guest room as needed.

Fabmo reuses fabric and materials with a growing mailing list.

Their email list, initially limited to about thirty people, kept growing. Before long, some one hundred and seventy people came by every month. Some were hesitant to enter a private house. Others, however, came regularly. Some of the latter offered to help pay for the gas for Hannah’s collection trips to SF, so Hannah and Jonathan put up a donation box to help finance their drives. Then someone offered to help take care of welcoming guests. One day, when Hannah, who was also co-owner of a catering business, was too busy with an event, Jonathan took that woman up on her offer. From then on the Cranches relied more and more on volunteers to help them with the many tasks of gathering, sorting and distributing. They started documenting who came to their house, and, in order to limit crowding, began setting appointments.

How FabMo Was Born

In 2009, after years of making fabrics available from their private house, Jonathan learned that their home insurance would not cover such large gatherings. Although the Cranches distributed everything for free, the insurance considered what they were doing as a business. So they found a small shared space in Palo Alto where they could hold Selection Events, but which had very little room for storage.

Six months later they moved to a bigger warehouse on Old Middlefield Road. Later they added another warehouse.

Selection-at-Old-Middlefield-Way2 — Selection at Old Middlefield Way

That same year FabMo was born as a public benefit corporation, and in 2010 was granted 501(c)(3) status. FabMo was now officially a non-profit organization! The name FabMo is short for Fabrics and More, as by then the Cranches rescued many different materials. In addition to fabrics, they also saved wallpapers, trims, tiles, leather, carpets and so on.

Continual expansion

Since then, FabMo’s activities have continued to expand. Nine years ago, a regular attendee suggested creating an event for people to showcase items they created with FabMo materials, so as to inspire others. That’s how the Holiday Boutique came about. In 2015 FabMo moved into their current location in Mountain View. They regularly hold monthly three-day Selection Events, as well as 8-10 Special Sales a year. Most recently, FABMO has moved one town over to Sunnyvale, California.

In 2014 FabMo started holding regular events in Santa Cruz as well, with an active volunteer and consumer base there. They also hold Selection Events in Vallejo, as well as in different Bay Area Tech Shops. FabMo has a regular presence in at least four fairs every year (MakersFaire, San Mateo County Fair, and two Earth Day Fairs).

FabMo Now

These days, FabMo rescues more than 70 tons of materials every year from Design Centers in San Francisco and San Jose, and from other miscellaneous sources. They make these amazing resources available to creative souls all over the Bay Area and beyond. More than 8,500 people are signed up to their mailing list, with about 300 coming to collect treasures during each Selection Event. Hannah and Jonathan continue to be very involved with the organization relying on an active Board, a growing family of several hundred volunteers, and textile aficionados, who, like themselves, appreciate the creative and environmental impact of this amazing endeavor. People come from Hawaii, the Pacific Northwest, Michigan and beyond to attend, determining their own schedule based on FabMo’s.

FabMo’s dedication

To this day, FabMo distributes fabrics for a suggested donation. It trusts patrons to give what they can to help keep the project running. Costs of maintaining such a business in the Bay Area are sky-high, as are utilities and fuel. Teachers still receive many of the materials for free. FabMo only sells Special Sale materials, but even then for low prices.

serendippity

Hannah and Jonathan didn’t plan any of this. They simply couldn’t stand to see fabulous textiles thrown away and wasted, and before they knew it, FabMo had appeared. What started as a small project of love run by two individuals, turned into a collaborative effort of a creative, eco-friendly community, a family of sorts. But it still remains a not-for-profit project of love.

FabMo’s dedication continues to keep tons of precious resources out of the landfill. It also progressively builds an entire community of like-minded people who care about the environment. Likewise, it encourages the creativity of numerous others. The Cranches certainly changed my life, re-sparking my own long-suppressed creativity.

Now, people from all over the United States are starting to ask how to establish similar organizations. The Cranches even received a few inquiries from overseas. Imagine how many resources could be rescued if every community had a FabMo! Imagine all the creative things people could come up with!

To learn more about FabMo or sign up to their mailing list check out their web page: http://www.fabmo.org/fabmo/Home.htlmYou can also like their Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/FabMo.

You can learn how one quilt artist uses FABMO materials for her art.

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2020/03/using-redirected-fabrics-and-materials/

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2019/10/a-volunteers-path-to-chairman/

The Ultimate Guide to Memorial Quilts

By: Andrea Funk on July 9th, 2015

How Much Does it Cost to Have a Memory Quilt Made? What is the cost of a Memory Quilt?

MEMORIAL QUILTS | HOW MUCH DO T-SHIRT QUILTS COST

First of all,I found this article to be interesting. I am in the process of completing four Memorial Quilts for a client and her children using their beloved father’s clothing.Ann

First,on the Internet memory quilts range in price from $100 to over $1,000. Why such a large price range? However,there are a number of factors that go into the cost of making a quilt. Here are a number of cost factors that go into the pricing of a memory quilt.

Materials

There are 3 basic materials that go into all quilts. There is a quality range for each type of material. The price of your quilt will relate to the quality of materials used. The higher the quality the higher the cost. In other words,inexpensive materials create an inexpensive quilt.

Fabric

To help think about fabric, compare it to the thread count of bed sheets. For example,the lower the thread count, the cheaper the fabric. Polyester fabric with a low thread count is inexpensive. 100% cotton with a high thread count is much more expensive. For a high quality fabric for durability of wear and use, cotton should be used. Similarly,the backing and binding of the quilts will need extra fabric.

Batting

Secondly,batting is used in the middle of a quilt. It comes in a variety of quality levels from thin 100% polyester to high quality cotton batting. Polyester batting tears easily, it bunches up and will poke out the back of the quilt. However,cotton battings are the best choice. Yet,they will cost two to three times more than polyester batting.

Thread

Moreover,all quilts use thread for sewing the blocks together and quilting. On the other hand,there are cheap threads that won’t withstand time and use.Quality threads are truly worth the cost. So,a less expensive quilt is made with a lower quality thread.

Look here for more information on memory quilts.

http://Memorial Quilt Buyers Guide

Labor

In addition, another cost that is calculated into the price of a quilt is labor. Minimum wage is about $8 an hour. Typically, minimum wage is reserved for entry level and unskilled workers. However,an accomplished quilt makers are not unskilled. Above all they usually, they should have over five years or more of quilt making experience .

Skill

Similarly, it takes skill to make a memory quilt. If it didn’t take any skill or experience, you would make it yourself. Highly skilled and talented quilters make the nicest memory quilts. Furthermore,this means that their hourly rate will be much higher than minimum wage. If you want to only pay minimum wage to a quilter, expect an entry-level unskilled quilter to attempt making your quilt. If you value your clothing and memories you are putting into your memory quilt, an inexpensive quilt should scare you!

Time

How long does it take to make a memory quilt? In short,this depends on a number of factors including quilt style, complexity and craftsmanship. A low-cost quilt will take less time than a more expensive quilt. However,this means that the low-cost quilt will have a simple design without any complexities. The workmanship may be questionable.

The Worth a Quilter Places on His or Her Work.

If a quilter underprices their work, they are telling you up front that they do not think that their time and skills are good enough to charge more. Think about what this tells you. If someone does not find value in his or her work, will you?

Style

memory quilt

In short,there are two basic styles of quilts – those that are made in columns and rows and those that are designed by an artist.Our Too Cool puzzle style is a creative work. The number of steps and the amount of time it takes to make each style is vastly different.

Traditional

A traditional style memorial quilt is made from blocks in columns and or rows and the blocks are all one size. This makes the project very easy and involves very little planning and time to layout.

The Too Cool Style

A memory quilt made with many different sizes and shaped blocks involve a lot of consideration, planning, math and other time consuming steps. This style of quilt will take 10 times or longer than a traditional quilt.

To summarize,these and other considerations are indicators of the quality of a quilt. They also greatly influence the price of the quilt. For example, someone with great skill and artistry using cheap material might make a good looking quilt. But the quilt still has been made with cheap material that will look cheap and not wear well. Conversely, a quilt made with high quality materials that is poorly made is still a poorly made quilt. You want a quilt that is made from high quality materials by a skilled and artistic quilter. This quilt will be a family heirloom worthy of the cost.

Look carefully at the cost of memory quilts. Be sure to know what you are paying for. A quilt that costs only $100 is probably going to be a disappointment.

To learn more about having a memory quilt made, please feel free to download our Memorial Quilt Guide. It has information that will help you through the process of having a memorial quilt made.

Memory quilt From mom's clothing — Memorial quilt From mom’ s clothing

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2021/10/something-about-memory-quilts/

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2020/11/memory-quilts-i-have-made/

The First Conversation

The First Assessment

Making Plans

First Steps

Next Steps

Project Runway Issues to Address

Issue One

Issue Two

Issue Three

Issue Four

In Conclusion

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Finding Materials to Create Fabric Embellishments

To Begin

A Strip of Fabric

Fiberous Fabrics Create Fabulous Fabric Embellishments

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Another Use for Small Pieces of Fabric

Many Art Quilt Techniques use Small Pieces.

Small Pieces are my Signature Item.

Business Cards Use Small Pieces of Fabric

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What I Know

All Brands are Good.

Free Motion Quilting

Old Thread

Chartreuse Thread?

All I Know About Thread

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Featured Fiber Artist

First Featured Fiber Artist

Exploring other Avenues of Creative Expression

My First Juried Art Show

Traditional Quilts versus Art Quilts

FABMO offers an Incredible Variety of Materials

Other Local Featured Fiber Artists

The Piece in the Member Show

The Murder of George Floyd

A Call for Entry

The Fires Began

A Bit of Disorientation

The First Venue for the BLM Show

My Process

Nature Quilts

Abstract Pieces are made on a Design Wall

Mexican Inspired Collages or Art Quilts

The Future

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Memory Quilt-Step by Step

At our First Meeting

Personal details

To Begin-Memory Quilt-Step by Step

Using the Design Wall to create the Memory Quilt-step by step

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Use Redirected Fabric in Art Quilts

Redirecting materials inspire.

Discontinued fabric from a decorator’s studio

Friends’ Suggestions

The Process-

Ready to cut the Fabric into Branches

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Abstract Art Quilt Work in Progress

Abstract Art Quilt Work in Progress, Winter Sunset

Couching Decorative Threads and Yarns

Keep Colors and Textures Balanced.

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Having Fun With Color!Texture!Movement!

Having Fun With Color!Texture!Movement!

Having Fun With Color!Texture!Movement! GETTING STARTED

Choose your Colors Having Fun With Color!Texture!Movement!

Start Large to Small

Add Details Having Fun With Color!Texture!Movement!

Having Fun With Color!Texture!Movement!
GETTING STARTED