Since 1997 I have been passionately endeavoring to evolve into an art quilt maker, striving to create original pieces according to my own inspirations, often filled with personal symbolism.
I have made modern quilts, and have also tried many patterns and techniques. But so far my favorite is hand work – hand applique and hand quilting. Piecing, usually a background treatment, is done by machine to speed up the process. But I am happiest with a needle in my hand, doing applique. Some quilts have been commissioned but I also designed and organized large fusible web applique landscapes.
I try to make pieces which can be hung on the wall as art, or thrown on the couch to cuddle up in. Also a folksy but sophisticated log cabin ‘quillow’ can be folded up into a pillow and thrown in the car for a long trip. I’m currently working on the hand piecing technique of English Paper Piecing (EPP)and having a ball!
Playing with other quilt designers’ patterns has also been important for developing the necessary skills to go in my own direction. Most inspiring to me have been Paula Nadelstern, Nancy Crow, Valorie & Jean Wells, and Jane Sassaman, but there are way too many brilliant quilt makers to name! For EPP, I love Tula Pink and Karen Tripp and Willyne Hammerstein. See also my Links page.
Pieces can take anywhere from one month to one year to complete, depending on complexity. Some pieces need to ‘cook’ in my head, so I let them. Others progress at a good and even pace. Ultimately, quilts evolve at their own pace.
All my work is done with 100% cotton fabrics, batting and backing. They are high quality pieces which with proper care, should last a very, very long time. I have worked with hand dyed fabrics and have incorporated beading into some quilted pieces.
Karoline Wallace 