A lot of people ask how I make my quilt art, so here’s a brief synopsis:

Since 1999 I have painted most of my own fabric – I use a light cotton canvas /duck fabric to paint on. It takes the paint and “mark making” very well and is still easy to piece and quilt. The paint is a fabric paint made up of a clear base and pigments that allow the painter to make one's own colors/thicknesses/intensities.

I have used appliqué quite a lot and like to utilize a fusible web with stitching over the top. The duck fabric does not lend itself to traditional hand appliqué. I have also used a number of photo transfers. I have access to a laser copier, transfer paper and a T-shirt heat press.

I also enjoy using some embellishments when appropriate to the piece. Barbie doll shoes, washers and antique buttons are all fair game.

Sometimes a particular photo will inspire me, sometimes a song lyric or show title and other times I wake up thinking only about a certain color to paint. The fabric, which is painted with no subject in mind, is often the starting point. I like words that have two meanings – expressions that are ambiguous. One of the most important parts of the finished piece is the observer and what they add to and what they take with them.

My work is definitely informed by my working in the graphics business for over 30 years and I have been fortunate enough to meet and see original art created by many working artists. This has given me a practical how-to education which along with my sewing background brings me to the art quilt.