Wednesday, May 13, 2009

Sampler Quilts for Beginners . . .

Some experienced quilters are apt to be dismissive about sampler quilts, but I think they are a first rate vehicle for teaching the craft of patchwork, applique and quilting to beginners.

It was Barbara Olson who said, "the framework that quilt blocks provide is a safe place to explore the creative process."  I heartily agree with her as far as beginners are concerned.

She goes on to say that "students can experiment and break the rules within the safety of the framework" which is what I encourage my students to do as you can see from the quilts pictured below.

We had some good times and plenty of laughs over the months. Much ooh-ing and aah-ing over each other's work.
All the quilts will be finished by end of August.

1 comment:

Maggi said...

I do so agree with you about sampler quilts. They provide a way in for beginner quilters but also are a way for more experienced quilters to stretch the boundaries. Anyone who is dismissive about such quilts is surely missing the point. Thank you for sharing the work of your students who must all feel a terrific pride in what they have achieved with you.