Material of inspiration
SEPTEMBER 2004, — VOLUME 2 ISSUE 10
It has threaded in and out of fashion for centuries and now, it seems, quilting is back in vogue.
The art of quilting can be traced back to ancient Egypt and was introduced to North America by the early pioneers. It’s a craft which has survived the test of time and one which, in the 21st century is gaining resurgence in popularity.
Once a necessity to keep first settlers warm at night and save women from isolation, quilting has now launched itself into the realms of fine art.
It’s come a long way from a collage of scrap fabric and old sacking and graduated to complex intricate designs with a playful combination of modern fabrics.
Today’s quilters still enjoy the craft for the same reason their pioneering sisters did, says Pat Nelson, author of Stylish Sewing and Creative Machine Stitching: Special Effects for Quilts and More, she believes quilting guilds still offer the chance for women to socialize on top of leaving a family legacy.
“I think it’s a great way to leave a tiny bit of your history behind for your family,” says Nelson. “I also think the camaraderie of associating with other quilters is good socially, quilting is good mental health, too. The younger generation are looking for creative outlets. Also, I think others are looking for things to do that go back to the basics in this fast paced time.”
The renewed interest is in both traditional and contemporary quilting techniques, says Pat Hatchett, local Sun Peaks resident and quilter for 15 years. While rustic images remain popular in quilting, she says, there’s also a new modern take on the craft.
“It’s so popular now. It’s quite incredible compared to what it used to be.” Hatchett explains. “Most of the styles are very country there’s a lot of animals, flowers and birds in quilting. But you also see very modern ones, very abstract. Quilting covers the whole range now and you can do whatever you want.”
Quilting patterns have begun to infiltrate into other forms of creative mediums, inspiring many artists and designers to incorporate this historical pastime into their work. Charlene Hall, owner of Fusion North Boutique in Sun Peaks, says she’s currently launching a new range of glass jewellery, which reflects the essence of quilting.
“I’ve had experience in quilting years ago,” says Hall. “But now I’m working with glass. The colour and the geometrical designs that are presented in a lot of quilt work really intrigue me. Quilting can be done in so many different forms and so many different styles, so I thought this would be an awesome way to incorporate that with a line of jewellery.”
Quilting is one of the fastest growing hobbies worldwide and has produced a multi-million dollar industry, according to a Quilting in America survey conducted in 2000.
The survey reported there were an estimated 20 million quilters in the U.S and around 50 million people worldwide who enjoy this intricate craft.
With this amount of dedicated followers it’s not surprising quilting has begun to appear in a variety of non-related magazines and made an entrance into other art and design arenas.
“I think all different artists are being inspired by quilting because it’s the design factor and the colour,” explains Hall. “It has so many dimensions. It can be landscapes, nature, geometric and oriental.”
Hall believes the quilting renaissance has evolved from the fact that it’s a traditional female practice, which offers a venue for women to express their creative ideas.
“It’s a way for modern women with their hectic lives to get together,” she says. “To have fun and come away with the satisfaction of making a beautiful piece. And that is what appeals to everybody.”
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