Nominations for the 2026 Quilt Show Member Artist were done at the June membership meetings. Members voted and the top three candidates were Linda Weir, Karen Michaels, and Elaine Brouillard. At the September membership meetings, the three artists presented their creations and the members voted for their favorite.
We had three wonderful candidates for Member Artist and the members have chosen Linda Weir. CONGRATULATIONS to Linda!
My first awareness of quilting occurred in my 40’s when I wandered into a quilt store while waiting to pick up my children. I still remember being intrigued at the many possibilities from various techniques and fabric choices. I signed up for a quilting class and enjoyed quilting for several years. Then, due to increased responsibilities at work, I put my sewing machine away. I was glad to return to quilting in 2018 after I retired.
I believe that continued learning is important to my overall well being and I like to think of myself as an adventurous quilter. I encourage myself to try new techniques by reminding myself that “it’s just fabric.” I generally test new skills on a small piece and its not unusual for me to experiment with a new technique on 2 to 3 projects in rapid succession. One of my favorite activities is to imagine “what if” and then find out – the results aren’t always pretty but they are usually interesting.
Initially, I liked piecing the tops and saw the quilting as a chore; today I’m enthused about the quilting and I’m actively working to improve my free motion and ruler quilting skills. I purchased a long arm in 2021 and have enjoyed learning how to use it.
When I’m not playing with my fabric, I enjoy cooking and reading. I’ve noted that my approach to cooking and quilting are somewhat similar in that I like trying new things (although I’ve found that my “what if” approach occasionally results in interesting dinners). Science fiction is my favorite read but I’m a member of a book club which ensures that I read a variety of genres.
A few years ago, I learned sashiko, a type of traditional Japanese embroidery. I’ve also been pleased to share my enthusiasm for this type of slow stitching with others by teaching several classes at White Bluffs Quilt Museum.
In addition to being involved in guild activities as the education lead and as an active member of the groups associated with the Community Services pipeline, I am on the White Bluffs Quilt Museum Board where I am responsible for the museum’s quilt collection.
