Contemporary Folk Art Quilting Retreat, Day 1

Working on applique flowers, and yes, I'm keeping the pom-poms!

Today was the first day in a three-day Contemporary Folk Art Quilting Retreat with Sue Spargo and Gwen Marston, hosted by the Stitchin' Post in Sisters, Oregon. It was a large space full of people, I was the only guy, and there were wonderful things to be seen in all directions. There were stunning quilts by Sue and Gwen, beautiful works in progress, and happy faces all around the room.

I learned a few things. Just the right touch makes applique really sing. If you pull too hard on the thread, it can cause the ground fabric to buckle and become wavy. Pull just the right amount, and the applique is secured without creating the need to quilt it down. I also learned that threading needles will probably always be a hopeless adventure for me. But the most important thing I learned is "Quilter's Vitamins" help a lot! Here are some of the quilts Gwen and Sue had hanging up around the retreat center.

Two more days, I can't stand it! What an amazing, wonderful experience this retreat has been so far. Even though I really don't know how to sew, everyone's made me feel at home and offered advice, which has all been very helpful. If you're reading this blog and feeling a little envious, I totally understand. The Stitchin' Post does a magnificent job running these quilt retreats and workshops. My first quilt workshop and retreat, and I'm sure it won't be my last.