In this month’s tip, JUKI National Account Trainer, Alba, demonstrates the difference between an air threading serger and a non-air threading serger. The first serger we’ll showcase is the non-air threading serger, the Mo 114D. This is a non-air thread surger so this is a manually threading serger and the main difference is the way that the machine is threaded.
The other thing is that with a traditional serger, you must follow a specific order and usually it is an upper looper gets threaded first then the lower looper and then the needles in order; so there is a specific order that needs to be followed with this serger. When there is a thread breakage within this serger, it is often recommended that you start rethreading the machine from beginning to end.
Now with the air thread serger, here we’re showcasing the MO-2800, we’re going to show you their differences. Now what the air threading capability is all about, is the mechanism on the inside of the machine and its tubes, allow that jet stream of air to go through. Now in order to activate or start the air thread process we need to flip one lever, shown on video, and it really is as simple as that!
I will be turning the hand wheel towards me and what that does is if you watch this action that tube closes and you hear that click where I am now ready to activate and use the air thread. What is really nice about an air thread serger is it does not matter the order that you thread in! So I am going to go in the opposite order of the one right next to me. Now, I get my thread, I hold it with the tweezers, and I am putting between half an inch and an inch of thread in there. I have 8 to 10 in of loose thread in front of me and that lower looper has been threaded. This is typically the one that takes the most amount of time to thread on a serger and you could see just how easily. Now in order to close the door you will have to lower the lever and that’s usually where I get the call where people will say oh my door isn’t closing and that’s exactly why.
Another feature I was so excited about is the needle threader! I left one needle unthreaded and I’m going to open up the door just to make it easier to see on video, and I’m going to lower my foot and I have a lever that goes right and left. I’m threading my left needle, I have it to that position on video, and I am going to lower my needle threader and I am going to place the thread right in.
There’s a little groove on your needle threader that hugs around your needle and the thread goes right in there. You’ll notice I left it really nice and loopy and when I raise that needle threader up it threads the needle quickly.
Those are some of the differences between a regular serger and an air thread serger! I hope you enjoy these updated features, stay tuned and make sure to hit like and give us your comments!
To learn more about our JUKI Serger, visit your nearest dealer by visiting here.
In its intricate tapestry, life often encourages us to seek inspiration in various places, moments, and experiences. For creators immersed in sewing, finding that elusive inspiration is akin to uncovering a treasure trove of ideas, designs, and possibilities. At JUKI, we understand the importance of fueling creativity and want to offer a few tips to navigate through creative blockades, so to celebrate the final weekend of National Quilting Month, we’re going to talk about ways you can go out and become inspired by nature for your next quilt!
Embracing Nature’s Bounty
In its beauty, nature often holds the key to unlocking boundless creativity. Picture the tranquil embrace of the beach, the calming rhythm of waves against the shore, or the reflective stillness of a lake. These natural settings serve as sanctuaries for rejuvenation, clearing the clutter from the mind and allowing fresh inspiration to flow in.
JUKI Rulers
Taking a break from the sewing room and venturing into these natural retreats can invigorate the senses and provide a new perspective. Nature’s sounds, sights, and sensations can ignite dormant creativity, sparking ideas that translate into unique sewing projects!
Consider incorporating earthy tones, vibrant floral hues, serene blues, or natural greens into your fabric selections for quilting or sewing. Let nature guide your color choices. Think of intricate patterns in leaves, water ripples, or petals’ symmetry to inspire quilt block designs or embroidery motifs. You can easily create shapes on your quilting machines with JUKI rulers like these. Experiment with free-motion quilting techniques to emulate natural shapes like waves, foliage, or clouds.
Also, the most beautiful part is that nature isn’t perfectly symmetrical. Embrace asymmetry or organic shapes in your designs, allowing a more natural and spontaneous feel to your quilting or sewing projects!
Seeking Inspiration Amidst Adventure
For those drawn to the thrill of adventure, camping amidst the wilderness is a playground for the imagination. The vast expanse of nature, the crackling of a campfire, and the star-studded night sky all weave tales that can inspire new sewing designs and concepts.
Butterly Quilt, created by NA Trainer Kelly Latreille
From the bustle of everyday life, camping fosters an environment of simplicity and introspection. It’s a canvas where creators can disconnect, immerse themselves in the present, and allow inspiration to find its way in.
While camping or at the playground, sketch the landscapes, wildlife, or exciting patterns you encounter. Use these sketches as inspiration for embroidery designs or quilt patterns later! You can also notice textures like tree bark, grass, or the grainy surface of land around you. Try experimenting with different quilting techniques or stitch patterns to replicate these textures in your projects.
We also recommend collecting small souvenirs like leaves, pebbles, or twigs that catch your eye! Use these as templates for appliqué designs or as inspiration for color palettes in your quilting projects. By merging the experiences and inspirations gained from your outdoor adventures into your sewing and quilting, you can create a unique and personal project, making them functional and reflective of your cherished moments in nature.
Digital Wellsprings of Inspiration
In the digital age, inspiration is merely a click away. Our YouTube channel is a treasure trove of tutorials, tips, and projects designed to ignite creativity. From beginner-friendly guides to advanced techniques, these videos offer knowledge and inspiration.
You can also visit craft sites like Pinterest and create digital mood boards or collages. Collect images, colors, and patterns that resonate with you! These visual boards can serve as references for fabric selection and project inspiration. Extract color palettes from nature photographs or videos and experiment with landscape quilting, appliqué depicting natural scenes, or using various fabric manipulation techniques to emulate natural textures.
Additionally, our project page serves as an oasis of ideas, hosting many sewing projects for creators to explore. Whether it’s quilting, home decor, or embroidery, many projects spark inspiration and guide enthusiasts through their creative journey.
Connecting through Social Media
Social media platforms serve as vibrant hubs where creators connect to share ideas, showcase their work, and draw inspiration from fellow enthusiasts. Our social media channels foster a community where sewing enthusiasts engage, exchange ideas, and celebrate the artistry of sewing!
You can stay inspired by nature on Social Media! There are lovely sewing and quilting accounts that focus on nature-themed projects and accounts dedicated to nature itself. You can also follow nature photographers or accounts that share stunning images of landscapes, flora, and fauna and use that to create color palettes, patterns, and motifs for your projects.
Engaging with like-minded individuals, participating in discussions, and exploring the creations of others can be a funnel of inspiration! These platforms can offer a window into a variety of perspectives and techniques. Share your progress, and celebrate your nature-inspired creations! And remember, when you’re creating, inspiration can come not just from the images but also from the stories, tips, and experiences shared by fellow makers.
Joining Local Dealer Events and Sewing Communities
Attending events hosted by local dealers or sewing communities is an excellent way to immerse yourself in the sewing world! These events offer opportunities to connect with fellow creators, learn new techniques, and gain inspiration from workshops and demonstrations. At JUKI we host training classes and events with our JUKI dealers, ready to help you create! You can learn more about our events and training classes by visiting us here.
Local dealer events also host workshops and classes where you can learn new techniques or gather ideas for projects. We recommend participating in these sessions to expand your skills and try new techniques! This is also a great way to get in touch with your sewing community and get inspired by other creators like yourself.
At JUKI, we believe inspiration is woven into the fabric of everyday life, waiting to be discovered in the most unexpected places. From the tranquility of nature to the digital realm and vibrant sewing communities, there’s a world of inspiration out there waiting to be explored.
Creativity knows no bounds, and finding inspiration is an ongoing journey! Whether through the calming embrace of nature, the digital world of education and tutorials, or the exciting energy of your sewing community, enjoy nature and uncover a world brimming with innovative ideas and endless possibilities!
Let’s discuss the not-so-secret weapon in the quilting world: JUKI rulers! From crafting loops that scream elegance to diving into intricate clamshell designs, these rulers are your ticket to a quilting adventure that’s as fun as it is fab. We will cover the options available from JUKI that you can use the next time you’re quilting. So, grab your favorite fabrics and buckle up as we explore the endless designs these rulers bring to the table and why they’re the most excellent tool in a quilter’s arsenal!
Ruler Base: Expanding Your Canvas
Before you start creating, you must ensure you have a stable place to create! The JUKI Ruler base stabilizes rulers when stitching designs, expanding the machine’s work surface around the needle plate. The set is also removable when unused, offering both convenience and versatility.
¼ Quilting Foot: Precision at Your Fingertips
The next step to a smooth sewing experience with rulers is using the ¼ quilting foot. This foot is a game-changer for quilting with Rulers! With a perfect ¼” distance from the needle entry point to the outer edge, this foot allows sewing with rulers as guides. Its lowered front enhances visibility around the needle area while the adjustable height accommodates various fabric thicknesses.
Creating beautiful 3″ and 4″ loops becomes a breeze with the loop-to-loop ruler! Its 3/16″ thickness is ideal for low-shank sewing machines, ensuring seamless loops on your most cherished projects. This ruler creates looped borders on quilt edges, floral motifs, wave patterns, interlocking designs, and more!
Designed by Ronda K. Meyer, these rulers deliver flawless half-circles! Their 3/16″ thickness is perfect for your low-shank sewing machine and helps quilters infuse elegance effortlessly into their creations.
Some fun design ideas you can complete with the Curved Crescent Moon Rulers are arcs and swirls, petal patterns for your floral motifs, feathers or whimsical spirals, or border elements!
Stitching in the ditch is a breeze with this 3/16″ thick acrylic tool! The ruler has indented edges, which helps you maintain accurate placement, and the versatile ends, one round and the other containing a 45-degree angle facilitate creating arcs, scallops, and small crosshatching.
These designs are also great if you want to create geometric patterns, create a grid pattern across your quilt, accent arcs, and scallops, and check out the ruler’s 45-degree angle to incorporate angular elements into your quilt. These angles can create unique designs, like stars, chevrons, or interlocking patterns!
The clamshell ruler opens doors to crafting 1″, 2″, 3″, and 4″ clamshell designs. With a 3/16″ thickness tailored for low-shank machines, this ruler invites quilters to adorn their projects with classic clamshell quilting!
You can create various patterns with the clamshell designs, integrating nested, alternating, echoing, and graduated clamshells by using your ruler in various positions. Combine these rulers to create fun and intricate designs the next time you’re quilting!
For avid creators seeking precision in straight-line designs like crosshatch, the Line Art System ruler steals the spotlight. It’s tailored perfectly for longarm quilting with a thickness of 1/4″ and measuring 3″ x 18″. It’s not just a ruler; it’s a guide to creating immaculate, geometric designs that add depth and character to your quilts.
Regarding the Line Art system ruler, the Line Art Base steps in with larger dimensions, measuring 24″ x 5″. With the same 1/4″ thickness, this ruler caters to longarm quilters looking for more extensive space to create those beautiful straight-line designs!
Ruler Set
The Ruler Sets: A Variety Sets Created For Your Needs
Let’s talk about the ruler sets now. Having a ruler set ready for quilting from JUKI is an absolute blast! These rulers aren’t just tools but gateways to endless design possibilities. Each set offers a unique set, whether crafting classic clamshell designs, precise straight lines, or intricate loops and curves. With various options, sets are a great way to create; they allow you to use multiple design ideas quickly and let you add texture and movement to your projects.
First Ruler Set: Crafting Basics
The foundation of quilting lies within the first ruler set! Serving as a template for stitching designs using the quilting ruler foot, this kit enables the formation of various patterns by combining primary lines and shapes. The beauty lies in its versatility; the kit is offered in three sets, allowing endless experimentation and possibilities.
With this set, you can create fun designs: geometric patterns, starburst or radiating designs, or interlocking patterns!
Second Ruler Set: Tears & Tails for Whimsical Elegance
Tears & TailsSet
Enter the realm of whimsy and elegance with the Tears & Tails Ruler Set! One of the latest additions to our Ruler collection offers an array of rulers, including the Mini Teardrop, Small Teardrop, Nautilus Baby Long Tail, Nautilus Long Tail, Mini True Teardrop, and Small True Teardrop. Each ruler is a gateway to crafting fun and exciting patterns that infuse your quilts with personality and charm.
This set is excellent for experimenting with designs! You can test your skills at creating Floral patterns or fluttering butterflies by using the Mini True Teardrop and Small True Teardrop rulers to create symmetrical wings and the long tail rulers for elegant antennae. Or try your hand at animal-inspired designs! Use the teardrops to create feathers for birds or petals for stylized animals and the long tail rulers to form tails, fins, or antlers.
Remember, these rulers are your artistic toolkit; mixing and matching the shapes can lead to countless creative combinations!
Third Ruler Set: Hearts & Wings for Delicate Beauty
Hearts & WingsSet
Another new addition to our ruler collection is the Hearts & Wings Ruler Set! This set is a testament to delicate beauty in quilting and features rulers like the Cable Tool, Mini Heart, Traditional Hearts, Feathered Hearts, and Bird Bracket Chain. This set invites quilters to create intricate and graceful designs that add a touch of whimsy and sophistication to their projects!
There are so many possibilities with this set! Use the Cable Tool ruler to create sinuous, twisting vines reminiscent of delicate floral tendrils. Combine these vines with small heart-shaped leaves using the Mini Heart ruler, adding a touch of whimsy to your quilt. You can utilize the Traditional Hearts ruler to craft clusters of heart-shaped flowers. Vary their sizes and arrange them to mimic a blossoming garden across your quilt. Or incorporate the Bird Bracket Chain ruler into your design, creating a scene where whimsical birds perch on blooming branches!
Using a JUKI ruler while quilting can be a game-changer for several reasons. These rulers are meticulously crafted tools designed to elevate your quilting experience. Their precision and versatility offer a level of control and accuracy that’s hard to achieve freehand. Whether the Loop to Loop Ruler is for creating uniform loops or the Clamshell Ruler is for classic designs, each ruler serves as a guide, ensuring consistency and perfection in your quilted patterns. Ultimately, using a JUKI ruler is like having a trusted partner in your quilting journey—a tool that empowers you to turn your quilting visions into stunning, professional-looking masterpieces with precision, ease, and a touch of artistic flair!
Finding solace and peace can sometimes feel difficult in the whirlwind of modern life. Yet, nestled amidst the threads and fabric, an age-old craft exists that weaves not just fabric but a profound sense of well-being—sewing. Beyond its practical applications, sewing offers therapeutic benefits that can positively impact mental, emotional, and physical health across all ages.
Join us as we delve into the transformative impact of sewing as a form of therapy and discover how it can bring joy, healing, and a sense of fulfillment to our lives during this particular month dedicated to quilting!
Creativity and Self-Expression
Sewing is one of our favorite forms of self-expression at JUKI. From selecting fabrics to envisioning designs, it nurtures creativity in its purest form. The freedom to experiment with colors, textures, and patterns fosters a sense of artistic exploration. As individuals engage in the creative process, they unearth a channel to express their unique personalities and emotions.
Sewing with JUKI machines isn’t just about stitching fabric together; it’s a canvas for creativity and self-expression. With the array of stitches, presser feet, and precision we offer, JUKI machines empower creators to bring their visions to life. From intricate embroidery that can be done on our TAJIMA Sai machine to tailored garments or personalized accessories, every stitch tells a story and reflects the maker’s individuality.
The next time you’re creating, play with new colors and fabrics, try a new technique or presser foot, and learn from your mistakes as you grow your skills!
Sense of Achievement and Goal Setting
The journey from a plain piece of fabric to a finished creation is one of the most significant accomplishments when we’re creating. Setting out with a vision and witnessing it materialize through dedication and effort significantly boosts self-esteem! Whether small or large, a sense of achievement will always boost our moods. And the moments in sewing when we can break down complex patterns or designs into steps that work out? It’s a feeling of triumph we all love.
Sewing, especially when using a JUKI sewing machine, can significantly contribute to a sense of achievement and goal setting. As you set out to complete a sewing project, establish specific goals—mastering a new technique, completing a certain number of stitches, or finishing a project within a timeframe. Creating goals is an exciting way to keep fostering your skills while enjoying the process and not rushing.
Each step, from choosing the fabric to mastering intricate stitches, presents mini-milestones contributing to the larger goal. Achieving sewing goals leads to increased self-confidence, a sense of competence, and the motivation to set and conquer more ambitious goals in the future. With the precision and features of a JUKI machine, you can transform the process into a fulfilling journey that nurtures both skills and a sense of achievement.
Community and Connection
Beyond the solitary moments spent with needle and thread, sewing creates threads of connection between individuals. Joining sewing classes or communities opens doors to shared experiences and camaraderie. It fosters a sense of belonging as like-minded individuals gather to exchange knowledge, tips, and encouragement. The collaborative spirit within these groups fosters a sense of support and solidarity, forging friendships that often extend beyond the seams of a fabric.
At JUKI, we strive to harness these therapeutic benefits by offering classes at tradeshows, dealer events, and online live projects catering to various skill levels and interests. From beginners eager to start their sewing journey to sewists and quilters looking to refine their craft, our events were created to nurture creativity and foster community! You can visit our page here to stay updated with where JUKI will be next.
Our Projects Page showcases a variety of projects designed to ignite your creativity and provide a platform for self-expression! Each project is crafted to encourage skill development while allowing individuals to immerse themselves in the calming and fulfilling realm of sewing. Please create your own JUKI Project and tag us the next time you’re creating!
Embrace the Healing Stitch
Sewing transcends the mere act of crafting garments or quilts; it stitches together a tapestry of well-being. Its therapeutic benefits extend beyond the finished product, nurturing mental clarity, emotional balance, and a profound sense of fulfillment. It serves as a gentle reminder to pause, breathe, and immerse oneself in the transformative power of creation!
Whether you’re seeking stress relief, an avenue for creative expression, a sense of accomplishment, a project to pass the time, or a community to connect with, sewing, with its soothing needle and healing stitches, is a hobby everyone can enjoy. Embrace the therapeutic moments of sewing and discover a pathway to wellness that intertwines artistry, mindfulness, and community.
Join us here to start your journey today and try your hand at one of our projects! We can’t wait to see what you create.
Note: Dates and availability for events and projects can be found on our website. Get ready to sew your way to wellness!
As you navigate the world of quilting, you’ve likely marveled at the quilts displayed at quilt shows. Quilting transcends the confines of individual studios, occasionally gracing the grand stages of quilt shows across North America! Have you thought of entering your own quilt, but not sure where to start? To guide you through the experience of submitting your masterpiece for competition, this blog, written with the help of Belle Brunner, Quilt Pattern Designer & Guild Consultant/Educator from Seams Sew Me, will unravel the steps that pave the way to your first quilt show!
Quilt shows offer two distinct submission categories: judged and non-judged. Opting for the non-judged category ensures your quilt will be showcased if accepted. Conversely, selecting the judged category opens the door to valuable written feedback on your quilt. This additional layer of critique proves invaluable for those apprehensive about subjecting their work to judgment, providing a unique platform for growth and self-expression. Join us as we explore the intricacies of this captivating journey, backed by insights from Belle Brunner, to make your debut at a quilt show a resounding success.
Steps to Joining a Quilt Show
1. Research and Select a Show:
Dueling Diamonds in Nightall by Belle Brunner
The first step on your journey to participating in a quilt show involves a thorough research and a thoughtful selection process. North America boasts a multitude of quilt shows, each with its unique charm and character. Take the time to explore various shows, considering their themes, judging criteria, and the overall atmosphere to ensure a good fit with your personal style and preferences!
While the allure of larger, internationally acclaimed shows is undeniable, don’t underestimate the potential gems hidden in your own county and regional exhibitions. These local showcases often provide a more comforting setting and will help you foster a supportive community with fellow quilters and art enthusiasts. Opting for a smaller venue can be an excellent starting point for those who may feel hesitant about entering the vibrant world of quilt competitions. Belle Brunner, for example, entered her first quilt into a Regional show. “It can feel a bit intimidating to enter a quilt into your first show, but I am so glad that I took the leap and did a few years ago. I picked a regional quilt show for my first entry and read all of the rules.” At smaller shows, you’ll find a welcoming environment that encourages both novices and seasoned quilters to share their creations, building confidence and camaraderie within the quilting community.
You can check out our site here to learn more about which shows JUKI attends throughout the year.
2. Review Submission Guidelines:
Once you’ve selected a show, carefully review its submission guidelines. These guidelines typically include information about quilt size, theme (if any), submission deadlines, entry fees, and specific rules or requirements.
3. Prepare Your Quilt:
Dueling Diamonds Close Up by Belle Brunner
Before showcasing your quilt at the upcoming show, preparation is key! Begin by either creating a new quilt or selecting one from your home collection that aligns with the show’s theme or specific criteria. Whether you’re pushing the boundaries of traditional techniques with a modern quilt, catching onlookers’ eyes with a stunning 3D masterpiece, or presenting a meticulously crafted traditional piece, the emphasis is on ensuring your creation is nothing short of immaculate.
In addition to the visual appeal of your quilt, quilt shows typically have specific requirements for display. One essential aspect is the creation of a quilt sleeve, adhering to certain measurements to ensure proper hanging. This might be a new challenge for hobby quilters entering a show for the first time. To navigate this requirement successfully, consider watching a tutorial that guides you through the process, or contacting your fellow quilter community members who have submitted in the past.
Acquiring this skill not only contributes to the seamless presentation of your quilt but also grants you the added advantage of extra time to complete this aspect well in advance of the submission deadline. So, as you prepare your quilt, pay close attention to both its aesthetic excellence and the practical aspects that ensure it is ready for a spotlight moment at the show.
4. Documentation and Photography:
Capture the essence of your quilt-making journey by meticulously documenting the process and capturing high-quality photographs. Clear, well-lit images play a pivotal role in showcasing the intricate details of your work when submitting to quilt shows.
Be attentive to the specific requirements outlined for image submissions. These guidelines often include details such as pixel dimensions, megabytes, and other technical specifications. It is crucial to adhere to these specifications to ensure that your submission features your quilt in the best possible light. Avoid the risk of hitches in the submission process by not sending just any type of photo. Instead, prioritize clarity and precision in your visuals, allowing the judges and viewers to appreciate the craftsmanship and nuances of your quilt with utmost clarity.
5. Complete Submission Forms:
Fill out the necessary submission forms accurately and thoroughly. Double-check all details, including contact information, as errors might lead to disqualification or communication issues.
6. Pay Attention to Deadlines:
Meet submission deadlines diligently. Missing deadlines could mean missing the chance to exhibit your masterpiece.
7. Shipping or Delivery:
Adhere closely to the show’s detailed instructions regarding the shipment or delivery of your quilt. Proper packaging and strict adherence to shipping guidelines are imperative to guarantee the safe arrival of your quilt at its destination!
It’s essential to note that different shows have varied procedures for quilt retrieval. While some shows allow you to personally pick up your quilt post-event, others opt for mailing it back to you. In cases where the show handles the return shipment, be aware that there may be associated costs, often borne by the quilter. Ensure you familiarize yourself with the specific instructions provided by the show, ensuring a smooth and secure process for both the submission and return of your cherished quilt!
8. Await Notification:
After submission, patiently await notification from the quilt show organizers regarding acceptance or rejection.
Top 5 Quilt and Sewing Shows in North America
Before we dive into the big leagues, let’s talk about dipping our toes into the vibrant world of quilt and sewing shows in North America, with local, county, state, and regional events that can be a fantastic way to ease into the experience.
Winsome Windows Quilt by Belle Brunner
These smaller-scale shows offer a more intimate setting, providing a welcoming environment for beginners and enthusiasts alike. One excellent starting point is local quilt guild exhibitions, where community members showcase their talents and creations. County fairs often host sewing competitions and exhibits, combining the joy of crafting with a celebration of local culture. State-level quilting events bring together a broader community of creators, offering diverse perspectives and techniques. Regional quilt shows cater to a wider audience and feature a variety of vendors, workshops, and displays, allowing attendees to explore different aspects of the craft.
Belle Brunner, after competing in multiple shows, has some advice she would pass on to newcomers. “The feedback from the judge was really helpful in regard to a few areas I could improve on, yet to my surprise, I still won 3rd place in that very first show! I entered the same quilt in another show and didn’t place so you never know how your quilt will compete. I’ve entered two more quilts into shows and found the process of entering rather simple – just make sure you read and follow all the guidelines. One piece of advice I can’t share enough- don’t compare your quilts to others. Otherwise, it will rob you of the joy and pride you put into making your beautiful quilts.”
These smaller shows will not only serve as stepping stones for those new to the scene but also foster a sense of camaraderie and shared passion among attendees. Remember, each quilt is unique to its creator, and that’s the beauty of attending and submitting your quilt to these shows! Now, let’s talk about 5 big shows in North America you could find yourself at one day.
International Quilt Festival (IQF) – Renowned for its scale and diversity, the IQF attracts both seasoned artists and newcomers. It features various categories like art quilts, traditional quilts, modern quilts, and more.
American Quilter’s Society (AQS) QuiltWeek – A series of shows held in multiple locations, the AQS QuiltWeek offers an array of categories, workshops, and exhibitions, providing a platform for quilters to display their talents.
QuiltCon – Celebrating modern quilting, QuiltCon focuses on contemporary designs, bold colors, and innovative techniques. It’s an ideal avenue for artists exploring modern quilt aesthetics.
Road to California – This show features an impressive display of quilts and offers various competitions, workshops, and lectures. It’s known for its diverse themes and vibrant community.
Pacific International Quilt Festival (PIQF) – Held annually in California, PIQF showcases a vast collection of quilts ranging from traditional to avant-garde, attracting artists and enthusiasts alike.
Theme Ideas for Entry
When embarking on the creative journey of selecting themes for quilt show submissions, creators may find themselves at the crossroads of endless possibilities. To navigate this vast realm of ideas, it is advisable to first explore the specific categories designated for submissions within the show.
By delving into these predefined categories, quilters gain insights that not only guide their creative process but also spark inspiration for potential project designs. These categories, acting as a structured framework, serve as a starting point for you to conceptualize and develop you quilt designs. However, it is crucial to bear in mind that these categories come with explicit and stringent rules that quilters must conscientiously adhere to. This adherence ensures that the expression aligns seamlessly with the guidelines set forth by the show organizers, thereby contributing to the overall coherence and integrity of the exhibition.
Below are some examples of quilt categories that shows would have space for:
Modern Quilts: Experiment with abstract designs, bold colors, and asymmetrical patterns to showcase innovation in quilt-making.
3D Quilts: Create quilts incorporating three-dimensional elements or optical illusions, adding depth and intrigue.
Traditional Quilts: Celebrate heritage and history by crafting quilts using classic patterns and techniques.
Nature-Inspired Quilts: Draw inspiration from the natural world, incorporating flora, fauna, landscapes, or environmental themes.
Cultural Diversity Quilts: Explore diverse cultures and traditions through quilting, highlighting unique stories and artistry.
Petal Starburst Quilt by Belle Brunner
Participating in a quilt show as an artist and entering a quilt competition is a rewarding experience that provides quilters with a platform to display their creativity and proficiency. Through careful preparation, strict adherence to guidelines, and the infusion of your artistic designs, engaging in these shows can unlock avenues for acknowledgment, networking, and the chance to share one’s passion with a wider audience! Participants also have the opportunity to receive constructive feedback from judges, highlighting their strengths and offering insights into areas for improvement. This feedback becomes a valuable tool for future growth, enabling artists to refine their skills and elevate their craft to new heights.
Joining a quilt show as an artist and submitting a quilt for competition is an enriching experience that allows creators like you to showcase their creativity and skills. With meticulous preparation, adherence to guidelines, and a touch of artistic flair, participating in these shows can open doors to recognition, networking opportunities, and sharing your passion with a broader audience!
“Even if you don’t win a ribbon or prize, you can come away with not only helpful feedback but a feeling of accomplishment that your quilt was selected to be displayed and that so many quilters were able to appreciate the firsthand view of all of the hard work that you put into making your quilt. Just go for it! You have nothing to lose.” – Belle Brunner
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