Welcome to the North Pole !

Christmas is a special time of year, and the North Pole is a magical place. Here's the North Pole on an enchanted night as Santa takes off in his sleigh through the star-filled heavens. This quilt features whimsical houses made in fanciful styles. We’d like to go to this happy, colorful village every day of the year.

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Welcome to the North Pole by Susan Hepworth, quilted by Karen Morgan  

Susan Hepworth says, "A friend and I challenge ourselves to make a new quilt each year. It was fun choosing what we wanted, putting it all together and stitching it!  This was a two-year challenge, but we had a great time and now each have a fun quilt to put up at Christmas!"

The Welcome to the North Pole pattern is by Piece O' Cake Designs, and it was first published in 1997. We previously featured this design in a Christmas 2010 blog post (my oh my, how time flies!) 

Image credits: Photos were taken by Quilt Inspiration at the 2024 Springville (Utah) quilt show.

Quilt Arizona! The 2022 Show (1)

We could hardly wait for the 2022 Arizona Quilters Guild show, where the theme was Kaleidoscope of Quilts.  And what a fantastic show it was!  Due to the pandemic, the show was cancelled last year - so there was high anticipation for this year's event. There were many amazing quilts on display... here are some of our favorites!

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Angwushahai'i (Crow Bride): Hopitutuqaiki Opportunity Quilt. The Hopi School, Inc. (Kykotsmovi Village, Arizona)

A special highlight of the show was getting to see the Hopitutuqaiki opportunity quilt and to meet representatives of the community school, who traveled all the way from Kykotsmovi Village to the city of Mesa (a 5-hour trip!) While admiring this fabulous quilt we learned all about the school, which helps to preserve traditions by teaching the Hopi language, culture, and values to their children. 

The school's vision is, "when each seed is planted and nurtured, it will grow best in its own plot of earth." The quilt features the headdress of a very special kachina (spirit being): Angwushahai'i (Crow Bride):

The quilt drawing will occur on September 18, 2022, at the Prescott Indian Art Market, held at Sharlot Hall Museum (Prescott, Arizona). For information on the school and their wonderful programs, please visit the Hopitutuqaiki website.  For more information on the quilt, you can contact the school by email: hopitutuqaiki {at} icloud.com.

Lynx by Leilani Purvis

This remarkable art quilt, made by Leilani Purvis, was inspired by the art of Sophie Standing, who lives in Kenya. We admired the way in which Leilani depicted the lynx with raw edge applique and thread painting. The eyes seem to stare right out from the surface of the quilt!  Some of the fascinating details can be seen in the closeup photo, below.

Seminole Celebration by Karen G. Fisher

Honoring the patchwork designs of Florida's indigenous people, Seminole Celebration by Karen G. Fisher won three awards: Excellent Use of Color (top); The NACQJ Award of Merit (National Association of Certified Quilt Judges, middle); and a blue ribbon for First Place in the Pieced Small-Solo quilt category.

Karen G. Fisher's original design uses a strong diagonal layout, bold contrasts and bright colors. She used printed fabrics, including some 1800's reproductions, adding even more intricacy to the design.

Solitude by Judy Salb, quilted by Jessica Jones

This starry quilt was made by Judy Salb, who says: "Spending a year home alone gave me the time to sit and sew. Thus was born Solitude."  Judy chose luscious batiks in desert hues, including coral, turquoise, violet, blue, and neutrals. 

Judy was awarded a yellow ribbon for third place in the Paper Pieced category. Both the piecing (by Judy Salb) and the quilting (by Jessica Jones) were outstanding, as shown in the closeup photo below. (Note: This quilt was based on the Fourth of July design by Judy Niemeyer.)

The Eyes Have It by Mary Alsop

Mary Alsop won the President's Choice award for The Eyes Have It, which was expertly designed, pieced and free motion quilted by Mary herself.  The quilt is a study in color, and was created with several sizes of bullseye blocks and embellished with hundreds of Swarovski crystals. This masterpiece was inspired by the book, Bullseye Quilts from Vintage to Modern by Becky Goldsmith.

Mary Alsop's award-winning piecing and quilting can be seen in the closeup photo below.

Aboriginal Hoops by Nancy Whitton

We loved this eye catching quilt with its unique choice of fabrics! The appliqued arcs weave over and under to create dynamic hoops of many hues. Nancy Whitton says, "I wanted to use my Aboriginal fabrics in a modern design. This pattern fit my fabrics and love of hand applique and hand quilting." Yes- this beauty was hand quilted.  

Nancy won a red ribbon (2nd place) in the Medium/Large Solo applique category for this remarkable design, which was based on the Hoops pattern by Aardvark Quilts. More details of the beautiful fabrics and hand quilting can be seen in this closeup photo:

Image credits: Photos were taken by Quilt Inspiration at the 2022 Quilt Arizona show in Mesa, Arizona.

Amador Valley Quilt Show (California) : Day 3

We recently attended the annual quilt show of the Amador Valley Quilters in Livermore, California, with the theme "Colors of the Vineyard". This prolific guild had two big rooms full of fabulous quilts It's difficult to decide which quilts to feature, as they were all wonderful ! Let's continue with Day 3.
Happy Mother's Day on Sunday, May 14 !  😊

(We're featuring fun books, patterns, and fabrics at very low prices on Quilt Inspiration E-Bay !)

Labyrinth Walk by Donna Driver, et.al.,  quilted by Dianne Saugier

In sewing this intriguing quilt, Donna Driver was assisted by Elizabeth Taylor and Karen Loughrige. Donna says, [Labyrinth Walk] was made in June 2014 by the United Methodist Women's Quilt Group for Pastor Paul Harkness on his retirement. Paul had always said he wanted to build a labyrinth, so here it is in the eyes of a quilter. This is.... a work of fellowship and love given by the members of Castro Valley United Methodist Church. " The pattern is by Christopher Florence. 

Donna continues, "Christopher Florence's design was inspired by a gorgeous floor he discovered in Naples, Italy. He had the honor of Quilt Magazine publishing his pattern in the April/May issue of 2012."

Chanticleer by Jean Ann Luther

Jean Ann notes, "Chanticleer is the result of a class by Susan Carlson. I have always loved chickens and wanted him to have a real "presence".  Jean Ann was inspired to create Chanticleer from a cartoon drawing. We really like the lively personality with which Jean Ann imbued Chanticleer.

Here's you can see some of Chanticleer's gorgeous plumage, of which (we imagine) he is obviously very proud ! Jean adds, "He is made using many small raw-edged pieces, then covered with net and quilted."

Tea Pots for a Tea Party by Elizabeth F. Taylor, quilted by Darla Padilla

We really enjoyed viewing this charming quilt ! Elizabeth states, "[Tea Pots] was made from a kit from Keepsake Quilting. Three friends each bought a kit and challenged each other to complete it. Mine got finished in 2016. This quilt is a work of love. The fun is in making all the pieces go together." The Garden Tea Party pattern is by The Quilt Company.

The description card says, "There was piecing of the fabrics, applique on some of the prints, embroidery by machine and by hand, and a lot of patience by Elizabeth F. Taylor. The quilt was longarm machine quilted by Darla Padilla of "Wildflower Quilting."

Stars in the Garden by Elva Blackburn

Elva writes that she chose the "Stars in the Garden" pattern by Piece O' Cake Designs because she really liked this design. It's bright, very artistic, and a real eye-catcher.

Close-up, Stars in the Garden

Elva's embroidered embellishments on these tiny blue flowers add such a finished, pretty touch to this lovely quilt. In this close-up, you can see the precise, even hand-quilting that Elva did on this project.

Symphony in Sea by Susan Mangels, quilted by Lora Zmak

Susan states, "Growing up in California, I have always lived on the coast, currently I live near the coast. I love the sea and the life it contains. This design hit all my favorites, so I just had to make this."

It must have been such fun to applique these happy ocean creatures ! This pattern is by Karen Brow at Java House Quilts.

Susan continues, "Lora Zmak was recommended to me by a friend, and her work on my quilt has enhanced its theme beautifully."

Image credits:  Photos were taken by Quilt Inspiration.

Free pattern day! Hearts and Valentines

Within this collection of 50+ free patterns you will find quilts, wall hangings, table runners, and pillows; happy hearts, broken and mended and scrappy hearts; in short, a heart for every occasion. NOTE:  This post has been UPDATED.  For the latest update, please visit our FREE PATTERN DAY for Hearts & Valentine quilts (CLICK HERE!)

Note: Please check out our eBay shop for great bargains on patterns, jewelry, and collectible items !

Image credits: This post was updated on December 14, 2024. All images are copyrighted by their owners. Please respect their generosity in sharing their free patterns, and the restrictions they have placed on the use of these designs. Complete information can be found at the designers' websites provided in the links.  If any links are broken, we'd love to know; email us at quiltinspiration {at} gmail {dot} com.

Two-million-view milestone : Part 1

Quilt Inspiration recently hit a major milestone, with over 2 million page views.  We're very pleased, and we think it's time to say THANKS to the many talented designers who inspire us all.   Join us for a two-part retrospective with a few of the artists we've featured.

Eye of the Storm by Peggy Martin

'Eye of the Storm' by Peggy Martin is an excellent example of a medallion quilt, where there is one large circular or symmetrical object in the center, surrounded by concentric rings or diamonds which draw the eye inward. For more information on this storm-at-sea quilt, see our March 2011 post, Eye of the Storm.

Surprisingly Red by Jacqueline de Jonge

Beautiful roses, soft pastels and warm reds are brought together in perfect harmony in this stunning quilt pattern by Jacqueline de Jonge. The medallion is surrounded by an undulating wave of skinny New York Beauty points.  For more information see our December 2011 post, Christmas around the world: The Netherlands.

Simply Delicious by Rebecca Goldsmith

"Simply Delicious" was the second block-of-the-month pattern at Piece O'Cake Designs and it is still going strong. This classic quilt was inspired by vintage botanical prints from the 1800's.  For more information see our August 2012 post, Simply Delicious.

Diamond Wedding Ring by Judy Niemeyer

 

In Judy Niemeyer's  clever Diamond Wedding Ring quilt, the pieced arcs are arranged in a triangle shape, with a star in the center.  Judy says that this pattern is great for both the beginner and advanced quilter.  For more information see our February 2013 post, Wedding Ring Quilts Part 2.

Memories of Monet by Joen Wolfrom

"Memories of Monet" is a deceptively simple design by color expert Joen Wolfrom.  Joen combined two historic blocks, Summer Winds and Storm at Sea, in an analogous color scheme. For more information see our December 2012 post, Color Play by Joen Wolfrom.

Magnolia Quilt by Sue Spargo

The gracious old homes and flower gardens of  Magnolia, Ohio, inspired Sue Spargo to create her enchanting "Magnolia" quilt. Sue's folk-art imagery reflects her multi-cultural background and her fascination with folk art from around the world. For more information see our September 2010 post, Our Town Part 2.

Image credits:  Images are shown with the generous permission of the artists.

In Full Bloom: Floral Album Quilts

Album quilts, which show a variety of blocks, are on almost everyone's list of favorite quilt patterns.  They provide great visual interest and are often a valuable source of inspiration for your next project. Here are some album quilts which really caught our eye at the recent 2013 Arizona Quilters' Guild Show. 

Heart of Gold - mini Baltimore Album, 22 x 26", by Linda Puttmann

Second place winner in the Miniature Quilts category, Linda writes, "I mad this needle-turn applique quilt for my mom to comfort her during her fight with cancer. She said it made her so happy."  We really like the cheerful color combination of the sunny yellow, gold, and coral orange hues combined with the soft sage green tones of the foliage.

Close up, Heart of Gold - mini Baltimore Album by Linda Puttmann

Here's a wonderful example of  Linda's excellent applique skills on a block that is only 4" wide. We imagine that this quilt must have been really fun to make. For more information, please check out Linda's blog, Sew Many Joyous Things.

More Flowers for my Quilts by Susan Norris

Susan notes, "I love floral appliqued quilts, so I keep making them. Hand needle turned applique and hand quilted with an assortment of Sulky variegate 12 weight thread. "

Close-up, More Flowers for my Quilts by Susan Norris

 

Susan's evenly spaced echo quilting pattern is the perfect choice to make these ombre-hued flowers really pop right off the block. We recognize this quilt pattern as "Flowers From My Garden" by Lori Smith at From my heart to your hands.

Cherry Tweet by Patty McKinney, quilted by Kathy Hunt

Honorable Mention winner for Best Applique, Large Quilts, Patty notes "My good friend gave this [pattern] to me as a Christmas gift, and I just finished. What a great gift. I so loved working on this project."

Close up, Cherry Tweet by Patty McKinney

The blocks of playful bluebirds add so much zest and personality here! For more information on this Cherry Tweet pattern, please visit Chitter Chatter Designs.

My Aunt Millies' Garden by Marcia Petroni

Marcia says, "This quilt is in memory of my Aunt Millie who lived her whole life on the east coast. I never met her, but we e-mailed a lot."

Close up, My Aunt Millie's Garden by Marcia Petroni

These aqua blue petals are really set off by the vibrant orange-red background fabric, giving a spicy southwestern look to this quilt. For more information about purchasing the instruction book for "Aunt Millie's Garden", please visit Piece O' Cake Designs.

Flowers for Dorothy by Alyce J. Leach

Alyce notes, "I received the border print when my friend dorothy passed away, and I decided to make a quilt with her fabric in memory of her."  We think that the regal-looking yet sprightly border fabric provides a pretty frame for the basket arrangements of coral, violet, and blue-gray appliqued blossoms.

Untitled, floral album by Iris Lacey

Iris says,  [This is a ] commercial pattern using needle turn applique and hand embroidery. " The clear, bright hues of the flowers and the dark stems and dark outline fabric give a vibrant, stained-glass effect to this quilt.

Image credits: Photos were taken by Quilt Inspiration

River City Quilt Show - Day 3

We're in the middle of displaying some gorgeous quilts from the 2012 River City Quilters' Guild show in Sacramento, California.  Please join us for Day 3 !

Blue Birds of Happiness, 60 x 70”,  by Sally Willey, quilted by Chloe Bradshaw

Artist Sally Willey writes about this Judge's Choice winner and First Place winner for best hand quilting,  "I love blue birds and have two blue bird houses on our property. A fun quilt to make and it always makes me smile. Hand quilted by my sister Chloe Bradshaw." We recognize the design as My Whimsical Quilt Garden by Piece o’ Cake Designs. Sally's quilt has a wonderful border, which echoes the flowers, leaves and stems of the blocks. Here's a quilt which fits perfectly with the theme of this year's show: "Rhapsody in Bloom."

Close-up, Blue Birds of Happiness

Chloe Bradshaw's immaculate and precise hand quilting really shows up well here. Notice how the lively flowers and bluebird  extend themselves into the cheerful red and white sashing to provide a charming, informal effect.

Close-up, Blue Birds of Happiness

These little bluebirds seem to be full of personality; you can almost hear them singing their hearts out. We love this applique technique, which turned out extremely well.

It’s In The Bag, 43 x 57”, by Linda Lawrence, quilted by Inga Waegell

Honorable Mention winner for Two Person Applique Quilt, Linda Lawrence writes,  "I will never make a real purse. This is as close as that will happen." Note: we recognize some Kaffe Fassett fabrics in the purses. This cute, colorful pattern really brought a smile to our faces.

Close-up, It's In The Bag

A girl can never have too many handbags, especially when they're as eye-catching as these pretty ones!  Are you ready to go shopping?

Red and White all Over, 72 x 90”, by Kathy Mitchell

Second place winner for Large Pieced Quilts, Kathy says, " I watched the Red and White Quilt Show held in New York City in March 2011 on YouTube. It was amazing; but this one quilt caught my eye and I was inspired to make it. I’m sure it’s the only two-color quilt I will ever make, but I was happy with the result." Pure red and white is a dynamic combination, and Kathy's excellent pattern selection really shows off these two colors to their best advantage.

Tamarindo Night, 46 x 60”, by Kitty Oliver

Third place winner in the Art Quilts category, Kitty Oliver describes her quilt by writing, " ‘The night walked down the sky with the moon in her hand’. Frederic Lawrence Knowles." The background ombre fabric seems to be hand-dyed, creating a luminous evening sky.

Close-up, Tamarindo Night

The pumpkin orange moon provides an excellent warm complementary color to the indigo, periwinkle, and tinted aqua tones of the background.

Close-up, Tamarindo Night

These interesting large embroidery stitches in the background provide interesting detail and depth to this work. Note the moon done in mesh fabric here, almost as if we are looking at the reflection of the moon on the ocean.

Crystal Gem, 48 x 48”, by Mary Fish

Mary writes, "This is my version of the cover quilt on the Gai Perry 24 Quilted Gems book. Gai got me started but it hung on my design wall for many years waiting for a border. I am happy that it is finally finished." Mary has chosen lovely jewel-tone batiks in cool hues to show off the contemporary trapezoid-shaped pieces of this very interesting pattern.

Images:  All photos are by Quilt Inspiration.