FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
Do you accept commissions?
Yes, with some important restrictions outlined in the next four answers. Commissions require a non-refundable deposit.
Can you make quilts in different sizes?
Sure. Let me know what you need. If it's not too large or too small, I can probably accommodate you, either by using fewer pieces or by using smaller pieces. Please note that the final size may vary slightly from your dimensions.
Can you make quilts in specific colors?
That depends. It's important to know that unlike traditional patchwork quilts made from a variety of fabrics, the kaleidoscopic parts of my quilts are cut from a new, large, single bolt of fabric. If I can find a fabric large enough and whose pattern is the right scale and contains some or all of the colors you have in mind (as well as the other pattern qualities that I need for the kaleidoscope effect to work) I might be able to accommodate you. But I am limited in my choices of fabric to those available on the market at any particular time.
I have some old clothing items. Can you make one of these quilts out of them?
Not this kind of quilt, no.
Does anyone help you make these?
The cutting, the composing, the piecing, the sewing, the ironing, the binding, the blocking—those are all done by me.
The quilting—that is, the stitching that binds the top, the batting and the back together—requires time and patience to do it by hand, or space to house equipment to do it by machine. I have neither, so I hire that work out.
How big are they?
Most are sized for a queen-sized bed. If you plan to hang your quilt, pay particular attention to the sizes listed. These quilts are big, and they have a big impact on a room. But you've got to have the wall for it!
What pattern do you use?
I don't work from a pattern. These quilts are the result of a process—I develop the design as I work through the process.
Where did you learn this process?
From the book “One Block Wonders” by Maxine Rosenthal. You can find it on my Books page.
Where did you learn to sew?
My mom taught me when I was a kid, and gave me a sewing machine when I was a young adult, but I never did much with either the knowledge or the machine until I began making these.
How do you set your prices?
Prices are based on my actual sales record as well as certified appraisals done by a member of the Professional Association of Appraisers - Quilted Textiles. You can learn about what goes into determining the value of an art quilt by visiting their web site at quiltappraisers.org.
Do you sell patterns of your quilts?
Because of the process I follow, each quilt is absolutely unique. It would be next to impossible to exactly reproduce any one of my quilts, much less create instructions for how to do so. But you can learn the process yourself by buying the book!
Do you teach classes?
Though I've made a few presentations, I don't teach classes per se.