Rotarian Fellowship of Quilters and Fiber Artists Issue Number Four
September 2007 Hi everyone Well here "down-under' in New Zealand it is almost winter, and the cooler days and nights really give me the urge to dig out all the unfinished projects and start a few more! If you have a project which you don't particularly like - at the moment - just file it away for another time! You may grow to like it again later, or suddenly find a way to change it so it will become one of your favourites! The very first quilt I started about 20 years ago is still not finished. It is a Queen-size Double Irish Chain, all done by hand over graph paper. The colours have dated, but I guess by the time I do finish it they could well be back in fashion! There has been a considerable resurgence of interest in collecting handwork of all types in recent years. Antique pieces can be obtained from salesrooms and auctions, antique shops and jumble sales, or handed down as heirlooms. Modern works are available from craft centres and galleries. For many people, an heirloom is the start of a collection. Family samplers and quilts are often acquired in this way. They are usually of considerable sentimental value and historic interest because of their family associations. Individual pieces may be displayed around the house or carefully packed away. Both display and storage can cause damage to the textile. Because of their essentially organic nature, textiles begin to deteriorate from the moment they are made. Most damage is caused by light, excessive dampness or dryness, handling, soiling, insects or poor mounting. The way a particular item is made can also affect its long-term survival. If you are lucky enough to have any very special antique pieces, please make the effort to contact someone who can give you good advice about displaying or storing your precious work. It is almost Rotary Convention time again, and I am looking forward to meeting with as many of our members as possible there. In the meantime, keep on with the stitching (whatever kind of fibre art you like to do). My two latest quilts. On the right is the one made for my son and daughter-in-law’s wedding last St Patrick’s Day – a mixture of Scottish and Irish! Happy stitching everyone. Note: The Rotarian Fellowship of Quilters and Fiber Artists is a group dedicated to promoting the fiber arts as an opportunity for fellowship. This fellowship operates in accordance with Rotary International Policy, but is not an agency of, or controlled by, Rotary International. |
