Paper Piecing with Carol Doak
Join in Episode 602 us for a hands on lesson in "can't-miss" foundation paper piecing from world-renowned quilter Carol Doak.  Carol technique tricks will make you wonder why you never tried this exacting method of piecing.  But wait--there's more.  Ricky shows how machine thread work can enhance a photo-transferred image.  The results are stunning!  And Bunny opens the TQS Treasure Chest to share some nifty notions.  It's a show you don't want to miss.  To watch the show click here.

Christening Cap, ca. early 20th century.  Item 1997.0097.1229 gift of Teodoro Vidal

Behind the Scenes Lace/Quilt Tours
This intricate handmade lace cap dates from the turn of the 20th century and was probably worn for a baby's christening.  The baptism of newborns is both a religious and social ceremony, strengthening ties among  members of a community.  Compadrazgo, the special relationship between parents and godparents, is a valued tradition in Puerto Rico and Latin America.

Have you always wanted to learn more about some of the textiles that museums don't have out on public display?  Well, check out these fun and informative "behind the scenes" tours and demonstrations available at the National Museum of American History in Washington, DC.   Each tour offered allows small groups of participants inside the museum archives to view and learn about the museum's collection treasured collections, while the demonstrations allow visitors to learn more about the techniques, fabrics used and history of exhibited pieces.  Either way, if you love textile history this is a fascinating way to spend a day steeped in a medium that you just can't get enough of.

Lace tours, limited to eight people, are held the fourth Thursday of the month except November, December, and Federal Holidays. Quilt tours, limited to eight people, are held the second and fourth Tuesday of the month except November, December, and Federal Holidays. 

The museum also offers Quilt and Lace demonstrations.   For more information or to make a reservation call (202) 633-3826.

"I Spy" Quilt by TQS member sallyp

Quilt Provide Fun and Caring

Quilts can provide hours of "I Spy" fun or wrap a child in love.  No matter what the purpose, each quilt shows the recipient that many hours of care and love went into the making of their gift.  Visit Quilt Stories to learn about two TQS members who have provided fun and comfort with the quilts that they have made.  Their stories are sure to inspire you.  To read quilt stories click here.

Promises by Red Rooster Studios

Promises by Red Rooster
Fall in love with spring all over again with the sophisticated patterns and citrus colors from the newest collection from Red Rooster Studios.  Cottage roses, vines, dots, and the alluring tones of celadon and apricot are sure to look stunning in your next quilt project.  We think this fabric would be a perfect choice for our TQS Spring Table Runner Contest.  For more info on the contest click here.  Look for the Promises collection in your quilt stores beginning this month.

Pieced Together: 
Inspiration in Collages and Quilts
Spend a day surrounded by the stunning architectural beauty of the home and gardens of Edsel and Eleanor Ford.  And while you are there, be sure to visit the newest exhibition, Pieced Together:  Inspiration in Collages and Quilts.

The Edsel and Eleanor Ford House presents the works of two award winning artists who have been inspired by the world around them. 

Suzanne Marshall (Episode 203) uses fabric to create award-winning quilts based on architectural and design elements from her travels around the world. 

Eleanor Winters uses paper and calligraphy to design works inspired by European cathedral windows. 

The exhibition which runs from February 6-March 10, 2010 is well worth the visit. For more
information click here.

Simplify Your Paper Piecing
Paper piecing can help you create the most precise and outstanding points.  But, dealing with some papers can be frustrating.  Carol Doak's Foundation Paper allows you to focus on the fun of seeing a design develop. 

The lightweight absorbent sheets are less likely to transfer ink and won't create bulk in the seam areas.  Non-coated sheets also help to reduce fabric slipping, thereby reducing less likelyhood for error. 

Each package contains enough sheets for most projects.  To find this and other quilting tools visit the Shoppe here.