Make 2026 Your Year of Creativity!
Many people, instead of making resolutions, select a “Word of the Year.” This is usually a theme to reflect and act upon as you go through the year, focusing on growth rather than accomplishment. Often, the word is spiritual in nature. This year, my word is CREATE. That can mean so many things, but one important aspect for me is remembering to take time to be creative and not let life rush past me in a hurry, caught up in the urgency of the moment, only doing the practical, “necessary” things. Sometimes, it’s necessary to rest and imagine.
We have so many opportunities to be creative! Making quilts and sewing are two of my favorites, of course. I also write novels, garden, do papercrafting, cook new things, and decorate my living space. Some of you might be artistic or musical. You might collect things. It doesn’t have to be fancy or expensive, as long as you are exercising your imagination in a way that makes your heart happy.
How is it Creative to Make a Quilt from a Pattern?
Sometmes, the things we create don’t spring into being without a starting point. I buy fabric that is already woven and printed, and sometimes I use a purchased pattern! The creativity comes with imagining and choosing the fabrics for the style you want. It’s working with your hands and developing new skills. It’s practicing.
Even if I’m Taking a Class?
Yes! It’s pleasant and ecouraging to share the creative experience with other people, being inspired by their work as they are inspired by yours..
Why a Block of the Month Class?
Why GloryQuilts?
The Glory Quilts Block of the Month classes are great skills-builders! Each month’s pattern has full-color, step-by-step instructions, and as your teacher, I am always available by email or in the private Facebook group. There are occasional live videos, and some patterns have video tutorials.
I have been teaching quiltmaking for over 30 years, and it brings me great satisfaction and joy. My philosophy is that quilting–or any creative endeavor–should be fun and not stressful, so all my classes are designed to be interactive and encouraging. I want you to enjoy this, so there is no pressure to be fast or perfect. And because there is only one block per month, you aren’t rushed.
(There are a couple months in which you will sew several of the same block. These are setting blocks, and relatively simple patterns. Most of the time, you will only make one block each month.)
The year-long class is just $35 for the entire year and includes all the patterns and instruction as well as membership in the private Facebook group where you’ll get more helpful interaction and assistance when necessary. NOTE: You will receive all the patterns by email. You do not need to participate in the Facebook group to make the quilt, but it’s a fun thing to do. You’ll enjoy sharing your progress and seeing how others are doing. And you’ll make new quilter friends!
You will have to buy your fabric (or find it in your stash), but no specialty rulers or tools are required for this project.
What does the quilt look like?
Well, it’s a surprise! That’s part of the fun! If you’re hesitant to sign up for something you might not like, I understand. But don’t worry… you will love this quilt. The Celebration Quilt is all new. I designed it over the past several months, and I think it’s one of the prettiest Block of the Month quilts we’ve ever done.
The Celebration Quilt is a bed size quilt–84″ X 84″, or you can add an optional border if you want it to be 90″ X 90″, which is my favorite size for a queen size bed.
I’m a beginner quilter. Can I do this?
If you know how to use the rotary cutter and a sewing machine, you can make this quilt. We build incrementally from the simpler blocks to more complex ones, with very clear instruction and all the help you need. You won’t be rushed!
I’m an experienced quilter. Will I be bored?
Not at all. We start with a couple relatively simple blocks, but most of the blocks are my unique patterns, just challenging enough to make it interesting. And it’s a beautiful quilt!
Where do I sign up?
First, go HERE for more information about the Celebration Quilt, including ideas for fabric selection and the yardage requirements. Then, you can go HERE to sign up. I look forward to quilting with you!