I have been sewing most of my life, and have been self-employed in various aspects of fiber art since 1980. My background in anthropology leads me to enjoy both the social history of quilts and quiltmaking as well as the creative process of expression in my own work. I restore and conserve antique and vintage quilts, teach about quilt care, lecutre about quilt history and design, and I create fiber artworks.
A major part of my quilt work is repairing and conserving antique quilts. I have published a book describing over 30 years of learning and experience in this field. I teach an in-depth, virtual, quilt repair and care workshop. I am expanding my teaching to also include one-on-one online sessions, and a more thorough, unique, instructional packet that includes a personalized demo video and repair fabrics from my large fabric stash for your sewing.
In addition to my repair work, I have lectured on quilt history and design at the Art Institute of Chicago, the Textile Arts Centre, and the Field Museum in Chicago, and many quilt guilds and historical societies. I have taught numerous classes and workshops through quilt shops and adult education programs.
My art quilts have been shown and published throughout the U.S. and in Japan, and have received awards from the Barrington Area Arts Council in IL and the Sacred Threads show in Reynoldsburg, OH. Publications include "Patchwork Quilt Senka" in Japan and "Connecting Stitches: Quilts in Illinois Life". I accept corporate and private commissions for my quilted fiber art as well.
I also have 15 years experience in theater costuming. I was a company co-founder and head costumer of Thin Ice Ensemble Theater, a youth theater program. I have also worked with dance costuming at Dance Center Evanston and the Evanston Dance Ensemble. In addition, I have repaired and restored vintage clothing for RareJule Vintage on Etsy.
