Collaboration -for Guilds and Groups

Collaboration is more than just a creative partnership—it’s a powerful way to breathe new life into quilting and introduce this timeless craft to younger audiences. In my trunk show, “Collaboration,” I’ll share how working with four incredible collaborators—Tommy Smythe, Ashley Botten, Andrew McPhail, and Apanaki—not only transformed my quilting practice but also demonstrated how quilting can connect with modern art, design, and storytelling in ways that resonate with younger generations.

Why Collaboration Matters

Quilting has deep roots in tradition, but collaboration opens doors to fresh perspectives that make it accessible and exciting for new audiences. By working with creatives from diverse fields like interior design, contemporary art, and sustainable practices, I’ve discovered how quilting can evolve into a medium that speaks to today’s world while honoring its history. These partnerships have shown me how collaboration can reframe quilting as a dynamic art form that appeals to younger makers who value innovation and creative expression.

Featured Collaborations

1. Tommy Smythe: Interior designer Tommy brought his love of vintage textiles to our collaboration, inspiring quilts that fuse nostalgia with modern design. Together, we explored how repurposing antique fabrics can create meaningful pieces that appeal to younger audiences interested in sustainability and storytelling.
2. Ashley Botten: Ashley’s expertise in curating bold designs challenged me to think differently about form and material. Her influence encouraged me to experiment with minimalist aesthetics and intentionality—qualities that resonate strongly with younger generations seeking simplicity and purpose in their creative pursuits.
3. Andrew McPhail: Known for his sequin art, Andrew pushed the boundaries of what a quilt can be. Our “Epic Fail Quilt” combined traditional quilting techniques with sequined embellishments to create a provocative piece that speaks to themes of vulnerability and resilience—concepts that deeply connect with younger audiences.
4. Apanaki: Apanaki’s vibrant storytelling through textiles inspired me to embrace quilts as a medium for personal and cultural narratives. Her ability to blend traditional techniques with contemporary aesthetics highlights how quilting can serve as both heritage preservation and modern self-expression for younger makers.
Inspiring the Next Generation

Through these collaborations, I’ve seen firsthand how quilting can evolve into an art form that excites younger audiences by incorporating elements of design, sustainability, and storytelling. During the trunk show, I’ll share the creative processes behind these partnerships—complete with sketches, in-progress photos, and finished quilts—and discuss how collaboration can be a bridge between tradition and innovation.

“Collaboration” celebrates the transformative power of partnerships in quilting while showcasing how this craft can engage younger generations in fresh and meaningful ways. Join me for this inspiring trunk show to explore how collaboration not only shaped my work but also reimagines quilting as an art form for the future