Several years ago I sewed a tote bag that quickly became my favorite. I enjoyed it so much that I actually started wearing it out!
When It Was New
well worn
Tossing it aside was not an option. Too much work went into making it and besides I really liked it.
So, I investigated ways to ‘fix’ it that would not be too difficult and would not look like an emergency patching job.
I decided to use fake prairie points with a ragged edge. Luckily I had enough fabric left over from the bag in my scrap stash.So I cut out about 20 3 in. by 3 in. squares, folded them in half corner to corner, then arranged them in overlapping fashion around the top edge of the tote.
3 inch by 3 inch squares – fold each in half, point to point
I stitched around the top to hold them in place then stitched them more securely about 1/2 inch in from the edges to leave them “raw-edged.” Finally I washed and dried the tote bag to allow the new embellishments to fray a little. Because the fabric had been previously washed it did not do much fraying but I’m sure that in time they’ll take on that look.
I first learned how to sew as a child on my mom’s old treadle Singer (and wish that I knew where that machine is now!) and am now in love with my Berninas.
While going to school, raising a family and enjoying two satisfying careers I continued developing my skills with all kinds of needlecrafts and eventually discovered the magic of quilting.
Soon I began to stretch my imagination and creativity. This led to an interest in art quilting and I've been busy soaking up all kinds of techniques and adapting them to my creations. Now, I find myself on a journey to uncover, develop and to express the inner artist that I have so joyfully let loose.
I have learned so many ways to create beauty in fiber and am eager to share this knowledge. I am in love with color - saturated vibrant color.
I have also learned that there truly are no "quilt police" when it comes to one's personal expression of creativity; no right or wrong way. It just has to feel right and look right to you.
it is all a voyage of discovery. I just can’t imagine doing anything else.”
Several of my quilts, both traditional and art quilts have been displayed at Quilting in the Valley in Northridge, California, Lefferts Historic House and the Audubon Society in New York City.
My work "Going Around in All the Best Circles" was juried into the Pacific International Quilt Show.
I have shown in both local Fine Art Galleries and in Quilt Shows across the United States.
I am the author of the blog: The Mystical Allure of All Things Fiber since 2007.
In recent years I have uncovered a passion for writing - especially poetry - as well and have a lot of it on http://minervaspirit.com
See: http://guilagreerart.com
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Guila's Art & Other Assorted Joys 