April 2023 Meeting Recap

 

It was a full house for the April meeting, with lots of new and old faces!  We had lots to cover, so let's dive right in!

Q1 2023 Quarterly Challenge - Sew Small

Connie

 Our first quarter challenge left the interpretation up to each member.  With a theme of "Sew Small" the obvious choice would be to create a small project.  Maybe even use small pieces of fabric.  However, it could also mean a small impact on the wallet or the environment through upcycling fabric or using an already-purchased pattern.  One could have decided it meant a large project that was sewn a bit at a time, over many days.  However it was approached, we couldn't be happier with these first quarter participants!

Kawandi Workshop with Vivian

                      

Who:    Vivian Benton & the Pittsburgh Modern Quilt Guild 

What:     Kawandi, a technique of quilting by hand-stitching scraps, and working from the outside of the quilt inward to the center.  Please see below for Vivian's own words!

Where:  Our Millvale meeting place, 608 Farragut St, Pittsburgh, PA 15209

When:    June 25th, 2023 1-5pm

Why:       Our first workshop of 2023, Kawandi is a trending technique in the quilting world.  We're lucky to have Vivian willing to teach us!

How:       Cost is $35, and a supply list will be sent upon registration.  You can bring cash or a check to the June meeting or mail it to Pittsburgh Modern Quilt Guild, PO Box 105, Wexford PA  15090.

Please contact Erin at pghmqg.programs@gmail.com to let her know of your interest or with any questions.

Here is a description in Vivian's own words:

In this four-hour workshop, you’ll create a placemat-size Kawandi. We’ll follow the traditional method, hand stitching using scraps of fabric. To learn the technique, you’ll do this small project to get you started. With Vivian’s step-by-step guidance and lots of hands-on instruction, you’ll be able to complete your project in this workshop.

Vivian will bring to the workshop several completed Kawandis, including projects started from the beginning, further demonstrating how the technique is done along the way.  This is a stress-free workshop with minimal supplies needed. So don’t be afraid to try your hand at this century-old tradition. Vivian is convinced that once you make one, you’ll be hooked.

*A kawandi is a hand-stitched quilt made of scraps, traditionally made by women of the Siddi ethnic group, descendants of early enslaved Africans brought to India’s west coast by the Portuguese in the 16th century.